Re: Anyone actually been to The Bahamas before?
Twice in mid-80's to Nassau. As stated earlier, everything (except rum) is very expensive as most everything has to be imported. Beer was $3 to $4 (20 years ago), a glass of milk (warm and nearly spoiled) about the same.
Your trip will not be enjoyable unless you are mentally prepared for slow, almost surly service and yes, the tip is included regardless of the level of service. Just plan to enjoy the surroundings and don't have high expectations service-wise and it will be okay.
If you like seafood (grouper and conch), I am told it is pretty good. Beef is outrageous, don't really remember about poultry. There is fastfood available (McDonalds, etc.) on the main island.
One local restaurant that I highly recommend is the Green Shutters Tavern. Lots of British food (great shepherd's pie) and Red Stripe beer. If I remember correctly it is a block or two up the hill from the government center in downtown Nassau.
As for transportation, taxis were plentiful and relatively inexpensive. I enjoyed riding the local jitney busses, however. They run regularly all day and go all over the island.
Both times I stayed in the Cable Beach area so don't have much info specific to Paradise Island. Did play golf once and it was awsome and not too expensive, although that was in August and course was nearly empty.
Looking forward to seeing all of you there, although I really wish we were going to Vegas. After this trip I have a feeling a lot of you will also wish the same.
VVV
p.s. MRS vvv and I plan to pack lots of beer and bottled water (don't drink their tap water), along with a bunch of snacks.
