First discovered by Christopher Columbus, the Bahamas are located just 50 miles from the coast of Florida. This group of 700 islands is awash with tropical palm trees, pristine white sandy beaches drenched in sunlight, and multi-coloured coral reefs. Gently cooled by the occasional sea breeze, the Bahamas are a firm favourite on the international tourist trail for the selective and well-heeled traveller in search of rest and relaxation in lush surroundings.

Bimini, also known as the “Gateway to the Bahamas”, is the closest island to the US. To the east of Grand Bahama is the island of Abaco. Great Inagua is the most south-eastern of the islands, while the capital city of the archipelago is Nassau on New Providence.

Bahamian culture is a mix of African and European influences, and maybe the most famous example of it is their own musical form of Junkanoo. Marching bands are very common, playing a vital role in many funerals, weddings and other ceremonies.

Centred around tourism and financial services, the economy of the Bahamas has grown rapidly since the Fifties, and nowadays the country has the third highest income per capita in the West. The climate is subtropical to tropical, and is tempered by the waters of the Gulf Stream, particularly in winter.