A few weeks ago we presented a preview of things we like to do in the Exumas, Bahamas. We'd like to follow the theme with a few more highlights, since our Grand Escapade to Exumas later this month is fast approaching.
More places we love in the Exumas:
Allen's Cay:
Allen's Cay is the home of the protected, endangered Allen Cay Rock Iguanas and Audubon's Shearwater, a small tropical seabird whose population has seen a steep decline. Since 2012, Island Conservation and the Bahamas National Trust have been working together to restore the ecosystem in the island by ridding it invasive house mice, which were indirectly causing a severe imbalance. The rare Allen Cay Rock Iguana is found only in the Bahamas. They're very friendly and amusing with their antics (though they can accidentaly bite, so be careful!). It is a pleasure to see them in their natural habitat. (Source: IslandConservation.org).
Norman's Cay:
History buffs will like this one. The tiny, beautiful island of Norman's Cay was taken over by Colombian druglord Carlos Lehder in the late 70's and early 80's. He ran off the locals and built his empire, complete with an air strip used to -what else... smuggle drugs. It is an extremely interesting place- as well as eerie - as you explore the abandoned structures and picture them in their full glory, when they were home to much partying and debauchery.
George Town:
George Town is the capital of the Exumas, and was a hub for pirates back in the day. There's lots to do in George Town. If you like to shop, there's Sandpiper Arts & Crafts, the only place to buy souvenirs in the Exumas. If you're hungry or thirsty, there's Big D's (known for the best conch salad and fritters on the island), Cath a Fire Bar & Grill- best place to watch the sunset, and Santana's Bar & Grill which very well may be the best seafood spot ever. If you prefer to stay outdoors, book a fishing charter or snorkeling tour with a local company like Island Boy Adventures, and experience true island hospitality.
We will be visiting all of these stops during this year's Grand Escapade. Along the way we will also visit and play at some of the Exumas' top resorts, which we will talk about in a later post. In the meantime, take a look at our photo galleries from the 2013 Grand Escapade to Exumas. Have fun!!
July 12, 2016
