Your arrival in the Exumas is simply unforgettable. As the plane descends, it soars over shimmering sandbanks that brush delicate strokes across the turquoise ocean. Sea and sky merge in a stunning gradient of blues and greens, laced with pink clouds and whispers of orange-hued algae. Pure magic! This chain of 365 islands—most uninhabited—stretches over 200 km, creating a pristine postcard escape perfect for Robinson Crusoe adventures. Residents' stand against a massive tourist project paved the way for the Bahamas' first protected area in 1958: the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. Today, the nation protects around 30 national parks and reserves. Visit Great Exuma and Little Exuma, the main islands linked by a bridge. Half the locals bear the Rolle name, legacy of Lord John Rolle's cotton plantations worked by hundreds of slaves—land he granted them post-emancipation. Now, onion, mango, and banana farms thrive, with wild cotton remnants in Williams Town. Join the People to People program (www.bahamas.com) to master bonefish fly-fishing with locals—a time-honored tradition!
The roots plan: Stop at Santana's Grill Pit en route to Tropic of Cancer Beach for picnic essentials like conch fritters and pineapple.
The charm plan: Savor a Gombay Smash (rum-pineapple cocktail), then barbecue at Chat n' Chill on Stocking Island (5 min by boat).
The roots plan: Cozy room at Coral Gardens B&B, 4 miles from Georgetown around Lake Victoria, 10-min walk to Hoopers Bay Beach. www.coralgardensbahamas.com.
The charm plan: Sea-view room at Peace & Plenty, Exuma's pioneering hotel named for early settlers' ship. Live orchestra Saturdays, epic cocktails! www.peaceandplenty.com.
Consult the Bahamas Tourist Office for island picks matching your vibe (lounging, diving, golf, nature) and budget. 113-115 Rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006 Paris. Phone: 01 45 26 62 62.
