New Providence

New Providence Island is, by far, the most populated island in the Bahamas and the site of the capital Nassau.

New Providence is only 21 miles long and 7 miles wide. Paradise Island, just north, is linked to New Providence by two bridges.

• Nassau — the capital, whose sprawl takes up most of the eastern side of the island

• Adelaide
• Cable Beach
• Lyford Cay
• Sandyport

Nassau's airport, covered in Nassau, is located on the western side of the island.

• Bacardi Distillery, 1000 Bacardi Drive, ☎ +1-242-362 1412. Tours at 11AM, 2PM on Mon-Fri. Established in 1962, this distillery produces most of the rum sold on the island. The free tour take about half an hour, after which you get a chance to sample some free cocktails and, of course, buy lots of cheap rum at their gift shop. Tours may be cancelled if less than 10 people show up, so call ahead. Free. As of 2008 the Bacardi Distillery had closed however a Bacardi gift shop is located just off parliament square.

• Stuart Cove's Aqua Adventures, www.stuartcove.com. On the southern part of the island, they run diving and snorkeling tours, including some with sharks.

There are numerous stray dogs that are called "potcakes" by locals. Don't feed them or make contact with them. Also, as in any tourist destination, watch out for pickpockets.

• Eleuthera
• Exuma
• Harbour Island