Most Bahamians are of African descent --
about 85 percent. The remaining white population is directly descended
from Loyalists, Eleutheran adventurers and sailors. Some families have
been Bahamian for over two centuries.
Bahamians are a dynamic, independent and friendly
people who love music. Religion is an important part of their lives and
churches are plentiful.
English is spoken throughout the islands.
People-to-People is a year-round Ministry of Tourism
program intended to give visitors a genuine and informal view of
Bahamian hospitality and culture as you might see it when visiting a
friend. Volunteers holding interests similar to yours are available to
give a sample of Bahamian life in a convenient, personal way. You may
join them at home for pleasant conversation and an authentic Bahamian
meal, at civic or social clubs, at a church service or sports event, or
see the sights with a native interpretation.
People-to-People is a popular activity. More than
1,000 volunteers are available in Nassau and about 100 in Freeport. They
come from all walks of life and undergo an eligibility screening prior
to becoming enrolled. Visitors are matched with residents of similar age
groups, interests and professions -- for example, pairing a visiting
schoolteacher with a Bahamian teacher. Because many volunteers are
professionals, most get-togethers take place in the evenings or on
weekends and volunteers will gladly donate their time in the spirit of
international goodwill.
One of the main organized events of the programme is
the monthly Tea Party at Government House, held from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00
p.m. on the last Friday of each month (January to August). It is open to
200 guests, who are hosted by the wife of the Governor-General of the
Bahamas. Other highlights are:
- Home-Away-From-Home Programme: Volunteer hosts
become foster parents to foreign students attending Bahamian
colleges.
- Pen Pal Programme: A great way to increase
international understanding and communication.
- Spouses Programme: Activities are planned
for spouses while delegates attend conventions.
If you're coming to Nassau and would like to
consider our People-to-People Program, please complete this form
for the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.
If you are already in Nassau, drop by one of our
Tourist Information Centres, which are located at the Airport and at
Rawson Square, or contact us by phone 242-356-0435/7/8 or by fax
242-356-0434.
If you are coming to Freeport and would like to
consider our People-to-People Program, please complete this form
for the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.
If you are already in Freeport/Lucaya, visit
our Tourist Information Centre at the International Bazaar or call
242-352-8044.
We'll supply you with more information on how you can
enjoy our People-to-People Program. Use the form to let us know as
much as possible about your interests.
Please complete the form at least three weeks in
advance of your visit, and you will be contacted by an official of the
Ministry of Tourism about the arrangement made especially for you.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Bahamas. |
