The Bahamas
From the bustling capital Nassau to the private luxurious Berry Islands.
8 am, the sun rose over the capitol . We ventured down into the markets of Nassau where craftsmen sold their handwoven and hand carved goods. Taking a walk through the streets, the sound of steel drums and laughter paved the alleyways of bright yellows and cool blues. Lush plants draped the balconies. Reds, Yellows, Greens painted the images of Bob Marley. Later that day, was a bus tour where our group was shown the history of Nassau. The Government building with a statue of Christopher Columbus, Forts, and "The Queens Staircase": composed of 66 steps, hand carved limestone by slaves from 1793-1794. Lush vines and wildlife grew along the stone walls. A place of peace and remembrance. The tour included a stop alongside the coral beaches and a couple shown parasailing in the background. Ending the tour and dropped off back at the markets, boats lined the docks filled to the brim with conch shells. Nassau is a beautiful city full of good vibes and heartwarming locals.
Miles of white pristine shoreline hugs The Berry Islands (Little Stirrup Cay). The shallow waters hold thousands of baby jellyfish that can be found soaking up the Caribbean sun. Wildlife is found all over Coco Cay, from baby hermit crabs roaming the beach, to foot-long Iguanas relaxing under palm trees. I had the opportunity to interact with the Island's wildlife by taking a short boat ride to visit the local sting rays at Sting Ray City. 10-15 rays of all sizes roamed the water. I was able to hold a ray and feed a squid to one of the smaller rays. Stings rays are able to sense 3 feet from under the sand and provide a suction strong enough to capture any prey. The rays were so friendly and an absolute joy to be around. Another excursion I experienced was Parasailing. Though intimidating at first, once our sail had peaked at height, the experience was breathtaking and very peaceful. Looking below into the crystal water, all types of wildlife coexisting. Coco Cay is a gorgeous tourist island, as it's the perfect location for those who enjoy adventurous excursions or desire a relaxing trip by basking in the sun.