seeking recommendations

[Jannetta]

the family visited Key West last year and enjoyed it , we are seeking a similar place in the Bahamas to visit. A place where the older kids (17 and up) can rent scooters and feel safe buzzing around, the diving is good and the people are friendly. any recommendations would be appreciated.

[ejluv]

The Family Islands are great for families with teens to explore the marine life, beaches, and the laid back atmosphere compared to Nassau and New Providence. here is a site that contains some of the locals http://www.capecodoutdoors.com/Alocals.html but also check out Small Hope Bay Lodge in Fresh Creek. this link will take you to alot of other links on Andros. http://www.reefdiver.com/. Now you must know that this is not commerialized as Nassau and NP. You are not going to find the nig***lubs and casinos. But if you want a relax completely and enjoy.. go for it. The islanders are very friendly. If you would like any info that you cannot find, email me.

[sfisher]

My wife and I have stayed at www.chezpierrebahamas.com twice and will be going back down this fall. Long Island has the most incredible beaches of North America. However, except for Pierre's and Cape Santa Marie, they are totally empty and undeveloped. You will want to rent a car to explore the island, as I and some people get tired of laying on a beach, my wife excluded. The only coast that I have seen that is more beautiful than Long's ocean side, is South Vietnam's II Corps, but I still prefer Long Island, Bahamas, the locals are much nicer. Just don't be in a hurry down there as everyone will wave to you as you drive down the road and want to talk when you meet them walking. Its a great place. Curt

[ejluv]

[b] curt is correct in recommending Long Island! I would say Andros and Long Island are your best bets on total bahamian lifestyle and relaxation. And if you do go to Long Island and want to adventure out to the other settlements.. ask the natives where the "Lions" are in Rock Sound. You will find a dear friend of mine. An old school teacher, Mr Gerry M. Also, check out this website. http://www.alex-house.com/ it is more budget mindful for the traveling family. Another one to look at is http://www.stellamarisresort.com/about.htm. Also, if you wanted to take some food items with you, you can. Just no vegetables or fruits. The Bahamian cuisine is wonderful but food cost there or any place in the bahamas is about 30% higher due to alot of it being imported. But if you are happy to stick with the islanders foods.. fish, pigeon peas and rice, conch friiters and chowder, and gauva duff.. you got it made.