Bahamas Books

Frommer's Bahamas 2008 (Frommer's Complete)

Darwin Porter, Danforth Prince

Amazon Price: $12.23 List Price: $17.99 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Frommers Amazon Marketplace: 48 new & used starting at $2.79

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Subjects -> Travel -> Caribbean -> General AAS

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 3 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

very handy 5 out of 5 stars.
9 of 9 people found this review helpful.

I just returned from a trip to New Providence island (Nassau). The reviews were honest and reliable. We found a great restaurant from the book (it is called Sun and...)The book helps the traveller find the real Bahamas, as opposed to the Bahamas represented by the Atlantis resort which I call Disney Bahamas. One thing that was lacking was information regarding customs. We wanted to take liquor back to the states and the book referred us to some pamphlet online. We were in the Bahamas and had no access to the internet. Be advised: it is now a hassle to take back liquor. You have to pass it through security, then send it to the plane. You are allowed 2 liters per person. If the liquor is Bahamian (like the excellent rum), you can take more. If you like clever and funny guidebooks, this is not it. But it did the trick and it has encouraged me to return to other Bahamian islands and explore.

Editorial Review:

Frommer's. The best trips start here.

Experience a place the way the locals do. Enjoy the best it has to offer.

• Insider tips on where to find your perfect Bahamian vacation, whether you seek an active getaway or a tranquil island escape.
• Outspoken opinions on what's worth your time and what's not.
• Exact prices, so you can plan the perfect trip whatever your budget.
• Off-the-beaten-path experiences and undiscovered gems, plus new takes on top attractions.

National Audubon Society Field Guide to Tropical Marine Fishes: Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, Florida, Bahamas, Bermuda

NATIONAL AUDUBON SOCIETY

Amazon Price: $13.57 List Price: $19.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Knopf Amazon Marketplace: 50 new & used starting at $4.76

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 11 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

OK, But Paul Humann's Book is Much Better 2 out of 5 stars.
13 of 13 people found this review helpful.

A few years ago, I bought the Audubon Society Field Guide to Tropical Marine Fishes and found when I tried to use it in the Florida Keys that there were many fish I couldn't identify. People recommended I buy Paul Humann's book, "Reef Fish Identification." The book is more expensive, but I found it to be far more comprehensive and user friendly. For example, many fish look entirely different when in their "juvenile," "initial" or "terminal" phase, and the "Reef Fish Identification" book has clear photos of each of the three stages shown beside each other, and frequently includes photos of alternate color phases as well. The Audubon book usually just shows a picture of the fish in just one phase, and often not a terribly good photo at that. Next to each photo in the Humann book is an excellent line drawing of the fish, highlighting and labeling which features of a fish are most dependable for identification. The Audubon book includes no such diagrams to aid identification. Finally, the Humann book is based upon both an extensive bibliography and collaboration with field biologists, and if the detailed descriptions in his book of definitive features for discriminating species of fish are correct (and experienced scuba divers tell me they are correct) then some of the pictures in the Audubon guide are actually even misidentified as to species. For example, the Audubon picture labeled as a "Leopard Goby" is almost certainly a picture of an "Orange-sided Goby" (if the Humann book is correct about dark lines outlining the orange rectangles being a reliable discriminating feature). If there were no other reef fish identification book available, I would have given the Audubon book more stars, I am usually a great fan of the Audubon Field Guide series, but in comparison with the Humann book it just doesn't rate very well. I should add that I have never met, nor have any private or professional association with, the author of either of these books, so my opinion is not biased by any such affiliation.
Finally, I should add that I am pleased nevertheless to own both of these books because, for many species of fish, fish of the same species can be found in a wide variety of colors and patterns, so you can never study too many photos to get a handle on the range of appearances possible for any given species. Buy the Humann book if you can just afford one book, but owning both books is even better!

Editorial Review:

Covering tropical marine fishes of the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, Florida, the Bahamas, and Bermuda, this field guide by C. Lavett Smith (curator emeritus, Department of Ichthyology, American Museum of Natural History in New York) sets the tropical-fish standard. There are 417 truly magnificent color photographs evincing the glories of the coral reefs and full-text descriptions for more than 400 species, each with its own range map. In addition, the guide includes maps of the regions, more than 100 fish anatomy illustrations, and close to 800 more brief species descriptions. Easy to use and understand, lightweight, and sturdily constructed for travel, the field guide is a great boon for one's snorkeling or scuba-diving vacations. --Stephanie Gold

The Rough Guide to The Bahamas 2 (Rough Guide Travel Guides)

Rough Guides

Amazon Price: $14.27 List Price: $20.99 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Rough Guides Amazon Marketplace: 48 new & used starting at $9.50

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 1 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

My Favorite Bahama Guide 5 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

This book is my favorite bahama guide for several reasons. First, it has a tremendous amount of information. Best ways to get to different islands, what you can do while you are there, etc. Second, it tells you where to stay and eat for less. Third, it has more detailed information on the lesser known islands in the bahamas.

I like to do a lot of research on where I'm travelling too and this book did not disappoint. Some of the other guides use similar information, but this one seems to be unique.

Editorial Review:

The Rough Guide to The Bahamas is your definitive handbook to these beautiful islands. From the finest scuba and snorkelling spots on Paradise Island to the bustling cities of Nassau and Freeport, the full-colour section introduces all of the region’s highlights. For every town and village, there are comprehensive and opinionated listings of all the best resorts, hotels, bars and restaurants, to suit all tastes and budgets, plus a new Author’s Pick’ feature to highlight the very best options. There is plenty of practical advice for a host of outdoor activities from hiking and fishing to surfing and kayaking. The guide also includes lively accounts of Bahamian history, culture and wildlife and comes complete with maps covering the entire region.

The Rough Guide to The Bahamas is like having a local friend plan your trip!

Lonely Planet Bahamas, Turks & Caicos (Lonely Planet Bahamas, Turks and Caicos)

Jean-Bernard Carillet, Jill Kirby

Amazon Price: $17.99 List Price: $19.99 Usually ships in 2 to 4 weeks By: Lonely Planet Amazon Marketplace: 25 new & used starting at $4.50

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Editorial Review:

Discover the treasures of these storied islands, where Columbus first landed and pirates once plundered. Sail glowing turquoise seas, kayak through mangroves, swim with docile stingrays or take a romantic stroll along a pink-sand beach. Our inspiring guide brings you beyond the tourist resorts to deserted cays and friendly fishing villages for an authentic island experience.

Explore Further – more coverage of the unspoiled Out Islands than any leading guidebook

Take The Plunge – dedicated diving and snorkeling chapter reveals the best spots to see pristine reefs, eerie shipwrecks, colorful fish and mysterious blue holes

Go Wild – admire flocks of leggy flamingos, nesting hawksbill turtles, wild Atlantic spotted dolphins, curly-tailed iguanas and majestic humpback whales

Eat, Drink & Be Merry – enjoy a Friday night Fish Fry, raise a toast to Ernest Hemingway and dance to the infectious goombay beat

Be Inspired – by obeah’s mysticism, the pageantry of a Junkanoo parade and the wisdom of bush medicine

The Bahamas Fly-Fishing Guide, Updated and Revised

Stephen Vletas, Kim Vletas

Amazon Price: $19.77 List Price: $29.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: The Lyons Press Amazon Marketplace: 40 new & used starting at $9.19

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Subjects -> Outdoors & Nature -> Hunting & Fishing -> Fishing -> Fly Fishing -> Guides
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 10 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Bahamas Flyfishing Bible 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

This is not only the definitive flyfishing guide to the Bahamas, but also (i) a very insightful book on logistics and non-fishing pursuits on the islands; and (ii) one of the finest fishing guides written for any area in the world, which is an especially great accomplishment given the span of the area. Read to plan, or just read to dream. Essential for anyone deciding on which island to go to, and which areas to fish. My only complaint? -- that I personally wasn't able to help research this book by visiting/fishing all areas covered.

Outstanding 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

Stephen has set up a couple trips for me to the Bahamas, two very different types of trips, and I can tell you first hand that he and Kim know their stuff!

See that big guy on the poling platform on the cover? I had the privilege and pleasure of fishing with him.

Having been to some of the places described in the book, and fished with some of the guides described in the book, I can say first-hand it is right on the money. I'll trust nobody else to set up my Bahamas fly-fishing adventures, and this book is my first resource in planning my next trip.

Editorial Review:

A comprehensive guide to fly fishing and adventure travel in the Bahamas--lodges, guides, services, tackle, diving, and more.

Insight Flexi Map Bahamas (Flexi Map)

American Map Corporation

Amazon Price: $7.95 List Price: $7.95 Usually ships in 2 to 4 weeks By: Langenscheidt Publishers Amazon Marketplace: 11 new & used starting at $5.68

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Subjects -> Travel -> Caribbean -> Bahamas

Editorial Review:

This laminated Fleximap of Bahamas contains seven maps, including one of the whole island as well as city street maps. It also gives details of the top recommended sights and places to visit as well as useful travel information, climate tables and local transport details. Map scale: 1:1,685,000 Key Features: Detailed cartography highlights all the main tourist sights and provides valuable motoring information. Informative text: essential facts about the destination are provided, plus handy tips for getting around. Ease of use: the durable maps fold very easily, even when its raining. Laminated finish: you can write on the map with a non-permanent marker pen and wipe it off later.

Fodor's Bahamas 2008 (Fodor's Gold Guides)

Fodor's

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 2 Average rating: 1.5 of 5

Editorial Review:

Explore deserted cays, chow down on conch salad at an Out Island shack, bar hop in Nassau, snorkel amongst coral reefs, or catch an impromptu rake 'n scrape jam session–Fodor's Bahamas, 2008 offers all these experiences and more! Our local writers have traveled throughout the country to find the best hotels, restaurants, attractions and activities to prepare you for a journey of stunning variety. Before you leave for your trip be sure to pack your Fodor's guide to ensure you don't miss a thing.

The San Francisco Chronicle sums it up best –"Fodor's guides are saturated with information."

- We frequently update our Bahamas guide, and we make every effort to bring you the most accurate and thorough book. Plus we provide timely updates about the area at Fodors.com.
- Unlike other travel books, Fodor's guides rely heavily on local experts who know the territory best–so you know you're seeing the real Bahamas.
- We give you the planning tools you need to tailor your trip. We give options for all budgets. You make the choices.

The Exuma Guide: A Cruising Guide to the Exuma Cays : Approaches, Routes, Anchorages, Dive Sights, Flora, Fauna, History, and Lore of the Exuma Cays

Stephen J. Pavlidis

Amazon Price: $44.95 List Price: $44.95 Usually ships in 1 to 3 weeks By: Seaworthy Publications Inc. Amazon Marketplace: 7 new & used starting at $31.71

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Subjects -> History -> Americas -> Caribbean & West Indies -> Bahamas
Subjects -> Sports -> Water Sports -> Boating
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 4 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Essential and Comprehensive 5 out of 5 stars.
17 of 17 people found this review helpful.

I found the book to be the Bible for getting in and around the Exuma Cays. More importantly, the book nicely deals with the history, geography, flora and fauna of the cays. There is no way that a person should consider sailing, motoring or paddling into the Exumas without this book in hand. Too bad it was not printed on waterproof paper and bound with stainless steel staples. If your headed for the Exumas be sure to read and bring a copy along. It might also help to secure it in a large zip lock plastic bag.

Editorial Review:

Loaded with carefully researched sketch charts and local knowledge, this guide is the most current and comprehensive cruising guide available to the maginificent Exuma Cays-and an excellent guide to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea park. Pavlidis, former deputy warden of the park, gudie you in and out of virtually every navigable harbor, cover, and anchorage, as well as around every major reef, head, sand bank, and obstacle throughout the Exuma island chain. Contains information on marine facilities, customs, navigational aids, tides and curents, GPS waypoints, flora and fauna, and much more.

Chance the Tide: How to Cruise to the Bahamas for the Winter

Kenneth D. Mowbray

Amazon Price: $16.15 List Price: $17.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Sheridan House Amazon Marketplace: 20 new & used starting at $11.60

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 1 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Filled with sound advice for cruise lovers everywhere 5 out of 5 stars.
7 of 7 people found this review helpful.

Chance The Tide: How To Cruise To The Bahamas For The Winter by mechanical engineer and sailing expert Kenneth Mowbray is a practical and "user friendly" how-to guide for enjoying a Bahamas cruise in the wintertime. Individual chapters discuss a wide variety of different boats ranging from sail to power and in terms of how they are best utilized, what equipment to bring, how to navigate the Bahamas, enjoying life while living in a relatively small space, and more. A useful guide filled with sound advice for cruise lovers everywhere, Chance The Tide is especially commended to the attention of novice sailors while having a great deal to offer even the most experienced when cruising Bahamian waters.

Editorial Review:

Chance the Tide provides valuable information for a winter cruise to the Bahamas. Mowbray covers the major decisions of choosing the right yacht and equipping it properly. He also provides the reader with many valuable tips to make the trip easier. Most of this information was acquired by personal experience and cannot be found in cruising guides or other sources generally available to those wishing to travel down the Intracoastal Waterway and across the Gulf Stream to cruise to the Bahamas for the entire winter.

Before you know it you will be navigating your way to a beautiful island paradise. All of the author's secrets and knowledge will make this journey one that you will always remember, and most likely do several times. This book gives you all the tools you need to plan your journey. Follow the guidelines it provides and you will be more than prepared to...Chance the Tide.

Lonely Planet Diving & Snorkeling Bahamas (Diving and Snorkeling Guides)

Mike Lawrence

List Price: $16.99 By: Lonely Planet - Model: 1864501812 Amazon Marketplace: 12 new & used starting at $3.00

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Features:

• dive site depth range and conditions
• common and hazardous marine life
• topside practicalities
• diving services and environmental organizations
• 15 easy-to-read maps

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 3 Average rating: 3.0 of 5

Pretty, but too shallow... 2 out of 5 stars.
17 of 18 people found this review helpful.

There's some good things about this book: in typical Lonely Planet style you've got great general travel information for the area (which if I really wanted, I'd buy a general travel book).

It does also cover a large number of sites - though is still far from comprehensive.

And it has some nice additional information occasionally through the book.

Two main peeves though. And they're killers:

- Each description is a paragraph, or two at most. You can't tell me very much about a dive site in so few words.

- There are no maps / diagrams for specific dive sites (just area overview maps) - a dive guide fails totally without these.

It's a pretty book, but to be any use you need to include maps and more detail per site (if this was done it could be forgiven for not being totally comprehensive).

In short, it's nice, but it's no use as a tool for researching a dive holiday.

What'S further is I now own two of these (Red Sea and Bahamas) - I certainly will not buy another.

Editorial Review:

With 25 island groups strewn across miles of transparent blue seas, the Bahamas offers an extensive variety of marine adventures. Dive with sharks, swim with dolphins, and explore sunlit reefs, mysterious blue holes, natural wrecks and vertigo-inducing walls. Highlights include Shark Rodeo at Walkers Cay, wild dolphins at Little Bahama Bank and New Providences movie-set wrecks. Topside, indulge in great dining and nightlife on the main islands, or take off for the pristine beaches and rich culture of the Out Islands. This guide describes 108 of the archipelagos top sites, with full color photos throughout.