Travel guide – the exumas
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Overview
The Exumas encompass a myriad of islands and cays that stretch for hundreds of miles. The largest, Great Exuma and Little Exuma, are home to the small community of several hundred island inhabitants, who farm the land and welcome tourists. Visitors usually arrive by yacht, for these islands offer legendary cruising opportunities. If you come without sails, you will be tempted to hire a boat and make the most of the inviting waters. Most cays are edged with towering palm trees and expanses of white powdery beaches. The surrounding reefs have magical underwater gardens that draw divers and snorkellers. The main destination for divers is the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, a 176-square-mile (456 sq km) natural underwater preserve, that can only be reached by seaplane or boat (charters can be arranged through the hotels).
Climate
In general the weather is good all year and the trade winds ensure that the temperatures remain relatively mild. There is little variation in temperature year round, but the coolest months are December to February, while the hottest are June to August. The rainy season extends from May to November when there is a slight chance of hurricanes. Peak season is between December and April. Generally the northern and western islands, including New Providence Island, are cooler than the southern islands.
Health
A yellow fever vaccination is required by travellers aged more than one year arriving from infected areas, and Hepatitis A immunisation is recommended for visitors over two years. Food and water is considered safe. Visitors should note that some types of fish, including tropical reef fish, are poisonous to eat even when cooked. Medical facilities are good in Nassau and Freeport, but expensive and usually require payment in cash on treatment. Medical insurance is advised. Princess Margaret Hospital in Nassau, where most emergency surgery is performed, is experiencing a chronic shortage of blood so those with rare blood types are advised to know the names and locations of possible donors in the event of an emergency. The Lyford Cay Hospital has a hyperbaric chamber for treatment of decompression illness.
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