Everyday practical information for The Bahamas

Power, and why this one matters

• Type A and B sockets at 120 V and 60 Hz. These are the flat American pins, not the British or European ones.
• A plug adaptor is not enough for an appliance that expects 230 V. Phone and laptop chargers are almost always dual voltage and fine; a hairdryer, a shaver or a travel kettle from Europe is not.
• Check the small print on the charger for "100 to 240 V" before you pack it.

Language and driving

• English is the official language, which makes almost everything easier.
• Traffic drives on the left in a country where most of the cars are American and left hand drive. Give yourself a moment at every junction.

Custom

• Same-sex sexual relations have been legal since 1991, with an age of consent of 18, but public affection of any kind is uncommon here and same-sex couples in particular may attract negative attention.
• Dress is relaxed on the beach and less so away from it. Beachwear in town reads badly.