Visit during the off-season:

The peak season for tourism in Ottawa is during the summer months. If you’re willing to journey for the duration of the fall, iciness or spring, you’ll find lower fees on accommodation and activities.

Use public transportation:

Ottawa has a good public transportation machine this is lower priced and handy. You could use the buses and trains to get around the metropolis with out spending numerous money on taxis or rental vehicles.

Stay in budget accommodations:

Look for price range lodging alternatives like hostels or price range resorts. Ottawa has a variety of alternatives which might be lower priced and comfy.

Take advantage of free activities:

Ottawa has many free activities and attractions that you could enjoy with out spending any money. A number of the top free attractions consist of parliament hill, the countrywide gallery of Canada, and the Canadian museum of history.

Purchase a CityPass:

The Ottawa CityPass is a brilliant manner to shop money on popular points of interest like the Canadian museum of nature, the Canadian warfare museum, and the country wide gallery of Canada. You could shop up to forty% on admission expenses with this skip.

Pack your own food:

Consuming out can be luxurious, so take into account packing your own meals for your trip. You can buy groceries at a nearby save and prepare your own food to store cash.

By following these tips, you can visit the Canadian Capital on a budget without sacrificing the quality of your trip.

The Azores, a group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, are a popular travel destination year-round due to their mild climate. However, the winter months in the Azores, which typically span from December to February, do come with some unique characteristics and considerations for travelers.

Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re planning to visit the Azores in the winter:

Weather:

The Azores have a maritime subtropical climate, which means that winters are relatively mild compared to many other European destinations. However, you can expect cooler and potentially wetter weather during this season. Daytime temperatures typically range from 13°C to 18°C (55°F to 64°F), and nights can be cooler.

Rainfall:

Winter is the rainiest season in the Azores. Be prepared for occasional rain showers, especially in the form of drizzle or light rain. Rainfall varies from island to island, with the eastern islands receiving more rainfall than the western ones.

Outdoor Activities:

While the weather might not be ideal for sunbathing and swimming, the Azores offer a variety of outdoor activities suitable for the winter months, such as hiking, exploring volcanic landscapes, and enjoying the lush green scenery. Just make sure to pack appropriate clothing for outdoor adventures.

Fewer Tourists:

The Azores are less crowded during the winter, which can be a plus if you prefer a quieter and more intimate travel experience. You’ll have a chance to explore popular attractions without the summer crowds.

Whale Watching:

Winter is an excellent time for whale watching in the Azores. Several species of whales, including sperm whales and humpback whales, migrate through the waters around the islands during this season.

Cultural Events:

You can take advantage of cultural events and festivals that occur during the winter months, including Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. These can offer a unique insight into Azorean traditions.

Accommodation and Transportation:

It’s a good idea to book accommodations and flights in advance, as some businesses may close for the season or have reduced hours. Additionally, ferry services between islands may be less frequent during the winter.

Overall, visiting the Azores in the winter can be a rewarding experience, especially if you enjoy a milder climate and want to explore the islands with fewer tourists around. Just be prepared for some rain and plan your activities accordingly.

Visiting Quebec City during the winter can be a magical experience. The city is known for its historic charm, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural heritage, and these qualities are accentuated by the snow and holiday decorations during the winter months. Here are some tips and recommendations for a winter visit to Quebec City:

Dress Warmly:

Winters in Quebec City can be very cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Make sure to pack warm clothing, including a good winter coat, insulated boots, gloves, a hat, and a scarf.

Winter Sports:

If you enjoy winter sports, there are plenty of opportunities in and around the city. You can go ice skating at Place D’Youville, cross-country skiing in nearby parks, or even try your hand at snowshoeing.

Carnaval de Québec:

Quebec City hosts the famous Carnaval de Québec, one of the largest winter festivals in the world. It typically takes place in late January to early February and features ice sculptures, snow slides, parades, and various cultural events. Don’t miss trying the local specialty, tire d’érable (maple taffy).

Old Quebec:

The historic district of Old Quebec is a must-visit, especially during winter. The cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture covered in snow create a magical atmosphere. Explore the city’s fortifications, visit Place Royale, and admire the Château Frontenac, a stunning castle-like hotel.

Wander the Christmas Markets:

Quebec City is known for its charming Christmas markets, which feature local crafts, holiday treats, and festive decorations. The German Christmas Market and Marché de Noël allemand are particularly popular.

Warm Up with Local Cuisine:

Quebec is known for its hearty, comfort food. Try traditional dishes like tourtière (meat pie), poutine (fries with cheese curds and gravy), and pea soup. Warm up with a bowl of French-Canadian split pea soup or a hot chocolate at one of the city’s cozy cafes.

Visit the Museums:

If you want to escape the cold, there are several museums in Quebec City. The Musée de la Civilisation and the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec are excellent options.

Stay in a Charming Inn:

Consider staying in a historic inn or boutique hotel to enhance your winter experience. Many of these places are beautifully decorated for the season, and some offer cozy fireplaces in guest rooms.

Learn a Bit of French:

While you can get by with English in most places, Quebec City is a predominantly French-speaking city. Learning a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience and interactions with locals, though this is not essential.

Be Prepared for Winter Driving:

If you plan to rent a car or drive to Quebec City, be prepared for winter driving conditions. Snow and ice can make the roads challenging, so make sure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires and carry emergency supplies.

Quebec City’s winter charm and festivities make it a wonderful destination for a cold-weather getaway. Just be sure to embrace the winter weather and take advantage of the unique experiences it offers.

Visiting Arizona during the winter can be a fantastic choice, especially if you’re looking to escape colder climates. Arizona offers pleasant winter weather, outdoor activities, and a range of natural and cultural attractions. Here are some things to do and places to visit in Arizona during the winter:

Grand Canyon:

Winter is an excellent time to visit the Grand Canyon. The crowds are thinner, and the cool temperatures make hiking more comfortable. Just be prepared for the possibility of snow at the South Rim.

Sedona:

Known for its stunning red rock formations, Sedona is a great destination for hiking, exploring art galleries, and experiencing the area’s spiritual and New Age culture.

Tucson:

With milder winter temperatures, Tucson is a great place for outdoor activities like hiking in Saguaro National Park, birdwatching, and exploring the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.

Scottsdale:

Enjoy the vibrant arts scene, world-class golf courses, and luxury resorts in Scottsdale. The mild winter weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

Phoenix:

The state’s capital offers a mix of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining. You can explore the Desert Botanical Garden, visit the Heard Museum, or go hiking in the nearby mountains.

Flagstaff:

If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, Flagstaff is a great place for skiing and snowboarding. The Arizona Snowbowl is a popular winter sports destination.

Jerome:

This historic mining town is perched on a hillside and is known for its unique shops, art galleries, and charming atmosphere.

Prescott:

Experience a small-town winter wonderland in Prescott, where you can enjoy ice skating, Victorian-era Christmas celebrations, and explore the beautiful courthouse square.

Monument Valley:

Winter can be a great time to visit this iconic, red sand desert landscape. The cooler temperatures make outdoor excursions more pleasant.

Petrified Forest National Park:

Explore this unique national park and see the ancient petrified wood and colorful badlands. Winter is a comfortable time to hike and explore.

Canyon de Chelly:

This lesser-known canyon offers guided tours and beautiful winter vistas.

Hot Springs:

Relax in one of Arizona’s natural hot springs. Places like Chiricahua National Monument have secluded hot springs for a unique experience.

Keep in mind that while winters in Arizona are generally mild, the northern parts of the state can get quite cold, with the potential for snowfall. It’s a good idea to check the weather and road conditions before planning any outdoor activities, especially if you’re traveling to higher elevations. Enjoy your winter trip to Arizona!

If you’re looking to tour the capital of California, you’ll be heading to Sacramento! Sacramento is a bustling city with plenty of attractions and activities to explore.

Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

Visit the California State Capitol Building:

This impressive building houses the offices of the Governor and the Legislature. Take a tour to learn more about California’s history and politics.

Walk along the Sacramento River:

The Sacramento River runs right through the city, providing a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. There are also river cruises available for a more relaxing experience.

Explore Old Sacramento:

This historic district is home to numerous restaurants, shops, and museums that offer a glimpse into Sacramento’s Gold Rush era past.

Visit the Crocker Art Museum:

This museum boasts an impressive collection of American and European art, including works by Monet, Degas, and Van Gogh.

Take a day trip to Napa Valley:

While not technically in Sacramento, Napa Valley is only about an hour’s drive away and is home to some of the best wineries in the world.

Check out the California State Railroad Museum:

This museum showcases the history of the railroad in California and is a must-visit for any train enthusiast.

Go shopping at the Downtown Commons:

The Downtown Commons is a large outdoor shopping and dining complex that also hosts concerts and events throughout the year.

These are just a few of the many attractions that Sacramento has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just having a good time, there’s something for everyone in California’s capital city!

Cabo San Lucas is a popular vacation spot located at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula in Mexico. With its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife, Cabo San Lucas has become a go-to destination for travelers from all over the world. In this travel blog, we’ll take a look at some of the top attractions and activities in Cabo San Lucas, as well as provide tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas:

Go to the beach:

Cabo San Lucas has some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. Playa El Médano, Playa del Amor, and Lover’s Beach are all great options for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Take a boat tour:

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Cabo San Lucas is by taking a boat tour. There are plenty of options available, from sunset cruises to whale watching tours.

Visit the Arch of Cabo San Lucas:

The Arch of Cabo San Lucas is a natural rock formation that has become an iconic symbol of the city. It can only be reached by boat and is a must-see attraction.

Explore the local art scene:

Cabo San Lucas has a thriving art scene, with many galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists. Check out the Cerritos Beach Club and Gallery, which is located in a beautiful setting and features work from some of the area’s top artists.

Go on a culinary tour: Mexican cuisine is famous around the world, and Cabo San Lucas is no exception. Take a culinary tour of the city to sample some of the best local dishes, including fish tacos, ceviche, and margaritas.

Where to Stay in Cabo San Lucas:

Cabo San Lucas has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the top hotels and resorts in the area include:

The Resort at Pedregal:

This luxury resort offers stunning ocean views, a private beach, and a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and several dining options.

The Cape, a Thompson Hotel:

Located on a private beach, this stylish hotel features modern decor, two pools, and several restaurants and bars.

Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort: This adults-only resort offers a peaceful, tranquil setting and a range of amenities, including a spa, golf course, and several dining options.

Where to Eat in Cabo San Lucas:

Cabo San Lucas has a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Some of the top restaurants in the area include:

Edith’s:

This popular restaurant serves traditional Mexican cuisine, including fresh seafood and steak dishes. It has a beautiful setting overlooking the ocean.

Sunset MonaLisa:

This upscale restaurant offers stunning ocean views and a range of Italian and Mediterranean dishes. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

Flora Farms: This farm-to-table restaurant offers fresh, organic food sourced from its own farm. It’s a great spot for breakfast or lunch.

Getting Around Cabo San Lucas:

The easiest way to get around Cabo San Lucas is by taxi or rental car. Taxis are readily available throughout the city, and rental cars can be hired at the airport or in the city center. Alternatively, you can explore the city on foot or by bike, or take a local bus to reach more remote areas.

Cabo San Lucas is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife, it’s easy to see why.

Entry Requirements:

Before you travel to Hawaii, make sure to check the latest entry requirements. As of 2023, visitors to Hawaii are required to have a negative COVID-19 test result prior to departure or proof of vaccination. The state of Hawaii also requires visitors to fill out a Safe Travels Hawaii online travel and health form.

Weather:

Hawaii’s weather is generally warm and tropical year-round. However, the islands do have microclimates and weather can vary depending on which island you’re on and what time of year you’re visiting. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing for the activities you have planned, and consider bringing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

Transportation:

Renting a car is the best way to get around Hawaii, especially if you plan on exploring multiple islands. However, parking can be limited and expensive, so plan accordingly. There are also taxis, ride-sharing services, and public transportation options available.

Language and Culture:

English is the primary language spoken in Hawaii, but you will also hear Hawaiian and pidgin English. Hawaii has a unique and rich culture, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Food and Drink:

Hawaii has a vibrant culinary scene, featuring a mix of traditional Hawaiian dishes, as well as Asian and American cuisine. Some local favorites include poke, shave ice, and plate lunch. There are also many local breweries and distilleries that offer tastings.

Activities and Attractions:

Hawaii offers a wide variety of activities and attractions, including hiking, snorkeling, surfing, and cultural tours. Some must-see attractions include the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, the Road to Hana on Maui, and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island.

Shopping:

Hawaii is known for its unique souvenirs, including Hawaiian shirts, macadamia nuts, and Kona coffee. There are also many shopping centers and malls throughout the islands, featuring both local and international brands. Just keep in mind that Hawaii has a sales tax of 4.712%.

Tipping:

Tipping is customary in Hawaii, with the standard being 15-20% for restaurants and 10-15% for other services such as haircuts or massages. Some restaurants may also add a service charge to the bill, so be sure to check before tipping.

Safety:

Hawaii is generally a safe destination for travelers, but like any place, it’s important to take precautions. Always lock your car and hotel room, and be aware of your surroundings. It’s also important to take necessary precautions when engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking and swimming.

Aloha Spirit:

Hawaii is known for its “aloha spirit,” which is a way of life that emphasizes kindness, compassion, and respect. Embrace this spirit and be respectful to the locals, the land, and the culture during your visit.

Just how many miles of shoreline does the United States have? About 95,471, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration—and while every square inch is striking in its own way, certain regions of the country are blessed with the most beautiful sands and surf. We’ve zeroed in on the absolute best options from coast to coast, so all you have to do is decide which beachy vibe speaks to your sea-loving soul.

For a passport-free vacation that oozes Caribbean vibes, head to Destin-Fort Walton Beach. Located along the Florida Panhandle and the Gulf of Mexico, this beach boasts sugar-fine sand made of pure quartz crystal. The result? Twenty-four miles of pristine, soft white powder that doesn’t get hot underfoot but reflects the sunlight through the ocean to create an emerald hue in the crystal-clear waters.

If you like to spend your time in the water instead of on the sand, there are plenty of opportunities for surfing, along with SCUBA and snorkel excursions. County lifeguards watch over the beach but look for daily beach flag updates for the latest on the water currents and recommendations for swimming that day.

Even when it’s raining on the rest of the island, you can almost always count on a sunny day at Kauai’s Poipu Beach on the South Shore—and this can make the perfect backdrop for the most spectacular rainbows. This crescent-shaped beach is two beaches in one, separated by a tombolo. To the left of the sandbar is a shallow area protected from waves and dotted with lava rock, perfect for young families wishing to play in the water. And to the right, you’ll find the ideal spot for body boarding, snorkeling, and surfing.

You’ll no doubt find a few endangered Hawaiian monk seals napping in the sand (please stay at least 100 feet away from them and avoid flash photography), and during the winter months, you may even see humpback whales in the distance. There are lifeguards on duty and facilities with restrooms and showers. Bring a cooler to enjoy a bite to eat at the picnic tables.

Sure, the Oregon Coast is nearly synonymous with Cannon Beach because of its iconic Haystack Rock, but another gorgeous beach lies just 2 miles to the south: Arcadia Beach. “Breathtaking” is the only word that can truly capture the moment you first step onto Arcadia Beach, especially if you’re lucky enough to visit during low tide. On any given day, you’ll find families bicycling on the mile-long beach, children flying kites and dogs catching frisbees, and people playing in the surf or exploring the rock formations and tidepools. In the distance, you’ll still get to see a glimpse of Haystack.

The parking lot is small but often has room, even on sunny summer days—from there, it’s just a short walk down to the beach (you’ll encounter a section of steps). There are picnic tables and facilities. Keep an eye on the ocean levels, as the tides can change quickly.

North Carolina’s Crystal Coast offers 85 miles of sandy beaches—while it’s all stunning, make your way to Emerald Isle Beach for its 12 miles of pristine shoreline and views of the Atlantic Ocean. Here, the average temperature hovers around 80 degrees with more than 100 feet of visibility in the crystal-clear waters.

The sand here is a beachcomber’s paradise, littered with seashells of various sizes and colors, while the entire Crystal Coast is known as a wreck diver’s dream due to all of the sunken vessels in the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.” Be sure to visit The Point at the end of the Isle, as this tailed-off sandbar offers panoramic views of Bogue Sound, Bogue Inlet, and Bear Island, along with spectacular sunsets. Lifeguards are on the beach stand during peak season (April to September, also when paid parking is in effect), and most beach access points have a bathroom.

Snorkelers looking for a protected area that’s teeming with marine life—read: bright orange garibaldi, purple sea urchin, sea cucumbers, anemones, and starfish—should put San Diego’s La Jolla Cove high on their bucket list. This small golden crescent beach is tucked between dramatic sandstone bluffs, and it’s one of the most photographed beaches in SoCal due to its beauty (no surprise, considering La Jolla means “the Jewel”). You’re also sure to find many sea lions and seals sunbathing, as these calm waters are protected from ocean swells and currents.

Since the beach is only a 20-minute drive north from downtown San Diego, it gets pretty crowded in the summer; consider visiting in the fall instead (temps will still average 75 degrees). Parking can be difficult, though there is limited street parking if you’re lucky enough to nab a spot.

Is chilling on a beach on Maui’s West Shore your idea of the perfect day? Kaanapali is a three-mile stretch of white sands and crystal-clear waters and one of the best beaches in Maui. One of the most famous attractions here is the nightly cliff-diving ceremony, held at sunset off the beach’s most northern cliffs (Puu Kekaa, or Black Rock)—it’s a reenactment of a feat by Maui’s revered King Kahekili, in which he tested his warriors’ loyalty and bravery.

The shallow waters here are great for snorkeling, and it’s common to see whales off the coast during winter. Some beachgoers might not like the crowds or the fact that this beach is near so many resorts and a shopping mall, but this beach remains one of the best in the country.

As one of the longest beaches in the world—clocking in at 60 miles long—Myrtle Beach spans several communities and two state parks. There’s a wide variety of access points, each with a different atmosphere as you travel along the coast, from busy spots packed with action to the laid-back sections perfect for relaxing, depending on your preference. Refreshing year-round ocean breezes make this beach pleasant even in the heat of the summer.

If you pay to enter either state park (Myrtle Beach State Park or Huntington Beach State Park), you can park for free; otherwise, you’ll find paid parking at meters and in garages or lots. Most segments offer public bathrooms, and there are more than 2,000 restaurants along the coastline to ensure your belly stays full during a long day at the beach.

Take a little tour across San Diego Bay via the San Diego-Coronado Bridge, and you’ll arrive at Coronado Beach. Here, you’ll find fine golden sand that sparkles with flecks of the mineral mica against the iconic backdrop of the historic Hotel del Coronado. There are several different beaches, including Coronado Central Beach, dog-friendly North Beach, Silver Strand State Beach, Glorietta Bay Beach, and Coronado Shores Beach.

Because the ends of the beach butt up against military property, it’s not uncommon to see the Navy Seals training and fighter jets flying drills in the skies above. Most of the beaches offer restrooms and shower facilities. Look for free parking on Ocean Boulevard and at Ferry Landing Marketplace.

Looking for the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world? Look no further than Padre Island National Seashore in Corpus Christi, Texas. The park protects 66 miles of coastline, providing a haven for sea turtles and nearly 400 species of birds. Malaquite Beach on the Gulf of Mexico side is the main beach visitors frequent because this is where the visitor center is located (restrooms, showers, and picnic tables are available) and where the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle releases take place from mid-June through August. Bird Island Basin, a smaller beach on the Laguna Madre side, is a popular spot for windsurfers.

No matter which side of the beach you choose, both are pet-friendly. But because this is a protected seashore, amenities are limited, so you’ll need to plan accordingly—the nearest food, gas stations, and hotels are located 12 miles from the entrance. Five campgrounds are open year-round, and spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis (though there are no RV hook-ups in the park).

Some beaches feel inaccessible, but not Virginia Beach—this 35-mile stretch is located within a day’s drive of two-thirds of the nation’s population. Its popularity is partly due to its three-mile Oceanfront Boardwalk, the perfect place to bike, blade, or stroll while gazing out at the Atlantic shoreline. Of course, with a beach this size, it’s broken up into several beaches, including the quieter Croatan Beach, swimming-friendly Chesapeake Bay Beach, The Oceanfront (where you’ll find the Boardwalk), kid-friendly Grommet Island Park, and secluded Sandbridge Beach. Honestly, there’s something for every beachgoer style within Virginia Beach.

During peak season, lifeguards are posted along the shoreline. Virginia Beach welcomes your four-legged fur babies year-round, with some seasonal restrictions. Parking is plentiful via city garages, lots, and metered street parking (free from Nov. 1 through March 31). Virginia Beach also serves as a flight training zone for the U.S. Navy’s East Coast master jet base, so don’t be alarmed if you hear the roar of jet engines as pilots practice maneuvers.

There’s no shortage of shells for visitors to comb through at Bowman’s Beach Park, one of the most stunning and popular beaches on Sanibel Island in Southwest Florida. The beach is about a quarter-mile or so from the parking lot ($5 an hour), and you’ll walk along a footbridge to get to the white sands. The picturesque stretch of beach has calm, serene waves perfect to swim in, plus there’s a playground for children, a sand volleyball court, short hiking trails, and great fishing spots. Bring your kayak if you’re so inclined, as there’s a launch pad.

Bowman’s Beach has everything you need facilities-wise, including restrooms and an outdoor shower, picnic tables and charcoal grills. Many visitors prefer to wear water shoes instead of running around barefoot, because of all the shells.

It doesn’t get much more idyllic than Hilton Head Island’s Coligny Beach—the white sands are perfect for frolicking in the surf and soaking up some sunshine. From the end of Pope Avenue, follow the boardwalk down to the pristine sand and straight into the Atlantic. You can walk for miles, dip in the shallow waters, or bike along the hard-packed sand. You may see some tidal pools at low tide, and turtle nesting season runs between May and October.

Coligny Beach is fully equipped with outdoor showers, changing rooms, restrooms, Adirondack chairs, swings, water fountains for kids to run through, and shaded pavilions. There’s even free Wi-Fi. The shopping plaza is packed with dining and shopping options to round out your perfect beach day.

There’s a reason scenes from “The Walking Dead” were filmed on Jekyll Island: Driftwood Beach is almost otherworldly, in a hauntingly beautiful, strangely romantic, graveyard-of-dead-trees sort of way. This barrier island has the feel of a secluded, remote getaway. Yet, it’s only about an hour from Savannah, Georgia, and Jacksonville, Florida. Driftwood Beach is a particularly secluded spot nestled between cool blue water and majestic live oaks—and it gets its name from the gigantic and gnarly driftwood branches adorning the sands. Don’t forget your camera, as you’ll want to do an impromptu photoshoot in this Instagram-worthy spot.

Public parking is available, and leashed pets are welcome, but visitors looking for restrooms and picnic facilities will need to visit one of the island’s other beach parks.

Rum Dum, Goombay Smash, Bahama Mama—there’s no shortage of signature cocktails that come to mind when one thinks of the Bahamas. However, this Caribbean archipelago is also a severely underrated foodie destination. After all, there’s more to the Bahamian culinary scene than just conch—though the “queen” mollusk will be featured on this list in various incarnations (fritters, chowder, salad, and more). Read on for more signature Bahamian dishes to try during your next visit, as well as recommendations on where to try them. We recommend you wash this all down with a Sky Juice or a Bahama Papa.

Conch Fritters
8 conch fritters in a circle on a plate with a small cup of sauce in the middle. Every other fritter has a toothpick in it
Courtesy of Poop Deck East

You can’t visit the Bahamas without trying every variation of conch. The pink sea snail is native to the Caribbean and is a culinary staple throughout Nassau and the outer islands. We recommend the conch fritters, or the cracked conch, at Frankie Gone Bananas (either outpost in Nassau) or the Conch Shack on Baha Mar Boulevard in Paradise Island. Paula’s Conch Fritters and Creamy Calypso dipping sauce is the best starter on the menu at the Poop Deck, though they also serve cracked conch as an entree—why limit yourself to a single serving of conch per meal, anyway?

Rum Cake
Small rum cake shaped like a bundt cake on top of sliced and whole fruit like kiwis, strawberries, mango, raspberries, and peaches
Courtesy of Tortuga Rum Cake Company

Rum cake is a specialty in the Bahamas and Virgin Islands, and enjoying authentic Bahamian rum cake while visiting the islands is a treat that can’t be missed. We suggest visiting the Tortuga Rum Cake Company Company in Nassau (the final stop on the highly-recommended Tru Bahamian Food Tour, a culinary walking tour throughout Nassau). Wash it all down afterward with a handcrafted rum cocktail at the Talking Stick Bar at Towne Hotel, a charming boutique hotel just a short walk away in downtown Nassau. Order a rum punch and visit with the chatty blue macaw. The parrot has become a symbol of the establishment, and of the larger cocktail scene in Nassau in general.

Guava Duff
Closeup of guava duff on a plate with a white glaze over it
Jesse Friedman / Flickr / CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Our next suggestion is another Bahamian sweet: guava duff, a pastry made from one of the few indigenous fruits that preceded the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492. You can often find the popular fruit at farmers’ markets or road-side stands, and the dessert variation is served wherever authentic Bahamian cuisine is on the menu. The Shoal Kitchen sells a particularly mouthwatering variety.

Johnnycakes
Johnnycake on a cooling rack
Courtesy of Nassau Paradise Island

From one baked Bahamian pastry to another, this breaded tradition is best enjoyed at the Bahamian Cookin’ Restaurant & Bar in downtown Nassau. The three-generation owned Bahamian mainstay is renowned for its authentic island cuisine. Sip Sip on Harbour Island also serves homemade johnnycakes with the Sunday boil fish special. Johnnycakes are fairly easy to make at home so your cravings will never go unsatisfied.

Baked Macaroni and Cheese
black plate loaded with cracked conch, coleslaw and baked mac and cheese. There is also a styrofoam bowl of peas and rice
Ellen Bulger / Flickr / CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

For another traditional side course, consider ordering the baked macaroni and cheese on the menu at any restaurant serving authentic Caribbean cuisine. The mac n’ cheese is also very popular at Frankie Gone Bananas, which also boasts such classic Bahamian side dishes as peas and rice and fried plantains. While there, order the coconut ‘n Kalik soup, too (a specialty infused with local beer).

Rock Lobster
Caribbean Spiny Lobster swimming in the ocean
Pola Damonte / Getty Images

This spiny Caribbean lobster is very different from what you’re used to enjoying up North. Unlike the Maine variety, Rock Lobster is clawless and often served broiled, or as an ingredient in fresh island salads. There are many ways to prepare it, though we recommend enjoying a no-frills entree of the shellfish, broiled with a side of macaroni and cheese. Order the fresh Bahamian lobster tail at Frankie Gone Bananas or the Poop Deck, the latter of which is also famed for its lobster linguini. Another inventive (and delicious) culinary option for Bahamian lobster? The lobster quesadilla at Sip Sip in Harbour Island is a favorite order at the famed establishment, which has achieved cult-like status (and international appreciation, thanks to a mention in the “Crazy Rich Asian” series). Accompany your meal with a Sky Juice, another Sip Sip signature, this time of the alcoholic variety.

Conch Salad
Conch salad in a white bowl with a slice of orange and two lime wedges
Courtesy of Poop Deck East

Much like ceviche in Latin American countries, the conch salad prepared in the Bahamas is stripped down to its rawest (and most favorable) form. For an education on the preparation of the dish, check out the chefs preparing the dish at the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay. This dish has establishments specifically devoted to its perfection: Consider visiting Dino’s Gourmet Conch Salad and Goldie’s Conch House in Nassau, or checking out the Stuart Conch Salad stand in Bailey Town. Order the conch salad at Poop Deck East, or if you’re in the mood for another conch appetizer, order the restaurant’s conch chowder. There’s no shortage of conch-crazy starter courses in the Bahamas, and you should also consider the conch chili on the menu at Sip Sip.

Boiled Fish
Bowl of boiled fish with a spoon in it at Sip Sip restaurant. There are people eating at tables in the background
Courtesy of Sip Sip

A staple selection on the Tru Bahamian Food Tours, boiled fish is known also merely as “Boil,” and is a flavorful serving of flaky white fish, served with potatoes and spices. Particularly popular during Christmastime, it’s a must-eat when visiting during the winter months. And when it comes to ordering Bahamian fish, we recommend the snapper or the grouper. Sip Sip on Harbour Island has a Sunday special of boil fish that is not to be missed, a weekly event featuring buttered grits and homemade johnnycake. Just another reason to not book your return flight until Monday afternoon.