Getting to Exuma
There are only two ways to get to the Exumas- By boat or air.

Commercial Airlines
American Eagle
Bahamasair
Lynx

Private Plane
Exuma International Airport has a new tower (118.0), a new 8,000 ft. runway with VOR/DME (112.2), ADF (328), improved navigationaids, 100 octane aviation fuel and Jet-A fuel available daily. Private pilots can call Peace & Plenty directly from the air on UHF frequency 12.8 for reservations and information.
Out Island Mailboats
Inter-island mailboats run weekly to/from all islands. The mailboats are a leisurely way to get around-- one-way passage to just about anywhere is to be had for around $35. Kayaks will cost from $10-$20 each. Remember these mailboats run on Bahamas time; they're a great way to slow down to the steady rhythm of the islands. Following is the Mailboat schedule:
The Mailboat is a real Adventure. The Grand Master arrives once a week to George Town from Nassau. It is approximately a twelve hour journey. The Lady Francis follows a more leisurely route through the Exuma Cays and arrives at Barre Terre. For somewhat of a schedule, call the dockmasters office in Nassau at 242-393-1064.

Transportation on Island
Rental Cars & Scooters
There are several rental car agencies on Exuma (no International Companies). There are two agencies at the airport and several in town. Most cars are several years old and are compacts. Rates are about $60-$80 per day. Scooters can be rented for about $40 a day at Exuma Dive Center and at the Top to Bottom Store in George Town.
Taxis
There are a number of very good taxis and very accommodating taxi drivers in Exuma. Rates are set. One way from the airport to George Town is $25 for one or two; $5 each extra. Airport to Barre Terre is $60 for two. Christines Island Tours offers tours of the island in an air-conditioned bus for about $20 each. Book trips at the Club Peace & Plenty. Mary Dames (Taxi 25) gives a most informative historical tour of the island.
Boats
15' and 17' Boston Whalers can be rented at Minn's Water Sports for about $65-$80 per day plus gas.
Bicycles
Both 21 speed mountain bikes and cruiser bikes with luggage baskets can be rented at Starfish for $20-30 per day.

Other Travel Information
Travel Documents
You will need to have a current passport to get into the Bahamas. Birth certificates are no longer accepted.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is recommended in case of emergencies. Check out Independent Traveler for information on what type of insurance you may need and companies that offer travel insurance. For an excellent article about travel insurance with explanations and other referrals check www.independenttraveler.com/resources.
Banking
The Scotia Bank has a branch in George Town. They have an ATM machine, and most bank services.
Holidays & Sundays
There are a number of Bahamian Holidays, and all stores and services except hotels and restaurants are usually closed on those Holidays. The same is true on Sundays in Exuma. If you plan to arrive in the Bahamas on a Sunday or a holiday, please note that the grocery stores and other stores WILL NOT BE OPEN.
Exchange Rate/Money
The Bahamian Dollar fluctuates with the US dollar, so the exchange rate is 1:1. Most Bahamian stores and services accept either Bahamian or US currency. Note, however, that there is a .5% exchange fee at the bank. Travelers checks are accepted most places.
Costs
Virtually everything must be brought into Exuma by plane or boat. There is a heavy customs tax which further adds to the cost of goods (35-45% is the average). By the time you buy something in the store here, it may be twice what you pay in the US. Good buys can be found at the straw market, where local handmade and Nassau goods are sold. While there are several modest hotels which charge less than $100 per night for a room, they are the exception. Expect modest lodging to go from $70 to $100 per night; first class from $120-$200 per night, and luxury above $200 per night. Restaurant meal ranges: Breakfast $5-$8, Lunch $6-$10 and Dinner $10-$30.