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About The Bahamas The Islands Of The Bahamas form a 100,000-sq-mile archipelago that extends over 500 miles of the clearest water in the world. Our 700 islands, including uninhabited cays and large rocks, total an estimated land area of 5,382 sq. miles, and register a highest land elevation of 206 ft. on Cat Island. The Bahamas has the world's third longest barrier reef and about 14. 5% of the world's coral can be found in our waters. The islands are made entirely of calcium carbonate, which is mainly produced or precipitated by the organisms of coral reefs. There are no rivers in The Bahamas. Most notable, however, is that each island has its own diversity that continues beyond geography, carrying through to the heart of The Bahamas, the Bahamian people. You’ll find it in our heritage. In our culture. And in our humble pride. These are The Islands Of The Bahamas. Population: somewhere north of 305,000.
With 700 islands sprinkled out over 100,000 sq. miles of ocean, The Bahamas offers the largest assortment of vacation spots of any tropical destination. Islands are circled by cays (pronounced “keys”). Some cays are surrounded by uninhabited rocks. Which island or cay is right for your vacation? Well, you won’t know until you know more about our 14 main islands that serve as hubs for the remaining 686 islands.
Government
The Bahamas enjoys democratic rule and is considered one of the most politically stable countries in the world.
The Constitution of The Bahamas is based on the Westminster Model; Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, The Executive Branch, The Legislative Branch, and Judicial Branch.
As a member of the Commonwealth of Nations The Bahamas recognizes Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as Head of State. The Governor-General is Her Majesty's representative in The Bahamas and constitutes a symbol of the nation's unity.
The Cabinet constitutes the Executive branch and has general direction and control of the Government of The Bahamas. It is necessary for the Cabinet to comprise at least nine Ministers inclusive of the Prime Minister and Attorney General.
Parliament constitutes the Legislative branch of The Bahamas, which consist of a Senate and a House of Assembly. (The Bahamas House of Assembly first officially convened in 1729.) Subject to the provisions of the Constitution, Parliament may make laws for the peace, order and good government of the Bahamas.
Judicial Authority is vested in the Judicature which comprises the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal, with such jurisdiction, powers and authority as may be conferred on these Courts respectively by the Constitution or any other law Ministry of Financial Services & Investments
Our dynamic island nation is well known throughout the world for its natural beauty and the warm welcome that awaits the millions who visit our shores every year. More and more, however, we are also becoming known for the warm welcome that awaits international investment in our country.
With economic, political and social conditions that provide a fertile business environment, The Bahamas is indeed a paradise for investment. We offer a number of unique advantages – freedom from taxation, democratic stability and investment incentives – and an infrastructure that encourages, supports and rewards international investment. |
