The Spanish discovered, what they called "baja ma" meaning "shallow sea" around five centuries ago. There are approximately 700 islands in the Bahamas, and I was washed ashore on the island of Nassau.
Nassau, the Bahamian capital, is a city rich in beauty, history, and personality. Since its founding in 1656, and through the ages of colonialism, piracy, rum-smuggling, and now tourism, it has always been the center of color and culture in the islands. The stories that lurk in its narrow, flowery streets and within the walls of its old forts are among the most legendary tales in the Caribbean.
Nassau is home to weatherbeaten, ancient forts; elegant, noble architecture; and fine local and international crafts and goods, from handmade lengths of batik to Rolex watches. An abundance of posh resort hotels, casinos, cabaret shows, and cruise ship docks make Nassau a vibrant center for entertainment as well as commerce.