The Bahamas are breathtaking. Everything about the island life makes me want to go back. I have never been more happy and excited in my life than I was when I saw a wild stingray in the ocean. It was truly life changing. If you ever visit the Bahamas, make sure to keep these few things that I learned in mind.

1. “Island Time” is no joke.

Everyone here moves at their own pace, including waiters. The tip is already included so there is no need to rush. Never go to a restaurant hungry. (Yes, even fast food is not really fast here.)

2. There are minimal road signs, which makes it very easy to get lost.

A street sign typically only appears at the beginning, and consequently the end, of the street. Make sure you are super observant.

3. The road signs they do have are different.

They are on red and white signs. “Give Way” means to yield; this sign is shaped like a triangle. Speed limit signs are in circles. Everyone is an aggressive driver. These people are worse than New Yorkers. They constantly go around you. To them, every lane is a passing lane. A lot of people also drink and drive, including the bus drivers.

4. The left side of the road is the correct side.

In the Bahamas, people drive on the left side of the road. Some cars even have their steering wheels on the left! However, that only happens on cars not manufactured in the U.S..

5. Gas prices aren’t posted where you would think.

While they are not posted on the signs advertising which station it is, they are posted. At one station, it was posted on a banner on a concrete wall. Gas is super expensive. When I was there this week, it was $3.97 per gallon. I was informed that this was cheap.

6. Roundabouts everywhere.

Honestly, if your driver is a native Bahamian you will find your stomach in knots.

7. Bahamians are speed demons.

The fastest speed limit sign I saw was 45 miles per hour. Everyone goes at least 60. And they still pass you.

8. The grocery store baggers push your cart to your car.

They are typically high school and middle students trying to make tips.

9. The gas attendants pump your gas for you and wash your windshield every time you get gas.

I did not see a single gas station, only service stations. Shell gas stations are extremely common.

10. They play covers of popular songs on the radio.

For instance, I heard a cover of "Controlla." The radio plays Island music as well as American music. One station even broadcasted a rap battle live! It reminded me of 106 & Park.

11. The license plates are different colors and they mean different things.

The most common was a blue and yellow license plate. It was for the average car owner.

12. Life is expensive.

Almost everything is double the cost. A few things are cheaper or equal.

13. The beaches have clear water.

It is so freaky. It is like swimming in a pool, except warmer and saltier.

14. Coral reefs.

There are tons of coral reefs, and at every one you can find vibrant and unique wildlife.

15. The money has an equal conversion rate and they accept Bahamian and American dollars everywhere.

Cha-ching!

I loved the Bahamas. I had a wonderful time. I strongly encourage you to go. It is so beautiful and there are so many opportunities to experience nature and wild animals.