Money, phones and practical basics
Currency, cards and cash, mobile networks, electricity, water, groceries and who to call in an emergency.
Exuma is easy to visit but it is still a small island a long way from a city. A few practical points save a lot of trouble.
Money
The Bahamian dollar is pegged one to one with the United States dollar and the two are used interchangeably; you will get change in a mix of both. Hotels, larger restaurants and car rental companies take cards, but many small restaurants, taxis, water taxis and roadside stands are cash only. Cash machines are limited and mostly in George Town, so bring enough with you and do not rely on finding one.
Phones and internet
Two mobile networks cover the island, BTC and Aliv, both with offices in George Town where you can buy a prepaid SIM. Coverage is good along the Queen's Highway and patchy in the cays. Most rentals and hotels have Wi-Fi, though speeds vary. Roaming from North America usually works but can be expensive.
Electricity and water
Power is 120 volts with United States style plugs, so North American devices work without adapters. Outages happen, and many businesses and rentals have generators. Tap water comes from desalination or rainwater and varies by property, so ask your host; most provide bottled or filtered drinking water.
Groceries and supplies
George Town has two full grocery stores, a butcher and deli, and a convenience store with a pharmacy, with smaller shops in the settlements along the highway. Stock arrives on the weekly mail boat, so shelves are fullest in the days after it docks and produce can run short just before. Many shops close on Sundays and some close for lunch.
Health and emergencies
Dial 919 or 911 for police, fire or ambulance. The government clinic in George Town handles everyday care and emergencies, and serious cases are flown to Nassau or Florida, so travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is sensible. A dentist, a pharmacy and visiting specialists are listed on this site. Marine emergencies go to the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.