You’re from the Bahamas?
Spoiler alert* Yes, people are actually from The Bahamas!
Yes I know it sounds far fetched but honestly the amount of people who have looked at me, awestricken when I have told them that I am from the Bahamas would surprise you.
Typically this news elicits numerous random and sometimes down right ignorant questions. I can not tell you how many times I have been asked if we live in trees or huts(really?!). More often that not however, any mention of The Bahamas makes people reminisce about a cruise they or a relative once took. You can see palm trees swaying in their eyes, mentally they enter vacation mode.
Located just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, we are America’s friendly Island neighbors. We have our own dialect that is nothing like the Jamaican Patwah or any other Caribbean country for that matter. (So please, please do not approach us with “Hey Mon”. )
** This video was taken downtown in The Bahamas not Jamaica and we do not talk like that**
We have our own distinct island flavor (and that doesn't include jerk chicken.) much like every other Country in the Caribbean. We have traditions and cultural experiences that are unique to our archipelago. Fun fact: Bahamians are very polite and friendly so if someone walks into a store you are in and automatically says “Good afternoon. or Good morning.” They are probably Bahamian.
Being so close in proximity to the United States, we are very up to date on current and historical American cultural and Political trends. It would be nice if visitors to our 700 islands and 2,400 cays ( Only thirty of the islands are inhabited.) would also educate themselves on the differences of the island that they have chosen to visit. We are much so more than just “The Atlantis”.
On that note, I thought it would be super beneficial to list a couple of questions/ remarks NOT to make when you encounter someone from the Bahamas.
- Why don't you have an accent?
We do it just doesn't sound like what you thought it would.
2. Do you just sit on the beach and drink Pina Coladas all day?
I wish, but the average Bahamian works in the tourism industry. While people from all over the globe come here to unwind and enjoy the beautiful crystal blue waters, the average Bahamian works in the hotel as a hostess, room attendant, maid or Croupier. Tourism is our number one industry, followed by banking, so while your vacationing we are working.
3. Is that where Bob Marley is from?
Again that is Jamaica, and no we don't sit around smoking weed on the beach all day. Believe it or not weed is still illegal here.
4. You don't look like you are from The Bahamas.
The Bahamas is a true melting pot, like most of the Caribbean our heritage is diverse and proudly celebrated. Don't assume what we look like.
5. What's the difference between Bermuda, Barbados and The Bahamas?
Sigh. The only thing that is the Same about these countries is that they start with the letter B! Bermuda is not even in the Caribbean. All three Islands have very unique cultural differences. It’s like saying what is the difference between Africa and Asia.
The Caribbean is a beautiful and diverse region. The Bahamas is just one of the many Beautiful jewels in its crown. We are a nation of proud people and like most Caribbean countries we would like to be celebrated for our unique cultural offerings and heritage.
