Nassau’s Straw Market – A Bahamas Tradition

Guest Post By: Margie Miklas

The Straw market in downtown Nassau is part of the culture of the Bahamas, and no matter how many times I have been here I still find myself at the straw market. It's sort of a tradition for tourists, and certainly for the local Bahamians. Nassau is one of the most visited ports for cruise ships with Caribbean itineraries, so millions of people visit the straw market each year.  Just a short walk from the port is Bay Street where you will find Nassau's famous Straw Market,

Nassau straw market, Nassau, BahamasWeaving straw by hand and selling the products in this organized marketplace is one of the country's oldest industries. Although the Bahamians have been using dried leaves from palm trees and sisal plants to weave baskets and other items since the 1700's, it was not until the mid 1940's when it became an organized industry. Today it is a major business not only in Nassau but other islands in the Bahamas chain.

Some of the items sold here can be tacky, like a wallet made out of pink straw with the words Nassau or Bahamas, weaved into it in green straw, yet a visit to Nassau doesn't really seem complete without a visit to the Straw Market.

I always enjoy watching the local women and some men weaving their straw and usually they are happy to let you take a photo while they are working their craft. If you take the time to look around you may find a sleeping baby behind some of the displays, or a toddler holding on to her mamma's dress. These ladies work here all day while the market is open from 9 to 5 and they even eat their lunch while they work.

Nassau horse with hat, Nassau, BahamasThis is definitely a place where you are expected to bargain with the vendors, and if you purchase several items you can always count on a discount. The Bahamians are happy and not too bad with high pressure tactics. They all know each other and if they don't have what you want they will guide you to one of their friends' stalls nearby who will most assuredly have it or make it for you on the spot. Even the horses that pull the tourist carriages are adorned in straw hats from this market. It is all part of the atmosphere here.

The items can range from straw hats to beach bags to belts to puppets and dolls made from straw. The vendors sell clothing (not made from straw) here as well, for both adults and children. Some of the stalls even have fitting rooms to accommodate the millions of tourists who visit here. Hair braiding is available here as well as other souvenirs made of wood and shells. Some of my favorite items are the Christmas ornaments made from seashells.

Fire damaged the straw market in 1974 and again in 2001. A makeshift temporary Straw Market under a large tent is the one I have shopped at on Bay Street. In August of 2011, the Straw Market was badly damaged by flooding after Hurricane Irene and was moved to an area near Prince George Wharf. In early December of the same year another fire destroyed the rest of the Straw Market.

Prince George Wharf Nassau, BahamasTwo weeks later a brand new and improved Straw Market opened on Bay Street and I am looking forward to seeing it on my next cruise. With space for 500 vendors the new Straw Market consists of two levels of air-conditioned space, with the first level covering 37,000 square feet and 4500 sq ft on the mezzanine level. Built to withstand winds up to 200 miles per hour, this 12 million dollar structure should last forever. Public washrooms, an ATM machine and Wi-Fi technology are available here so the vendors can take credit cards. For fire safety an overhead sprinkler system has been installed and the building is equipped with a generator.

On your next stop in Nassau, enjoy the new Straw Market in air conditioned comfort and see if they still make the pink wallets.  As the locals say, "it's better in the Bahamas."

Guest Post By: Margie Miklas

Follow Margie on her blog at margieinitaly.wordpress.com

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Travel Photo Of The Day-Coastline on Grand Bahama Island, The Bahamas

Coastline on Grand Bahama Island, The Bahamas

Photo By Enzo Minchella

Coastline on Grand Bahama Island, The Bahamas

Grand Bahama Island, fifth largest island in the chain of Bahamanian Islands, is one of the most northern islands as well as closest island to Florida's coastline. West End to just past Sweeting's Cay the island stretches 96 miles through the turquoise blue waters of the Bahamas.

For more information and destinations in Bahamas check out Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures Bahamas

 

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Nassau Bahamas Beaches

Nassau Cable BeachThe sound of steel drums, the smell of conch fritters, the feel of grainy sand on your skin, the taste of moist and warm rum cake, the sun setting over pastel painted roofs. There's nothing like a Nassau Bahamas vacation. Nassau is the largest city in the Bahamas, and is a booming and popular tourist destination. Many people flock to Nassau Bahamas for its luxurious resorts, amazing hotels, exquisite timeshares, and its sugar sand beaches. The beaches of Nassau Bahamas appeal to families, spring break partiers and retirees alike.

Cable Beach Morning Cable Beach For more than 1,000 feet, the sands of Cable Beach stretch across the island's coastline. Bordered by some of Nassau's most popular hotels and resorts,like the Blue Water Resort, this pristine beach is one of the largest on the island. Grab a snorkel and check out some of the breathtaking marine life beneath the shore, or simply enjoy some water sports. At dusk, watch as the sun sets over this pristine paradise as you breathe in the fresh ocean air. Cable Beach is also convenient to golf courses and recreation, making it the first choice for many travelers.
Cabbage Beach, Nassau, Bahamas Cabbage Beach Wanna soak up some sun while enjoying a day of exhilarating activity? Check out Cabbage Beach. The beach offers access to some of Nassau's most sought-after activities like parasailing, snorkeling and jet-skiing. Cabbage Beach is somewhat smaller than the larger Cable Beach, so if you're looking for a secluded spot, you've come to the right place. The southwest corner of the island is usually quieter, making it the perfect locale for a midnight picnic or quiet chat. Cabbage Beach is just steps away from the cruise ship dock, making it a perfect go-to excursion for those coming into Nassau by ship.
Junkanoo Beach, Nassau Junkanoo Beach Closer to downtown, the location of this pristine beach is perfect for vacationers who want a quick break between shopping and sightseeing. This tiny beach is a well-kept secret, and is often very secluded, making it great for a private getaway. Junkanoo Beach is also one of the few Nassau Bahamas beaches that features private changing areas and restrooms. Junkanoo Beach is the perfect escape for families who want to get the full beach experience while at the same time avoiding huge crowds. A great place to see the large cruise ships that come into Nassau. .

 

 

Saunders Beach Saunders Beach Just off the coast of Coral Island is Saunders Beach. This pristine beach makes the excellent day adventure, as food and beverage vendors are in plentiful supply. The water is crystal blue and clear and is some of the calmest on the island. Saunders Beach is popular with families as a popular beach for leisurely swims. Grab an umbrella and head over to Saunders Beach, making sure to stop off for a souvenir from the nearby vendors. There's a reason that thousands of tourists flock to Nassau every year. The close proximity to the Florida coast, coupled with white sand beaches, luxurious hotels, world class internet casinos and delectable cuisine makes it a magnet for sea lovers. Nassau Bahamas beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. Nassau's pristine beaches are not to be missed

 

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