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From:TheBahamasWeekly.com Ministry of Tourism Updates
With vaccinations on the rise and travel confidence steadily increasing, The Bahamas is looking forward to welcoming back travelers whenever they choose to visit. However, those who are not ready to travel just yet, will be pleased to know they do not have to miss out on an authentic Bahamas experience simply because they do not get on a plane. We are living in a time where connection is needed most, and demand for vacations are at an all-time high. Consumers are especially craving interactions with the local people and culture that are found along the way during travel. These sessions are unique in that they are not just streamed viewing experiences offered to unlimited numbers of participants, or explored solo in 360-degree technology, but instead are curated to small intimate groups (of no more than five participants each) who will interface live with local hosts, allowing for real conversation and authentic connection through the sharing of Bahamian culture and traditions. For the first time ever, consumers can indulge in the unique People-to-People Program from the comfort of their own homes. Available to book, beginning today, the Bahamas Virtual People-to-People Program offers five free virtual session themes where participants can cook, drink, dance and chat with local ambassadors in The Bahamas: Local Life 101: Sick of the news? Turn it off and take a walk with historian Arlene Nash Ferguson to learn about the culture and heritage of The Bahamas...and maybe even some tips on how to speak the colloquial language. Cooking Like a Local: Stuck in a pandemic cooking rut? Move over sourdough starter -- wine and dine with ambassadors as they open the doors to their home kitchens and walk you through a step-by-step cooking session featuring one of their favorite Bahamian meals. Happy Hour Like a Local: We like to think everything is better in The Bahamas...and that includes Happy Hour! Shake up your afternoon, literally, by learning how to make the famous Bahama Mama cocktail. Walk and Talk with a Local: Need a change of scenery on your post-work stroll? Take in the sights and sounds of Bahamian sunsets, tropical landscapes and sandy beaches while engaging in conversation with locals who can give you the inside scoop on everything taking place on the islands. Dance Like a Local: Junkanoo: Looking to mix up your at-home workout routine? Learn how to move to the beat of The Bahamas with a dash of history through a step-by-step Junkanoo tutorial -- an upbeat and beautifully choreographed dance deeply rooted in one of the country’s most celebrated traditions. “The People-to-People Program offers travelers the unique opportunity to enter the homes of Bahamian citizens and truly immerse themselves in our culture,” said the Hon. Dionisio D'Aguilar, Bahamas Minister of Tourism & Aviation. “We are proud to bring these experiences to the virtual stage and our ambassadors are thrilled to share their love of The Bahamas with travelers once again.” The People-to-People Program has long been “matching” visitors, often entire families, with more than 500 Bahamian volunteers of similar ages and interests for a day or evening activity which could include boating, fishing, shopping at the local outdoor market, attending a local school or enjoying a “back-street tour.” More often, these experiences included visiting Bahamians in their home for a traditional meal of Peas ‘n Rice, fried fish and Guava Duff. The People-to-People encounters have resulted in lasting friendships between visitors and locals for decades and the Ministry of Tourism is thrilled to now be able to bring this special experience to homes across the globe virtually. The Bahamas’ unique geography of over 700 islands and cays and 16 major island destinations makes it the ideal vacation spot for every type of traveler. Whether consumers are looking to indulge in the Bahamian culture through an in-person People-to-People experience or be transported to one of the country’s picturesque white-sand beaches virtually, there are endless opportunities available in The Bahamas. Available for a limited time, wanderlusters can now book the free virtual sessions with People-to-People ambassadors here. For more information on booking in-person experiences, please visit Bahamas.com/People-to-People. ABOUT THE BAHAMAS With over 700 islands and cays and 16 unique island destinations, The Bahamas lies just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, offering an easy fly away escape that transports travelers away from their everyday. The Islands of The Bahamas have world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the earth’s most spectacular water and beaches waiting for families, couples and adventurers. Explore all the islands have to offer at www.bahamas.com or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram to see why It’s Better in The Bahamas.
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