BAHAMAS Nassau is the capital of the island of New Providence which is one of the many islands of the Bahaman archipelago that extends for almost a thousand kilometres between Cuba and Florida in the Atlantic Ocean. New Providence is the commercial and political centre and is more commonly known as the Bahamas. Built between 1805 and 1813 in typical American southern style, the pink-coloured buildings of Parliament Square are the headquarters of the Bahamian government. In front of the white columned Neo-Classical parliament building is a noble statue of the English queen, Victoria, as a young girl. The colourful Caribbean Straw Market is a lively place. There are lots of fascinating things to see including skilful craftsmen who carve traditional objects from mahogany. Bags, baskets and hats made of straw are offered as souvenirs. Along the coast there are several caves in which pirates once hid their ill-gotten gains or argued over buried treasure. During the Stone Age the Arawak Indians lived in the caves. Cable Beach boasts a multitude of exquisite modern hotel complexes that cater for every need and several of them possess a casino. Naturally, each has its own lavish bathing areas and a vast choice of exciting entertainment. Thus it’s not too difficult to understand why British secret agent 007 often chose these islands for his investigations! The Bahamas: the very name conjures up remote sandy beaches and turquoise blue water, romantic sunsets and tropical nights. A place where fantastic dreams become wonderful reality.