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Guide
Freeport, Bahamas π§πΈ
#1072
,
Nomad Score:
50%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Freeport is the second largest city in the Bahamas, located on Grand Bahama Island. |
π₯ Population | approximately 26,000 residents. |
π» Internet Speed | average speed of approximately 50 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 1 USD; USD is the official currency. ATMs are widely available. |
π° Tap Water | Generally not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | 120V, 60Hz, π Type A/B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Providers include Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) and Aliv. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Popular options include RBC Royal Bank and Scotiabank. |
π Accommodation | Options available include Airbnb, local hotels, and short-term rentals. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards are accepted widely, although cash is still common. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and Vrbo are popular platforms for short-term accommodation. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Options like the Flamingo Bay Hotel offer budget-friendly rooms. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The Lucaya area is most popular for tourists due to its proximity to beaches and amenities. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Port Lucaya offers great options for longer-term stays with coworking spaces nearby. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Fusion Cafe & Co-Work is the best option for remote professionals. |
β Best Cafe for Work | The Coffee Bar offers a cozy atmosphere with good Wi-Fi. |
πΌ Networking Events | Monthly meetups at the Freeport association provide networking opportunities. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Expats in Freeport Facebook Group is a vibrant community for updates and gatherings. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxi services are available; ride-sharing apps are not commonly used. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Limited rental services available; most people rely on taxis or walking. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Taino Beach is one of the closest and most beautiful beaches in Freeport. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Bahamasair offers flights to other islands. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | American Airlines and Delta operate flights from Freeport to the U.S. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | The main highway is the Queen's Highway, connecting major areas. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | There are no train services; public transportation is mainly via bus or taxi. |
π Public Transport Passes | Public bus passes are available, but services are limited. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Ferries operate to nearby islands like Grand Cay and the Abacos. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Grand Bahama Health Services is the main healthcare facility. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga on the Beach offers classes for all levels. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Local gyms include the Gym at the Lucayan Shopping Center. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Laundromats like Fresh and Clean offer self-service options. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Island Gourmet provides food delivery services. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Conch fritters and cracked conch are must-try local dishes. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | The Greenhouse offers a variety of healthy plant-based options. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | DD's Ice Cream is popular for sweet treats. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets offer affordable fresh produce and seafood. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon delivers to Freeport, sometimes with extra fees. |
π Grocery Delivery | Local grocery stores offer delivery service, though options may be limited. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Port Lucaya is the primary area for nightlife with various bars and clubs. |
π» Local Brewery | Bahamian Brewery produces local beers like Sands and Kalik. |
π· Wine Bars | Lucayan Wine Bar offers an excellent selection of wines. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Street vendors offer local snacks around the Port Lucaya marketplace. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Restaurants like The Poop Deck serve a mix of international dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Garden of the Groves is a beautiful botanical garden and local attraction. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Grand Bahama Museum showcases local history and art. |
π° Historical Sites | The ruins of the old Freeport are notable for their historical significance. |
π Religious Sites | St. Mary's Catholic Church is a well-known landmark. |
π Annual Events | The Junkanoo Festival held during Christmas and New Year is a must-see event. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Lucaya offers a blend of cultures with festivals and music events. |
π Theater Venues | The Regency Theatre hosts various performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The Lucaya Marketplace offers local crafts and goods. |
πΌ Music Scene | Live music at local bars offers a glimpse into the Bahamian music culture. |
π¨ Street Art | Murals around Freeport reflect local art and culture. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Local chefs offer classes in traditional Bahamian cooking. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Artists' studios and galleries are found near the Lucaya area. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The Rand Memorial Nature Center is notable for its architecture. |
π΄ Local Heritage | The island's native history and culture are celebrated in various local events. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | The Lucayan National Park features stunning landscapes. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | The Lucayan National Park is also considered a national park. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Walking paths are available throughout the parks and beaches. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The cliffs at Gold Rock Beach provide picturesque views. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | The wetlands near the national park are ideal for birdwatching. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Certain beaches allow bonfires, with Taino Beach being popular. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL provides reliable parcel delivery in Freeport. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local shops like Tech Hub offer device repairs. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Community centers sometimes host ping pong tables for recreational play. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Language classes in English and other languages are offered at local community colleges. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | The Freeport Library is a quiet place for study and reading. |
ποΈ Community Centers | The Freeport Community Centre offers cultural and recreational activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Local lounges may host gaming events and tournaments. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | The Treasure Bay Casino is a well-known venue for gaming. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $140,000 for a 40 mΒ² studio in the city center. |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $112,000 for a 40 mΒ² studio outside the city center. |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $192,000 for a 60 mΒ² one-bedroom in central locations. |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $150,000 for a 60 mΒ² one-bedroom outside the city. |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $240,000 for an 80 mΒ² two-bedroom in central areas. |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $184,000 for an 80 mΒ² two-bedroom outside the city. |
πΌ Corporate Tax | Standard corporate tax rate is 0%. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | Dividend withholding tax is 0%. |
π¦ Tax System | No taxation on global income for non-residents; beneficial for digital nomads. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is 0% for non-residents. |
π§Ύ VAT | There is no VAT in the Bahamas. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No strict CFC rules apply. |
π Property Tax | Property taxes are based on property value; generally low. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Transaction tax is 10%. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | There is no income tax for foreign residents, making it attractive for digital nomads. |