Life Is Better In The Bahamas

The Bahamas Go Hollywood

Life is better in the Bahamas, is not only a caption from a vastly popular television commercial, but for sure a reality as The Bahama Islands capture our imagination and force us to forget all that’s around us. As one of the most beautiful places on earth, The Bahama Islands have a distinct sound, smell and culture all their own. Many travel to vacation spots such as The Grand Bahama Islands, Freeport and Nassau/Paradise Island, which represent a few of the 700 plus islands and cays in the region, to make up the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. The Islands are hailed as one of the top vacation destinations in the world, giving visitors an opportunity to live, breathe and soak up real island life, leaving you nothing short of speechless. Filled with white sandy beaches, blue skies and palm trees, The Bahamas make you think back to the 1988 hit song “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”, penned by Grammy Award Winning Singer/Songwriter Bobby McFerrin. In comparison, the Islands have their very own “power” in providing that lasting tranquility and peace that we all long for.

Spanning some 5, 358 square miles, The Commonwealth Of The Bahamas is for sure a major destination for peaceful surroundings and relaxation that many in the states can’t get enough of. Located off the coast of Miami and bordering Cuba, The Bahama Islands have recently made the news because of the death of Actress Anna Nicole Smith, but there’s much more to this paradise few are talking about. Yes the Bahamas is not just a place of relaxation for everyday people, but a playground for the rich and famous. One of the major events that took place outside the Bahamas recently was “The 3rd Annual Ebony Magazine Pre Oscar Party”, co-sponsored by The Bahamas Tourism Bureau, which took place back on Thursday, February 22nd at the Jim Henson Studios in Hollywood. “We have a growing market in Hollywood”, states General Manager of Communications Anita Johnson-Patty. “ The Ebony Magazine Pre-Oscar Party was a wonderful event for us to be involved with. When we saw that Ebony was putting together this event, we came aboard as a co-sponsor because we knew their events have a great impact on the African American market place. Being that we were interested in expanding our brand into their market, we asked what could we do.”

“Los Angeles is a growing market for us”, as she continues. “A lot of people, some celebrities and others love to come and visit The Bahamas and this just gives us an opportunity to present what we have to offer. This is close to Miami and ideal for people who love the water, good food, beautiful beaches and weather. Some people come for the beaches, while others come here to relax and enjoy themselves playing golf. For 2007, it looks as if we’re going to have another strong year. The Bahamas also has a strong market for weddings, diving, where it has the 3rd largest Barrier Reef in the world. For all the movie buffs, the James Bond Movie “Casino Royale” was shot on Paradise Island, then for those who love good food, we sponsor a culinary festival every year where Atlanta Chef Marvin Woods and some of the finest chefs in the world come out and test their skills. For the musician, as well those who love music, we have Jazz festivals with some of the top artists in that business. So the Bahamas has something for everyone. It’s about more than just beaches and sun and the individual, but a place where you can bring the entire family and have a great time.”

Celebrities in attendance for the 3rd Annual Ebony Magazine “Pre Oscar Party” were honorees Janet Jackson, Halle Berry, Herbie Hancock and Forest Whitaker. Also in attendance were celebrities such as Jermaine Jackson, Rev. Jessie Jackson, Kim Fields, Mary J. Blige, Victoria Rowell, Raven Symone, Nicole Ari Parker, Boris Kodjoe, Bow Wow, Tommy Davidson, Bobby Brown, Natalie Cole, Montel Williams, Shaun Robinson, Sinbad, and many others. Jennifer Hudson and Eddie Murphy were also honored. Linda Johnson Rice, president and chief executive officer of Johnson Publishing Company, hosted the event. For more on the Bahamas visit www.bahamas.com. New passport rules for visitors returning to The United States of America from The Islands of The Bahamas took effect as of January 23rd, 2007. For more information please go to www.travel.state.gov.