The Bahamas is an island country located in the Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Florida and north of Cuba. It consists of more than 700 islands and cays, though only a small portion are inhabited. Nassau, the capital city, is situated on New Providence Island and serves as the political and economic center of the country. The Bahamas is known for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches, which make tourism the primary driver of its economy.
Formerly a British colony, the Bahamas gained independence in 1973 but remains a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. The country operates as a constitutional parliamentary democracy. In addition to tourism, financial services and offshore banking contribute significantly to the national economy. Despite its relatively small population, the Bahamas plays an important role in Caribbean regional affairs and is recognized globally as a popular travel destination.
