The Bahamas is a well known destination. White and pink sandy beaches, coral reefs, ocean cruises, and hotel paradises galore. However, that is only a part of the identity of the Bahamas. When a country's main economy revolves tourism, it's hard to see past the advertisements and get a real look into what life in the Bahamas is like. I had the chance to learn a little more local life on the island of Eleuthera.
The name Eleuthera means "freedom." The shape of the island can be described as a whale tale. Eleuthera, shares a history with the rest of the islands. The Bahamas gained independence in 1973, so it's a fairly new country. The first occupants of the Islands were the Lucayans. However, not much is known about them or their culture as it was wiped out by Spanish settlers, most infamously by Christopher Columbus.
Also, Eleuthera's main economy is based around tourism. Every town has restaurants, special attractions, and hotels or inns. A common theme is that tourist spots will have an altered culture that adjusts to the comforts of visitors. There are schools and necessities for locals as well, and for the most part it functions as a normal developing nation. Farming and fishing culture is a huge way of life and most occupations are in hospitality. Religion is a huge part of the Bahamian culture, the main one being Christianity.
There were conversations that also taught me a lot about our different perceptions of paradise. While I was there for what seemed like researching in paradise, they were working in their daily life. Nevertheless, I loved talking to those who lived there. They were all welcoming and friendly. However, as much as I learned from them about their culture, I never lived in it and was just a visitor to their community. I consider myself lucky that I was able to witness and experience as much as the citizens of Eleuthera were willing to share.
That's all I have to say!
x Emma
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