Freeport and Nassau

[Katsmom]

We already have an excursion planned in both places but what do we need to be aware of in both places?

[spoheat]

We felt the merchants, particularly those braiding hair were aggressive. There also seemed to be a cultural difference I am not used to--we would pause to look at something in the straw market--"I get down for you!" and if we were just looking the people seemed cool or almost angry. We learned fast to only browse casually unless we were fairly committed to the purchase. Also see other posts on this site warning people about overloaded water taxis. I like to book my own excursions rather than go through the ship, but in Nassau I use the cruise line unless we are just headed to Cabbage beach--Bahamas are not my favorite ports of call.

[Larry in Miami]

The merchants in Nassau are way less aggressive than those in Jamaica. I have been to Nassau several times and found everyone to be quite friendly and easy to deal with.

[sunshine37922]

What is Cabbage Beach?

[goin' cruisin']

In Nassau, and I assume Jamaica as well, be aware of sheisters. Like in all cities, the US most definitely included, there are folks who want nothing more than to separate you from your money. Be on guard for quick change artists, pick pockets, and seemingly innocuous requests like "do you have anything smaller?" when paying for small purchases with a $20, $50, or more. Sometimes, a second person will attempt to distract you as you search for that smaller bill. When receiving your change for the smaller bill, don't forget to get the original bill you handed over in the first place.