The taxi fare to Port Lucaya from airport was $19 US. There is also a public bus service which utilizes vans to take people to other parts of island. The fare is $1.50 US per person to downtown Freeport so this is definitely a much more economical way to get around. One can take this bus service to nearest grocer called Winn-Dixie or other major shopping area on Grand Bahama Island called International Bazaar. International Bazaar is actually next to downtown Freeport and near other cluster of hotels there. This shopping area was similar to Port Lucaya Marketplace except that it had an international theme. Unfortunately, International Bazaar is rapidly going downhill as over half of stores are now closed. This is not that surprising since even though there are attractive hotel rates and another casino located in this area, it is really too far from ocean to make it a decent Caribbean spot to stay. Therefore, it is highly recommended to stay in Port Lucaya area (or one of individual resorts near ocean if one prefers more seclusion).

Both of my trips to Freeport were primarily for scuba diving and with opportunities to dive with both dolphins and sharks here, I was not disappointed. There are other activities available in Grand Bahama Island including golf, horseback riding, sea kayaking and bird watching but these didn’t seem to be too popular. From conversations we had with other tourists, it seems that most people came to Grand Bahama Island for scuba diving, deep sea fishing or just to relax by beach. Otherwise, one could get bored here quite easily as there’s not much in terms of experiencing local Bahamian culture since much of tourist services are Americanized.

Gatlinburg cabin rental prices also rise and fall depending on peak or off-peak status. Peak season in Gatlinburg is from January through May, and also includes months of September, November and December. Off-peak season stretches from June thru August, October, and Major Holiday Periods. In addition, various cabin rental packages often include a free third night and/or discounts to local attractions, such as Dollywood, Dolly Parton themepark in neighboring Pigeon Forge.

Several cabin rental companies display rates online and can be contacted directly to make reservations.