The Wandering Disciple

 The crystal clear, turquoise waters of the Bahamas archipelago are a magnet for tourists from every corner of the globe. This allure is deeply rooted in the islands' stunning natural beauty, offering an unparalleled vacation experience. Beyond the shimmering clarity of the sea itself, visitors are drawn to the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, perfect for world-class snorkeling and scuba diving. The powdery white and pink sand beaches invite relaxation, while the gentle, warm ocean breezes and perpetual sunshine create an idyllic escape. From the bustling luxury resorts of Nassau and Paradise Island to the quiet, untouched beauty of the Out Islands, the Bahamas offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to sun-seekers, adventurers, and those simply looking for a serene retreat.  Taken: October 27, 2006 (Nassau, Bahamas)

As you stroll the congested aisles of Nassau's renowned Straw Market, you will find hidden treasures for the whole family. From colorful cartoon characters beach towels for the kids to handcrafted bags and Bahamas souvenirs for the adults, the Straw Market has something for everyone.  The open-air market is nestled between the high-end shops of Bay Street and the cruise ships of Prince George's Wharf. It has been a popular stop for the thousands of cruise passengers that pass through the port daily. Opened in the 1940's the Straw Market has given Bahamians a place to sell crafts, souvenirs and more.  Taken: April 21, 2010 (Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas)

It doesn't matter what corner of the continent you are on, a Starbucks is not to far away.  The Seattle-base coffee giant's grip on the market can even be felt even in the Caribbean as seen in this colorful coffee house in the Bahamas.  There are over 27,000 Starbucks worldwide with presence in 6 continents and 76 counties.  (Photo: April 21, 2010)

Just on the edge of Paradise Island is a little bit of paradise on the bright blue waters of the Bahamas.  The coastline of the Bahamas are filled with tropical getaways and luxurious mansions along the shores of this Caribbean hot spot.  (Photo: October 27, 2006)

During the pirate age, a system of rules and punishments helped to maintain conduct within the pirate culture.  To violate the code meant to be marooned from the crew.  If you were marooned, you were abandoned on a desolate island and left to fend for yourself.  This form of punishment was recreated in an exhibit at the Pirates of Nassau Museum in downtown Nassau.  (Photo: April 21, 2010)

Sitting high atop Bennet's Hill, the battery of Fort Fincastle protected Nassau Harbour from invading navy's and pirate intruders.  Built by Lord Dunmore in 1793, Fort Fincastle was one of three forts built to defend the island.  (Photo: April 21, 2010)

The colonial era fort just outside Nassau was designed to help defend the island nation from enemy attacks.  Fort Charlotte was built by Lord Dunmore following the American Revolutionary War.  Despite being the first line of defense for the city, Fort Charlotte never saw action and today is a popular tourist attraction in Nassau.  (Photo: April 21, 2010

A patrol car from the Royal Bahamas Police Force patrols downtown Nassau.  The Royal Bahamas Police Force is the national law enforcement agency of the island nation and is responsible for the safety and security of over 700 islands.  (Photo: April 21, 2010)

The iconic image of Mickey Mouse ears adorns the smoke stack of the Disney Wonder while docked in Nassau. The fun and excitement of the Disney empire takes to the seas on a fleet of four family friendly cruise ships. (Photo: October 27, 2006)

A tunnel leads to the center of Fort Charlotte near downtown Nassau. Built atop a hill, the fort was ordered by Lord Dunmore to help protect the port. Constructed in 1789, the fort has never seen battle and is now a popular tourist destination. (Photo: April 21, 2010)

The bright, colorful Festival House sits by the port at Nassau, welcoming cruisers to the Bahamas. (Photo: April 21, 2010)

A collection of sailboats anchor off-shore of the West Esplanade Beach in Nassau. Nassau is a popular destination for cruise ships as most Caribbean cruises include a stop at Nassau on their itineraries. (Photo: October 27, 2006)

A wall of rocks helps separate the water of the Nassau Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean.  The harbor is a major port of call for cruise ships as well as the port of entry for Nassau. (Photo: April 21, 2010)

A luxurious waterfront mansion sits surrounded by crystal blue waters off the coast of Nassau.  (Photo: October 27, 2006)

Boats dock along the marina at Atlantis Paradise Island. Located in the Bahamas, Atlantis is a lush resort surrounded by aquatic adventures. (Photo: April 21, 2010)

A beacon of light guiding ships into Nassau, the Paradise Island Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in the Bahamas. The lighthouse was built in 1817 and is not only the oldest in the Bahamas, it is also the oldest surviving lighthouse in the West Indies. (Photo: April 21, 2010)

A pirate encampment is depicted at the Pirates of Nassau museum. Pirates of Nassau located in the heart of downtown Nassau tells the story of the pirates who patrolled the seas looking for riches. (Photo: April 21, 2010)

Large cannons pointed towards the harbor were the primary means of protection for Colonial Nassau. Fort Fincastle in the heart of downtown Nassau was built atop Bennet’s Hill in 1793. Along with nearby Fort Charlotte, the forts helped protect the colonial city from invasion by sea. (Photo: April 21, 2010)

Built to help defend New Providence Island, Fort Charlotte sits high atop a hillside near the harbor. Its construction was ordered by Lord Dunmore at the conclusion of the Revolutionary War. Fort Charlotte was never used in battle and has been preserved as a tourist stop. You can view more photos of Fort Charlotte by clicking here (Photo: April 21, 2010)

Climbing a staggering 102 feet in the air, the Queen’s Staircase was built to access Fort Fincastle. The stair were hand cut out of limestone by slave labor in 1793. Named in honor of Queen Victoria, the stairs were originally built for British troops under the command of Lord Dunmore as an access point for Fort Fincastle to help protect the island from a pirate invasion. Today, the 65 steps are an attraction to themselves while helping connect the Fort with the rest of the downtown tourist sites. (Photo: April 21, 2010)