After being coined ‘chief experience officer’ by the powers that be, (aka ME), I’ve made it my mission to go off of the path most traveled to dive head first into major experiences that provide heart pumping adrenaline and a little adventure. My latest experience took me around the island of New Providence (Bahamas) on a tour in a convertible buggy provided by J&S Scooter.
The first thing you should know about this tour is that if you don’t know how to drive a standard shift vehicle, that may be a little problematic. Fortunately, we were provided with drivers for the day who happily accompanied us on the tour. Lasting approximately three hours, the tour takes you to three historical landmarks on the island and then ends with drinks and refreshments at a popular local restaurant.
Our tour began with a stop at the most expansive fort on the island, Fort Charlotte, which was built in the 18th century under the govern-ship of Lord Dunmore. Our colorful guide, gave us a brief history of colonial Nassau and also let us in on the secret of why Bahamians drive on the left hand side of the road.
Apparently the left hand side is the side of defense which dates back to the days of riding horses..
The Caves. I’ve driven pass these caves at least three or more times a week and have never stopped to visit. I was very surprised as our tour guide Mr. Bethel gave us the historical run down on the cave. Although not proven, it is believed that the caves were once the home to the original inhabitants of the Bahamas, the Lucayan Indians. Rumor also has it that the pirates of the Caribbean also found refuge here. These days, the locals, the buffy flower bats, call it home.
The journey continued westward as our tour snaked up to Clifton Heritage Park, The Bahamas’ largest historic, ecological and leisure park. This is where it gets really fun. We were able to let loose in the buggy as we skirted along the dirt trails, leaving nothing but dust behind. In Clifton, you can find remnants of slave plantations, traces of the Lucayan Indians, ecological hotspots and magnificent beaches. Our visited consisted of three stops throughout the historical park: Jaws Beach (where the movie was filmed), John Stone Beach and Snorkel Beach.
While it may not have seemed like three hours, the day quickly escaped us becoming more evident as we made it to our final stop, Aquafire Restaurant where we were treated to ‘Switcha” (lemonade) and a variety of appetizers. Delicious, especially the calamari and conch fritters! Yum!
J & S Scooter’s Island Buggy tour was the perfect mix of unconventional, historical, educational and fun! Drop the top and dare to go off the beaten path, you won’t regret it!
