Bahamian Fun and Sun for ChildrenMore than 1.6 million vacationers are expected to visit The Islands of the Bahamas this year, and it is estimated that 250,000 of them will be children. The 700 Islands of The Bahamas offer something for everyone and are especially well suited to meet the energy level and high expectations of its youngest guests. While most major hotels and resorts extend a policy that children stay free, and offer special activities for kids, parents will be pleased to learn that there are a wide variety of attractions and programs that combine enrichment and fun: Ardastra Gardens, Nassau - View Bahamian pink flamingos on parade, native iguanas, monkeys, snakes and rare birds in a 5 1/2 acre tropical setting. Call (242) 323-5806. JeaJean-Michel Cousteau Out Island Snorkeling Adventures - This program was designed by Jean-Michel himself to enable experienced and novice snorkelers to learn and see something new in the fascinating underwater society of The Bahamas. Equipment is provided and the program is available on nine of the Out Islands Hartley's Undersea Walk - Kids can don a watertight diving helmet and play Captain Nemo on the ocean floor. Half-day cruises book up early, call (242) 393-8234 for more information. Crystal Cay - Observe tropical fish, coral and marine life from an underwater observatory, 20 ft. below sea level. Watch turtles, pet a starfish, conch or even a shark at the Touchpond and Stingray Pool. Call (242) 328-1036. Junkanoo Expo - Exciting colorful displays of masks and costumes - something kids of all ages can enjoy. Call (242) 356-2731 'Family Fun Day' at Pirates in The Bahamas - Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 1997, families can enjoy activities including miniature golf, basketball and beach volleyball at the newest theme park on the beach. Contact Rosie Godet at (242) 352-7401 for more information. Several resorts in The Islands Of The Bahamas offer families supervised day and evening programs for children so parents can stroll the beaches or dance the night away. Camp Seashell at the Bahamas Princess Resort & Casino on Grand Bahama Island - This program offers fully-supervised complimentary activities from 9 a.m. to noon. Afternoon and evening activities range from volleyball to lizard watching and cost $15 per child. For more information call (800) 545-1300. Camp Junkanoo at the Radisson Cable Beach Resort - This daily, supervised recreation program for children ages 3 to 12 is free for families booking an exceptional all-inclusive package. Children may participate in half or full day programs with activities like nature walks, pool games and ice cream contests. Call (800) 777-7800 for more information Marriotter Kids Klub, Nassau Marriott Resort - Children four and older can enjoy scavenger hunts, beach games and theme days in this supervised program based at the Kids Klub Pavilion. Teens can enjoy party nights including Pizza Pig-Outs and Video Productions. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday through Saturday, costs range from $10 an hour to $50 for the day and night program including lunch, dinner and a prize. Call (800) 831-1000. Camp Paradise at Atlantis - Supervised by CPR-certified counselors, children ages 5 to 12 can search for buried treasure, fly kites, take nature walks or play water games for half or whole days. Fees range from $30 for half-day programs to $45 for evening programs including dinner. For more information call (800) 321-3000. Club Fortuna Beach Kids' Fun Club - Designed for children ages 4 to 12, this program offers sports, games, lessons and activities daily from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. under the supervision of trained staff. Call (242) 373-4000 for more information. Visit: http://www.interknowledge.com/bahamas/ Edited By Shekeria Brown -Updated 5-10-99-
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