Watch out for water sports in beautiful Bahamas

The Bahamas has long been a favourite with British tourists due to its favourable climate, stunning beaches and friendly inhabitants - indeed, 499,000 visited in 2006 alone.

However, like with any holiday, there are a number of precautions travellers should take before they head to the country and some crucial tips for making the most of a trip to its shores.

The first thing worth mentioning is that there is no British High Commission in the Bahamas, even though it is formed of an archipelago consisting of around 2,000 cays and 700 islands.

In addition, the country experiences a hurricane season between June 1st and November 30th (it was recently caught up in Hurricane Ike) so keeping an eye on weather forecasts is advisable.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) explains that crime in the Bahamas is mainly limited to local communities, but that there have been instances of robbery - some armed - in isolated areas.

It offers the following advice: "You should be vigilant at all times. It is not advisable to walk alone away from the main hotels, tourist areas, beaches and downtown Nassau particularly after dark.

"Extra care should be taken if travelling on local bus services after dusk on routes away from the main tourist routes. Do not carry large amounts of cash or jewellery."

For the more activity-orientated traveller, it is very important to note that the water sports industry in the country is very poorly regulated, despite the introduction of new legislation in 2006.

The FCO warns that there have been deaths from people using jet-skis and other watercraft improperly, so renting such equipment is not recommended for anyone who is not very experienced.

Britons do not require visas to travel to the Bahamas as long as their stay is for no longer than three months, although all visitors must pay a departure tax of roughly £12, which may be included in the price of an air ticket.

In terms of health risks, dengue fever is common to Latin America and can occur throughout the year, while the general health facilities on offer are of a good standard but treatment is effective.

Despite these concerns, there is no reason why any kind of holidaymaker cannot enjoy a fantastic trip to the Bahamas, where their needs will be catered for - after all, tourism makes up two-thirds of the country's GDP.