Bahamas

Seven hundred islands and cays scattered over 100,000 sq miles of Atlantic Ocean - that's the Bahamas.

The elixir of Bahamian life is centred on the spectacular blue waters of the Caribbean; however, these islands are also a glossy rich playground of world-class golf, tennis and spa indulgences.

Flying time: 10 hours

Time difference: GMT -5hrs.

Getting there: Direct services operate to Nassau with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.

Currency: Bahamian Dollar, although it has parity with the US Dollar, which is also accepted as legal tender in the Bahamas.

Vaccinations: Precautions for tetanus, typhoid, diphtheria and hepatitis A are recommended - please contact your doctor for up-to-date information.

Visas: British passport holders do not require a visa. All other nationals please check visa requirements with the embassy.

Best time time to visit: Hot and tropical climate tempered by trade winds throughout most of the year. The driest period is from January to April and there is increased rainfall in summer and towards the end of the year. Like the other Leeward Islands, Antigua can be affected by hurricanes, which are most likely to develop between June and November.