GRAND BAHAMA ISLAND, The Bahamas – (April 09, 2012) – Starting today, travelers can book nonstop flights* between Grand Bahama Island and four U.S. cities including Richmond, Virginia; Louisville, Kentucky; Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina and Baltimore, Maryland. The flights start May 17, 2012 in place of Vision Airlines’ previously operated service.

Located just 55 miles east of South Florida, Grand Bahama Island is home to a variety of resorts that fit every budget, nestled among miles of beautiful beaches. Its assortment of cultural experiences and ecological wonders make Grand Bahama Island ideal for nature-based activities including kayaking, dolphin experiences, scuba diving, fishing, airboat eco-adventures, jeep safaris and bike tours.

According to KAYAK, consumers are in hot pursuit of travel to Grand Bahama Island, which is up 57 percent in searches. There’s no better time to take advantage of what Grand Bahama Island has to offer especially since travelers can now get more bang for their buck with a variety of instant savings offers. Topping the list is a $400 instant savings when you book a six night stay or longer. Those opting for a shorter getaway can stay three to five nights and receive $250 in savings. Offers are valid on air inclusive vacation packages at participating hotels for travel booked through May 14, 2012 and completed by October 31, 2012.

The flight timetables are as follows:

Mondays & Fridays

• Richmond (RIC) to Grand Bahama Island (FPO) at 11:00 AM  and  Grand Bahama Island to Richmond at 8:00 AM

• Raleigh Durham (RDU) to Grand Bahama Island (FPO) at 7:00 PM and Grand Bahama Island to Raleigh Durham at 4:05 PM

Thursdays & Sundays

• Baltimore (BWI) to Freeport (FPO) at 11:15 AM and Grand Bahama Island to Baltimore at 8:00 AM

• Louisville (SDF) to Grand Bahama Island (FPO) at 5:30 PM and Grand Bahama Island to Louisville at 2:25 PM

*Boeing 737-400 aircrafts operated by Xtra Airways configured with 138 coach seats and 12 first class seats.

In addition to non-stop service, other conveniences make travel to Grand Bahama Island a breeze. Before departing for the U.S., visitors have the benefit of pre-clearance through U.S. Customs and Immigration. Additionally, The Bahamian dollar is on par with the U.S. currency and the U.S. dollar is accepted throughout The Bahamas.

For more information, visit www.Bahamasair.com or www.bahamas.com.

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Media Contacts:
Jessica Parker                                        Anita Johnson-Patty
Weber Shandwick                                 Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
(212) 445-8263                                     (954) 236-9292
[email protected]            [email protected]