Matt,
 
I have flown my Super ES to the Bahamas every year since 2000.  I flew other single engine planes over there three times before my ES was completed.  A group of us fly privately to the islands annually for a scuba diving adventure.  Truthfully, the flying part is what got me interested and still is a major part of the adventure. We have been to half a dozen islands during this time.
 
It is very easy to fly to the Bahamas.  We fly from Indiana, stop in Georgia for rest and gas, stop in Ft. Pierce for gas, lunch, paperwork and survival gear and then head across the water to wherever we are going.  The introduction of eAPIS this year was the only intimidating aspect and it proved to be a non-issue.  It is relatively important to have internet access wherever you go in order to deal with all the customs, flight planning and weather briefing issues.  It is not absolutely critical, though, if you feel you want to go to a really out of the way place.
 
For first time private fliers to the Bahamas I suggest Nassau, Freeport or Marsh Harbor.  Each of these has great choices for lodging and each has a really good airport.  Nassau and Freeport have approaches which makes them a bit more attractive under certain circumstances.
 
We have never stayed in a house.  Our lodging has always been hotel or condo. 
 
Paradise Island (Nassau) has great accommodations as well as family oriented attractions and activities.  It doesn't hurt that they have a first class casino, also.
 
Freeport was a pleasant surprise.  We stayed in the Port Lucaya Marina area and it was great.  Clean, safe, lots of things to do.
 
We have been to Andros, Eleuthera, Long Island, Exuma, New Providence, Grand Bahama and Abaco islands. The easiest, in my opinion, is Freeport.
 
The Bahama aviation rules now match those of the U.S. so no special permits or equipment are necessary.  The Bahamas tourism website can help you as well as provide a private fliers guide.
 
Flying over the Atlantic at 10-11,000 feet is a hoot.  It thrills me every time and I have done it thirteen times.
 
Have fun.
 
Jim Scales 

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To:
Date: Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:01:15 -0500
From: matt.hapgood@alumni.duke.edu
Subject: [LML] Bahamas bound