Nassau is a scintillating clash of contrasts - from glitzy casinos to quiet, shady lanes; modern, galvanizing resorts to tiny settlements; and couture shopping to chatty street vendors.

History lesson: While Nassau has weathered its fair share of pirates, Spanish invaders, slave-trading British Loyalists, and Prohibitionist rumrunners, it remains most influenced by England, which sent its first royal governor to the island in 1718.

You can take it with you: Although the Straw Market burned to the ground in 2001, locals gathered to resurrect this open-air market of indigenous antiques, crafts, and bric-a-brac. Negotiating the perfect price will not only make your wallet happy, but earn you respect amongst the traders.

Place we love, even if it’s touristy: The Atlantis Resort & Casino is not only the largest, most lavishly designed casino in the Caribbean, but it is also has a 14-acres waterscape, with a predator lagoon filled with sharks, stingrays, barracuda, and more.

Chill-out spot: Head to Saunders Beach to catch some rays, practice your downward dog, or unwind with a pulpy beach read.

Did we mention it’s free? Four-legged friends abound at the Ardastra Gardens–a zoological retreat where you can get acquainted with the local jaguars, monkeys, sloths, and other nocturnal animals.

Local flavor: Nassau locals beam when it comes to the various ways they prepare their favorite food: conch. Try a fresh conch salad at the Forge, crispy conch fritters at Hammerheads Bar & Grill, or conch stew at a street vendor in the Straw Market.

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