After 24 years of guiding whitewater trips on the Nolichucky River Gorge for other companies, Patrick Mannion finally received a permit last year to operate his own outfitter business.

It’s hard to believe that only a few hours earlier, I was hauling my suitcase through Customs. From this tiny private island in the South China Sea, that journey now feels like it never happened.

Does your cruise stop in Nassau, Bahamas? Here what you need to know about how to get around, the best attractions to see and where to shop and dine.