The country does not include the Turks and Caicos Islands , to the southeast, which, although geographically part of the archipelago, have been separately administered by Great Britain since 1848. The capital and principal city is Nassau , on New Providence island. The islands, composed mainly of limestone and coral, rise from a vast submarine plateau. Fresh water is obtained from rainfall and from desalinization. Navigation is hazardous, and many of the outer islands are uninhabited and undeveloped, although steps have been taken to improve transportation facilities.
Hurricanes occasionally cause severe damage, but the climate is generally excellent.
English is the official language. The Bahamas have a relatively low illiteracy rate. The islands' many casinos are an additional attraction. Tourism, which has grown rapidly since the end of World War II, is by far the country's most important industry. Offshore banking is the nation's other economic mainstay.