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ANDROS ISLAND
An island of mythical charm and tranquil beauty,
Andros is the largest in The Bahamas chain. It has possibly more dive and
snorkeling spots than anywhere else in the country, fantastic bone fishing and
an abundance of diverse marine life, flora and fauna. The Spaniards
arrived in the 16th Century and called it 'La Isla del Espiritu Santo', the
island of the Holly Spirit. Sometime in the 17th century the Seminole
Indians migrated from South Florida to Red Bay, on the West Coast. Even
today, a Seminole Indian tribe exists in this area, along with the myths and
legends.
Quiet and unpretentious, Andros has evolved into a
virtual haven for scuba divers and fishermen. The island is home to the
oldest dive resort in the world, the second largest reef in the western
hemisphere and crystal clear waters, which maintain a year round temperature of
80+ºF. The sheltered waters of the reef average 6 to 15 feet, but
eventually drop off into the depths of the Tongue of the Ocean. Geologists
speculate that this area was once a prehistoric riverbed, similar to the Grand
Canyon of Arizona.
Blue holes, found both inland and in the ocean
waters off the coast, were formed by water erosion and flooding at the end of
the last ice age. The oceanic holes connect to the intricate inland
underwater cave system. The rushing tides create a wet world of prolific
and diverse marine life ideal for some tremendous diving opportunities.
Andros folklore tells of the Chickcharnee, a half man, half bird like figure
that protects against evil, but also of the island's own Loch Ness Monster, the
Lusca, a dragon like creature believed to lurk in the watery depths of the blue
holes.
For those who wish to explore the artistic side of
the island, local Androsians are known to create the only straw baskets that are
actually waterproof. Locals also pride themselves on the art of producing
Androsia batik - a colorful print fabric.
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