Ainsley’s Taste of The Bahamas: The Ultimate Winter Escape on ITV
Why I’m So Excited for Ainsley’s Taste of The Bahamas
It’s hard to believe it’s been 10 years since I first visited The Bahamas. That trip sparked my lifelong love for the Caribbean way of life. The warmth. The music. The food. The pace of island life.
There’s nothing I love more than the perfect blend of travel, culture and food, so you can imagine my excitement knowing that ITV Saturday afternoons are about to get a serious dose of sunshine. TV chef and national treasure Ainsley Harriott is back with a brand-new series, Ainsley’s Taste of The Bahamas, and I honestly cannot wait.
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This feel-good cookery show promises to be far more than just recipes (although with Ainsley involved, you know the food will be incredible). Set against the stunning backdrop of The Bahamas, the series takes us on a flavour-filled journey through the capital Nassau and neighbouring Paradise Island.
It showcases not only the vibrant local cuisine but also the culture, people and breathtaking scenery of these iconic islands.
Interview with Ainsley
I caught up with Ainsley for an exclusive interview at the London premier of his show, here’s what he told me:
Bonnie: “Why do we NEED to watch your new show ‘Ainsley’s taste of The Bahamas’?”
Ainsley: “The Bahamas conjures up thoughts of beautiful beaches, fantastic white sand, great food, and a culture of people that you’re gonna really embrace, that are so engaging and inviting. Just generally being in the sunshine is what we all need at that time of year, to spice things up a bit!!!”
Bonnie: ‘What is your favourite Bahamian dish?’
Ainsley: ‘Easy! It’s conch! It’s a shellfish found in The Bahamas, they take out the meat and chop it up and put it into a salad or into fritters, it’s absolutely delicious!”
Bonnie: “What is your favourite thing to do when you visit Nassau & Paradise Island?”
Ainsley: “I go straight to my hotel room and look out the window and see that sea, that beautiful turquoise water and put my shorts on and get down that beach! Let the sea water sort of lap over your toes. Then someone’s gonna come along give me a wonderful drink, a rum cocktail or a Bahama Mama, and I think, ‘This is the life!’ “
When Is Ainsley’s Taste of The Bahamas On TV?
Ainsley’s Taste of The Bahamas launches on ITV on 3rd January and runs for 10 weeks. Each episode is 30 minutes long, making it an easy, feel-good watch.
And as January is peak travel-planning season in the UK, this series is pure inspiration for a Bahamian holiday.
What Is Ainsley’s Taste of The Bahamas About?
The series follows Ainsley Harriott as he explores the food, culture and people of Nassau & Paradise Island. He meets local chefs, farmers, fishermen and artisans who shape the destination’s thriving culinary scene.
It was filmed during Baha Mar’s annual Culinary & Arts Festival in 2025.
This isn’t just a cookery show. It’s a celebration of Bahamian culture, sustainability and destination travel experiences.
One of the standout moments comes in Episode Two: From Reef to Table. This episode focuses on sustainability, local produce and food security in Nassau.
Ainsley visits Bluefields Farms, an innovative aquaponic farm on the western edge of Nassau. It produces around 4,000 pounds of fresh produce every week, supplying hotels and supermarkets across the island.
He also explores Chiccharney Farms (pronounced chick-char-ney). Here, local organic fruit and vegetables are hand-picked daily. The farm even offers home deliveries, supporting locals and promoting farm-to-table living.
Another visit is to Bonefish Pond National Park. This protected mangrove habitat supports marine life including snapper, grouper, grunts and crawfish. Ainsley learns why mangroves are vital — and even gets involved in planting.
Discover Nassau & Paradise Island: More Than Just Beaches
Yes, the beaches of Nassau & Paradise Island are breathtaking. But there’s so much more.
Think powder-soft white sand and turquoise water at Cabbage Beach, Cable Beach and Paradise Island’s resort beaches. Add snorkelling, diving, boat trips and water-park fun at Baha Bay at Baha Mar.
Nassau also delivers culture. Colonial architecture. Historic forts. The Queen’s Staircase. John Watling’s Rum Distillery. Museums. Colourful neighbourhoods. It’s a Caribbean destination with real depth.
Experiencing Junkanoo: Bahamian Culture at Its Best
One of my favourite memories from The Bahamas — and something you’ll see in my photos — is experiencing Junkanoo.
Junkanoo is the national cultural festival of The Bahamas. It’s loud, joyful and unforgettable. Expect vibrant parades, elaborate costumes, cowbells, goatskin drums and brass instruments.
The main celebrations take place on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, but the cultural energy of Junkanoo can be felt throughout the year. It’s one of the best ways to connect with Bahamian heritage.
Best Things to Do in Nassau & Paradise Island
- Relax on Cabbage Beach or Cable Beach
- Experience Junkanoo and Bahamian culture
- Visit Baha Bay Water Park at Baha Mar
- Explore the Queen’s Staircase and historic forts
- Snorkel or dive the nearby reefs
- Enjoy local food and farm-to-table dining
- View the underwater sculptures at Clifton Heritage Park
- Enjoy the rum at John Watling’s Distillery
- Luxury and romance: upscale hotels, fine‑dining, spas, marinas and private‑island or yacht excursions
Where to Stay in Nassau & Paradise Island: Baha Mar
If you’re planning a stay in Nassau & Paradise Island, Baha Mar is the place to be. This world-class resort is home to three standout hotels, all offering something different:
- Grand Hyatt Baha Mar – perfect for families and first-time visitors
- SLS Baha Mar – stylish, vibrant and great for couples and friends
- Rosewood Baha Mar – ultra-luxury, refined and ideal for romance
Baha Mar also features Baha Bay Water Park, a championship golf course, a luxury spa, fine dining and one of the best beach settings in The Bahamas.
Getting to Nassau & Paradise Island from the UK
Travelling from the UK is easy. There’s a direct daily flight from London Heathrow to Nassau with British Airways, making this Caribbean destination more accessible than ever.
Why I’ll Be Watching Every Episode
Ainsley’s Taste of The Bahamas is everything I want from a travel show. Sunshine. Culture. Food. Real stories. And total escapism.
If you’re dreaming of a Bahamas holiday, or just need a winter mood-boost, put this show on your winter bucket list.
For more travel inspiration and planning tips, visit: https://www.nassauparadiseisland.com/
For more of Bonnie’s Caribbean adventures click here, and follow along on instagram @bonnierakhit
Bon Voyage,
Bonnie xx
