Calling the beautiful islands of the Bahamas from the UK is easy if you follow this guide. With clear instructions for dialing directly or using calling cards and apps, you’ll be connected in no time. Plus, tips for avoiding high fees, reaching mobile numbers, and options for staying compliant if calling for business. Read on to master calling the Bahamas from the UK.
How to Dial the Bahamas from the UK
To call the Bahamas directly from the UK, you need to dial the exit code 00, then the country code 242, then the local area code (242 again for Nassau or 32X for the Out Islands), and finally the 7-digit local number.
So the full format is:
00 + 242 + Area Code + Local Number
For example, to call a number in Nassau such as 242-555-1234, you’d dial 00 + 242 + 242 + 5551234.
Key Tips for Direct Dialing:
– Enter 00 before the country code, not + as you would for most other countries
– There’s no need to dial 1 before the area code
– You don’t need to dial a 1 before mobile numbers
– Expect higher per minute rates than for calls within the UK
Save Money Using Calling Cards or Apps
Direct dialing can get expensive at up to £1 per minute in peak times. Calling cards or apps offer big savings compared to your landline or mobile provider rates.
Top options include:
– Skype – Offers low rates to mobiles and landlines. Get credits or unlimited plans.
– Peninsular – Great option for frequent business travelers with Bahamas plans.
– Rebtel – Connect your UK and Bahamas numbers then make low cost calls.
– Talkroute – Prepaid calling card with 8p per minute to Bahamas landlines.
Before choosing a service, check call rates, fees and terms and conditions.
Tips for Calling Bahamas Mobile Phones
Over 50% of phone lines in the Bahamas are now mobile. Unlike calling landlines, few calling cards offer discounted rates to Bahamas mobile phones.
Your best options are:
– Install a Bahamas SIM card in your unlocked phone if traveling there.
– Use Rebtel to connect your UK phone to a Bahamas number then call mobiles on the local rate.
– See if your UK mobile provider offers an international plan or add-on for the region.
– Try Peninsular’s unlimited UK to Bahamas calling plan.
Note that calling a 242 mobile while in the UK will be billed at your standard international rate which averages 35p to 65p per minute.
Stay Compliant When Calling for Business
If you need to call Bahamas contacts for work, be aware of regulations like:
– Recording Disclosure Laws – If recording calls, inform all parties first.
– Data Protection Act – Get consent before sharing personal information overseas.
– PCI Compliance – Follow payment card data rules for international payments.
It’s also courteous to confirm the best times to call Bahamas business contacts since the UK is 5 hours ahead. Respecting time zones leads to better communication. I sincerely hope you find this “Easy UK to Bahamas Calling Guide” article helpful.
