[Dx-qsl] IOTA 2006 Dxpedition to Bahamas

[Alfred J. Cammarata]

 I am thinking of undertaking a 4 to 5 day Dxpedition to Bimini Island
NA-048 to commence a couple of days before the IOTA contest and then
participate in it which will be sked for end of July early August 2006. 
I  intend for it to be a modest operation with max of two stations and
perhaps 3-4 operators running SSB & CW with wire antennas or verticals. I
don't have QRP equipment, but don't rule it out. I work QRP FD. It's lots
of fun, effective and an easy way to travel and put a station on the air
quiuckly. If someone wants to operate digital mode that's fine too.

This is a first for me and the purpose is to put a new or rare Bahamas
IOTA group on the air for as many as possible to work. My understanding
is that NA-048 is considered in this category. If someone knows of
another IOTA group to consider, pls let me know. 

  I have never been to the Bahamas.  I have been told that Bimini (or the
islands in that group) are close to the USA mainland and relatively easy
to get to.  However, my understanding is the drawbacks on going to Bimini
are it's reputation for being an illicit drug haven and also
concentration of gambling casinos.  The casinos aren't a concern but a
safe living and operating atmosphere where those that might be interested
in joining to get away for a few days to mount an informal operation in a
safe environment and enjoy the camaraderie are. Any comments or info in
this regard would be appreciated. 

Towards this effort I ask the following:

1. Is anyone interested in helping plan, coordinate or joining me?
2. How do you go about getting a Bahamian license. What is the lead time
required to obtain a license and how long would the grant be for? Any
license fees?
3. Any customs requirements
4. If Bimini is not appealing, any suggestions on other rare or
infrequently activated Bahamian islands with accommodations as
alternatives.  

   Thanks for your time and attention.  73  Al  w3awu

     ALFRED CAMMARATA
                  W3AWU