NASSAU, The Bahamas, Feb. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Legend has it that in the year 1288, officials in Scotland made it legal for "ladies in waiting" to propose to men only in a Leap Year. 720 years later, while traditional gender roles may have fallen to the wayside, the Leap Year proposal still provides the perfect opportunity for ladies to end the waiting game. In celebration, The Islands Of The Bahamas declare 2008 the "Year of the Woman."

In a nod to tradition, a variety of hotels on Nassau/Paradise Island and Grand Bahama Island are offering "Year of the Woman" reverse proposal packages for ladies who are tired of guessing when their man will pop the question. Packages are valid as of Feb. 29 through the end of 2008 and include:

-- Private sunset dinner for two -- Celebratory bottle of Champagne -- Calling card or phone credit for the couple to spread the good news -- Voucher for a one-night stay to be used for the honeymoon or one-year anniversary trip Participating hotels include: -- Sheraton Cable Beach Resort - Nassau's newest resort, The Sheraton Cable Beach Resort is situated on a 1,000-foot stretch of the spectacular Cable Beach. The resort is set on seven exquisite acres of stunning waterscape, including three freshwater pools with flowing waterfalls, a swim-up bar and oversized Jacuzzis nestled among tropical landscaping. Package rates begin at $350 per person, per night, based on double occupancy and subject to availability. Rates are exclusive of taxes and resort fees and package is not available during peak periods. For reservations call 1-888-627-7812. -- Old Bahama Bay at Ginn sur Mer - Located on the western-most tip of Grand Bahama Island, this boutique hotel offers the perfect balance of tranquility, relaxation and service with Bahamian charm and luxury. Package rates begin at $367 per night, based on double occupancy and subject to availability, and also include round trip airport transfers, upgrade to an Ocean front suite upon check-in if available, use of non-motorized water sport equipment and complimentary access to the Health Centre. A minimum two-night stay is required now through April 27. For reservations call 1-800-444-9469. -- Pelican Bay at Lucaya - Combining Caribbean and European architecture and service, the intimate Pelican Bay at Lucaya is located just steps away from the famous Lucaya beach and Port Lucaya Marketplace. Package rates for a luxurious one-bedroom suite begin at $329 per night, subject to availability, inclusive of taxes and resorts fees, and include daily Continental breakfast. For reservations call Grand Bahama Vacations at 1-800-545-1300.

Life in The Islands Of The Bahamas is as culturally diverse as it is vibrantly beautiful, from the carefree Out Islands to exciting Nassau/Paradise Island and Grand Bahama Island. With world-class diving and fishing, gorgeous turquoise water and miles of picture perfect beaches, the 700 islands of The Bahamas offer visitors the opportunity to do everything or nothing at all. For more information on travel packages, activities and accommodations throughout The Islands Of The Bahamas, call 1-800-Bahamas or visit http://www.bahamas.com/. To experience The Bahamas at home, visit http://www.eshopbahamas.com/.

Media Contacts: Angelene Orth Anita Johnson-Patty Weber Shandwick Bahamas Ministry of Tourism (212) 445-8303 (954) 236-9292 aorth@webershandwick.comajohnson@bahamas.com

CONTACT: Angelene Orth, of Weber Shandwick, +1-212-445-8303,
aorth@webershandwick.com; Anita Johnson-Patty, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism,
+1-954-236-9292, ajohnson@bahamas.com

Web site: http://www.bahamas.com/
http://www.eshopbahamas.com/