Caribbean Gem

Written by Staff

Your first thoughts as you exit the airport in Nassau, Bahamas are how the nearby palm trees sway so beautifully in the tropical breeze. There is not much time to dwell on these thoughts, as your chariot from the Sandals Royal Bahamian is ready to whisk you away to your private paradise.  Upon your arrival at the resort, you are immediately overwhelmed by the graciousness of your hosts, and the carefree atmosphere of the islands.  Looking from the balcony of your suite, you have the distinct impression you have never gazed upon the particular blue the ocean seems to take on here, and you realize you are indeed in paradise.

Paradise at Sandals Royal Bahamian is defined by luxurious accommodations, unsurpassed fine dining, world class nightly entertainment, and a breathtaking ocean vista.  The rooms here, more than half of which are lavish suites, have designer touches that are sure to relax any weary traveler.  Luxurious seating, marble floors, four-poster king sized beds and a fully stocked wet bar.  Butler and concierge level service is available for the most discerning guest.  Dining is taken to a new level at all of the resort’s restaurants, where you quickly get accustomed to not paying a tab at the end of dinner.  Don’t forget that the drinks, cocktails, and top-shelf liquor are also included, and the brilliant bartenders will be happy to whip up a new concoction you won’t soon forget. Perhaps the most wonderful ‘inclusion’ at this all-inclusive resort is Sandals’ Cay (key).  This private, off-shore island boasts its own restaurant, Red Lane® Escape spa and two white sand beaches to explore. 

Should you choose to venture away from the resort and explore Nassau, you should know a bit about the island and its history.  The romantic past of the Bahamian islands began when Columbus made first landfall in 1492.  By the late 1600’s the islands had become a haven for pirates, including the infamous Blackbeard.  Pirates and buccaneers found the shallow waters and numerous sandbars of the Bahamian islands good for attacking unsuspecting ships.  Plentiful cayes and inlets allowed marauding ships to lay in wait for passing Spanish galleons.  These Conquistadors were returning to Spain after pillaging Central and South America with ships heavily laden with gold and treasures that were easily overtaken by the Bahamian pirates.  Pillagers attacked by pirates…sweet irony, perhaps?  Nearly 500 galleons rest here in their watery graves.
The capital city of the Bahamas, Nassau, is located on New Providence Island, and is connected to the small, neighboring Paradise Island by bridge.  More than half of Bahamians live on this island, and the number of tourists that visit it each year is more than four times greater than the population.  Traveling through the streets of Nassau, you can’t help but wonder about the colorful buildings that line every block.  The mélange of British Colonial structure with vibrant Caribbean colors makes for an architectural experience unique to these islands.  There is an irresistible urge to smile when confronted with bright pink, blue and yellow houses!
One of the best ways to explore the island and discover its hidden treasures is by scooter.  There are numerous rental outfits, and even a group of several travelers should easily be able to find available scooters.  The helpful natives will make sure that each bike is suited for your needs, and should give everyone a quick lesson.  As you investigate the lesser known parts of the island, just remember that you must drive on the opposite side of the road!  
Among the island’s many treasures is Graycliff, a renovated 260 year old British Colonial style estate.  Built in the 1700’s by pirate John Howard Graysmith, it was established in 1844 as the first inn in Nassau.  Its luxurious appointments attracted the rich, the famous, and the royal.  Graycliff Cigar Company first made its appearance in 1997, the result of a search for the perfect cigar to go with the fine wine and food for which Graycliff is world renowned.  Famous cigar maker (Master Torcedore) Avelino Lara came from Cuba, where he had once been the personal cigar roller for Fidel Castro.  From a single roller, to several award winning selections, these fine, hand-rolled cigars have come a long way.  Be sure to include a tour of this historical establishment on your itinerary.
Another reminder of the island’s British past is Balcony House.  The oldest wooden residence on New Providence Island, Balcony House is currently owned by the Central Bank of the Bahamas, and has been beautifully restored including the mahogany staircase, which is fabled to have been recovered from a wrecked ship.
If you should work up an appetite on your adventure, and you desire authentic Caribbean fare, such as conch fritters, try The Fish Fry at Arawak Cay.  It is a delightful place to try a Kalik beer, freshly brewed on the island.  From lobster salad to grilled fresh fish, you will find splendid treats to tempt your taste buds.  With live entertainment most Friday and Saturday nights, The Fish Fry has it all.  If you prefer to venture back to the resort for your meal there are nine restaurants to choose from, all only steps away from your suite.  You can choose from casual pub fare, local island favorites, gourmet French cuisine, and everything in between.  If you are looking for a romantic candlelight dinner for two, that can also be arranged at the end of the pier overlooking the beautiful sunset.
No detail is left unattended here.  Guests staying in a villa or suite are attended to 24 hours a day by a private butler.  They will pamper you with reserved lounge chairs at the pool, dinner reservations, a quick trip to the local drug store if needed and even turn-down service with a personal note and a sweet treat.
As the last rays of sunlight dance on the crystal clear water, you reminisce about your wonderful day on the island.  Whether you spent the day lounging on the beach, scooting about town, or napping in a hammock, you are sure to be relaxed and peaceful.  Enjoy a glass of chilled champagne, and look forward to many more lavish, lazy days in this tropical paradise, the Bahamas.