Hotel check in/check up – our intrepid traveller booked a room at one of the most elegant all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean to celebrate a milestone birthday, and why you should too.
CELEBRATING 50 IN PARADISE
As I approached my 50th birthday, I knew I wanted to celebrate in style. The Caribbean has always called to me, with its turquoise waters and sun-drenched shores. So when the opportunity arose to visit Sandals Royal Bahamian in the Bahamas, I didn’t hesitate.
A LUXURIOUS TRANSFORMATION
Courtesy of Sandals Royal Bahamian
Sprawling over 15 acres, the resort has recently undergone a multimillion-dollar transformation, enhancing its already stunning architecture modelled after colonial Bahamian mansions, tiered white marble water fountains and soothing pastel colours. The new Island Village is a highlight, featuring standalone villas named after remote Bahamian cays. Each villa captures the Caribbean essence of the Bahamas, with its hues of pinks, blues and whites, adorned with shiplap wood planks and striped awnings that create an inviting and relaxed ambience.
UNMATCHED AMENITIES
Crystal Lagoon Swim-up Suites
One of the first things that struck me upon arrival was the light filled, open air to the sea grandeur of the resort. With 404 rooms decorated all in white, with local art and photos depicting island life, including the all-new Crystal Lagoon Swim-up Suites with butler service, one truly feels looked after. The resort features two sky-sized pools, perfect for lounging under the sun, and the Coconut Grove lounge area is a serene spot to unwind with a cocktail in hand
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
While many top resorts are situated on nearby Paradise Island, Sandals Resort Bahamas enjoys a prime location on New Providence, the same island as Nassau. Upon your arrival at Lynden Pindling International Airport, you won’t have to worry about hailing a taxi. The resort offers complimentary shuttle transportation for all guests, ensuring a seamless journey. For those booking top-tier suites, you can indulge in private luxury transfers in a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce or Mercedes-Benz, adding a touch of elegance right from the start.
WHAT YOU LOVED
Sandals Royal Bahamian Barefoot Cay
One of my favourite experiences was visiting Barefoot Cay, Sandals Royal Bahamian’s private island, just a five-minute boat ride from the resort. This secluded slice of paradise features two tranquil beaches with calm waters, perfect for snorkelling, relaxing or swimming. The island is equipped with a pool, whirlpool, swim-up bar and a delightful restaurant — all included with your stay. As a solo traveller, escaping to this serene island was exactly what I needed. It offered a peaceful retreat with hammocks in shaded areas and private cabanas overlooking the crystal-clear water. The best part? The open-air spa, allowing me to fully embrace relaxation before heading back to the resort. The short boat ride means one can visit for an hour or spend the entire day soaking in the beauty and tranquillity.
Spa
DINING IN
La Plume Restaurant – interior
Food Truck Coco Queen
While you can order room service anytime, why bother when there are so many incredible dining options? Each of the 10 specialty restaurants has its own authentic ambience with artwork from local artists, and feature cuisine created by award-winning chefs. Worth ordering at Butch’s Island Chop House is the panko-crusted divers scallops with slow braised briskets and sweet potato mousseline. Simply mouthwatering. There are also two eclectic gourmet food trucks: Sweets ‘N’ Tings offers coffee drinks, grab-and-go treats and custom crêpes to start your day on a sweet note. Meanwhile, Coco Queen serves locally inspired tacos and fresh seafood, perfect for enjoying with the salty air and swaying palms. My favourite dish? The freshly made conch fritters. My favourite spot was La Plume, a stunning restaurant inspired by the vibrant feathers of the flamingo, the Bahamas’ national bird. Outfitted in pinks and greens, La Plume serves exquisite French cuisine in a modern atmosphere. My top three meals: Saumon Niçoise, Canard à l’Orange, and the ever-classic Escargots à la Bourguignonne — a true culinary delight!
La Plume restaurant
DINING LOCAL
Sandals Resorts offers “Island Inclusive,” a dining program off the resort to introduce, celebrate and support locally owned restaurants by giving Sandals guests access to some of the destinations’ top dining experiences – from a craft cocktail bar offering unique spirits in an upscale setting to a cosy café serving French and Mediterranean delights. Participants receive a US$250 voucher and off-site roundtrip transportation. My pick: Sapodilla Estate – Once a private home, Sapodilla is a woman- lead business and provides an intimate culinary experience tucked away in a lush garden setting with live music and a fine dining menu. Staples include creamy Long Island corn chowder, lobster and shrimp linguine and chocolate molten cake.
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
While the resort excels in creating a romantic atmosphere for couples, I noticed a missed opportunity to better cater to solo travellers. Additional activities or social events specifically designed for those travelling alone could enhance the experience and help foster connections among guests. Solo travellers can enjoy the luxury of the resort but would benefit from a few more tailored options to make their stay feel inclusive and engaging.
EXPLORE NASSAU IN STYLE
For guests staying in select butler suites and who love to drive, there’s an opportunity to explore the island in a complimentary MINI Cooper. Discover every inch of this Caribbean gem at your own pace, complete with a guided map to all the must-see spots in Nassau. sandals.com/royal-bahamian/
