Global Travel News

It’s been an “incredible” year for Nassau Paradise Island (NPI), from the opening of the city’s spectacular new cruise port to a Golden Jubilee, plus landmark hotel happenings and record arrivals. And in Canada, the return of representation for the NPI Promotion Board, which has “ambitious” goals for the destination in this country.

“We are, of course, the closest Caribbean destination to Toronto, and anywhere in Canada, and I think it it’s really time to establish that,” says promotion board CEO Joy Jibrilu.

“The rebound (from the pandemic) has been so strong, it’s now over 8 million arrivals (to the Bahamas),” she adds, telling Travel Industry Today that Canadians represent 8.1% of that total – which makes Canada NPI’s second largest market (after the US) and one that is poised to surpass its totals of last year (having already reached 96% by October and forecast to be over 30% ahead in December, year over year).

Other markets are even further ahead, Jibrilu noted.

And with hotel occupancy surpassing pre pandemic figures this year – and at higher daily room rates – the CEO says, “from an economic perspective this has been a banner year.”

Leading the way has been cruise arrivals – a “tremendous uptick” – that corresponds to the opening of the new $300-million Nassau cruise port on May 27, which has allowed larger cruise ships to dock in the destination.

Canlink

With such robust arrivals, the Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board reintroduced representation in Canada (which had lapsed during the pandemic), re-engaging Newmarket, Ont.-based Canlink Travel Representatives.

“We’re so excited to have Elaine and Brent (Carnegie) back with us,” Jibrilu says. “When you think how important Canada is to us – 8.1% is a lot, it’s about 350 passengers a day coming to us from Canada.”

And, she adds, “we see such potential,” noting that Air Canada has had to up gauge it’s plane size from Toronto.

Also on the radar is growing the markets in Montreal and Calgary (served by WestJet).

Jibrilu adds that the introduction earlier last week (Dec. 15) of three times weekly Alaska Airlines service from Seattle to Nassau will make travel from Vancouver and the West Coast easier.

“We expect to see growth there – this is huge for us!” she says, and to that end, NPI will be doing plenty of promotion in Vancouver.

And “with so much opportunity in Canada,” Jibrilu continues, “it was important for us to re- establish ties in Canada… Canlink knows us, they know the destination, they represented us well. It felt like coming back home, someone who knows the NPI Promotion Board, and who has those partnerships and relationships; it was just a seamless re-commencement of the relationship.”

Another key to NPI achieving growth in Canada will continue to be its partnerships with Air Canada (Toronto and Montreal) and WestJet (Calgary and Toronto seasonally). Sunwing also flies into Grand Bahama.

Dual destination

The latter represents Canadians’ affinity for Bahamas Out Islands, and Jibrilu says many vacationers combine a visit to places like Grand Bahama and Exuma with their stays in NPI.

“And that’s the way we like to treat it,” she says. “Whether it’s casinos and a bit of cosmopolitan life in Nassau and Paradise Island, and then going on to have a bit of rest and relaxation in the Out Islands, we work with our partners to promote this dual (destination) stopover. We find that’s the vacation of choice for many Canadians, and we encourage it.”

Nassau-Paradise Island

But for all its Out Island options, visitors to NPI – whether by plane or ship – will discover a destination that has been totally transformed, not least by the new cruise port.

“That’s a big part of it and it’s absolutely wonderful,” Jibrilu says of the facility, which has the capacity to accommodate three Oasis-class vessels simultaneously.

A “destination within itself,” it also boasts such attractions as a Junkanoo Museum – an immersive experience that shares the story of the destination’s national cultural festival; plus, event and entertainment spaces including an art gallery and 3,500 amphitheatre; living coral exhibit; new food and beverage facilities; and 40 retail spaces featuring authentically Bahamian products.

As such, she says, the cruise port is a hub for all visitors to Nassau-Paradise Island, not just those arriving by ship.

And, she adds, “We hope it will be the catalyst for even more transformation of downtown” – such as extension of the new boardwalk all the way from the bridge to Paradise Island for about two miles past the cruise terminal to Junkanoo Beach and Arawak Cay.

Hotels

Beyond bustling Baha Mar, and the iconic Atlantis, Nassau has also seen the openings of several smaller boutique hotels this year, which particularly appeal to Canadian sensibilities, says Jibrilu. Notable among them is the Goldwyn Resort, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World that inhabits a pristine stretch of Cable Beach with 81 studios, and one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites.

Other hotel developments include the opening of the Margaritaville Beach Resort (2021), and the recently re-opened fully renovated Sandals Royal Bahamian.

And reopening this week (Dec. 18) following a multi-million-dollar transformation is the historic British Colonial. Exuding a renewed sense of island-inspired sophistication, guests will find a redesigned lobby, seven food and beverage outlets, and 288 completely renovated guest rooms and suites.

Golden Jubilee

Nassau-Paradise Island is also still basking in the 50th anniversary of the Bahamas independence from Britain on July 10, having been the epicentre of festivities and events that included a rousing Junkanoo on Bay Street as both residents and visitors danced and paraded into the morning.

2024

Jibrilu promises that there’s plenty more to come in NPI and that the destination will continue to evolve in 2024. That includes new partnership developments, like an arts and culinary festival introduced at Baha Mar, while Atlantis will stage a four-day wine and culinary event next March. “These signature events are making it so worthwhile that people will travel (for it),” she says.

Baja Mar is also adding a 5,000-sq.-ft. children’s centre to complement its recently opened water park.

And NPI will continue its sustainability responsibilities – having created, as an example, the “Coral is Calling” program, which enables snorkelers and scuba divers to replant coral while they swim.

“These are the kinds of initiatives that we will continue to explore and provide for people who want to travel, and travel for good as well,” says Jibrilu.

After all, she concludes, “Nassau is a destination that cherishes it’s history, but it also looks to the future.”

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Bahamas is perhaps best known as a beach destination, famed for soft white sands, sparkling turquoise waters, and abundant sunshine – more than 300 sunny days each year. But beyond the beach visitors will discover a destination brimming with vibrant culture, natural beauty, and fascinating history, where Spanish, West African, and British influences come together with a uniquely Caribbean twist.

Here, we’ve rounded up just a few of our favourite Bahamas excursions – from rum tastings to historical tours to sunset ocean cruises.

Historic forts

Take a step back in time on a tour through the towering ramparts, spooky dungeons, and hidden passageways of Nassau Paradise Island’s local forts. The journey begins at Fort Charlotte, the largest of Nassau’s three forts at a sprawling 40 hectares and boasting breathtaking hilltop views of the harbour and sparkling turquoise waters below. Guided tours impart the fascinating history of the 18th-century fortification. For a truly immersive blast from the past, visit on a Wednesday or Friday to encounter a colourful cast of characters dressed in period-correct costumes, along with a thrilling midday cannon firing.

For dedicated history buffs, Fort Charlotte is only the beginning. Perched atop Bennet’s Hill, imposing Fort Fincastle represents the highest point on New Providence Island. The limestone stronghold was erected in 1793 with an unconventional layout resembling a paddle-wheel steamer. Enjoy sweeping views from atop the fort’s 38-metre-high walls, then snap a photo or two on the adjacent Queen’s Staircase — one of Nassau’s most recognisable landmarks.

Finally, no tour of the forts of Nassau Paradise Island would be complete without a stop at Fort Montagu. Located on the eastern shore, Fort Montagu dates back to 1725, making it the oldest of the three forts in Nassau. Don’t be fooled by its relatively small size: this military stronghold was once the site of the United States Marine Corps’ first military action in 1776, when American ships were sent to capture a large supply of British gunpowder stored there. Immerse yourself in this fascinating history on a guided tour, then take a short stroll along neighbouring East Bay Street, where a charming array of local restaurants, watering holes, and shops await you.

Cigar Rolling

Cigar aficionados can take a deep dive into the art, science, and history of cigars on an intimate, small-group Cigar & Rum Tasting experience at the iconic Graycliff Hotel, Nassau’s oldest hotel. This 18th-century colonial mansion boasts lush tropical gardens, sparkling swimming pools, and the Caribbean’s first five-star restaurant. It’s also home to the widely acclaimed Graycliff Cigar Company, whose master rollers have been crafting their own array of unique blends for more than 25 years.

Visitors will learn about the history of tobacco in The Bahamas, including where the best leaves are found and how Graycliff’s master rollers decide what goes into their award-winning cigars. Get expert guidance on how to sort, clean, and store a cigar, or channel your inner torcedor and try your hand at rolling a few of your own.

Retreat Garden

The Bahamas is a place of boundless natural beauty, and nowhere is that more apparent than with a visit to the Retreat Garden. Nestled within the grounds of historic Government House, this hidden urban oasis is a haven for horticulturalists, bird watchers, and nature lovers alike. The 11-acre grounds boast a dizzying array of blooming florals, exotic birds, and rare tropical plants, along with tranquil lily ponds and more than 90 species of palm trees from far-flung destinations like Mexico, Madagascar, and Indonesia.

Savour an hour or two of solitude as you wander the garden’s shady boardwalks and meandering pathways. The park features on-site restroom facilities, as well as a helpful visitor’s centre where you can find information on the plants and wildlife you can discover during your visit.

Rum-runner’s passage

Are you captivated by tales of pirates, plunder, and prohibition? Then let Islandz Tours’ Rum Runner’s Passage transport you back to a bygone Bahamian era on a guided walking tour through the heart of historic downtown Nassau.

Sample a few favourite local dishes while learning all about the distilling process and how the rum trade shaped our history here. Notable stops along the way include Pirate’s Pub, the Graycliff Hotel, Hillside House, and John Watling’s Distillery, where you can taste your way through a curated selection of Caribbean rum, along with crafted cocktails, rum-infused chocolates, and an irresistible rum punch. Bottoms up!

Sunset dinner cruise

When it comes to sunsets, it’s better in the Bahamas, so it should come as no surprise that a Nassau Sunset Dinner Cruise is one of our go-to recommendations for the perfect end to an unforgettable day in Paradise – sailing through Paradise Island Harbour with a glass of rum punch and dining on an island-inspired feast of Bahamian favourites like BBQ ribs and lemon pepper chicken, all while taking panoramic views of the iconic Atlantis Paradise Island, and watching the Caribbean sky transforms into a mesmerising canvas of vibrant purple, pink, red, and gold.

Endless options

Of course, these excursions only scratch the surface. Click here to Explore the many things to see, do, and experience in the Bahamas.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

There’s so much to discover in Nassau Paradise Island – from turquoise blue waters and lush beaches to vibrant culture and array of accommodations. Indeed, every moment is precious. So, how to make the most of one’s time in the Bahamian paradise? Here are some insider tips.

Find the best beaches

Some of the best beaches in the world are found in The Bahamas. With so many beaches to choose from, where do you start?

For those seeking the most popular beaches with amenities, check out Cable Beach, Saunders Beach, or Cabbage Beach. Or for a more secluded experience, soak in the sun at Cove Beach, Arawak Beach or Cave Beach.

Top excursions & activities

There are all sorts of must-do experiences to try while visiting Nassau Paradise Island. These are a few of our favourites:

• Dive into the vibrant waters and snorkel your way through marine life and ancient ruins, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
• Feel the warm ocean breeze as you embark on a sunset sailing cruise, indulging in delicious local food and drinks while the sun paints the sky with breathtaking colours.
• Make a splash and get an adrenaline rush at one of the island’s many waterparks.
• Immerse yourself in history by touring one of the island’s historic forts.
• Wander through Downtown Nassau, where you can soak up the local culture and find the perfect keepsake to remember your journey.

Home away from home

Whether on the hunt for beachfront, boutique, or lavish accommodation, Nassau Paradise Island has the resort to suit every style. Browse through the variety of hotels and resorts in Paradise and find the perfect place to stay for your family trip, friends’ getaway, or a romantic retreat for two. retreat for two.

Special offers & packages

Take advantage of great rates and special add-ons from hotels and resorts across the island. Browse the very best current offers and deals, such as discounts, complimentary breakfast, and hotel credits.

If you’re planning to eat and drink your heart out on your vacation to Nassau Paradise Island, consider an all-inclusive package. Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island, for example, is a couples-only haven offering flavours from around the world, including 10 brand-new dining options and three food trucks perfect for casual, on-the-go eats.

Other ways to save

In Nassau Paradise Island, relaxation, fun, and sun-soaked adventures are within reach, regardless of one’s budget. Take inspiration from these cost-effective experiences that won’t break the bank:

• Spend your days beach hopping, going from one pristine stretch of sand to another, and remember to BYOT (bring your own towel).
• Explore the stunning grounds of John Watling’s Distilleryon a free tour, where you can dive into the island’s rich history and enjoy the scenic views.
• Delve into the captivating world of piracy at the Pirates of Nassau Museum, where you’ll learn all about the swashbuckling Golden Age of Piracy here in the Caribbean.
• Discover the vibrant craft markets and art galleries that showcase the creative spirit of Nassau Paradise Island.
• Embark on a complimentary tour of the enchanting Versailles Gardens, where natural beauty and tranquillity await you at every turn.

Pro-tip: Save on flights and hotel stays by booking in the summer or fall, as rates are often reduced during this time.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News