Deep within the blue waters of the Exumas, the Sandals Emerald Bay all inclusive resort in the Bahamas brings unprecedented luxury to the easy-going rhythms of the Bahamian Islands. From the amazing scenery to the incredible food, Rob Tallon shares his experience staying at this 5-star resort:
Sandals Emerald Bay in the Exumas is truly a piece of Paradise on earth. I had the joy of travelling with Air Canada Vacations to Sandals’ all butler resort in the Bahamas in April. I don’t think I will have the words to really describe the beauty of this resort and small island, but I will give it a shot. Our trip was only for one night, which is way too short (but then again, every trip to a Sandals resort is too short – no matter how long you stay).
I left early in the morning flying direct for three hours to the island of the Exumas. I loved flying with Air Canada, and the attendants on board was fantastic. Time flew by as I was able to watch a new movie, favourite TV shows and listen to all kinds of music for free on the seat back TVs. It really is a great way, along with a good book to pass time on a flight. As we approached the island, the views from above were breath taking. The colour of the water, and all the little islands scattered below surrounding the Exumas was an amazing first impression — make sure to have your camera out and ready to snap some shots. We landed to the sounds steel drums, guitars and Caribbean music. Getting through the airport was a breeze, and we were quickly on our way to the resort which was about 20 minutes away.
As soon as you arrive at the Sandals Emerald Bay, you know you are in a special resort. The grounds, with the golf course surrounding it are beautiful. I had arrived and was ready to enjoy!! Our first stop was in banquet room as they prepared to take us on a tour of the resort. They had some sandwiches and h’orderves waiting for us along with champagne, Beringers wine and any other drink you wanted. If you have never been to a Sandals resort before, then let me explain that the food is not comparable to any other all inclusive resort. It is 5 star all the way, and one of my favourite things about Sandals. Soon enough we were on our resort tour checking out the different restaurants and rooms. There are 183 rooms, separated by 22 different room categories, all of which are ocean view or oceanfront. I found them all to be very spacious and open, with the comfiest beds I have ever slept in. Along with the that, there are five restaurants. We tried out two of them, and had snacks at the great Drunken Duck pub. My meal I had at night was a rack of lamb with potatoes and vegetables. I tend to be picky with lamb, but thought that being on vacation, I might as well order something I wouldn’t do too often at home. I must say it was the best lamb I have ever eaten.
My favourite parts of the resort would be the mile long crescent beach and zero entry walk-in pool. The beach was excellent, both with the water and sand. It also seems like a great place to take a morning stroll with your partner. After dinner we headed to the pub for some music, snooker and drinks. Close to the pub they had a huge chocolate buffet set-up. I was still full from the dinner, but if I had known the buffet was going to be available, I would of made sure to leave some room. The night was great listening to Caribbean music, and Bob Marley. We had a few drinks and great conversation with the Air Canada attendants, reps and the pilots. All and all, it was an excellent day and one to remember.
On our second day we did a tour of the island. There are only around 3000 residents on the island, and it makes for a great community feel. Everywhere we stopped, our guide would be able to introduce us to a local. It just really blended in with the relaxed stress-free feel of the trip. Georgetown was a great example of this, and a perfect place to chat to friendly locals and pick up souvenirs. We also made stops at the Bowe Family Plantation, which was an old cotton plantation showing its old colonial history. Several other stops were made and lots of pictures were taken.
Returning back, we had lunch at Barefoot By the Sea restaurant, which was a great sending off before the flight back home. The restaurant is by the sea, with your feet in the sand, warm breeze in the hair, and great food in the belly. After that, we returned back to the airport for our flight back home with new friends and amazing memories to last a lifetime. If only it could of been longer!
Ready to start planning your Sandals vacation? Rob Tallon can be reached online, in-store, or by calling 1-866-704-5372