[Wishing my new job was as official greeter at the entrance to The Island House, Nassau]
You know that feeling of coming back from vacation, and needing another vacation? This was the first time in years that I’ve returned from a trip and not felt that urge at all, which means that The Island House is doing everything right! It took my fifth trip to Nassau with my best friend to finally find true paradise: deep relaxation, easy entertainment, state-of-the-art amenities, incredibly delicious food, and the BEST coffee ( a must!).
[A spectacular view at the heart of The Island House, from the porch at the restaurant, Shima]
All of this was set among a gorgeous, tropical backdrop, complimented by sleek decorative elements and amazing art, all canopied by vibrant green, leafy fronds and the bluest of blue skies.
[Entering the Cinema; a refreshment bar inside serves snacks and wine!]
Indeed, the entire vacation could very well start, and end, at The Island House, with nary a reason to leave, thanks to its on-site cinema showing recent blockbuster and independent films, Bamford Spa, fitness classes, padel and squash courts, a gym, three dining options, and even a canteen and wine cellar (at the MH Market) to maintain a comfortable level of sated, sporty, and indulgent. The gorgeous 25-meter lap pool is the centerpiece of the property, streamlining the look and feel of a true getaway, nestled in the heart of the cottages and property buildings.
[Look ma, no hands! Practicing antigravity yoga for the first time with my best friend, Jamie]
I found that the right balance of new experiences mixed with traditional vacation expectations was struck here without stepping foot off of the property, thanks largely to an antigravity yoga class and a new spa service. The Bamford Spa Rose Upper Body and Facial treatment offered up a decadent scrub followed by a quick rinse and then an expertly executed upper body massage. If I wasn’t in a fully laid back state by this point, this was certainly the remedy to whisk any worries rapidly away!
[And now for the best indulgence there is: luxurious treatments at Bamford Spa]
The best of Nassau’s culture and heritage truly culminates here at this 30-room boutique hotel and wellness retreat, supporting the local visual and performed arts in a myriad of mediums. Live music is performed every Thursday night during The Unwinding Hour, and renowned local artist John Cox curates and exhibits Bahamian artwork found throughout the property, plus manages programming, such as on-going art classes found at The Island House. A meeting with Kareem Mortimer, The Island House’s film curator and and Bahamian filmmaker, share with me the fantastic range of potential and happenings that can revolve around the 48-seat cinema, from special screenings of up-and-coming independent documentaries to film festivals.
[The lawn view from the deck off of our suite at The Island House]
The Island House is not only a retreat for those in need of a getaway, but also functions as a community space for local residents, welcoming all for dining, entertainment, and special events, which include outdoor movie screenings on its great lawn.
If you are looking for a zen island getaway under three hours from NYC, or to make your Bahamas experience truly unique, request a reservation at The Island House and look into its summer specials, happening now through October.
Full Disclosure: some of the services mentioned were given gratis or at a discounted rate to Fashion Pulse Daily for editorial consideration.
[One last look at the gorgeous lap pool]
