Happy New Year and happy travels to you this year. May your year be filled with marvellous adventures that take you around our beautiful island and beyond our shores, discovering new destinations and making magical memories.

As you prepare your travel list, here’s a recommendation for you…neighbouring Nassau, in the Bahamas. I had the pleasure of visiting recently and oh man, Nassau NICE! Being in the amazing company of my girls, indulging in some incredible food, but for me, a lover of exquisite design and décor, it was especially, the resorts. As The Passport Princess says, “Life is too short to stay in one place” and for my trip to Nassau I couldn’t decide between two beautiful resorts, where to stay, so I chose both. The Island House and The Goldwynn Resort.

There’s so much to say about these two extraordinary properties, so I’ll just have to say it in two parts, starting with The Island House (TIH).

The Island House is redefining laid-back, Caribbean luxury in the Bahamas.

Nestled on the western edge of Nassau, The Island House is more than just a luxury boutique hotel. It is a celebration of Bahamian culture, community, and sustainability, offering an experience that redefines the traditional notion of a resort. Designed with a thoughtful blend of contemporary elegance and authentic local charm, TIH stands out among Bahamian resorts as its first and only luxury boutique hotel.

From its inception, The Island House has prioritised not just the satisfaction of its visitors but also the well-being and engagement of the local community. The hotel’s design and operations reflect a conscious effort to create a symbiotic relationship with its surroundings. It provides a platform for Bahamian artists, chefs, and entrepreneurs, showcasing local talent and fostering a sense of pride and connection, through its art installations, culinary offerings, or events, The Island House ensures that its guests experience the authentic spirit of the Bahamas and I could feel every bit of it during my stay.

The property has this architectural harmony with nature as it seamlessly blends modern design, Caribbean island style and natural elements. TIH features open-air spaces, surrounded by lush gardens, and sustainable materials that celebrate the island’s natural beauty. Every aspect of the hotel’s design has been carefully considered to reduce its environmental footprint while enhancing the guest experience. I was so at home in my suite with its wallpapered backdrop behind wooden four-poster bed, crisp white linen bedding with rattan and sisal elements. The most striking design element for me, however, was the lighting throughout the property…creative, thoughtful, dramatic and exquisite.

From the cascading chandelier in the foyer, with its complementary sister in the stairwell. The monstrous metal Gothic-styled chandelier in the Shima restaurant, a complete contrast to the chandelier that hangs in the Yellowbell bar and lounge, which is an eclectic cascade of dozens of yellow glass sweetsops. A feast for my design eyes.

The Island House boasts a range of amenities that cater to every traveller’s needs. Its 30 thoughtfully designed rooms, suites, and apartments offer privacy and comfort, each with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hotel’s spa provides a serene sanctuary, while its fitness centre and lap pool cater to those seeking an active retreat.

For me, who “will travel for food”, it was an absolute delight indulging in the hotel’s dining options, which emphasise fresh, locally sourced ingredients. We enjoyed an amazing dinner and cocktails our first evening at Shima, the hotel’s signature restaurant, where we enjoyed an assortment of sushi, stir fries and curries, all with a Caribbean twist. The Mahogany House was the perfect choice for lunch and a 30-year reunion with my friend, Miss Bahamas Universe Meka Knowles-McWeeney, with an eclectic menu of wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood, and artisanal cocktails. And the coffee bar was the perfect spot for a final nibble before my departure, offering a selection of expertly brewed coffees and light bites.

What truly sets The Island House apart is its role as a cultural and wellness hub. The hotel regularly hosts film screenings, art exhibitions, yoga classes, and workshops that attract both visitors and residents. Its boutique cinema, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, offers a curated selection of films, adding an unexpected cultural dimension to the resort experience.

TIH’s emphasis on wellness extends beyond its spa. Yoga and Pilates studios provide daily classes, and the hotel frequently collaborates with wellness experts to host retreats and workshops. These offerings create a holistic experience that rejuvenates the body, mind, and soul, and having been on itinerary, didn’t get the chance to indulge, but look forward to doing it all on a return.

The Island House is a destination like no other; it’s a destination that immerses guests in the richness of Bahamian culture while setting new standards for luxury and sustainability. Whether you’re visiting for relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, The Island House promises a stay that lingers in your heart long after you’ve left its shores. It certainly lingers in mine.

By: Angelie Martin Spencer