If gorgeous white sand beaches, crystal clear blue waters and perfect weather are not enough reasons to convince you to start packing your suitcase right now, here are a few more. The city of Nassau, Bahamas is full of exciting experiences waiting to be had. You can easily spend a week here and explore much of what the place has to offer, but if you have only two days … here’s how you should spend them:
Day 1: Breakfast at the RIU Palace
Big resorts are nice, but if you’re looking for a more low-key place without compromising luxury, book your stay at the RIU Palace on Paradise Island. Every room in this beachside resort has a stunning view of the water, and with 24 hours of personalized all-inclusive service you’ll have all your needs taken care of whenever you need. Start your day by attacking the breakfast buffet that features an assortment of continental favourites (pineapple pancakes are YUM) along with island specialties like local seafood an array of freshly squeezed juices.
Day 1 morning activity: Dolphin encounter on Blue Lagoon Island
With your bellies full, make your way to the docks to catch a catamaran heading to Blue Lagoon Island. On the way, you’ll be able to see Nassau’s historic harbour, as well as various celebrity homes including one belonging to Oprah. The main attraction at Blue Lagoon Island is the dolphin encounter where you can pet, kiss and even swim with dolphins! After all the excitement, relax in one of the hammocks attached to the coconut trees or enjoy the immaculate white sand beach and a gentle lagoon perfect for even the most novice swimmers.
Day 1 lunch: Frankie Gone Bananas at Arawak Cay
Hungry? Make your way to the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay, a village of local eateries where locals and tourists come together to eat. Head into Frankie Gone Bananas where you can watch as your bowl of conch salad is prepared right before your eyes. To share, order a platter of deliciously battered and deep friend conch fritters served with a spicy dipping sauce. And for your main, select from an array of grouper and snapper dishes all served with a side of salad and a creamy, baked macaroni and cheese.
Day 1 afternoon activity: Shopping on Bay street
After a scrumptious meal, it’s time to walk off those calories. Head to Bay street, the city’s main shopping district where you can browse through an endless line-up of duty free shops for some fantastic deals on designer merchandise. Outside along the sidewalk, you’ll find a several local artists selling hand-made crafts and jewellery made from shells and hand carved wood. Finally, at the end of the street you’ll come across the straw market home to a dizzying collection of vendors selling almost anything imaginable made using a traditional Bahamian craft: straw weaving.
Day 1 evening activity and dinner: Graycliff
When the evening hits, head back to the resort and pretty yourself up for a glamorous night out. The five-star rated Graycliff experience begins at the door. As you drive down the tiny street and step through the aged looking stone archway, you know you’re about to find something special. Inside, the under-stated luxury of this colonial mansion sparkles with handsome grace. You’ll take a seat in the parlor, enjoying the soulful tunes of the musician seated at the grand piano. Enjoy your drinks here, and once food is ready you’ll be escorted into the dining room to savour world renowned Bahamian cuisine. After your meal, you can relax once again in the parlor to enjoy a drink or a hand-rolled cigar made right on the premises. Don’t forget to ask for a tour of the hotel property and the stunning wine cellar boasting the third largest wine collection in the world as well as a private in-cellar dining room.
Day 2: Breakfast in bed
After a long, exciting day enjoy a lazy morning by having breakfast in bed. Here’s your chance to test out the amazing personalized room service at the RIU Palace. Order the usual breakfast items and don’t forget to fill out the “any other requests” section on the form where you can list anything you want (within reason) and they’ll make it for you. After you’ve filled up on breakfast, head down to the beach for a stroll all the way to the eastern tip of the island enjoying the water and admiring the resorts and villas along the way.
Day 2 morning activity: Island tour
For a glimpse into the history of the island, take a tour of some of the most significant sites in and around Nassau. Step back to 1788 as you visit Fort Charlotte, where you’ll also find the best view of Paradise Island and Nassau. Head to Potter’s Cay Dock to see the local fisherman and fruit vendors at work, admire the colourful colonial architecture of the Judiciary Buildings, and explore Festival Place where you can purchase items indigenous to the Bahamas.
Day 2 lunch: People-to-people
The best way to get to know the Bahamas, is to spend time with Bahamian people. The People-to-people program is a free activity where you will be welcomed into the home of a local Bahamian family for a meal. Enjoy authentic home cooked Bahamian food and share stories as you get to know each other. The program is supervised by the tourism board. Registration is available online.
Day 2 afternoon activity: Relax
When you return to the resort, take some time to relax the way you like. Take a dip in the pool, a stroll on the beach, catch a game in the sports bar or feel the breeze on your sea view balcony. For a real treat, head down to the Renova Spa and indulge in a massage. Couples can book the Jacuzzi area for side-by-side treatments before soaking in the hot tub.
Day 2 dinner: Krystal restaurant
Once you’re relaxed, it’s time to pretty yourself up again for a nice dinner at Krystal restaurant in the RIU Palace. This fusion gourmet restaurant looks small, but the meals served here will you’re your mind. Reservations need to be made before 9:00am.
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