3 amazing wildlife encounters you can only have in The Bahamas

February 11, 2022 No Comments

A cool Caribbean archipelago encompassing 700 dreamy islands, The Bahamas has quickly become a favoured destination for Canadians flying south for the winter. Beyond its offering of beaches, sand and spas, The Bahamas is also a haven for wildlife lovers, its waters teeming with fascinating animals like   gentle nurse sharks, stingrays and the Instagram-famous swimming pigs.

The island of Andros is home to the world’s third largest barrier reef, which hosts more than 164 species of fish and coral, making it one of the most popular locations in the country for divers and snorkellers. The beauty of The Bahamas goes beyond (and below!) the surface of its beaches. Visitors to the region have the chance to experience and enjoy the thrill of close wildlife encounters and voyages on animal adventures unlike anywhere else. 

Meet Exuma’s most famous residents 

Most novel of these experiences has to be the renowned swimming pigs in The Exumas. A must-visit photo opportunity, popularly documented across social media, the Big Major Cay swimming pigs are equally adorable and mysterious. How did these intelligent creatures end up living the dream on their own private island, surrounded by crystal blue waters with cascading palm tree canopies?

The story is still unclear. Some share enchanting tales of buccaneers and pirates, their captive porkers making a grand escape, while others speak of farmers seeking a place for their animals to be away from their homes and villages. Whatever the truth may be, be sure to speak to the locals whilst there and see which story rings the most true to you. The captivating swimming pigs have captured the hearts and attention of many and are an important and protected asset of the Bahamian ecosystem.

Adhering to a strict diet, it is important for visitors to abide and respect the rules and regulations and to remember that though appearing cute and cuddly, the swimming pigs are still wild animals that should be respected, treated gently and should only be fed fruits and vegetables. Guests are able to visit the pigs via chartered tours where they can spend time in the water with the animals, feeding them, petting them and observing how they swim and interact with each other and their tropical surroundings.
 

Swim with the sharks

Over in Compass Cay, located 75 miles from Nassau, the gentle and docile Compass Cay sharks (also known as nurse sharks) await the attention and admiration of human visitors with eagerness not to be outdone by their porcine counterparts. Growing up to 10ft long and weighing anywhere between 200-300 pounds, these bottom dwelling sharks feed on a diet of shellfish and coral and can live for up to 25 years.

Brown in appearance and smooth to touch, with hundreds of tiny serrated teeth, Compass Cay sharks are mostly harmless to humans, but should still be treated like all wild animals, with care and consideration guiding your interactions with them. A unique attribute of the nurse shark is their sucking: they vacuum up sediments with a distinctive high-pitched squeal, which makes them all the more endearing.

Snorkel with sting rays

Similar in smoothness and the way in which they gracefully glide through the Bahamian waters are the beloved Stingrays of Grand Bahama Island. Swim, snorkel or simply stand and enjoy these stingrays and their shallow white sand home. A gentle hands-on experience, suitable for the entire family, including little ones who are certain to never forget the memorable experience of holding and feeding a friendly stingray.
 
The Islands of the Bahamas are rich and abundant in the natural resources and wildlife that they have to offer those who visit the region, with swimming pigs, sharks and stingrays as well as starfish, turtles and more. Whether in shallow waters or wading in the deep, you are guaranteed to make lasting memories and enjoy experiences that you’ll reminisce long past the end of your holiday as you plan and anticipate your next visit. 

CALLING ALL Adventurers

July 24, 2019 No Comments

DISCOVER BARBADOS DURING THE YEAR
OF WELLNESS & SOFT ADVENTURE

You can drive around the entire island of Barbados in just three hours; at just 34 km long and 22  km wide, it’s a small country. But Barbados is big in style– an island nation steeped in history, pride, culture, sport, and a wealth of natural beauty, both rugged and coastal. Don’t be fooled by the call  of the Caribbean, there’s more to Barbados than its beaches, although those are pretty spectacular, too. This year, discover every side of the island during Barbados’ year of wellness and soft adventure.

ISLAND SAFARI TOURS
Hit the open road with Island Safari Tours. Pile into an open-sided jeep that picks you up at your hotel and takes you on a back-
road adventure, zigzagging its way across the hills and fields of the interior of the island and along it’s lesser-known coastlines. All the while, a friendly guide will stop along the way for photo ops and to make sure you learn the history and culture as you go. A  terrific way to spend the afternoon.

RUN BARBADOS
Runners from around the world flock to Bridgetown, Barbados, each December to participate in the Run Barbados Marathon
weekend. Festivities kick-off Friday night with a one-mile run divided into five heats: elite women, elite men, amateurs, children, and a fun run. Saturday afternoon, the festivities amp up with live music, stilt walkers, and crowds gathering to cheer on the 5K run, 5K walk, and 10K run participants. The half and full marathons begin Sunday at 4 a.m. to avoid the punishing Caribbean heat. All races start from picturesque Carlisle Bay with race routes winding their way through historic downtown. Streets are often
lined with locals cheering on the runners. Races are professionally timed for serious runners, but still festive and light-hearted enough for casual participants, too.

CULINARY ADVENTURES
For a five-star foodie adventure, head to Oistin’s Fish Market on Friday nights. Locals and tourists alike come here to savour the daily catch that fishermen fry, grill, and BBQ at this open-air night market. Lively music and dance, a craft market, and delicious food make this a party you shouldn’t miss. Not sure what to order? Communal tables mean you can ask the person seated next to you. But don’t miss the dangerously sweet rum punch, traditional macaroni pie, and world-famous fishcakes. Worth the wait
in line.

UNLEASH YOUR INNER EXPLORER
Spend an afternoon exploring the magnificence of Harrison’s Cave, a crystallized, limestone cave characterized by flowing streams, deep pools of clear water, and towering columns. Measuring 2.3 kilometres long with the Great Hall an awe-inspiring 15 metres high, Harrison’s Cave is considered active, as it carries water and its stalagmites are still growing. There are a variety of ways
to explore the sights and sounds of the cave’s running streams and waterfalls: enjoy a comfortable guided tram tour, grab your helmets and headlamps for a three hour discovery tour of the cave just as the early explorers did, or travel the cave by foot for a closer look at the formations.

ON THE WATER
Relax on the deck of a Cool Runnings catamaran as you sail the crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Spend a full day on the water, with snorkelling stops to see shipwrecks and sea turtles, then anchor in one of the many beautiful coves of Barbados to enjoy a delicious traditional lunch. Sunset dinner cruises are also available, as well as private bookings for special occasions. For more active adventure, find your stoke at Barry’s Surf School. Whether you’re new to surfing or a weekend warrior, you’ll be hanging ten in
no time. Try Barry’s two-hour introductory course or more advanced three-day “surf stronger” package.

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
Perched high in the hills of St. Joseph Parish, take in Barbados’ breathtaking east coast views at Naniki. Proprietor Tom Hinds, welcomes you to his peaceful property with 10 cozy self-contained cottages, pool, restaurant, and new wellness centre. Get back to nature with hiking, biking in the countryside, yoga classes, or by visiting nearby Bathsheba Beach’s incredible coastline.

Story by ASHLEY ROCHEFORT

Island Indulgence In Barbados

September 10, 2018

Island Indulgence In Barbados

Collectively known as UNNA Luxury Resorts & Residences, Saint Peter’s Bay and Port Ferdinand resorts offer a heady combination of laid-back luxury, personalized Bajan service, and unforgettable vacation experiences.

Located just five minutes from historic Speightstown, Saint Peter’s Bay sits on an enviably secluded stretch of palm-fringed beach, visible from each of its two-, three-, and five-bedroom villas. Each luxuriously appointed, family-style villa boasts traditional Barbadian architecture and finishes, generous floor plans that maximize open living spaces, breathtaking views, and privacy. Sweeping terraces with spa pools, fully equipped kitchens, and beautiful ensuite bedrooms are accented with marble tiles, white-washed cedar joinery and coral mouldings. Saint Peter’s Bay’s award-winning amenities, including a winding lagoon-style pool, oceanfront dining from The Gazebo Bar & Grill, and access to sister resort Port Ferdinand, make it perfect for discerning families.

Set around a majestic 120-berth marina, Port Ferdinand delivers a stunning selection of one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas. Each beautifully designed villa features marble and limestone finishes, coral stone walls, a fully equipped open-plan kitchen, expansive living spaces, and luxuriously outfitted grand master bedrooms and bathrooms. Port Ferdinand also boasts a world-class array of amenities and services, including a fine-dining harbourside experience at 13/59 Restaurant and Bar Lounge, The Quarterdeck Poolside Bar & Pizzeria, The Sandbox Tree Spa, a fully equipped fitness centre, indoor and outdoor kids’ clubs, as well as an adult recreation centre and golf simulator. Partnering with Nikki Beach, Port Ferdinand recently opened the luxury lifestyle and hospitality brand’s second Caribbean beach club location. On 1.4 acres of beachfront near the mouth of the marina, the club consists of a restaurant, pool, and oceanfront seating for up to 200 guests.

Whether your Barbados dream is a romantic escape, a wellness retreat, or a family vacation, UNNA’s Saint Peter’s Bay and Port Ferdinand luxury resorts are sure to check all the boxes, combining privacy with exceptional service and stylish living with world-class amenities. For more information, visit stpetersbaybarbados.com and portferdinand.com.

TROPICAL FOODIE ADVENTURE

This is the Year of Culinary Experiences in Barbados. Here’s everything you need to know:

> Barbados blends the flavours and influences of African, Caribbean, European, and Asian cooking to create the island’s unique Bajan cuisine.
> Barbados was the first and remains the only island in the Caribbean to be Zagat rated There are more than 100 restaurants around the island, including sophisticated 5-star dining experiences like The Cliff www.thecliffbarbados.com or Cin Cin www.cincinbythesea.com
> Don’t miss the national dish Cou-Cou and Flying Fish. This savoury dish is made of cornmeal and okra and served with Flying Fish prepared in any style.
> No shirt, no shoes, no problem at casual beachfront eateries like Bombas, Bo’s Plaice and JuJus offering up fresh and tasty authentic fare.
> For the best in Bajan cuisine, check out the 9th annual Barbados Food & Rum Festival October 18-21, 2018 visitbarbados.org/food-and-rum-festival

BEACH HOPPING

Straddling the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, Barbados’ coastlines vary from gentle beaches to rugged cliffs. The West Coast, where many of the island’s hotels are located, is home to idyllic shores ideal for swimmers and sunbathers. Needham’s Point and Dover Beach, in the South, are best for snorkelling, while Bathsheba on the eastern edge is popular with surfers, featuring miles of untouched coastline.

CATAMARAN CRUISING

Relax on the deck of a luxurious catamaran while gliding over the sparkling, crystal-clear Caribbean waters. At lunchtime, anchor in one of many beautiful coves of Barbados, and enjoy a sumptuous meal prepared by one of the Caribbean’s top chefs.

Story by IAN STALKER

Barbados-head

Bermuda Luxe

September 7, 2018

A Five-Day Escape

Bermuda’s pristine waters, old-world glam, elegant hotels, and cultural pursuits are made for leisure and luxury. Leave ordinary behind on a five-day escape tailored to those in search of exclusive experiences. Just a three-hour flight from Toronto, Bermuda feels a world away.

DAY 1
Cultural Capital

Take in a healthy breakfast at Devil’s Isle Cafe before exploring Bermuda’s cultural centrepiece, Hamilton. Discover the historic Hamilton Princes hotel and its renowned modern art collection followed by lunch at internationally acclaimed chef Marcus Samuelsson’s restaurant, Marcus. Then, shop the afternoon away at Alexandra Mosher Studio Jewellery for delicate jewellery inspired by the island’s pink sand, find eclectic gifts and clothing personally curated by owner Nicole Golden at Urban Cottage, and visit Della Valle, where you’ll be fitted for custom-made leather sandals. For dinner, head to Barracuda Grill for fresh seafood, suckling pig, and their signature gingerbread toffee pudding. Cap off the evening with a craft cocktail at Yours Truly.

DAY 2
Gardens & Hideaways

Take an in-depth “Arts in the Garden” tour of the Bermuda Botanical Gardens and Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art expertly arranged by Bermuda Explorer. In the afternoon, tour the island by taxi. Bermuda’s knowledgeable drivers double as guides – a great way to gather insider info, leaving you feeling like a local. Treat yourself to dinner at the AAA Four Diamond award-winning steakhouse in a refurbished 1670 cottage, Waterlot Inn. Reservations required.

DAY 2
Gardens & Hideaways

Take an in-depth “Arts in the Garden” tour of the Bermuda Botanical Gardens and Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art expertly arranged by Bermuda Explorer. In the afternoon, tour the island by taxi. Bermuda’s knowledgeable drivers double as guides – a great way to gather insider info, leaving you feeling like a local. Treat yourself to dinner at the AAA Four Diamond award-winning steakhouse in a refurbished 1670 cottage, Waterlot Inn. Reservations required.

DAY 3
Spa Day
For an unconventional and unforgettable spa experience, opt for an underground treatment at Grotto Bay Beach Resort’s Natura Spa. Melt away stress on a crystal-clear subterranean lake in a stunning 500,000-year-old cave. For dinner, make your way to The Beach Club At Rosewood Bermuda. Just steps away from a private beach with dramatic ocean views, the casual setting boasts a sophisticated menu.

DAY 4
Local Flavours

Join a Bermudian family for a home-cooked breakfast through Bermuda Explorer. After making new friends, head over to The Bermuda Perfumery in the town of St. George where island-inspired scents are blended and hand-bottled. They also offer tours, afternoon tea, and perfume-making workshops. Break for lunch at Tempest Bistro before visiting Fort St. Catherine, a fascinating historic military site. Enjoy a seasonal seafood menu while watching the sunset at The Beach House Restaurant.

DAY 5
On The Water

A day-long boat charter is the highlight of any Bermuda vacation. Thinking Of Bermuda boats range from casual 30-foot to honeymoon-worthy 100-foot yachts. Snorkel coral reefs and shipwrecks, sip a Dark ‘n Stormy®, and dine under the stars. Miles Market makes it a breeze to stock up on local produce and an array of international cheese, chocolates, and wine.

Pack your Bermuda best, and catch a flight to luxury’s favourite destination. For more information, visit www.gotobermuda.com.

Cuba’s Coolest City – Havana by Day & Night

August 2, 2018

DAY

By day, the streets of Old Havana fill with tourists eagerly exploring Cuba’s thriving cultural capital.

CHECK-IN Any claims that Havana lacks true luxury hotels will quickly be put to rest by the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana. This five-star property in Old Havana began life as a shopping arcade more than a century ago. The 246 rooms and suites feature high ceilings and French windows. For those who like to be pampered, head to the spa or rooftop pool with its sweeping views of the district. www.kempinski.com/havana

FOOD A celebrity hangout since opening its doors in the 1940s, start the day with breakfast in the gardens of the storied Hotel Nacional de Cuba overlooking the Caribbean Sea. www.hotelnacionaldecuba.com

EXPLORE In Old Havana, take a walk along its charming cobblestone streets. Bars, restaurants, outdoor cafés, cigar lounges, and historic attractions abound in this gloriously restored district. Stop at La Bodeguita del Medio for a mojito. labodeguitarestaurant.restaurantwebx.com

HISTORY Even if you’re not a history buff, you’ll find the Museum of the Revolution enthralling with its many exhibits telling of the guerrilla campaign that brought Fidel Castro to power and its recounting of Cold War tensions. www.cuba-museums-guide.com

STYLE Havana can be hot. Explore the city in the comfort of a chauffeured ‘60s American car, iconic of the city. These stylish vehicles are lovingly maintained and a fun way to get around. Cars for hire can be found outside prominent hotels and popular attractions. Ask your concierge.

NIGHT

Salsa, jazz, and incredible cuisine: night time is the right time in Havana.

FOOD For dinner, how about breaking bread in a restaurant Cuban authorities were confident was suitable for a world leader? San Cristobal hosted former U.S. president Barack Obama when he visited Havana. www.paladarsancristobal.com

PALADAR Or try authentic Cuban cuisine at one of Havana’s growing number of paladars – privately run restaurants licensed by the Cuban government to serve foreigners. La Guarida, whose celebrity guest list includes Robert De Niro, Natalie Portman, Jack Nicholson, and Rihanna, boasts it’s Havana’s “most elegant” paladar. www.laguarida.com

AFTER DINNER What would a visit to Havana be without taking in a show at the famed Tropicana? Presenting spectacular displays of Cuban music and dancing – it’s a must. www.cabaret-tropicana.com

LATE Cuban music and dance have built a worldwide following, and there are many places night owls can choose from. The Melià Cohiba’s Cafe Habana is always lively after sundown. Jazz Café and La Zorra y el Cuervo are renowned Cuban jazz hotspots. And the Buena Vista Social Club or Café Parisien at The Hotel Nacional de Cuba are other great choices in a city of great choices. Check out www.lahabana.com for a full list of late night hot spots.