Secluded out in the middle of the ocean, just off the coast of Florida awaits white beaches, unimaginably clear ocean water, and the atmosphere of the perfect island getaway. Never without a refreshing feel to the air, Paradise Island, Bahamas is a wonderful vacation destination.
Although my family and I had visited Paradise Island once before, it left us with such inviting memories that we decided to head back to where we now longingly call ‘home’. Even as you step off the plane and you are barely off the tarmac, you instantly realize the drastic change from America to this paradise; Bahamas. Though the island is the environment which invites you to be carefree and without a strict plan for your stay, it’s easy to decide where you’ll be most of your vacation. The beach.
With parasailing, jet skiing, and an amazing water park; at the Atlantis Resort we never ran out of things to keep us going. Although, should you ever decide you want to see just a taste of the real culture beyond the hotels, the downtown area is the perfect spot. With a plethora of jewelry shops, souvenirs and even just your general stores, there’s plenty to do. But one of the main hotspots is the Straw Market.
Though I will warn you, keep a good eye on your small children, your friends and your own personal belongings; because in the Straw Market it’s a zoo. Even as I’ve found many souvenirs in the straw market, there are too many people in too small of a space. But all in all, you’ll be glad you went.
Should you get bored of just playing down at the beach you can check out the Atlantis Aquarium tour. Aside from a lot of fish, sharks and stingrays, they have a tour of their submarine diver armor and some other cool rooms of underwater equipment. So you definitely want to try the aquarium.
For a little nighttime fun, we hit the Marina at the Atlantis Resort almost every night. With great restaurants, beautiful views, and wonderful people, it makes for the perfect ending to the day. We ate at Johnny Rockets, which must be the best fast food restaurant in the Bahamas. They have fantastic milkshakes and great service with friendly servers. And you know what the best part was? There were dozens of breathtaking yachts anchored in the Marina. At night when you see the yachts some people have lights, even some others have helicopters on their yacht! Should you go to the Marina, on Friday night they have a Junkanoo, which if you hadn’t seen enough culture from just walking around, you’ll have your fill if you watch it.
So, with great culture, friendly people, and a place that you’ll want to call your home, the Bahamas is worth every moment you’re there. No matter where you are, you’re bound to find that peaceful, paradise getaway you’ve always wanted.
And though we left with a slight sunburn and sore legs from climbing up to the waterslides we will always have the sweet memories of relaxing time spent with family, beautiful ocean tides, and we will never lose the persistent longing to go back to our ‘home’.
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