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Having just returned from Sandals Emerald Bay in the Bahamas, I wanted to share my trip review and pictures of Sandals newest luxury all inclusive resort. I’ll start with my summary –
In my opinion Emerald Bay will soon be acknowledged as Sandals best resort. But while the quality of this diamond is undeniable, it requires polishing to complete the transformation from shuttered Four Seasons Resort to Sandals best. I have no doubt this will happen quickly, however early arrivals will see the resort as a work in progress.
So what will guests find today and what is coming soon?
Today, arriving guests will find Sandals best beach, best pool and best golf course, the most beautiful wedding gazebo I’ve seen anywhere in the world and stunning oceanviews of an amazing, turquoise sea.
They’ll find the most private beachfront villas offered at any Sandals resort, 100% suites with butler service, fully stocked in room bars, sunken tubs, walk in showers, the softest linens, fluffiest towels and most comfortable beds. Early guests will also find excellent food prepared at four themed restaurants (Sandals claims 5 including a selection of pizzas), top shelf liquor served in every bar, a full service spa, expansive grounds and, for a limited time, rates at a fraction of the normal cost.
Golf enthusiasts will play a Greg Norman designed championship course soon to be featured on a ten part golf channel series and I’m told the images will immediately put the Sandals Emerald Bay course on a must play list for fans. Scuba divers and snorkelers will be treated to virtually untouched sites teeming with starfish, rays, conch in every stage of its life cycle, and brighly colored fish.
As of last week, a few standard Sandals features were still missing including bathrobes, pagers for butlers and scuba equipment but supplies are arriving every day. Staff members are also arriving daily, so early arrivals would be wise to expect moments of service excellence interspersed with lapses until new employees are fully trained and on board. This shouldn’t take long as the personable General Manager has assembled a top quality team which is transforming and redefining the resort experience literally hour by hour.
Planned enhancements include beach beds to line the mile long stretch of powder white sand, neutral fabrics for poolside cabanas, private dining locations scattered throughout the gorgeous grounds and firepits for romantic evenings under the stars. Improved air service with non stops from Atlanta, Ft Lauderdale and Miami is also anticipated as are updated furnishings for guest rooms.
For more details or assistance selecting a room category at Sandals Emerald Bay, please call or email linda@totemtravel.com. I’ve been to every one of the Sandals and Beaches Resorts and would love to help you choose the best spot for your all inclusive vacation or honeymoon. You can also book online.