The Spanish explorers who discovered these islands just off the coast of Florida were astonished by the extraordinary colour and beauty of the surrounding waters. Bahamas comes from the Spanish words ‘baja mar’ which means shallow seas and the clear turquoise waters surrounding these low-lying coral outcrops remain virtually pollution free. Within this group of over 700 islands, some are tiny and undeveloped and some larger and more sophisticated, each with its own personality and something different to offer. Tropical Places is pleased to offer hotels on four of the islands each providing a unique holiday experience. Whether you wish to stay on one island for your entire holiday or maybe combine two, we have the flexibility to tailormake your holiday. Getting About On the main islands of New Providence, Paradise Island and Grand Bahama, local mini buses provide an inexpensive way of getting around. There’s also no shortage of taxis which can be hailed on the street. Alternatively try a horse-drawn ride along the streets of Nassau. Taxis are also the main local transportation on the Family Islands, though you’ll need to summon one by radio or telephone which can be arranged by the hotel. On Turtle Cay golf carts provide a fun way of exploring! Inter-island flights offer the only quick and convenient way to travel between the islands. Information Capital: Nassau, New Providence Island Airport: Nassau International Language: English Currency: Bahamian or US dollar. Major credit cards widely accepted. Visas: Visas not usually necessary for Irish passport holders Vaccinations: No compulsory vaccinations, however, Hepatitis A, Polio and Typhoid are recommended. Please consult your G.P. before travelling Time Zone: GMT minus 5 hours Sandals 5* Hotel : Location - Surrounded by 13 acres of palm trees and tropical gardens, overlooking the ocean at Cable Beach. 10 minute walk from the casino and 10 minute transfer from Nassau International airport. Facilities - 8 restaurants serving French, Italian, Oriental, Caribbean, International and Bahamian cuisine, English Pub • Piano lounge • 7 bars serving unlimited premium brand drinks, soft drinks and cocktails • 3 large freshwater swimming pools with swim up bars, 3 mini pools, 1 scuba pool and 6 whirlpools • Penthouse fitness centre • Watersports include snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing, paddle boats, water-skiing, canoes and kayaking • Floodlit tennis • European style spa offers a variety of treatments (payable locally) • Complimentary sauna and steam room • Semi-private Sandals Cay an offshore island with restaurant, pool and swim-up bar.

Sandals Royal Bahamian, winner of the prestigious Five Star Diamond Award, stands alone as the premier destination for couples who demand only the very best. From our offshore island - a veritable resort within a resort - to world-class dining in 8 gourmet restaurants; from rooms and suites, ranging from the merely sumptuous to the over-the-top lavish, to Versailles - like gardens filled with stunning statuary - you'll know, beyond a doubt, that you've discovered paradise. Minutes offshore by our own private ferry or kayak, Sandals Cay is an exotic island adventure where you can escape for a couple of hours or for the whole day. There are two unspoiled beaches to explore - one for sunbathing, the other for some of the best snorkling in the Bahamas. The peaceful calm of the freshwater pool is the perfect place to relax and join in the lively chat at the swim-up bar. Then, in the evening, savor traditional Bahamian cuisine at Café Goombay, an authentic island seafood house. Only Sandals gives you an exciting getaway with a getaway, offering two exotic vacations for the price of one.

Customer Review: "Loved it": I had the opportunity to visit this property recently and found that the resort was beautiful and the staff very friendly. The fitness club was first rate and the views from the work out room were outstanding. Sandals is known for their pools with swim-up bars and this resort will not dissappoint. The food was also very good and the options for ala carte dining and buffets provided a nice variety. All in all, I would recommend this Sandals Signature Collection Resort highly.