With new resorts popping up, extensive renovations at existing ones and a multitude of events on tap, Nassau Paradise Island is anticipating a tourist boom in 2016. According to the Caribbean Tourism Organization, the Bahamas hotspot welcomed 1.42 million visitors in 2014. Statistics indicate a 3 percent increase in arrival traffic through mid-2015.
Travelpulse.com reports that the Nassau Paradise Islands Promotion Board has observed an uptick in Google searches for the destination, which it views as a strong indication of consumer interest in the region.
Luxury Hotel Development
Several projects will add to the hotel inventory on Paradise Island. Most notable is Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas, an all-inclusive, adults only, 245-room luxury resort scheduled to open in mid-2016. The property will feature a lobby bar, numerous dining options, a full service spa and free Wi-Fi.
Iconic Atlantis Paradise Island resort, a meetings mecca, is embarking on a renovation that will include updating every suite. The former Marketplace eatery in Royal Towers will be replaced by the new ocean-inspired restaurant, Poseidon’s Table. Salon Privé, an exclusive portion of the casino designed to entertain “elite” customers, is also scheduled to open in 2016.
Nassau’s One & Only Ocean Club has remodeled guest rooms in the Hartford Wing, and has added an oceanfront infinity pool. The British Colonial Hilton in downtown Nassau is expanding to include new restaurants, luxury retail outlets and a rooftop garden. And the all-inclusive Breezes Resort & Spa on Nassau’s Cable Beach spent $1 million to revamp its meeting space; adding the 490-square-foot Panorama Gallery. The event space, which holds up to 50, boasts floor-to ceiling glass windows and an ocean view.
Events Galore in 2016
High profile cultural and sporting events are expected to draw crowds to the Bahamas in 2016. The Bahamas Rum Festival, scheduled for Feb. 26-28, will celebrate the region’s signature spirit with tastings, culinary demonstrations, educational sessions and live entertainment. The Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival, held in April and May, will feature concerts, cultural shows and parades that celebrate local culture and heritage. Films from around the world will screen at the Bahamas International Film Festival, date TBA. And finally, the Battle 4 Atlantis college basketball tournament will feature eight top teams from U.S. universities competing Nov. 23-25, 2016.
