As my new husband and I slow dance under a Caribbean night sky, I can’t help but laugh. There must be at least a dozen other couples swaying dreamily as Bahamian superstar Patrice Murrell performs the Elvis classic Can’t Help Falling In Love.
It’s like a scene from a cheesy romantic comedy. But fairytale love is what Sandals Royal Bahamian Hotel is all about – and there’s no escaping it.
This all-inclusive Cable Beach resort in the capital of Nassau is surrounded by turquoise water, palm trees and white sand beaches. Of course it is.
Most guests are on their honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary, or enjoying a last Huzzah Babymoon. Even if you’re not married when you arrive, there’s a “wedding lounge” here to help you tie the knot.
Made for romance: Victoria Bischoff and her new husband relax during their stay at the Sandals Royal Bahamian Hotel on Cable Beach, Bahamas
As we sunbathe by one of the hotel’s two pools, brides-to-be pass by to loud applause. In the evening, tables for two are set up where couples can enjoy a candlelit dinner.
The spa specializes in couples’ massages and even has its own photographer for photo shoots.
The hotel’s marketing slogan is “Where love goes easy”.
Fairytale love is what Sandals Royal Bahamian Hotel is all about, reveals Victoria
“While we sunbathe by one of the hotel’s two swimming pools, brides-to-be pass by to thunderous applause,” writes Victoria.
Victoria notes that most of the resort’s guests are either honeymooning, celebrating an anniversary or enjoying a final Huzzah babymoon.
And it is proud that the Duke of Windsor and Wallis Simpson were regular visitors after the abdication.
“A royal love story,” reads one plaque. “This is a story about a king who listened to his heart and gave up his throne for the greatest reason. Love.’
The piano bar, which invites you to sing along and serves killer cocktails, is even called the Balmoral Club.
All guests are picked up from the airport in a Rolls-Royce by driver Ricky Ricardo.
If you choose the butler service, you will receive a mobile phone with which you can call for help at any time.
The Duke of Windsor and Wallis Simpson, pictured above in Nassau in the 1940s, were frequent visitors after the abdication
The hotel has been renovated and expanded, but it still has a boutique feel
The hotel’s marketing slogan is “Where love goes easy”
A friendly team – Andrew, Chanelle and Nichola – looked after our every need. At first we were almost embarrassed by their offers to help us unpack, reserve sunbeds and take out for dinner. But after ten days we lost the ability to do anything for ourselves.
They even snuck into our room one night to scatter heart balloons and rose petals.
The hotel has been renovated and expanded, but it still has a boutique feel — even though there are 13 restaurants.
Our only complaint was that the music could be loud. But a boat service takes guests to the hotel’s tranquil private island, which has a pool and restaurant.
An absolute must is the Fish Fry on Arawak Cay. Street vendors and beach hut barbecues along the beach here. Attracted by live reggae music, we decided to go to Frankie Gone Bananas where we feasted on concha and snapper.
A boat service takes guests to the hotel’s quiet private island (above)
Take a day trip to see the Exuma Islands’ famous porpoises
Swim with nurse sharks at nearby Compass Cay Marina
It’s also worth exploring the Nassau area, if only to see the famous swimming pigs (yes, pigs).
Pig Beach in the Exuma Islands is accessible by motorboat. You can pet the cute pigs, but beware: adult pigs can bite.
There is also a pit stop at Compass Cay Marina to swim with nurse sharks.
Sandals are a recipe for success and now I understand why.
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James is an author and travel journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a love for exploring new cultures and discovering unique destinations, James brings his readers on a journey with him through his articles.
