By Caribbean News Global contributor
NASSAU, Bahamas — Grand Bahama island has already rebounded from hurricane Dorian category 5 hurricane with the re-opening of businesses, renovation, and new construction. Despite the trying hurricane season, The Bahamas continue to be a leader in Caribbean travel. The islands of The Bahamas placed tenth in Condé Nast Travelers’ 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards for the Top ten islands in the Caribbean & Atlantic.
The islands of The Bahamas are truly Open For Business and are ready to welcome visitors heading into the holiday season. Many of its hotels and attractions have reopened or plan to do so shortly, while cruise ships have resumed calling to the island and the airport plans to resume international service this month, according to The Bahamas ministry of tourism & Aviation.
Grand Bahama island’s resorts reopened towards the end of October including Grand Lucayan Lighthouse Pointe, Castaways Resort & Suites, Taino Beach Resort & Clubs, Paradise Cove, The Village Bahamia, Royal Islander Resort, and Sunrise Resort & Marina.
Pelican Bay Hotel, Ocean Reef Yacht Club & Resort, and Bell Channel Inn are open to relief workers. While its marina, Teasers Beach Side Bar & Grill, Banana Hammocks Harbour Side Bar, and the beachside pool reopened in October, Old Bahama Bay Resort reopened to guests November 1.
Grand Bahama International Airport has a tentative opening of mid-November while Bahamasair and Western Air have resumed domestic services out of temporary facilities.
United Airlines Adds Non-Stop Service between Denver and Nassau – United Airlines have added a Saturday-only non-stop service from Denver to Nassau. The service begins March 7 and continues through August 15.
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line’s Grand Celebration returned to regular scheduled sailings on September 27. Passengers have the option to add a free volunteer excursion to help on the ground or assemble family boxes onboard the ship. Carnival Cruise Line has also resumed sailings to Grand Bahama Island. Between the relaunch date and the end of the year, Carnival expects to host 39 calls in Freeport, bringing more than 100,000 visitors to the island.
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line introduced its popular cruise and stay program to Nassau. Departing from the Port of West Palm Beach, passengers can choose from a two – or six-night stay at participating resorts in Nassau, including SLS Baha Mar, The Melia Nassau Beach All-Inclusive or Comfort Suites Paradise Island.
Over 250,000 stayover guests are expected to arrive on the islands of The Bahamas within the next year.