I have always dreamt to visit the Bahamas, the crystal clear water and the warmth in winter, the ultimate vacation spot. Sometimes you need to take one of those trips where it’s blatantly all about relaxing, to soak up the sun and indulge in an all-inclusive.
What prompted this trip was my friend @InnaYurkevich who invited me to go with her to Florida. I do love Florida, but the particular spot she mentioned didn’t have the clear water and relaxing white sand vibes she thought it would be. So I suggested we go to Bahamas after a thorough search of hotels, flights, and all inclusive options. Just before arriving I was able to partner with @riuhotels (Riu Paradise Island). Inna was totally up for the change, and it turned into an exciting last minute planned adventure! Their hotel really stood out because they had just done renovations, and their infinity pool overlooking the beach and ocean was as great in person as in the photos!
The breakfasts, and food in general, were all amazing! I’ve only been to a few all-inclusives in my life. I would love to live at one honestly, it makes things so convenient! Especially with such a wide array of food, restaurants, and areas to mingle during the day and night. They also reposted my picture below!
When I was packing for the trip I wasn’t completely prepared because my summer clothes were stored in the garage, since my husband @sasch2005 and I moved into our home 5-6 months ago. Luckily I could find just enough to bring along! Packing list essentials: bikinis, dresses, short tops and bottoms, versatile basics, beach bags, sandals, layering sweaters if the evenings get cold, and of course my camera! This trip I actually forgot my memory card, but since Inna has the iPhone X, we discovered the portrait mode and regular camera function looked great regardless.
Overall, the company and hotel were awesome! I loved having the beach right there, and just walking about a block down from the hotel main beach, the water and beach was less tourists.
We were so happy to get an upgraded room to a nice suite, overlooking the ocean!
The sunsets were always spectacular!
Ordering breakfast in bed at the Riu Palace Paradise Island Hotel was also quite convenient =)
ATLANTIS
Right next to the Riu Paradise Island Hotel is the Atlantis Bahamas Paradise Island Resort and Casino. We walked through the maze of casinos and gorgeous aquariums that seemed like an endless continuation. If you love sharks, fish, sting rays, turtles, they’re all there!
We really couldn’t complain about the marina filled with a lot of yachts of all shapes and sizes. Right before dinner it was such a nice way to stroll around and experience the livelihood of the scene.
I’ve been to the Atlantis in Dubai, but this is definitely similar! Dubai is known for making things above and beyond, but Bahamas certainly has high standards as well! I love the high archway between the buildings.
Overall, the experience was incredible and I would love to go back again. I had such a blast with my friend, Inna, also! You really get to know someone when you travel with someone, especially in the very beginning of a friendship! Looking forward to future destinations with her for sure. I have so many places on my list to see, that I hope I take some time to visit other places before heading back to the Bahamas! I would highly recommend this area in Paradise Island Bahamas if you’re looking for that indulgent vaca.
Catherine Wanders 