Published On:Wednesday, March 10, 2010

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

The newly refurbished Sandals at Emerald Bay offers a sweet escape for lovers where

the sight of blissful beaches and the soothing sound of splashing waterfalls creates

an aura of romance, and relaxation.

Stepping into the front doors of Sandals Emerald Bay is without a doubt stepping into paradise on paradise.

The splash of the water falls that stand front and center on the outside flows graciously, and the only thing left to do is pull out a camera and snap.

Dark wood floors contrasted with the soft hue of pastel walls in the inside makes a cozy setting.

The resort has undergone a complete transformation, and what is different is the resort's all inclusive services, the pool which is a signature to the Sandals brand, and is in fact the largest pool in the Caribbean, its all butler service for every suite and room, and the addition of more restaurants.

"Before Sandals, the hotel was the Four Seasons which is a reputable company. The hotel was then 'Sandalized' and sandalizing it involved adding more things to do and adding more amenities. When people come to Sandals they come to have a vacation and that is what we are about, providing guests with a great time" said John Keating General Manager of the resort.

At this resort one will never have "idle hands" since there are a number of activities to engage.

For the golfers, there is a great golf course on property. "The golf course is pretty tough but it is beautiful. I have had people say to me I don't know if I should golf or just look at the beautiful beach," Mr Keating said.

A plus for beach lovers, Sandals Emerald Bay sits on one of the most scenic beaches in Exuma, where complimentary water sports like kayaking, para sailing or snorkeling abound.

Vacationers also have the choice of three pools plus a half acre fresh water oasis with a Jacuzzi, swim up bar and seating area.

Love birds who want to enjoy fun in the sun with a little seclusion and privacy can sit back relax, in their own personal tent.

And when the stomach starts growling, guests can chose from several options - at the IL Cielo an Italian themed restaurant, Barefoot by the Sea, where one can feel the sand under their feet, enjoying the fresh ocean air as they devour a seafood dish of their choice, Dino's pizzeria, The Drunken Duck Pub, a British style pub with a selection of brews, and a Bahama Bay which serves of combination of Bahamian and Continental food.

Apart from all the great activities and the restaurants to dine at, what sets Sandals Emerald Bay apart from other resorts is the fact that they boast of their all butler services.

"This is the first all butler service hotel in the world. Other hotels do have butler service, but we have butlers in every suite and every room. Your butler meets you when you get to you door, sits you down, checks you in, orientates you, unpack you luggage, and is at your every beck and call," Mr Keating said.