Bahamian Escapes Shades of Autumn | Issue 6

ESCAPES BAHAMIAN

FA L L 2 014

shades of autumn PROPERTY TOUR: CASA PITA

DESIGN POWER COUPLE: THE WHIITINGHAMS

COMING SPRING 2015: THE BAHAMIAN RIVIERIA

Bahamian Escapes is endorsed by The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.

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22 CONTENTS HOME 12 Casa Pita

Property Tour 20 Style + Design 22 Design Power Couple:

The Whittinghams 34 Trend Report + Forecast 36 Private Banking:

Werner Gruner 38 The Next BIG Thing

The Cliffs 42 In The Island of Birds

The Domestic Tourist

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TRAVEL 48 Winter Travel

Trip Easy

50 Island Life

LIFESTYLE 75 Taste our Bahamas Recap 76 Cooking with Simeon Hall

52 The Bahamian Riviera

78 Philiece Roberts

Artist Profile

63 Top Winter Travel Picks

80 Tree Trends

64 Island Scene

82 After The Holly Days

66 More Airlift 68 From The Bahamas to Scotland

Travel + Design

ESCAPES BAHAMIAN

Bahamian Escapes Home & Lifestyle Magazine

EDITORIAL TEAM

Editor-In-Chief Kendeno Knowles

Home Editor Travel Editor Lifestyles Editor Associate Editor

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Tahira Kemp Theandra Thompson Jimenita Swain Genea Ferguson

CONTRIBUTORS

Travel Contributor Home Contributor Lifestyle Contributor Lifestyle Contributor

Noelle Nicholls Carla Whittingham Keisha Oliver Robert Whittingham

PRODUCTION

Graphic Design Photography

Keisha Oliver Roderick Wells Patricia Vazquez Raddy Kovatchev

Advertising ads@bahamianescapes.com Publisher Shamon Campbell

OFFICE ADDRESS

SandyPort Nassau, Bahamas P.O. Box EE17035 Telephone: 242-601-4638 info@bahamianescapes.com www.bahamianescapes.com

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Bahamian Escapes Magazine is owned and published

by Bahamian Escapes Ltd. The publisher, authors and contributors reserve their rights in regards to copyright of their work. No part of this work covered by the copyright may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means without the written consent of the publisher. No person, organization or party should rely or on any way act upon any part of the contents of this publication whether that information is sourced from the website, magazine or related product without first obtaining the advice of a fully qualified person.

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‘live in p

BahamianEs

The Luxury Real Es

The Luxury Real Es

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paradise’

scapes.com

state Marketplace

state Marketplace

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L UXURY

ARCHI TECTURE &I NTERI ORDESI GN

We Exceed C lient Expectations (242) 365-8752

The White House, Abaco // Ref. AES 2131

Casa Pita,Abaco // Ref. AES 2334

Charming 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath, two level turn-key furnished beachfront home on prestigious Ocean Blvd.

Luxurious 5 bedroom, 5.5 bath secluded beachfront estate home featuring a full 110 frontage on the powdery white sandy beaches.

2.0 Acre Beach parcel, Abaco // Ref. AES 2361

Tranquil Palms, Abaco // Ref. AES 2366

Secluded extensive beachfront parcel consists of approximately 2.0 acres, with a total of 174 feet of powdery white sandy beach frontage on Treasure Cay Beach.

“Spectacular 3 bedroom, 2 bath, turn-key furnished, elevated split level canalfront residence situated on 11,000 square feet of choice fully landscaped property .

Hayes House, Abaco // Ref. AES 2352

Sand Dollar #8, Abaco // Ref. AES 2575

Classic island style beachfront home, with over 3,600 square feet of interior living space, an additional 3,400 square feet of covered wrap-around verandahs and patios, designed over three living levels.

Sand Dollar Condo # 8 is an immaculate 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2nd level, furnished beachfront condominium.

Phone: 242-365-8752 Toll Free: 866-653-7164

Marsh Harbour Abaco, The Bahamas

Email: info@abacoestateservices.com www.abacoestateservices.com FALL 2014

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ABACO ESTATE SERVICES www.abacoestateservices.com 12

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[ PROPERTY FOR SALE ]

T R E A S U R E C AY | A B AC O

CASA PITA

Situated on New Providence Island’s prestigious western coast, your home is just minutes from Nassau, capital of the Bahamian Commonwealth. Once a pirates’ haven, modern Nassau overflows with cultural, architectural and gastronomic flavors, while remaining steeped in a rich, colonial history. Discover your new home.

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HOME Casa Pita” is a luxurious 5 bedroom, 5.5 bath secluded beachfront estate home featuring a full 110 frontage on the powdery white sandy beaches of world famous Treasure Cay beach. This fully furnished main home and separate guest house, features a spacious 5,234 square feet of elegant “under air” living space, plus two double garages, covered porches, patios and walkways for an additional 4,261 square feet.

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C ASA PITA T R E A S U R E C AY, A B A C O

PROPERT Y FOR SALE

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All buildings of “Casa Pita� are constructed of concrete block and feature cement tiled roofs. Concrete formed moldings adorn all exterior windows and doors.

The property, consisting of approximately 51,452 square feet,(1.18 acres) is appealingly landscaped with a St. Augustine lawn, full grown coconut and lady palm trees and gorgeous tropical foliage. The landscaping is further enhanced by a fully automated irrigation system, plus exterior accent lighting.

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C ASA PITA T R E A S U R E C AY, A B A C O

PROPERT Y FOR SALE

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C ASA PITA T R E A S U R E C AY, A B A C O

PROPERT Y FOR SALE

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Style & Design

Preparing for Holiday Entertainment Summer’s end now makes way for winter’s glory. Before you know it, we‘ll be spinning through the abundant festivities the holiday season brings. Family and friends gathering to be embraced in the company of cherished loved ones, partaking in the glorious flavors of divine home-cooked meals, and being enveloped in the beauty of holiday décor.

But just how do you set the right atmosphere for welcoming your loved ones? Have you seriously thought about how you’d set the table for when you display your decadent meals?

In this piece, we’ll explore three different entrances, interior and

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table top concepts that can be easily executed in your home.

In the world of interior design, there are countless ways to showcase creativity and individuality, and there are endless sources of inspiration one can pull from.

Fabrics hold a wealth of inspiration and are able to direct your thoughts towards unique design concepts.

For this table-scape, the inspiration was gathered from patterns and colours in the existing drapery. Images of wildlife, abundant wildflowers and a cornucopia of fruit set the theme palette.

We were also inspired by the hand-painted flowing patterns, featuring wreaths and filigreed branches, punctuated with flowers on the dining room table.

The consistent colour scheme of rich blues, yellows, warm brown tones and hints of coral, directs the selection of table ware, stemware and decorative accents; all of which echo a whimsical nature scene.

Below are a list of tools that will help guide you through creating this or a similar look all on your own.

Diy Tips • • • • • •

Find your inspiration.

Identify your colour palette.

Select key impactful personal items to set the theme.

Don’t ignore the details (i.e candles and small collectibles).

Flowers, Flowers, Flowers! Use flowers that echo the color palette and mirror your design inspiration.

Have fun! Design is a fun way to express your personality.

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CASA AL MARE DESIGN POWER COUPLE The Whittinghams DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT

Behind every impeccable design and décor is more often than not an equally as impressive team.

Every arch, window, door; every small detail is usually the carefully thought out and executed vision of great design teams, and their works have ended up in some of the world’s greatest residential, commercial and resort properties.

The likes of their works have also been featured in some of the most prestigious publications.

Most teams, like power couple Robert and Carla Whittingham will tell you, that when it comes to any design project, it is all in the fine details.

This husband and wife team, which runs Whittingham Design Consultants, has been making magic for years – Robert with his architectural expertise of 29 years and Carla with her 20 years of experience in interior design.

With combined years of experience totaling nearly half a century, together

the Whittingham’s have brought life to some amazing projects that have helped to solidify the two as one of the industry’s greatest design couples.

It’s why we chose to shine our designer spotlight on the duo that is certainly a force to be reckoned with.

In fact, the gorgeous living room that adorns this issues cover is the centerpiece of the Whittingham’s home.

And if it’s any indication of their abilities as designers then their work is amongst perhaps the greatest on the island.

The Whittingham’s insist that it’s the passion for what they do that separates the work they do from any other, and their unique working dynamic succeeds due to the love and utmost individual and professional respect the two say they have for each other and their abilities.

“We are able to share opinions freely to enhance each other’s work regardless of whether we are contracted on the same project,” the coupled shared recently in a candid interview with Designer Spotlight.

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DESIGN POWER COUPLE The Whittinghams FALL 2014

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DESIGN POWER COUPLE The Whittinghams

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“ There was always great satisfaction in seeing the joy which creating beautiful art brought those that encountered it. Interior design became an extension of that for me.”

For Robert, the curiosity of how or why things function the way they do or how things are put together, is what led him to inquire more and seek a deeper understanding of architectural design.

Carla shares that she’s always had a natural bend towards the arts, a desire to create beautiful visual experiences through the arts.

“I have always found myself drawn to studying the fine details of an object,” she says.

“There was always great satisfaction in seeing the joy which creating beautiful art brought those that encountered it. Interior design became an extension of that for me.”

To some, the local industry might appear dormant, but the Whittingham’s insist that it’s quite the opposite, saying that it has grown tremendously over the past 20 years.

This, they say is evidenced by the fact that quite a few qualified professional interior designers have returned home to practice.

The couple feels many locals are not aware of the function of a professional interior designer and therefore have little appreciation for their value.

And while attaining such professional designers might be perceived as a luxury for those who can afford it, the

Whittingham’s say there are aspects of the service that can be useful to all once the needs and budgets are identified.

However, the couple says there continues to be a challenge in thwarting the view that professional Bahamian interior designers are somehow limited in experience and exposure, thus incapable of delivering a world-class project.

But the Whittingham’s say the truth is, in fact, that any one that is called a professional interior designer has had to achieve the same educational degree as any other practicing interior designer around the world.

Its against this premise the couple believes the greatest challenge facing the local industry is public education, as some members are not aware of the educational journey and the true function of an interior designer.

These designers, or artists as some preferred to be called, are multi faceted in the larger world of design, with the knowledge of building codes and reading architectural and engineering plans.

They also understand the importance of creating a holistic, functional and aesthetically pleasing environment, the couple says.

“They‑ understand how to successfully bring the vision of their

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HOME

DESIGN POWER COUPLE The Whittinghams

“ It is also a reality that there are existing policies which encourage foreign competition, [which] has had and adverse impact on local professionals ...”

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client to fruition through the use of both their educational and practical knowledge with the use of these diverse skills; and how to source and implement various products and finishes that are project appropriate.

Curtains and accessorizing would be the ‘icing on the cake’ once the hard work is done.”

And while the couple believes the local industry has progressed well under local institutions, there is always room

for improvements, especially with the communication and dissemination of information.

creating opportunities for unique and perhaps rare project experiences within our country.”

“It is also a reality that there are existing policies which encourage foreign competition, [which] has had and adverse impact on local professionals where premier learning opportunities are lost. It would [also] go a long way [in] encouraging partnerships on diverse projects in the spirit of building the local professions and

The Whittingham’s believe this approach ultimately fosters one thing that any and every industry including the local interior design industry needs, and that is, continued growth.

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DESIGN POWER COUPLE The Whittinghams

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www.abacoestateservices.com

We Exceed C lient Expectations

Phone: 242-365-8752 Toll Free: 866-653-7164

Marsh Harbour Abaco, The Bahamas

Find us on Facbook & Twitter!

Email: info@abacoestateservices.com FALL 2014

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Trend

Color

Yellows, Midnight Blue, and shades of gray create an unconventional expression of fall.

Style

Mid century modern continues to get attention with its chic style and cool lines! We are making the old new again with this and other styles reminiscent of the past such as Hollywood regency, and Bohemian chic.

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Texture Mix

Multiple textures such as rustic knits, smooth stone, rattan, and faux furs inter playing make for rich composition this season!

Textiles

Vintage florals are still standing this fall. Other popular prints include fretwork, geometrics, ethnic and animal prints. We are particularly fond of dalmation print on walls!

Precious Metals

Go for glam with copper, gold and brass! There are many ways to add just the right touch to a room with pillows, sculptures, lamps or sconces.

© 2014 Artwork by Nowe Harris Smith

#StudentsUnderPressure

End of Year Art Show NOV-DEC 2014 // PRO GALLERY // THE COLLEGE OF THE BAHAMAS (COB) Follow COB’s School of Communication & Creative Arts (SCCA) Online for updates.

SCCA at COB

SCCA at COB

SCCA_COB

SCCA_COB

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HOME

THE PLACE FOR SOUND INVESTMENTS & SAVINGS

The Islands of The Bahamas

By Wern er G ru n er

The Bahamas has for years also held its own in the lucrative financial services industry and is in fact one of the leading financial services centers in the region with billions of dollars managed in private banks locally.

Private banks around the world have held a well-deserved reputation for protecting the assets of wealthy individuals and institutions for centuries.

European countries such as Switzerland and Luxembourg are saturated with such banks and have for years been leaders in the private banking industry.

But The Bahamas has for years also held its own in the lucrative financial services industry and is in fact one of the leading financial services centers in the region with billions of dollars managed in private banks locally.

In fact, history shows us that the first major foreign investment in The Bahamas took place around 1900; when the first beachfront hotel was opened.

Then in 1908, the first foreign bank opened its doors. The country became more and more attractive to foreigners and soon, a wave of wealthy investors relocated to The Bahamas around the 1930s.

Since that time, The Bahamas has remained a well-respected international financial center.

And who knows this better than the talented and experienced men and women over at Andbank Bahamas Ltd.

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“We have seen tremendous changes taking place in the industry over the last few years with the Hon. Ryan Pinder, Minister of Financial Services, making very valuable contributions to the industry.

It’s more important than ever to make clients aware of the need to adapt to new regulatory environments,” says Director of Private Banking Werner Gruner about The Bahamas being a place for sound investment and savings.

Speaking specifically to the bank’s success and expansion over the years in The Bahamas and abroad, Mr. Gruner said it follows a well-defined strategy for its target markets and has a commitment to the region that goes beyond its core mission.

“Our international team of financial advisors are fully dedicated to this cause applying their experience they previously gained in other well known global private banking institutions. There is no global template strategy for a client. Every client has his own needs for which we provide a tailor-made solution. According to the client’s investment strategy, we provide him with an international product offering.”

And with talk of value added tax (VAT) – which is set to come into effect on January 1st, 2015 – affecting not only consumer

goods but services as well, Gruner said, clients and potential clients need not fret.

“VAT will not have any major impact [on our international clients]. Persons thinking about taking up residency in The Bahamas will have to weigh and compare the impact of VAT and whether it is justifiable for them on a personal basis. Our primary focus is capital protection. Many of our clients are working in family businesses, which were founded decades ago. We understand the importance of such an inheritance and feel responsible to protect and preserve the value, which has been created over such a long period of time.”

While the bank boasts 80 years in the business, it has not lost its touch with people, outside of the ones it serves. In reality, the banks reach extends beyond just managing the assets of its wealthy clients as it has also taken up the mantle of charitable giving and has partnered with the Starlight Global Foundation (SGF).

This partnership is evidence of Andbank’s stated commitment to serving the region beyond its core mission.

SGF is a charity foundation that focuses on empowering people and its unique partnership with Andbank brings tremendous value in helping to achieve this, not only in the region, but worldwide.

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HOME Welcome to The Cliffs Cable Beach, a stunning collection of 11 gorgeous waterfront homes perched on a cliff in Nassau’s most desirable new address.The spacious, well appointed homes – each with its own private pool overlooking the ocean - were meticulously designed to meet the needs of the most discerning buyers, with glorious attention to detail evident throughout. The refined interiors will artfully blend the current & the classic, with each designer residence featuring a combination of

THE NE THI THE CABLE BE

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EXT BIG ING CLIFFS

Situated on New Providence Island’s prestigious western coast, your home is just minutes from Nassau, capital of the Bahamian Commonwealth. Once a pirates’ haven, modern Nassau overflows with cultural, architectural and gastronomic flavors, while remaining steeped in a rich, colonial history. Discover your new home.

wide plank oak flooring & over-sized porcelain tiles, 10 foot ceilings throughout, recessed LED lighting, impact windows and doors and breathtaking ocean views from every room. Gourmet kitchens will feature a full range of stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops and Italian style wood cabinetry.

Live above the crowd and enjoy all the shopping, dining, sights and sounds that Cable Beach and the nearby Baha Mar Resort have to offer.

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ESCAPE TO T H E

B A H A M A S

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In the Island of Birds A GUIDE FOR LEISURE TRAVELLERS

BY NOELLE NICOLLS The Domestic Tourist

The noise was obnoxiously loud, but it gave me a sweet sense of satisfaction knowing I was no longer in the city, where the sound of other living beings is muzzled by the sputtering of beat-up cars, the humdrum of air-conditioning units and the churning of lawn mowers landscaping the roadside. Not down south. Way down south in the rugged outback of The Bahamas.

There, beyond the dusty screens sealing my window, living sounds ebbed and flowed like birds swooping back and forth. I came to know the incessant singing to be the signature tune of the Bahama Parrot. Upon my arrival, a flock of exhibitionist parrots thought it fit to boast, I was a visitor in Inagua, the birding capital of The Bahamas.

Top 5 things to do in Inagua!

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Hurrying out the front door for a closer look, a flock of birds greeted me with an acrobatic airshow. Their red plumped neck, and the blues and greens in their outstretched wings were immediately visible as they swooped past like bats disturbed by the light. They camouflage well inside the leaves of tamarind, guinep and silk cotton trees, but their screeching song is unmistakable.

Birding is what draws most people to the shores of Inagua. The crimson plumed flamingo is the most iconic species, but it is not the only interesting one. While birding on the salt flats of Lake Rosa, you might witness a flock of black-necked stilts frantically huddled together, trying to avoid the death dive of a hunting peregrine falcon. You might also see the nest of a burrowing owl and mistake it for a crab hole.

several other activities that will make you fall in love with Inagua. Keep your expectations simple. Inagua is an island with limited amenities. I found out the hard way: There are no automated banking machines on the island. Travel with someone you love to spend time with and knows how to have fun in the outdoors.

True birders might spend an eight hour day roaming through Inagua’s bird habitats. For the leisure traveller, two or three hours will probably suffice. To occupy the remaining time, there are

Pretend To Be A Birder Along the North West coast of Inagua, past the abandoned US Air Force TARS Aerostat Base, is a habitat for large brown pelicans. These fairytale baby carriers placidly jet through the air in streamlined formations. In flight, they have a Pterodactyl-like quality that makes them fascinating to watch, as if you could mount their backs and fly into a fairytale.

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Top 5 things to do in Inagua!

Swim in The Pump Along the North West coast of Inagua, past the abandoned US Air Force TARS Aerostat Base, is a habitat for large brown pelicans.

These fairytale baby carriers placidly jet through the air in streamlined formations.

In flight, they have a Pterodactyl-like quality that makes them fascinating to watch, as if you could mount their backs and fly into a fairytale.

2 Snorkel off Collin’s Beach

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As far as Bahamian islands go, Inagua is not where you go for a romantic beach front vacation. That is not to say Inagua does not have beautiful beaches. It does.

Collin’s Beach in particular. But the coastline is mainly rocky iron shore. The island has a thin perimeter of shallow water with deep ocean just off shore. A Collin’s Beach you can swim out and snorkel on a shallow reef just off short, or launch your boat to go fishing for deep sea red snapper. Collin’s Beach is also a great spot for a beach picnic or camping trip. There are gazebos, tables, and they even have a tree swing.

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Bathe in Salt Crystals

In Inagua you will find dry lakes of a pure sodium chloride. Morton Salt exports this rock salt around the world. One of its most abundant uses is to defrost icy roads in North America. Lake Rosa is a shallow salt pond with massive open plains. Combined with low rainfall, high wind flow and a gluttony of sunshine, Inagua has the perfect conditions for massive solar evaporation, which is the basic physical process used to make Inagua salt. You can walk right on to the dry pans known as crystalizers and feel the rock hard diamond shaped masses of salt.

Fish in Town Pond

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Town Pond is where the salt factory used to be located. These salt pans are no longer in active use by the salt company, but they are still full of fish and used by locals as a fish market. It is the type of market where you don’t buy the fish. You have to catch the fish. The lighting at dusk creates striking landscapes at Town Pond. The water becomes shadow black with clouds reflecting on the still surface.

FOLLOW THE DOMESTIC TOURIST: Twitter: @explorebahamas Facebook: The Domestic Tourist

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whittingham design consultants Whittingham Designs offers a full range of architectural, interior design, site and urban planning services. We believe that design is essentially a tangible translation of each client’s personality. Our holistic approach to design bring together all the required disciplines which result in an efficient, well coordinated project.

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46 Oak Hill Road Nassau, Bahamas Tel: 1-242-327-0156

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Trip easy How To Survive Holiday Travel

By Theandra Thompson Travel Editor

Pick the right time to travel.

I cannot stress enough that if you want to save any money while traveling, you have to book your ticket and make accommodations early. If you haven’t done so as yet, Book Now! When you are booking your ticket, try to pick earlier flights. The earlier flights are more likely to leave on time and if your flight is canceled, you will have the option of taking a flight later in the afternoon. If you are driving to your destination, keep in mind there is always less traffic on the road when everyone is still sleeping. Regardless of how you are traveling this year, leave extra time for unexpected delays.

Mail gifts ahead.

No one wants to travel with a bunch of gifts. There is always

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Traveling through the holidays is always hectic! And I’m quite sure we can all agree on that. My trip to The Bahamas this Christmas is long overdue but also timely. I will get to see family and friends that I haven’t seen in a very long time.

But, guess what? Everyone around the world is planning to do the same thing.

Don’t let the crowds of people, long lines, disgruntled employees and delayed flights get you down. It’s the holiday season after all… Plan ahead, so you can still have fun!

a possibility that luggage may be left behind or lost. If you do travel with gifts, certainly don’t waste time wrapping them.

TSA might have to undo all your hard work to see what’s inside. Shipping your gifts to your final destination is always the safest and easiest option.

Keep warm.

Packing light is key.

Stay informed.

If you can avoid it, do not check bags at all. That is one less thing you will have to wait for once you arrive at your destination and you won’t have to worry about presents getting lost. If you do check bags, use your carryon as a survival pack. Keep close at least one change of clothes, medication, toiletries, important documents and a snack. You want to be at least a little prepared if you can’t get your bags until the following day.

Traveling is already a high stress situation so make sure you are comfortable. Dress in layers and pack layers for your trip. Weather can be very unpredictable and you want to be able to adjust to whatever temperature you are in.

There are so many sophisticated apps and websites available to us that it is almost impossible to not know what is going on. Flight Status gives you real-time updates on flight delays, expected arrival time, and baggage claim numbers. GateGuru gives you approximate security wait times. GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest gas stations and My Trip Calculator can help you determine how much gas you will need for the trip based

on your car make and model.

Set aside time before leaving so that you can adjust your plans if necessary.

Most importantly… don’t forget to breathe!

Remember the true meaning of the holidays. Once all the running around and preparation is complete, you will have fond memories of holiday decorations, delicious food, kind wishes and celebrations with loved ones. Be sure to make all the traveling worthwhile and enjoy yourself! Happy Holidays from me to you!!

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THE BAHAMI

COMING SP

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IAN RIVIERA

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BAHA MAR CASINO & HOTEL

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HOTEL The dazzling centerpiece of Baha Mar, the Baha Mar Casino & Hotel is designed by Michael Hong Architects, Dianna Wong Architecture + Interior Design and Shema Dougall Design Associates.

Guests will delight in extensive views of Baha Mar’s pristine white-sand beach and its warm turquoise waters.

Baha Mar Casino & Hotel will feature 1,000 luxury rooms including 105 suites and villas, set along 3,000 feet of pristine beach. Steps away, the 30,000-square-foot ESPA at Baha Mar spa will offer a unique experience that reflects the authentic culture and geography of The Bahamas.

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BAHA MAR CASINO & HOTEL

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CASINO This state-of-the-art casino will feature 100,000 square feet of high-end gaming excitement and be the largest in the Caribbean. Featuring a full array of the latest slots and table games, the casino floor will rival the very best gaming floors in Las Vegas, Macau and Monte Carlo.

The casino will incorporate a state-of-the-art Sports Book area, adding to the excitement of the gaming floor. VIP gamers can enjoy an ultra-exclusive gaming experience in five VIP gaming rooms and private villas.

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ROSEWOOD AT BAHA MAR

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© 2014 Grand Hyatt Guestroom Headboard Artwork “The Forgotten Seed” by Keisha Oliver Credit to photographer for in-room artwork: Keisha Oliver, “The Forgotten Seed”

Credit to photographer for in-room artwork: Keisha Oliver, “The Forgotten Seed”

Grand Hyatt at Baha Mar will be a 700-room hotel providing sophisticated, global travelers with upscale accommodations and state-of-the-art technology. Grand Hyatt at Baha Mar will offer incomparable rooms including 85 private residences, blending dramatic architecture and design with Bahamian authenticity and modern luxury.

The Grand Hyatt at Baha Mar features world class dining and concierge services. Guests will have the option of dining at a full service, main restaurant

which includes an open kitchen and specializes in fresh seafood, the jazz-themed terrace lobby lounge featuring a grand piano, as well as the outdoor pool bar where guests will be able to dine alfresco.

Grand Club members will have exclusive access to the Grand Club, with amenities such as private concierge services, enhanced continental breakfast options, evening hors d’oeuvres, a well-appointed departure lounge and shower facilities. Guests are also able to participate in an award winning Gold Passport loyalty program.

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ROSEWOOD AT B A H A M A R

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Set on the white sands of Nassau’s Cable Beach, Rosewood at Baha Mar will offer 200 beach-view rooms and suites, five luxurious beachfront villas, signature dining venues, private pools and beach access and SenseŽ Spa at Rosewood at Baha Mar.

unique VIP amenities for guests, including a separate private resort entrance, exclusive beach access, dedicated pool butlers, regulation croquet courts and breathtaking views of turquoise seas and white sand beaches.

Rosewood at Baha Mar will reset the standard for luxury in the Caribbean with a range of

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Top Winter TRAVEL PICKS

Cables & Earbuds

Head over to Amazon.com to find the multi use USB cord for all your devices. $4.75 Daffodil TC04 - Universal Cell Phone Charger - Retractable USB Charging and Data Cable - Multicharger for: HTC / Samsung / iPhone / iPod / Nokia / ZTE / LG / Blackberry (White).

And while you’re there, you can visit the beats by dr. dre store and pick up the “Off Tour” in ear headphones which are now 33% off for as as $42.99.

Travel Smith Smart Pack

Find the perfect Backpacks and Daypacks of all sizes perfect for traveling, only at TravelSmith.

Travel Smith Smart Packs $29.00

CoolMax Travel Blanket

This super-soft blanket stows into its own little pouch, barely taking up any room in your luggage.

Battery Pack

Mid century modern continues to get Anker® 2nd Gen Astro E3 10000mAh Dual-Port Ultra Compact External Battery Portable USB Charger Power Bank - PowerIQ™ Broad Compatibility, Fast Charging, High Capacity For iPhone 6 5s 5c 5, iPad Air mini, Galaxy S5 S4, Tab 2, Note 3 4, LG G3, Nexus, HTC One M8, MOTO X, PS Vita and More (Black) Starting at $25.99

BeSafe RFID iPad Security Bag

This cleverly designed microfiber bag provides a low-profile way to safely and easily carry your tablet computer. Long enough to wear crossbody, the steel-cabled strap thwarts cut-andrun thieves. Features three large zip pockets, a smartphone pocket, a slide pocket with key leash and an RFID-blocking SafePocket™ protect the personal information encoded on your credit cards and ID.

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MORE AIRLIFT More Ways To Get To The Beautiful Islands of The Bahamas It’s about to get a whole easier to get to The Bahamas! Where ever you are in the world, officials are trying to make way for you to visit one of the 700 beautiful islands and cays that make up this stunningly crafted archipelago.

In fact, the recent 2014 World Routes forum in Chicago, Illinois has apparently birthed new opportunities for airlift to the islands with the Ministry of Tourism hinting at new potential partnerships.

And in case you didn’t know just what the annual forum is all about, well it’s held in different cities around the world bringing together world class airlines, airports and tourism promotions officials to discuss – as its name suggests – new route developments. Pretty snazzy!

This year The Bahamas sent representatives from the Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD), the Nassau/Paradise Island

Promotion Board and of course The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism (MOT).

Tyrone Sawyer, who serves as MOT Senior Director of Airlift Development says, “World Routes is for us a very cost-effective way to strategize with existing airline partners who already serve The Islands of the Bahamas. Additionally, there is an opportunity to explore new route development opportunities with other airlines not presently serving The Bahamas.”

This means if you thought about coming to the islands but didn’t have the flight option before, we could soon be seeing you as The Bahamas works to get on your port of entry and eventually your list of go to cities.

See you soon!

Plane view of the Exuma Cays.

VISIT LPIA ONLINE FOR FLIGHT INFO

www.nas.bs

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L OOKOUTF OR

F I NDY OUR

E S CAPE I NOURNE XTI S S UE

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Style & Travel

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By Robert Whittingham

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Scotland “Where are we going for vacation?” One of the biggest family decisions we make each year. Our family has delighted in the enormous task of finding a destination that we all agree will be ‘the trip of our lives’. We start by eliminating where we have been and making a list of where we want to go. These discussions are very lively, full of opposing views and playful sparring to get the votes to lay heavily in ones favour.

Once we have all agreed on the location, we decide the sites to see. On short trips, we can’t see it all, so planning ahead of this fun filled journey is most essential.

Here we are in Scotland, visiting historic sites, and educational landmarks that offer a wonderful opportunity to walk the halls, streets, cities and villages of those that came before us. It allows, in some instances, us to recognize that we too are connected to these awe, inspiring historic sites and countries. It humbles us to realize the sacrifices made to accomplish the goals and visions of our ancestors of long ago.

Visiting Scotland was a delight; finding accommodations that not only offer unique historical insights, but architectural and interior details that engage and inspire the senses.

Tell us about your trip to Scotland. whittingham@bahamianescapes.com

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700 ISLANDS & CAYS | WHER

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ERE TO STAY | WHAT TO DO

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STRAIGHT TALK

NO CHASER

A HOLIDAY PANEL + PARTY TO BENEFIT THE CHILDREN’S EMERGENCY HOSTEL LEAH DAVIS HOSTS

A CANDID CONVERSATION BETWEEN AN ALL MALE PANEL & AN ALL FEMALE AUDIENCE. FEATURING:

CHRIS KAZI ROLLE

MATCHMAKER + RELATIONSHIP COACH

SUN. DEC. 28, 2014 6PM - 9PM

British Colonial Hilton 1 BAY STREET, DOWNTOWN NASSAU

ADVANCED TICKETS $20 | AT THE DOOR: $25 INCLUDES ACCESS TO VIP AFTER-PARTY — TICKET AVAILABLE AT: OBSESSIONS, MACKEY STREET —

The Children’s Emergency Hotel is a non-profit organization that houses orphaned, abandoned abused and neglected children who are admitted by the Department of Social Services.

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LIFESTYLE

Taste Our Bahamas

Taste Our Bahamas is the cornerstone of Culinary Month. Held October 4th and 11th, the tour brought chef from 16 islands to compete for a number of coveted culinary titles.

The all-day event featured a breakfast pavilion, culinary demonstrations, mixology demonstrations, and a farmer’s market.

After the two weeks of tantalizing competition, the chefs from Acklins island walked away with bragging rights as they emerged the winners.

In the finale, the judges had the daunting task of judging seven delicious categories including best crab and dough, best alcoholic beverages, best rice, best conch salad, best crab dish, best native candy and best lobster dish.

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C O O K I N G

W I T H

Chef Simeon Hall www.simeonhalljr.com

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This is the marriage of two of my favorite recipes. I love that in The Bahamas coconuts are abundant, bananas are year round and the sun gives us permission to eat ice cream anytime. So enjoy this awesome dessert and make it so that the ice cream is frozen just as the bread comes out of the oven.

Coconut Ice Cream

Banana nut Bread

Ingredients 1 cup of whole milk 1 ½ cup of heavy cream ½ vanilla bean split 1 cup of fresh squeezed coconut milk 4 egg yolks ½ cup of sugar 1 cup fresh grated coconut dried overnight and toasted

Ingredients 10 oz butter 1 cup white sugar 1 ½ cup brown sugar 4 eggs 6 ripe banana 2 tsp vanilla 1 cup nuts 3 cup flour 4 tsp baking pwd.

1 tsp nutmeg 2 tsp cinnamon

Method In a heavy sauce pot bring the milk, cream, vanilla and coconut milk to a gentle simmer.

Whisk the egg and sugar to a pale ribbon stage. Then slowly “temper” the eggs with the milk. Adding a half of the warmed milk to the eggs and sugar then add that back to the pot and cooking until it thickens to a light custard texture. Strain and immediately cool this mix.

Using a store bought ice cream machine follow the manufacture guidelines and churn. When complete fold in the coconut to your desired amount and serve.

Method Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cream sugar eggs and bananas in a stand mixer or using a hand mixer. Add vanilla. Then add sifted dry ingredients and fold gently. Place in a loaf pan that has been greased and floured. Bake in a preheated oven for 35 minutes. Cool slightly then serve. To serve portion enough ice cream and banana nut bread for you or for two and enjoy!

For more festive season dessert substitute the coconut milk for 1 cup of fresh Andros pumpkin with the skin on that has been roasted and pureed. Added ½ more heavy cream and add 1 tsp of pumpkin spice mix. Swirl in some store bought caramel and a pinch of salt to the end to really make your company sing!

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“A visual voice is given to those who have been through their share of darkness but choose to shine and spread their light anyway. “

Beautiful Warrior is a collection of drawings and mixed media paintings on paper and wood. This collection of work is inspired by the stories of women and nature’s color palette, finding the beauty in strength, struggle and triumph and in the little things too often taken for granted. A visual voice is given to those who have been through their share of darkness but choose to shine and spread their light anyway. They find comfort in knowing that their strength is beyond measure, their tears remind them that they are human, their journey reminds them that they are strong. Their beauty is undeniable from the inside and out. They are Beautiful Warriors.

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Intrigued by the many layers of human emotion, Philece Roberts is a Fine Artist and Graphic Designer, with a B.A. in Film and Video Studies from The University of Oklahoma and B.F.A. in Graphic Design from the Art Institute of Atlanta. After many years abroad, she has returned home to share the bold contrasts and rhythmic movement of the artwork she has become known for worldwide. With her first solo show, Beautiful Warrior, she encourages viewers to redefine standard perceptions of beauty and urge them to look beyond the surface of what they initially see.

Photography By Andrew Thomas Clifton

Beautiful Warrior opened at Hillside House Gallery in Nassau, Bahamas on Friday November 14th. Having been years in the making the exhibition featured several pieces which made their first public appearance. Through her intricate pencil work and touches of nature’s color palette, Philece encourages viewers to reach beyond the surface to reveal a beauty that breaks barriers and goes beyond standard perceptions.

While taking in the stunning portraits, guests viewed a 14-minute video, telling some of the stories behind the many inspirations that have fed the exhibition. Each Beautiful Warrior has a determination to push through regardless of life’s chaos, embracing his or her flaws and appreciating life’s lessons to bring forth the warrior of beauty within.

To see more of Philece’s work visit www.thatartista.com.

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Choosing The Right Tree Artificial or real, six feet or 10 feet, green or white, choosing the right tree is just as important as deciding on the perfect gift. And this season, real trees – the one’s that fill your entire home with that aromatic pine scent – are trending.

A Christmas tree is undoubtedly the centrepiece of just about every home during the holidays, and it therefore requires star treatment!

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If you have a wide floor plan with high ceilings at home, opt for taller and fuller trees to better fill the space. If you’re on the other end of the scale, you want to opt for a shorter tree. Depending on the space, you might be able to get away with a shorter but fuller tree.

If you don’t like how your tree fits in your space at home, don’t hesitate to return it for an exchange. Most

vendors around town won’t hassle you, but you might want to find out their return policy before your big purchase. Who wants to be stuck with a tree they don’t absolutely love? Here comes the fun part … decorating!

LEARN HOW TO MAKE THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS BOW.

Shine Bright . . .like a diamond!

Rihanna’s hit song came just in time for the holidays two Decembers ago and its main message is the theme for what’s trending this holiday. Like the song says, your tree should shine bright like a diamond using net lights to embellish branches. It’s the easiest method to decorating this season as net lights come in a variety of colors.

You can also use tiny twinkling lights to decorate small trees, while larger trees can be decorated with larger lights.

Bloomers

You might have noticed in recent years how some designers have added flowers to their tree designs. Well this year, your decorating won’t be complete until the right amounts of flowers are thrown about your tree. And if you’re not feeling the flower vibe, then opt out of this trend and go for pinecones instead.

Sentimentals

Personalise your tree with heirlooms like ornaments passed down from grandma or remember a deceased love with an ornament they loved. For a more personal effect, you might want to get their name painted in a contrasting colour on one or two of your ornaments.

Everything that

Glitters.

Want to add a designer’s touch to your tree? Glass ball ornaments will do the trick whether you want a classic or contemporary tree. Look for solid ornaments in red, white, silver and gold for a traditional theme. If you lean more toward the modern end of the spectrum, choose ornaments with non-traditional designs and color schemes such as magenta and fuchsia or teal and bronze.

kristenscreationsonline.blogspot.com

The Perfect

Christmas Bow

The tree topper is the showstopper this season! Traditionalists might opt for a star or angel to top their trees, but this season, the perfect bow makes for the perfect tree topper. Choose ribbon colours within your scheme. You can use up to three or four different colours in one bow.

Be Inspired…

Au De Naturale Eco Friendly Rainbow Colors The Patriots Bahamian Flag Colors Glitz & Glamour Simple Gold & Red Traditional Red, Gold, Green Island Chic Sea Ornaments FALL 2014

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After The ‘Holly’ Days Will You Be Counting Coins?

Most if not all of us as probably preparing for what’s considered one of the jolliest times of the year …

Christmas! But when the pretty lights are dimmed; the wreaths, garland and trees come down; the wrapping paper crumbled; and the novelty of a new gift wears off, what will be the condition of your pocketbook?

It’s a fact that when the holidays are over, many of us pass up lunch at work because we’re simply too broke. And once pay day finally arrives, it is only then that we are rescued from the deep abyss of debt that we racked up throughout the Christmas season.

So in order to make sure you to still have some dollars and cents in your wallet or purse, here are a few tips to help you properly navigate “The Holly Days”.

Opt Out Of “Secret Santa”

Arrangements If you can’t afford it, don’t pretend you can. Some financial analyst say that $50-$100 that you’ll be obligated

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to spend could go toward gas for your car, or bus and train fare. Your co-workers and family members will understand.

For The Younger Folk

Look For More Holiday Parties And Limit Bar Hopping Everyone loves a great holiday party for one reason or another. One, you save having to buy food and drinks, although you might be required to bring a dish or something for the bar.

But even that beats spending three times the cost of one bottle of vodka on three mixed drinks.

Christmas Light Curfew

Set a curfew for when your Christmas lights will shut off. If you live in The Bahamas, then you know power doesn’t come cheap. And as beautiful as your homes and Christmas trees may look adorned in those traditional icicle lights, your power bill for the month of January won’t be as attractive. Unlike other places around the world, power in The Bahamas does not come without an additional

fuel surcharge, which means if your lights are on for hours and hours, then you’ll pay the price for beauty. They say beauty doesn’t come without some pain.

For Next Year

Catch Black Friday Deals

Since the infamous Black Friday Holiday is fast approaching, here’s something to consider for next season. Do the bulk of your Christmas shopping year round especially during big sales like President’s Day, Tax Free Weekend and Black Friday. Buying gifts early for those constants in your life will leave you with extra cash come Christmas to spend on other things including the Secret Santa at work.

Set Budget For Extra Activities

Undoubtedly there are things we don’t foresee all the time. But the trick is to plan for the unexpected. Set aside a reasonable amount to do things that will inevitably pop up, like a new production or the Christmas Carnival.

Be like Shania adopt a Bahamian Superpet!

Superstar Shania Twain has lost her heart to Jett the majestic Potcake, and Skipper the playful Potcat.

Out of country adoptions: 1 (242) 323- 5138 Ask for Fiona.

These animals were on the street before kind hearted Shania adopted them and turned them too into superstars.

Donations are always welcome to help us care for the animals in need. Visit our website and click on the ‘Donate’ button.

If you wish to be like Shania and help home a needy animal, adopting a pet from the Bahamas Humane Society is easy, once you have a fenced in garden and shelter.

Dunmore Avenue Chippingham, Nassau, The Bahamas P.O.Box N-242

www.bahamashumanesociety.com

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