Poinciana Magazine - Summer 2023 Issue

the summer issue

THIS SUMMER... MAKE IT COUNT!

We decided to get rid of the "in this issue" page

Why? Because we want to encourage you to explore this edition on your own terms and by your own rules May each page be a little surprise much like this summer As the months heat up, we hope that you are open to new possibilities festivals foods trips experiences and more

This issue, like those before it, includes stories from around the world, and we hope that you enjoy reading them

From The Editor

There are so many truly interesting people, unforgettable meals, captivating locations, and unique places to visit, and it is the goal of Poinciana Magazine to share just a few of those stories, in each issue

This summer edition touched on a few local and international things to do, see, and eat, but this is just a small glimpse through the window of possibilities for this summer.

It is my hope that you use this as inspiration to go out, explore and experience the wonders that the world has to offer, throughout the summer months

I would also like to once again say a massive thank you to all of the men and women who allowed Poinciana Magazine to share their stories This is the fourth year that the magazine has been released, and I still take great pride and joy putting it together

It is still truly a genuine labour of love.

"ThankYou"

HAVANA & BEYOND...

3 DAYS 3 DAYS IN CUBA IN CUBA

For decades, Cuba has been shrouded in mystery, tragedy, and controversy. While it has become much more accessible to visit in recent years, many may still not know how to truly explore, experience and embrace the country

Cuba has a rich culture, beautiful art, welcoming people, and delicious food; there is also a warmth and authenticity there that cannot be faked Here is a quick three-day guide to visiting Cuba….

Havana, Cuba is a short hour and a half(ish) flight from Nassau, Bahamas, and Bahamian visitors can purchase a Cuban visa at the airport There was a time when Cuba, Havana to be specific, was a very modern city. The stunning buildings were heavily XXX

heavily influenced by baroque style architecture as well as the structures of Spain. Over the years, many of the buildings’ exteriors have been weathered by time, while the interiors have been maintained well over the decades Most of the cars, which are usually passed down from generation to generation as an inheritance, are from the 50s and 60s

There are a number of hotels available in Havana, but for a more authentic experience (and to support local residents) there are a number of inhome rental options (like AirBnb), or bed and breakfasts While exploring Havana is a must, it is also highly recommended to book a tour outside of the Havana city limits, into the countryside of areas like Viñales.

CoverPhoto:CubanSoul

ArticlePhotos:PoincianaMagazine

Special thanks to Nicole Simmons who researched and identified many of the vendors highlighted in thispost.

Unlike several years ago, USD and Euros can now be used in the country, along with the Cuban peso The exchange rate of the Cuban peso fluctuates, and can be a bit tricky and confusing to navigate. Some vendors prefer US dollars, while some local establishments utilize pesos

As of February 2023, the conversion was $1 US Dollar to 160 Cuban pesos, however restaurants have their own conversion rates

You can also use credit cards in some establishments via an online payment portal, though the process is hit and miss in terms of being successful. Also, be sure to use or convert all of your pesos back to USD before arriving at the airport They do not convert or accept pesos there

Food prices can also vary wildly in areas like Havana, due to the high influx of tourists However, the most expensive restaurant that we experienced in Cuba was a fine dining celebratory experience, and was less than $150 for a party of 3, inclusive of appetizers, drinks, entrees, and desserts For comparison, a cup of flavourful hot chocolate at the “Chocolate Museum” was 45 pesos and a slice of pizza is often less than 200 pesos.

Breakfasts are often offered at most house stays at an additional cost - usually about $7-$10 While this can allow you to try an authentic breakfast and offers convenience, they are usually the same (a combination of fruit, bread, eggs, coffee, fresh fruit, and deli meats/cheese) and don't offer much variety

Like all places, Cuba also has elements that some visitors may find challenging The country has a very unique and controversial economic and political climate that cannot be neatly summed up in one short article While there have been changes in recent years that allow residents to earn greater wages (often via the tourism sector), there is still minimal resources and wealth among the masses As a result, major cities like Havana are not only bustling and busy, but also have a hustle energy.

La Guarida

While the countryside and more rural areas were very peaceful, persons visiting areas like Havana can expect a frequent and constant barrage of faux compliments and to a lesser extent requests for money. Also, be wary of persons offering to help you find your way - they often lead you to restaurants where they will receive some incentive to bring visitors This is one of the few downsides to visiting the city, and can admittedly get tiring and draining. When dining at a restaurant in the city, it is also suggested to avoid exterior seats immediately next to the street, for this same reason

If you want a glimpse into the itinerary for this visit, here is an overview of many of the vendors used, and restaurants visited

“C&A Ocean View” Condo Rental - AirBnb

Experience Hosted by Alessandro - The condo was spacious, beautiful, and the team there was super friendly

Hotel Inglaterra

“Walking Tour, Welcome to Havana”

Educational Walking Tour of Havana - AirBnb Experience Hosted By Thalia - This tour was extremely educational and was guided by a very knowledgeable university professor.

“The Genuine Non Touristy Viñales Valley”

Small Group Tour into the Countryside of Viñales Valley - AirBnb Experience Hosted By ErnestoLike the listing says, this tour was truly an unforgettable adventure that included 100% handmade pina coladas, horseback riding, cigar rolling with the charismatic “Frenchman”, and lunch made entirely from food grown at the home of an exceptionally sweet and welcoming couple named Papita and Renae. The guide for the day was also a very knowledgeable and personable university professor

“Cuban Soul in Pictures” Photoshoot in HavanaAirBnb Experience Hosted by Manuel..... Cont on following page

PhotoCredit:CubanSoul

Azucar

The photoshoot utilizes the retro cars that Cuba is well known for, and the photographer arranges ideal spots for lovely shots and a cocktail after

“Dance Salsa in a Cuban Home” Salsa Dancing Class - AirBnb Experience Hosted by Tony - The instructor, Tony, was high energy, fun, personable and engaging The class also includes dancers to help participants practice their newly learned steps

La Guarida - A high-end restaurant in Havana that is well known for their celebrity visitors (like Beyonce & Zoe Saldana) It may be quite a bit pricier than other restaurants you will visit, but the food is exceptional

ChaChaCha - This is a trendy restaurant in Havana, that has a very “social media worthy” decor

Azucar - Azucar is another trendy spot with visually captivating cocktails aka bougie drinks The food was also pretty good

Museo del Chocolate - While this is called a “Chocolate Museum” it is moreso a cafe that has xxxx

some historical pieces The cafe also serves just two things - spicy hot chocolate and chocolate milk

Floridita - This bar is famous for being visited by Ernest Hemmingway It is a popular tourist spot that has lovely live entertainment, but better and more affordable drinks can be found at other establishments

Paladar Los Mercaderes - This restaurant was recommended by a tour guide and did not disappoint The fresh seafood and cocktails were delicious

Hotel Inglaterra - The restaurant at Hotel Inglaterra had wonderful live music and an impressive lobster dish on the menu (that was surprisingly affordable) However, it is not recommended to sit on the exterior near the railing due to crowds that gather to watch the music

When Nathan Morley first appeared on the most recent season of Bravo's ’“Below Deck Adventure”, fans of the show were instantly drawn to the new cast member’s laid back charm, personable attitude, and seemingly genuinely kind spirit that radiated through the screen As the episodes and weeks progressed, viewers soon found out more about the deckhand, including his Bahamian roots

Upon meeting Nathan, it was immediately evident that the friendly and humble persona presented on Bravo’s screens was authentic. Taking a break from his boating duties while in New Providence, Nathan shared a bit about his time on the show, growing up in Grand ma, and how he got into yachting

child, Nathan was the only boy in a family of six sisters. He notes that he always ed to work hard, and be there for his family, including his mother, who has always his biggest supporter Growing up, Nathan also had a love for music, playing the , trumpet, trombone, bass guitar and dancing

living in Crooked Island for a time, he moved to Grand Bahama, where he attended ucayan International School and Sister Mary Patricia Russell Jr High before ually graduating from St George’s High School From there, he started his globeng adventures.

rted off doing maritime cadets and got my certification And, one day - this is crazy as walking on the marina, and I saw this captain He was just there, sitting on his and I walked down I asked him ‘Hey man, can I come work on your boat?’ He asked as serious, and I was like ‘yeah ”

e time, the captain was looking for day workers, and told Nathan he could start the next morning at 8am, which he did Nathan did such a good job that the captain ually asked him to join his team, full time.

m there, the rest was history That was my start in the industry He [the captain] ht me basically everything I know I stayed with him for about 13 months And, from , I worked on a lot of different ships.”

an would then join several other vessels, before taking a break to do temp gigs, due e strenuous nature of the job He also notes that yachting has allowed him to see the .

ar, I've been to about 20 countries - maybe more My favorite place that I’ve visited r has been Iceland Norway was great also, but I would say Iceland was really ent for me because, of course, it's extremely cold over there and everything's so al ”

As for Nathan being cast on Bravo’s popular “Below Deck” series, it surprisingly started based on a recommendation

“One day, I got an email It said, ‘Hey, we got a recommendation that you will be good for this show, blah, blah, blah ’ At first, I thought it was a scam Then, I got a text from the same people, and I wondered how they got my number ”

It wasn’t until Nathan asked a friend if they had ever heard about the show that he realized the amazing opportunity that had been presented to him

Nathan notes that he enjoyed the experience and teased that he may have more exciting opportunities lined up in the future

“We work hard and play hard,” Nathan added with a laugh

When asked if he had any advice for other young Bahamians considering going into yachting, he noted, “Stay dedicated It's the most important thing to be consistent Don't go into it feeling like it's gonna be easy I would also say, live your life like it's the last, man. Don't be afraid to take any risk, don't be afraid to go on an adventure or do something different Be open to a lot of opportunities ”

The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort, sits along a backdrop of stunning turquoise, azure, and aquamarine Bahamian waters that perhaps no photo, video, or social media post can do justice. The property, which opened in 1962, recently celebrated their 60th “Diamond” Anniversary. It is also known for breezy and greenery lined pathways, laid back comfort, unique artwork, and impressive culinary offerings created by a number of world renowned chefs, that have included the likes of Culinary Olympian Chef Wayne Moncur and world renowned Pastry Chef, Angel R. Betancourt, just to name a few....

Dune has had a long history of serving up sinfully sweet desserts, like their Banana Cake, which includes a Praline Crunch and Salted Caramel Ice Cream.

Dune, the resort’s primary restaurant, has become a favorite of many visitors and Bahamians alike due to its unobstructed views of Cabbage Beach, bubbly brunches, a skilled and personable mixology team, and menu items like their Bahamian Lobster & Three Cheese Pizza (as seen in the 2023 Poinciana Special Lobster Issue) and caribbean inspired favorites like their Pineapple Mojitos

To celebrate Ocean Club turning 60, the resort hosted a series of celebrations in early 2023 that wove together the long-standing luxury of the brand with the unique Bahamian elements that make it like no other Four Seasons property in the world

The marriage of luxury and authentic Bahamian hospitality was captured at the James Bond inspired anniversary kickoff event - a nod to the property being featured in 2006's Casino Royale. With the calm Bahamian waters as a backdrop, attendees were treated to an assortment of the ultra fresh seafood that the Bahamas is known for, as well as a number of other internationally and locally inspired dishes, hand-rolled cigars, an assortment of martinis, and a sparkling diamond necklace (reportedly worth over $1,000,000) that attendees could try on and truly embrace the “Diamonds Are Forever” moment.

The night was punctuated by the heart pounding rhythms of Junkanoo, and the weekend came to a close with a brunch on the Dune patio

While the celebratory events have come to a close, visitors and residents alike can still enjoy their Sunday champagne brunches and other periodic events For more information, be sure to visit their IG page at www instagram com/fsoceanclub/

Diamond International's 40-carat, platinum set "Crown of Light" necklace was featured at the event.

4 WAYS TO SELF CARE-

THIS WEEKEND

The Bahamas is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. While this is a great setting for a relaxing vacation, it's also a perfect place to practice self-care. Here are four ways you can indulge in a bit of self-care, this weekend.

Enjoy a Spa Treatment

The Bahamas is home to many luxury resorts that offer world-class spa treatments These treatments are designed to help you relax, unwind, and rejuvenate your body and mind From massages to facials to body scrubs, there is no shortage of options to choose from One popular option is the Mandara Spa at Atlantis Paradise Island, which offers a range of treatments inspired by the islands, all housed in a world-leading facility

Randia Coakley is the Founder of the self-care brand 'Pedi-In-A-Bag'. PediIn-A-Bag is a Bahamian founded footcare & wellness brand It provides highquality pedicure foot peel kits that you can use in the comfort of your own home "We believe that everyone deserves to have a beautiful, healthy life & feet, and our products are designed to help you achieve just that."

notes Randia 'Pedi-In-A-Bag' is sold in New Providence at Her Appeal on Rosetta St & Tasty Teas on Delancey St

TIP: Don’t just go to for a treatment and leave, but come early to enjoy the sauna and stay later to relax in the hot tub and indulge in the other spa amenities

Take a Yoga Class

Yoga is a great way to reduce stress, improve flexibility, and increase mindfulness The Bahamas has yoga classes for all levels One of the most popular studios is the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat, located on Paradise Island The retreat offers a variety of yoga classes, and workshops that are designed to help you connect with your body and mind They offer several visitor options in which you can take part in one or multiple yoga sessions The excursion starts off by whisking you away via a complimentary ferry across the Nassau Harbour

TIP: Do the Day Pass It includes two meals & two yoga classes It’s only $45 and is a great way to escape for the day

Experience an Exuma Day Trip

Taking an Exuma day trip can be a great way to practice self-care and escape the normal everyday work mode and reset with some adventure The day trip offers an exhilarating boat ride throughout the Exuma cays to experience the original swimming pigs, nurse sharks, iguanas, snorkeling vibrant reefs, and chilling on a secluded sand bank

Take a Nature Walk

The Bahamas is home to a diverse range of wildlife and ecosystems, making it an ideal place to take a nature walk Many national parks offer self-guided nature walks that will take you through the island's lush forests (Primeval Forest National Park) and along its beautiful mangrove networks The walk can be an excellent way to reconnect with nature, get some steps in, and clear your mind A favourite is the Bonefish Pond, as you can walk or even kayak

In short, The Bahamas is a great place to practice self-care So, this weekend, get up and enjoy a spa treatment, take a yoga class, or anything else that can help you feel like the best version of yourself

Guest Writer Feature By: Randia Coakley

Breath Take A

Nassau has many hidden gems, including a peaceful Yoga Retreat that many may not know about

The Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat is a peaceful gem that allows visitors to relax and decompress in a wide range of accommodations that include beachfront villas and rustic tent rentals. The retreat, like its name suggests, also focuses on yoga, relaxation, and a sense of community

Just a short 5 minute boat ride from Elizabeth on Bay, the retreat also offers several day pass options (ranging from $20 for one yoga class, to $45 for an all day pass) that includes the ferry ride, yoga classes, educational sessions, and meals. The beginner session (a little under 2 hours) allows participants to move at their own pace and comfort level, as the instructors' soothing voice guides the class There were no complex poses in this session, but there are options for more experienced yoga enthusiasts.

After the morning or afternoon yoga sessions, a vegetarian meal is served A sample breakfast menu includes lentil soup, rice, salad, fresh fruit, sage tea, granola, oatmeal, breads, handmade peanut butter and other condiments At the end, everyone also washes their own dishes

ISLAND-TOISLAND-TOTABLE TABLE

OUTSTANDING IN THE FIELD'S CULINARY WORLD TOUR

The “Outstanding in The Field” culinary event has invited guest chefs and local farmers to create one of a kind, unforgettable, farm-to-table meals since 1999 Though the event has been hosted in nearly 20 countries, they traveled to New Providence for the very first time to kick off their 2023 season.

The multi-course feast, which was prepared by an impressive roster of seasoned culinary pros, was a celebration of food, creativity, history, and nature. The dishes were all infused with authentic Bahamian culture, locally sourced ingredients, and the individual artistry of each of the participating chefs. Every single course was also infused with passion - a unique ingredient that cannot be faked.

The family style meal was served oceanfront, on a long table that encouraged conversation, camaraderie and getting to know the people around you - a feature that is common with all Outstanding in The Field events.

Chef Simeon Hall, who was instrumental in bringing Outstanding in the Field to The Bahamas, noted that he first got interested in the event while living in Hawaii He was friends with one of the chefs who had hosted in the past, and from there he reached out to the Outstanding in the Field team Though the pandemic slowed progress on the event coming to The Bahamas, the organizers would eventually kick off their 2023 season in New Providence

Jim Denevan

“Farmers, fisherman, what is available, what is in season, and the time of year inspired the menu, " noted Chef Simeon “We also worked with a lot of very very talented chefs, so it was easy to put it together.”

The featured chefs included a roster of well known culinary minds, including Quinton Scott, Shakar Estephane, Jamal Small, Sheldon Sweeting, Marcella Evans, Harold Pinder, Gal Kotzer, Sara Dama, Emmanuel Gibson, Addimae Farrington, George Robert and a number of university culinary students. The afternoon was flavor packed, and started with appetizers that gave a unique spin on tried and true Bahamian classics, including a tender coconut jelly ceviche (a play on conch salad), and bite sized crab and dough. Once seated, the chefs proudly presented their featured dishes - all of which had been cooked right in front of guests and on wood burning flames. The locally grown, sourced and prepared menu included cold smoked fish, scorched hand-picked vegetables, freshly caught mutton snapper, guinea corn grits, panny cakes, and a skillet cooked guava duff.

Simeon Hall

The event’s founder, Jim Denevan, noted that despite hosting events for over 20 years, each menu is always special due to being influenced and guided by the chosen destination “From the very beginning [of Outstanding in the Field] there was a format of the guest chef All of the menus are specific to the place Food is so connected to culture. That’s the reason we started thisfor the culture of food, and the culture of agriculture. It’s meaningful and powerful that we can utilize food being grown here.”

The Outstanding in the Field team noted that they are excited about the prospect of returning to The Bahamas in the very near future - perhaps on another island or a little known cay - but other locations on the 2023 tour include several US states, Canada, Italy, France, and even South Africa.

NEW NEW TEENGS TEENGS

TheAtlantisResort

THE DILLY CLUB

ColorfulWhimsy,Cocktails&Vibes

The Dilly Club was created by the Bon Vivants and Yellowbell team, so it is no surprise that its decor is vibrant, eclectic, and infused with Bahamian art and culture This brand new cafe and bar is located in the Marina Village at Atlantis Resort and its menu includes many of the classic cocktails, drinks, and teas that its sister properties are well known for, in addition to a few new signature options.

MunningsRoad

In the past few years, the popularity of Korean BBQ has skyrocketed And, now Nassau diners can enjoy dishes like gimbap (think Korean sushi), bibimbap (rice bowls), Korean fried chicken, and of course Korean BBQ that is cooked by diners, right at their tables. The menu can be a bit intimidating at first, so we recommend sharing a few appetizers and trying a grilled meat dish

WUBU BOWLS

FlavourPackedFusionBowls

This takeout restaurant is located in the parking lot of Luna Rums, and they offer customizable rice bowls To create your very own customizable bowl, first pick a protein, your choice of sushi or yellow rice, 5 sides, one dip, one topping, and a sauce While it will be hard to narrow down your choices, a few of our favorites include the Miso Salmon, curried chickpeas, seasoned fried yucca, curry sauce, and mashed sweet potatoes As you can tell by the options, these bowls are hearty!

BERLIN

Neni

When many envision German food, they may think of schnitzel, sausages or beer, but in the past few decades, Berlin’s food scene has undergone a remarkable transformation Due to its population becoming much more diverse, the city has become a hub for innovative culinary experiences

The international influence in Berlin has resulted in a thriving street food scene with a variety of options from around the world. In addition to traditional German food, the streets of many areas of Berlin are filled with sweet spices from India to Mexico, and many spots in between.

There is also, perhaps surprisingly, a strong plant-based population in Berlin with many restaurants and cafes catering to vegetarian diners

And, with so many options to choose from, it has become easy to try many different foods at once via the city’s food halls The Bikini Berlin Mall, for example, is home to several diverse restaurants that range from vegetarian fast food to poke bowls

FOOD FIND

The aforementioned Bikini Berlin is a great spot to try many restaurants at once. In addition to the Kantini Food Hall, there are also several sit down restaurants nearby. And, just a few meters away is the 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin, which is home to the bustling mediterranean fusion Neni restaurant and Monkey Bar. Both are exceptionally popular, and it is highly recommended to make reservations at Neni - even for lunch

DON’T SKIP THE AIRPORT

Airports are often not known for having exceptional (or affordable) cuisine, but the Berlin airport has some surprisingly delicious food spots that range from cocktails and salads to lovely cafes

Fancy Donuts

WineFoodMusic

Atlantis' Wine & Food Festival Signals A New Direction in the Resort's Culinary Scene

When talented chefs come together, magic can happen The Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival brought together a number of extraordinary culinary minds and world class chefs from the United States and The Bahamas, to create a delicious week of events.

Featured chefs included Andrew Zimmern, Duff Goldman, JJ Johnson, Aarón Sánchez, José Andrés and Alex Guarnaschelli, who are all familiar faces on television screens around the world, as well as Bahamian culinary powerhouses and local restaurant owners like Chef Devan McPhee of Wild Thyme, Chef Ivana Moncur of Bakehouse, Chef Wayne Moncur of Mudda Freeze, and Chef Jamal Small, just to name a few.

Featured events included cooking demos, master class sessions, Tacos & Tequila, Sparkles at Sunset, Taste of Paradise, and Jerk Jam, which featured an electric performance by Wyclef Jean

What made the event unique was the accessibility of all of the chefs. They proudly presented their dishes, and connected with attendees on a human level. Chefs JJ Johnson and José Andrés particularly remarked how they felt a connection to The Bahamas, the people, and the cuisine

As the Atlantis Resort celebrates its 25th anniversary, the property has been working to revamp their restaurant offerings by incorporating more Bahamian chefs, local brands and new dining concepts. Some recent additions include The Dilly Club and the revamped Sip Sip, in addition to the resort announcing plans to introduce several other new dining options

Like any property, after 25 years, the Atlantis Resort has recognized that as consumer preferences change, they will need to adapt their food offerings. And, their Wine & Food Festival is a promising look at what the property has planned for the future.

Road Fever is returning, this May Here are a few must-have items to make sure that you make it to the end

Plenty of Water Quality Stockings

+

Sunscreen

It's going to be hot and you will be in the direct sun for hours so do yourself a favor and stay hydrated along with wearing sunscreen Also remember to source your carnival leggings/stockings ahead of time to ensure that you get a quality pair that can match you skin tone

ROAD FEVER MUST HAVES +

Comfortable Shoes

Sewing Kit/Hot Glue

Portable Fan

Ditch the heels on the road Opt for comfortable carnival ready shoes Sneakers or carnival boots are great options Also get a sewing kit in case you need to alter your costume before you hit the road or take the band off of your tights to better fit your costume Lastly It's going to be HOT so a fan won't hurt

+ +

Waterproof Case

Drawstring

Backpack

Wipes

Before the "vibes" truly kick in consider safeguarding your phone in a waterproof case A drawstring bag is also a must to carry your lightweight essentials Also the road is HOT so it's never a bad idea to bring along some wipes

HOP SKIP JUMP INTO BEING A DOMESTIC TOURIST

The Bahamas is beautiful That’s no secret A stunning ocean can be the backdrop for many Bahamians’ commute, and a beach day can be just a short walk for many That said, the full gamut of the country’s stunning beauty, natural wonders, and culinary offerings can easily be taken for granted when a piece of paradise is steps away.

However, for Bahamians who have never explored their neighboring islands, they can truly be missing out

With the summer months creeping up, consider taking a trip to another Bahamian family island for a vacation getaway

Eleuthera

Eleuthera is a very popular destination for Bahamians, with good reason. It is easily accessible via plane or ferry, allows easy hopping between Harbour Island, Spanish Wells and the mainland, and it has great restaurants, pink sand, and wonders like the glass window bridge

Great Harbour Cay, Berry Islands

Great Harbour Cay in the Berry Islands is peaceful, with super friendly people and stunning beaches The island is small, there are not many restaurants and minimal activities, but it is beautiful, serene, and away from the hustle and bustle of city life. This would be a great option for large groups to arrange a vacation rental, cook, and have the tranquility of having a private villa all to themselves. With some notice, it is also possible to visit the nearby Coco Cay

Grand Bahama

Grand Bahama is a hidden gem with an assortment of accommodation options, restaurants, attractions, natural wonders like Owl’s Hole, and very chill family island coastal communities, like West End.

Tip: Be sure to check out the Out Island Promotions Board to see if they currently have any Bahamian resident promotions