BRITISH COLONIAL ‘Historic Nassau Hotel Restored to Glory’
By Kirsten Harrington Photographs Courtesy of British Colonial Aerial Shot at Night
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fter a 50--million-dollar transformation, the Grand Dame of Nassau is once again on the throne. Built by oil magnate Henry Flagler in 1900, the original wooden structure, Hotel Colonial, welcomed wealthy tourists arriving by steamship to winter in paradise. Flagler is known for his luxurious lodgings, including the famed Breakers Hotel in Palm Beach. Hotel Colonial was destroyed by fire in 1922. The Bahamian government acquired the property from Flagler and contracted Munson Steamship Lines to build the New Colonial Hotel, which opened in 1923. Although the hotel changed hands over the years, its inherent charm remained, making it the oldest operating resort in Nassau. The hotel struggled during the tourism decline caused by COVID-19 and closed in 2022. It reopened as the British Colonial in December 2023. The recent renovation celebrates the property’s incredible history while spotlighting British Colonial’s role as a unique luxury boutique hotel in the heart of the city. The renovation pays homage to history throughout. Vintage photos hang in the rooms, a historical mural anchors the lobby wall and a timeline is displayed in the breezeway. Stop and marvel at how both the hotel and the Bahamian people have persevered through trials to proudly celebrate their unique island culture. As well as being the first waterfront hotel in Nassau, British Colonial also stands on the site of the city’s first fort, Fort Nassau. Two nine-foot cannons were found during the garden renovation, another remnant of history. A statue of Captain Woodes Rogers, the first Royal Governor of The Bahamas in the early 1700s, stands at the entrance to the hotel. Woodes is remembered for his campaign against piracy and establishing an orderly government.
the feel of The Bahamas. Soaring ceilings dabbed with gold, ornate tilework, and a grand staircase give British Colonial a regal atmosphere, reminding visitors of its fabled past. Vaulted ceilings, original crown moulding, and ornate chandeliers preserve the Colonial Revival architecture for which this iconic hotel is known. Two oceanfront pools with private cabanas overlook the 300-foot secluded beach. Lush landscaping and aquamarine loungers provide a seamless transition between land and sea. You are never more than a few steps away from a dip in soothing turquoise waters.
A TROPICAL OASIS
SLEEPING IN STYLE
Every detail of the interior design creates an atmosphere of breezy, sophisticated luxury. Rich fabrics, tropical foliage, and colourful frescoes on the ceiling capture
The 288 newly redesigned guestrooms feature marble bathrooms, soothing tropical wallpaper, and historical photos. In-room desks and 50-inch flat-screen
Lobby
Pool
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up and away
DELIGHTFUL DINING When hunger strikes, there are numerous food and beverage outlets to explore. Enjoy a quick coffee or casual breakfast from British Colonial Trading Company or dine at Tamarind Market Place. Here, you will find all your breakfast favourites and discover some new ones, like the Bahamian stew conch. There is no reason to give up your prime spot by the pool or beach when lunchtime rolls around. Order nachos or fish tacos at the poolside Red Pearl Grille and pair them with a cool, tropical rum Bahama Mama or Sky Juice. If you fancy Asian fare, step up to Sakana Noodle & Sushi Bar for fresh seafood, noodle dishes, and sake. When the cocktail hour rolls around, order a Vesper martini under the grandiose crystal chandelier at Woodes Rogers Tavern. It is James Bond’s drink of choice – remember to ask for it “shaken, not stirred.” The elegant colonial architecture of British Colonial served as the filming location for Bond’s movie “Thunderball.” Step into the elegant Mahogany Club for dinner, where you will find classic Italian fare, steaks, and seafood.