The Island House

Chances are if you decide to visit the Bahamas (and, frankly, why wouldn’t you?) you will fly into Nassau. It is one of the main islands to make up the jaw-droppingly beautiful Bahamas. Island House is Nassau’s latest addition and it successfully merges a sense of laid back island life with friendly service, effortless understated style, and an atmosphere of care-free living.

A short taxi ride from the airport and we’re greeted by the wonderfully warm staff. As we’re shown through the achingly stylish communal space en route to our room it becomes apparent just how discerning this place is. 

Our spacious and beautiful room has French doors opening out onto a private terrace overlooking the palms; the balmy breeze blowing away the last of city life. The bathroom is equally impressive with its stunning stand-alone bathtub, his-and-her sinks (a joy for a somewhat tidy obsessive Mr Smith and his ongoing battle with my bulging beauty bag) an enormous shower and an impressive array of organic Bamford products. 

A knock at the door interrupts our unpacking. A brief and charming rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ and an unexpected (and early) delivery of a bottle of birthday bubbles follows. While checking in the receptionist had noticed on my passport that my birthday was imminent – how’s that for service with a smile and a song? The staff are so consistently thoughtful here, yet in no way pushy. 

The only downside to places like this is that it’s very hard to leave, let alone do anything. To be honest, why would you want to? Sure, I’m all for experiencing culture, but we feel that delicious mix of jet lag (perhaps fuelled by a Thai mojito…which was swiftly followed by a lychee martini) and a need to just take in our new sun-filled surroundings. In a world where we are made to feel we must always ‘do’ and ‘be busy’ there is a delicious rebellion in stopping. And this is a hell of a place to stop. 

Naturally, then, the whole emphasis of Island House is on wellbeing. There is a pool to keep you cool on those hot and humid Bahamian days, coupled with a state-of-the art gym, squash courts and a movement studio that offers an array of classes. A soothing spa is filled with Bamford’s body collection and has everything from mani/pedis to full body massages. 

With all this on offer, Mr Smith points out – in the name of research and a thorough review – that we should put down our poolside cocktails and explore the facilitates. So we can confirm that the gym and yoga space are both beautiful.

Strangely, considering my laid-back state of mind, I opt for possibly the most intense option: a 30-minute spin class on the new Peloton bike. I leave exhausted but feeling justified to indulge in whatever my holiday heart desired. 
 
And indulge we do… We feast on delicious Asican cuisine at Shima – the chargrilled salmon cooked in a banana leaf with red curry paste and coconut milk is so good we order it twice.

The next morning, we rise early to the blue skies and sunshine. If that isn’t a reason to hop out of bed immediately then maybe the thought of breakfast is. Here it is served in the coffee bar and it covers all the must-haves – and plenty of more indulgent wants. The pancakes, we discover, are not to be missed if you have a sweet tooth. 

A mid-afternoon downpour means we have the perfect excuse to make the most of the hotel’s private cinema: an impressive 48-seat screening room with everything from bean bags for kiddies, luxurious lounge chairs or cuddle friendly sofas for couples. And it doesn’t lack in the technology department either – Mr Smith is wowed by the 24-foot screen and top-drawer sound system. We eat a vast amount of popcorn, sip some bubbles and get lost in a Hollywood blockbuster (that, ironically, was set back home in London). 

That evening we dine at Mogano, home to a moreish Italian menu and an extensive wine list that keeps Mr Smith extremely distracted. Well fed, we retire to our enormous bed with turndown service complete. We peel away the crisp white sheets and fall into a peaceful sleep full of new Caribbean memories. 

Our final morning is spent on the terrace looking out at the harbour and savouring that sweet sunshine – the ideal backdrop for our final hours here. The staff send us on our way with smiles and we promise to return again soon. I think it’ll be sooner rather than later.