Latest news with #Exumas
Skift
02-06-2025
- Business
- Skift
Rosewood's Luxury Bahamas Resort Faces Backlash Over Threat to Carbon-Storing Seagrass
As climate risks grow, projects catering to the few ultra-wealthy raise tough questions about who really benefits and who bears the cost. A plan for a new ultra-luxury resort in the Bahamas is drawing backlash from local groups and environmentalists, who warn the development could damage vital marine ecosystems that help fight climate change. The proposed resort, Rosewood Exuma, is slated to open in 2028 on East Sampson Cay, a 124-acre private island in the Exumas. Developed by Miami-based firm Yntegra, the project includes 33 luxury suites, a 20,000-square-foot wellness center, multiple pools, and two marinas capable of hosting yachts up to 150 feet. It also includes a 150-unit employee housing facility and Yntegra says the resort will bring 500 jobs and support local communities. It will be powered by solar energy and promises to offset environmental damage by restoring up to three times as much marine life as it disturbs. But critics say that doesn't go far enough. Environmental Impact Under Fire
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Travel + Leisure
21-05-2025
- Travel + Leisure
I've Gone on 134 Dives and This Is My Favorite Snorkeling Spot in the Caribbean
As a long-time scuba diver, I typically seek out the best scuba sites when I travel to the Caribbean. But in one destination, I didn't have to strap on an air tank to experience the wonders of the local marine life. In the Exumas—the sub-archipelago of The Bahamas comprising over 300 cays southeast of Nassau—I visited a magnificent site brimming with tropical fish. Known as 'Thunderball Grotto,' this secluded, dramatic cave of jagged limestone, illuminated by sun rays peering down through natural holes in the ceiling, looks like a movie set. (And in fact, it was: the 'thunderball' in its name comes from its appearance in the 1965 James Bond film starring Sean Connery, and it had made a few Hollywood cameos since.) Lying between Staniel Cay and Big Major Cay, Thunderball Grotto is accessible by charter boat or by any of the all-day boat cruises that stop at all the popular Exumas spots. These include other 'must-sees' like Pig Beach (literally a beach filled with pigs, as the name suggests) and the nurse shark sanctuary in Compass Cay. Once anchored, it can take some effort to get into the grotto depending on the current and tides, since you have to swim and snorkel your way from the boat to the cave's entrance. But once you're inside the natural enclosure, the efforts will be visibly worth it. The amazing blue waters at the Thunderball Grotto. When I emerged from the waters, I saw its cavernous, almost cathedral-like interior. The rugged limestone walls reached to a ceiling with natural skylights, from which aerial roots of ficus trees hung like decorative drapery. It's a majestic sight. But the real magic was under the glassy, blue-hued waters that are so clear and transparent it offers mind-boggling visibility for snorkeling. The central pool has clusters of coral and sponges, attracting dozens of types of tropical fish. Snorkeling here is like swimming in a naturally-formed aquarium, where you'll see the black and white stripes of banded butterfly fish, silver bar jacks, yellowtail snappers, multi-colored parrotfish, and yellow-tinted, striped sergeant majors, among many of the other fish found in the Bahamas. The occasional scuba diver may dive deeper to see more of the underwater rock formations, but it's not necessary. The spectacle that is Thunderball Grotto is already near the surface of the water.
Yahoo
06-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bvlgari Resort & Mansions Cave Cay opening set for 2029 in the Bahamas
Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts is set to open the Bvlgari Resort & Mansions Cave Cay in the Bahamas in 2029. The upcoming resort will feature 64 luxury suites and seafront villas, along with 48 private mansions and estates. Spanning 220 acres, Cave Cay is celebrated as one of the Exumas' most 'beautiful' islands in the archipelago. It features white-sand beaches, caves, and elevated terrains showcasing the scenic views of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. The property will include a spa and wellness centre, a diverse sports complex, and a children's club. Bvlgari CEO Jean-Christophe Babin said: "The Exumas have been establishing themselves in recent years as the ultimate glamorous destinations in the Caribbean, attracting the most prestigious and sophisticated clients. 'We are thrilled to present such an extraordinary project, which will become not only the first Bvlgari Resort in the Caribbean but also a new point of reference for the community of upscale and discerning travellers who already know and appreciate the other 'gems of hospitality' in the Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts Collection. 'We envision the Bvlgari Resort Cave Cay to shine as the ultimate sustainable luxury destination and experience in the region, crafted by the Roman jeweller of Hospitality." The hotel will also feature The Bvlgari Bar and Il Ristorante – Niko Romito with menus curated by three Michelin-starred Chef Niko Romito. In addition to these facilities, the resort will feature La Spiaggia, a 'signature' beach club, and a fully equipped marina that will cater to both residents' yachts and visiting vessels, offering a promenade with shopping options and culinary delights. The marina is also set to be the launch point for various water sports and local excursions. Cave Cay Limited Partnership manager Emile Haddad said: "Our group is made up of international investors and stakeholders who have built award-winning communities as well as hotels and resorts globally. 'This partnership with Bvlgari brings together people who share a similar philosophy about building places. A philosophy founded on quality, sustainability, and providing a superior experience at every level. The Bvlgari Resort & Mansions at Cave Cay is consistent with the Bahamian Government's vision of making the Exuma the premiere destination in the Caribbean.' "Bvlgari Resort & Mansions Cave Cay opening set for 2029 in the Bahamas" was originally created and published by Hotel Management Network, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
