Atlantis resort in the Bahamas caught on fire!

By Rashad Rolle

#Tribune Staff Reporter

#rrolle@tribunemedia.net

#MORE than 100 tourists were evacuated from the exclusive One and Only Ocean Club at Atlantis on Saturday after the building’s roof caught fire.

#Fire services chief Walter Evans said arson has been ruled out as a possible cause and investigations into the fire are continuing.

#However, an eyewitness told The Tribune a $16,000 firework display was to blame for the fire.

#“The fireworks started at 10 pm,” the witness said. “It caught onto the roof and it was rough because no one even knew about it until like 10:25 pm. The wind caused the fire to spread to the roof because the firework display was happening so close to the building.”

#The roof of two blocks in the building, the 30s block and the 50s block, caught fire, he said, adding: “Tourists were inside – 102 people had to be evacuated. Babies were there.”

#“The tourists were riled up. They carried on. Staff always warned that the fire hydrant couldn’t get there, but nobody listened,” The Tribune was told.

#About 35 per cent of the roof in the 30s block was destroyed as was about 20 per cent of the roof in the 50s block, he said, adding that guests were moved from the Ocean Club to the Reef and other hotels.

#Mr Evans said operations at the hotel are continuing as usual after the fire and that “no major damage” had been done to the two-story structure.

#He said officers responded to the call about the fire around 11:30 pm Saturday and took only a few minutes to extinguish the flames.

#No one was injured, he said.

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Bahamas closer to having a world-class wireless network that will provide the latest generation of 4G mobile services to BTC customers.

BTC’s cellular customers on New Providence are one step closer to enjoying super-fast technology this Christmas as a result of the very first Long Term Evolution (LTE) data call – commonly referred to as an ‘Internet download’ - on the BTC network early this morning.

#This brings the Bahamas closer to having a world-class wireless network that will provide the latest generation of 4G mobile services to BTC customers.

#“There is a lot of excitement within the team as a result of us making our very first LTE data call on our network early this morning,” said Antonio Stubbs, BTC’s senior vice-president of technical services.

#“This is a major milestone for us in the roll-out of our LTE network, as it marks the first time all elements of our own BTC core and cell radio infrastructure were used to do an LTE transaction. Over the next five to six weeks, we are now able to ramp up our implementation of LTE radio hardware and integrate same into our billing and other systems.”

#Marlon Johnson, BTC’s senior vice-president of brands and communication, explained that LTE means everything on a BTC mobile will be much faster due to more sophisticated applications.

#“Data downloads and video streaming, for instance, will be noticeably faster and coverage extended. This new LTE network will put BTC on par with any mobile carrier in the world in terms of data performance. It will also allow for exciting commercial applications – allowing businesses to conduct commerce wirelessly on a very fast and ultra reliable platform,” said Mr Johnson.

#LTE delivery will be in two phases. Phase one is scheduled to begin in time for Christmas on New Providence, and Phase II, which includes Grand Bahama, Abaco and Eleuthera, in early 2014. Other islands of the Bahamas will follow thereafter. Customers can also look forward to a range of new smart phones, apps and accessories that enable and make the most of everything LTE.

#The LTE investment is part of a broader investment in the full mobile infrastructure this fiscal year, which will approach $20 million. In addition to LTE, BTC is also investing in improving the data and voice performance of their 4G networks throughout the country, with a consistent aim to improve the customer experience.

Article Credit: Nassau Guardian

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Casa DeLeon at the Ocean Club Estates on Paradise Island

About This Property

Come home to the luxurious lifestyle and spectacular beachfront setting that is Casa DeLeon at the Ocean Club Estates on Paradise Island. Upon entering this palatial home the view through the 25 foot atrium of the infinity pool and the aquamarine water beyond will take your breath away. Every possible luxury has been thought of and well executed at Casa DeLeon - from the tumbled travertine marble floors to the large open kitchen equipped with the finest Wolf and Sub Zero appliances with granite countertops. There are a total of five bedrooms with the master bedroom boasting expansive ocean views and a large private balcony that can be accessed directly from the pool and deck via a private staircase. Imagine waking up to a sunrise over distant islands every morning. When it is time to retire and relax there are his and hers ensuite baths both with walk in closets and the finest marble tile. Hers has a Jacuzzi tub and the steam shower is shared. There are two VIP bedrooms, one on the first floor and one on the second floor, with either a private balcony or direct access to the deck and pool. The other two bedrooms are on the second floor with ensuite baths. Casa DeLeon is ideal for entertaining, with a state of the art Media room boasting numerous flat screen TV’s and a Runco projection unit for that "movie theatre" effect. The media room also has a pool table and opens out onto the deck that features an incredible sunken seating area in the infinity pool, steps away from the white sand beach and the ocean. The poolside wet bar has a built in flat top grill. There is a Crestron home automation touch pad to automate lighting and media in every room. Extra features include an elevator, a fully automatic back-up generator, six-zone air conditioning, garage spaces for two cars and a separate garage for a golf cart. Fully furnished including one luxury SUV and a golf cart. Also available for rent at $7,000. per night with a 10 night min.

Deal Price: $13,990,000.

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The Toronto-based Bahamas Tourist Office hosted a private event for members of the Ottawa region travel industry at the Westin Hotel in downtown Ottawa

OTTAWA, Canada – The Toronto-based Bahamas Tourist Office hosted a private event for members of the Ottawa region travel industry at the Westin Hotel in downtown Ottawa.

This event on Wednesday, October 23 was held to introduce Sunwing Vacations’ new non-stop service from Ottawa to Freeport, and to educate travel agents on the attractions and resorts in the destination.

Dr. Calsey Johnson, High Commissioner to Canada for The Bahamas, Paul Strachan and Mikala Moss of the Bahamas Tourist Office, and representatives from various Grand Bahama hotels showcased the beauty of the island and their respective hotels.

The hotels presenting their properties included The Pelican Bay Resort, The Grand Lucayan, Memories Resort & Spa and Viva Wyndham Club Fortuna.

This event was important for Grand Bahama, which is still trying to rebound after the economic downturn and the hurricanes that devastated the island in 2004.

The newest hotel on the island will be the Memories Grand Bahama Beach & Casino Resort which will open in January 2014 with 504 rooms, six bars, and five unique dining experiences.

The property is currently undergoing a multi-million dollar rebuild in order to bring it up to the Memories brand and standard.

At the event, Grand Bahamians were able to woo first time and long-time visitors to come to Grand Bahama so that they can experience the hospitality and multitude of amenities available.

A video presentation featured sights, sounds and first-hand accounts from locals and Grand Bahamian business owners alike.

Johnson told guests, “The Bahamas is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and on behalf of the people of The Bahamas we encourage you to visit our shores.”

The night included culinary delights from The Bahamas including steamed chicken, macaroni and cheese and peas and rice – much to the delight of those in attendance.

The event allowed the true potential and beauty of The Bahamas’ 4th largest island to truly shine.  Guests were also treated to various prizes throughout the night.

The grand prize winner received a week long voucher to the brand new Memories Grand Bahama & Casino Resort.

Starting January 26, 2014, tour operator Sunwing Vacations will be offering weekly winter service from Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa, Winnipeg and Edmonton to Freeport, Grand Bahama, along with year round flights from Toronto.

This new initiative is anticipated to assist with the revitalization of Grand Bahama, while allowing the island to tap into new markets across Canada.

Article Credit: Nassau guardian 

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The government yesterday signed an agreement with Club Mediterranee and Sand and Ocean Investments on San Salvador for a $90 million expansion

The government yesterday signed an agreement with Club Mediterranee and Sand and Ocean Investments on San Salvador for a $90 million expansion of the resort on that island, which officials said will create an immediate 130 construction jobs.

During the four-year expansion of the resort, 335 direct jobs will be made available, Prime Minister Perry Christie said during an event at the resort.

"The refurbishment works of Club Med which will start shortly will include existing guest rooms, buildings grounds, mechanical plant and the creation of spa and updating of restaurants," he said.

"The expansion phase will consist of the construction of 360 new luxury condo hotel units and staff housing, all of which will be built in phases to be developed and financed by Sand and Ocean and operated by Club Med.

"Additionally, Sand and Ocean is planning the construction of a 125-room boutique hotel to be managed by a European luxury resort operator.

"All of the above works are to be completed within four years. During construction, it is projected that some direct 335 jobs will be made available to qualified Bahamians and a minimum of 250 Bahamians would be employed at the resort operations.

“Many other indirect jobs in both the public and private sectors and entrepreneurial opportunities will be created."

Several Cabinet ministers and officials from Club Med and Sand and Ocean Investments attended the event.

Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador MP Philip Brave Davis said the expansion is vital to the island's economy and said it proved that investors are confident in The Bahamas.

"There is nothing more important than to get our people back to work," he said.

Club Med North America CEO Xavier Mufraggi thanked the prime minister and his government for their commitment to the resort.

"We have the right team and the right approach," he said.

Club Med, a pioneer in the all-inclusive resort concept, continues to be a major employer on the island of San Salvador.

Article credit: Nassau Guardian 

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Sandals chairman, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, yesterday confirmed that the resort chain had “taken a look” at the Sheraton Cable Beach property

By NATARIO McKENZIE

#Tribune Business Reporter

#nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

#Sandals chairman, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, yesterday confirmed that the resort chain had “taken a look” at the Sheraton Cable Beach property, but denied it was taking over the Baha Mar-owned property.

#Tribune Business had been told by multiple contacts that Sandals personnel had been seen conducting ‘walk throughs’ at the Sheraton, assessing whether it might be suitable for conversion into its Beaches ‘all-inclusive’ family brand.

#Mr Stewart, who made an appearance at the eighth annual Exuma Business Outlook, denied that Sandals had any plans for this, but admitted the resort chain did assess the property located just down West Bay Street from Sandals Royal Bahamian.

#He said: “I know there has been talk about that; that’s not true. We looked at the place but we are not taking it over.”

#Robert Sands, Baha Mar’s senior vice-president of governmental and external affairs, yesterday described speculation about Sandals interest in the Sheraton Cable Beach resort as “rumours”, but Mr Stewart’s comments indicate there was truth to them. It appears that Baha Mar may be looking for a new operating partner for the resort.

#Tribune Business understands that Sheraton and its Starwood owner have reached an agreement where it will cease to be the brand/operating partner for the resort once Baha Mar finds a replacement.

#Multiple sources familiar with the matter told Tribune Business that the Sheraton/Starwood had requested that Baha Mar and its owners, the Lyford Cay-based Izmirlian family, invest more money into the resort to upgrade it.

#This was because guests were complaining that the on-property experience did not match the ‘sales’ or website marketing, but Baha Mar - with a $2.6 billion project next door - declined to invest more money in the Sheraton. Hence the agreed future parting.

#“We’re not going to responmd to rumours. Those are still rumours,” Mr Sands said of the impending parting between Baha Mar and the Sheraton, which is currently suffering from low occupancies associated with the traditional tourism slowdown.

#Meanwhile, Sandals has acquired 50 additional acres of land in Great Exuma adjacent to its Emerald Bay resort. Mr Stewart said that a decision how to use it would be made in the New Year.

#“I guess in the next year, we will focus on which direction we will go and make some good plans,” Mr Stewart said. “I think the potential is so good. We need to strengthen certain aspects before we go any further.

#“This development is a big, expensive one. We are making out OK, so we just want to consolidate and move ahead. We’re committed, we love it here. We are making nice inroads. Things are getting better.”

#Mr Stewart told Tribune Business: “We bought land next to our Sandals Emerald Bay property to make sure that we have the capacity to expand this resort, whether into a family resort or expand the resort for what it is, so we are making sure.

#““Of all the things, the marina is a big challenge for us at the Emerald Bay property. It has some flaws because it’s been really close to the drop-off. We have spent over $500,000 trying to figure what the problem is and, to date, it’s been inconclusive.

#“So, in the meantime, what we’re doing is making the most of it and trying to find a way forward to improve the flow. The marina works very well except for access to it in really bad seas,” he added.

#“Outside of that, it’s good. We want to do other things like a boat ramp at the back of the marina, which absorbs the energy. It’s a work in progress. But we really want to get it done.”

#While acknowledging that the Sandals Emerald Bay resort had faced several challenges over the years, particularly high energy costs, Mr Stewart assured that the chain was fully committed to Exuma.

#“I can’t complain. The Government has reached out and helped out with numerous things. Tourism is on their mind. They want to see things work. We’re here to say, we’re here to work,” he added.

#As for the high-end boutique resort on Fowl Cay, Mr Stewart said: “We have done a lot of work at Fowl Cay. We have beefed up the kitchens, renovated the homes. I want to build another five or six villas. We’re taking our time because that has to be planned. We will get it done when the time comes. I don’t want to overdo either.”

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New domestic and international terminal in Nassau Bahamas $83.5 million, 105,000 square foot facility.

The early bird got the surprise.

#At 4.45 am on Wednesday, while most of Nassau slept, a passenger bound for Freeport via a Bahamasair flight walked through the automatic doors of Lynden Pindling International Airport’s (LPIA) new domestic and international terminal and into history, becoming the first person to enter the $83.5 million, 105,000 square foot facility as it went live.

#On hand to greet her with a gift package and a broad smile was NAD president and chief executive, Vernice Walkine.

#“It was really fun; an historic moment,” said Ms Walkine. “You could see she was grinning from ear to ear and that says a lot, considering the hour, 4.45 in the morning.”

#While Ms Walkine was at one door, NAD director of terminal operations, Deborah Coleby, was at another, welcoming the next passenger. Bahamasair chairman Valentine Grimes; NAD vice-president of operations, John Terpstra; manager of customer service, John Fowler, and other executives and management were present for what one called “the $83 million moment of truth”.

#“Transforming LPIA took a lot of man hours, and an investment of some $400 million, the largest single infrastructural project ever undertaken in the history of our nation,” Prime Minister Perry Christie said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “Across these three stages more than $105 million was awarded to Bahamian contractors, and at the peak of construction some 350 workers were working on site.”

#The result, he said, was a world class airport.

#“Now, with sleek architectural features that take advantage of the natural environment and more than $2 million invested in Bahamian art, the terminals are a beautiful sight to behold and our airport is anything but ordinary,” the Prime Minister added.

#“We now have facilities commensurate with the other world class developments and product offerings on Nassau/Paradise Island and in our far flung Family Islands.”

#NAD said some 2,600 persons are employed directly or indirectly in connection with LPIA.

#Ms Walkine said the new terminal means those travelling to the Family Islands enjoy the same experience as those travelling across the globe. Bahamian-owned carriers now operate out of the same terminal as British Airways and Air Canada, with passengers having access to the same amenities, though waiting areas and gates are separate.

#“We are very excited about what this new terminal represents. We believe that this extraordinary new terminal creates a world class experience with a distinctive Bahamian flair,” said Ms Walkine. “From today on, the overall experience will be equal for passengers whether they are going to Toronto or George Town, London or Long Island.”

Article Credit: Nassau Guardian 

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