National

Staniel Cay: A Vacationer’s Paradise

EXUMA, BAHAMAS – Even before you actually touch down, you recognize the difference, on descending into the Exumas the turquoise color of water seems brighter.

Published

9 months ago

July 22, 2024

Jerome Sawyer

EXUMA, BAHAMAS – Even before you actually touch down, you recognize the difference, on descending into the Exumas the turquoise color of water seems brighter.

And you think, ” I can actually see a difference.” The airplane ride into Staniel Cay takes you past a chain of Exuma Cays and you wish there was some way you could visit them all.

Our Flamingo Air flight touched down smoothly Sunday morning to an airport that’s indicative of the charm these small airports give.

Yet like each Family Island destination, this one too, has its only characterisitics.

Staniel Cay was quaint and warm. On island, it was breakfast as the famous Staniel Cay Yacht Club with decades old memorabilia and faded photographs of famous patrons welcomed over the years.

It was then time to tour. Drexi from the Embrace Resort took us on a leisurely golf cart ride to all the “must-see” points of interest. For instance, the regatta site and shipyard – famous for boat building. We’ll be back here for sure this week.

Sunday morning worship was in full swing at the only church on the island – Mt. Olive Baptist Church. Prayers are always welcome.

And not that we think we will need it but the police station was pointed out next – welcomed news, when you’ ve come for a city with double digit murders.

There are multiple construction sites – a sign there’s a busy economy.

Moreover, the yachts berthed off the coast booked to capacity hotels and guest houses show an island that’s doing well from its economic mainstay – tourism.

And even as the February to August high season is nearing an end, the steady visitor business helps to keep the 200-plus locals mostly employed – with many of them take multiple jobs to fill the growing demand for labour here.