A new eco-resort in the Bahamas-- TIAMO, translates to "I love you." We love you too.
We are all living such busy frantic lives so to be able to get off the grid is a necessary luxury in order to recharge the batteries and get in touch with ourselves. To cut out the "noise" of everyday life and focus on nature, relationships, reading, good food and what really makes us tick instead. Being at Tiamo means you will not see, much less get in a car, open your wallet, deal with difficult people or have to make any decision more stressful than what delicious choice to make for dinner and whether or not you want to snorkel, fish or kayak. And you would think you'd have to travel half way around the world to get there. Not so! Tiamo, which is located on the island of South Andros, Bahamas is only an hour's flight from Ft. Lauderdale and then a five minute boat ride to the resort which is only reachable by water. The resort itself recently changed hands and underwent a painstaking refurbishment by the new owners, Ellie and Bill, which was completed just in time for last Christmas. Currently there are 11 eco cottages which are sublimely decorated and outfitted with luxurious beds and linens, wet bars with stocked mini-fridges and fine teas, and organic bath products.
The pool and dining areas effortlessly capture the feeling of barefoot elegance and act as quite a backdrop to the Michelin trained chef's concoctions. Tiamo also has an impressive wine list and a three page cocktail menu! We didn't work our way down the whole list but can heartily recommend the Goombay Smash, a rum drink made with coconut rum and pineapple juice.
We actually loved meeting and chatting with the other guests during cocktails-- we have found that places like this attract the most interesting and accomplished people that we learn so much by being around. The owners, Ellie and Bill are also such affable, outgoing, cool people that the whole resort seems to buzz with their good energy- even in the face of a cold front that we endured while we were there. The small but immaculately appointed gym was actually a sight for sore eyes after the amazing meals and rum drinks. And there is a tiny spa where all sorts of treatments are offered. We loved our snorkeling trip led by Captain Lee who actually jumped into the water at various spots to make sure the visibility was up to snuff before allowing us to take the plunge into the (chilly!) water to check out a blue hole.
Tiamo also offers some of the best fishing, particularly bonefishing, in the world. Sailing, kayaking, snorkeling and walking the untouched beach strewn with gorgeous conch shells are other highlights.
While it is fairly expensive, keep in mind all of your meals and activities (except fishing and booze) are included and as far as we can see, the least expensive cottages (without air conditioning) are the way to go unless you want to spring for the Pool Cottage/honeymoon which has an outdoor jacuzzi! Even two nights at this remote, yet accessible, breathtaking nature preserve will make you feel rejuvenated and restored - like you've escaped civilization for a week.