As my new husband and I slow dance under a Caribbean night sky, I can’t help but stifle a giggle. There must be at least a dozen other couples swaying dreamily as Bahamian superstar Patrice Murrell belts out the Elvis classic Can’t Help Falling In Love.
It’s like a scene from a cheesy romantic comedy. But fairytale love is what Sandals Royal Bahamian Hotel is all about — and there’s no escaping it.
This all-inclusive Cable Beach resort in the capital city of Nassau is surrounded by turquoise waters, palm trees, and white-sand beaches. Of course it is.
Most guests are either honeymooning, celebrating an anniversary, or enjoying one last Huzzah Babymoon. Even if you’re not married when you arrive, there’s a “wedding lounge” here to help you tie the knot.
Built for Romance: Victoria Bischoff and her new husband relax during a stay at the Sandals Royal Bahamian Hotel on Cable Beach, Bahamas
As we sunbathe by one of the hotel’s two pools, brides-to-be pass by to thunderous applause. In the evening, rows of tables are set up for two so couples can enjoy a candlelit dinner.
The spa specializes in massages for couples, and there’s even a photographer for photo shoots.
The hotel’s marketing slogan is “Where love goes easy”.
Fairytale love is what Sandals Royal Bahamian Hotel is all about, reveals Victoria
“As we sunbathe by one of the hotel’s two pools, brides-to-be pass by to thunderous applause,” Victoria writes
Victoria notes that most of the resort’s guests are either honeymooning, celebrating an anniversary, or enjoying one last Huzzah babymoon
And it’s proud that the Duke of Windsor and Wallis Simpson were regular visitors after the abdication.
“A royal love story,” reads one plaque. “This is a story about a king who listened to his heart and gave up his throne for the biggest reason of all. Love.’
The piano bar, which hosts singalongs and serves deadly cocktails, is even called the Balmoral Club.
All guests are picked up from the airport by chauffeur Ricky Ricardo in a Rolls-Royce.
If you opt for the butler service, you will always have a mobile phone with which you can request assistance.
The Duke of Windsor and Wallis Simpson, pictured above in Nassau in the 1940s, were regular visitors after the abdication
The hotel has been renovated and expanded, but it retains a boutique vibe
The hotel’s marketing slogan is “Where love goes easy”
A friendly team – Andrew, Chanelle and Nichola – attended to our every need. We initially felt almost embarrassed by their offers to help us unpack, reserve sunbeds and join us for dinner. But after ten days we lost the ability to do anything for ourselves.
They even sneaked into our room one night to give out heart balloons and rose petals.
The hotel has been renovated and expanded, but it retains a boutique vibe — though there are 13 restaurants.
Our only criticism was that the music could be loud. However, a boat service takes guests to the hotel’s peaceful private island, which has a pool and restaurant.
An absolute must is the Fish Fry on Arawak Cay. Street vendors and beach shack barbecues line the beach here. Lured by live reggae music, we chose Frankie Gone Bananas, where we enjoyed mussels and snapper.
A boat service takes guests to the hotel’s peaceful private island (above)
Take a day trip to see the Exuma Islands’ famous swimming pigs
Swim with nurse sharks at nearby Compass Cay Marina
It’s also worth exploring the Nassau area, if only to see the famous swimming pigs (yes, pigs).
Pig Beach in the Exuma Islands is accessible by motorboat. You can cuddle with the cute piglets, but be careful – adult pigs can bite.
There’s also a pit stop at Compass Cay Marina to swim with nurse sharks.
Sandals are a recipe for success and now I understand why.
TRAVEL FACTS
Seven nights all inclusive at Sandals Royal Bahamian (sandals.co.uk) from £2,565 based on two flights.