The Sandy Slipper

History, novels and the mafia: End of the World, Bimini

BahamasDread — Fri, 18 May 2012 16:00:18 +0000

Beautiful views from the End of the World Bimini

With Island hopping turning into a native term the Bahamas has adopted, it’s getting harder and harder to stay in one place. The island hopping program was originally coined and put in place by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism. The major objective of the program was to encourage visitors to seek out the other islands of the Bahamas besides the capital of Nassau, and truly take in the uniqueness of each island.

A question I’ve received often from many of the visitors to the Bahamas is : ‘are the islands of the Bahamas truly different and what makes each one exclusively different’.

Here’s a dive into the background behind one of the great landmarks on one of the remote islands in the Bahamas called Bimini. The End of the World bar doesn’t have any comparisons to anything else in the Bahamas, but breeds a life of its own. I recently dug way down in the archives and pulled back some goodies from an interview I did with Sandra Fieger, one of the folks responsible for restoring the bar, back to its good ole glory days.

One of the amazing things is that even though this bar is located on the same island as the Guy Harvey dive resort, it has managed to retain an identity all of its own.

Here’s what Sandra had to say about the spot when i questioned her about its history, uniqueness and it’s special draw:
Drawing from the history lessons gained from exploring the guy Harvey estate and reeling in the proclivity that drew stars of all natures and walks of life to Bimini in the past I was urged to ask her , what famous people had set foot upon the bar, and she regurgitated in an endless stream of who’s who; amongst athletes, politicians, gangsters and so forth.
The list began with the like of Ernest Hemingway, Jimmy Hoffa, john Elway, Winston Churchill, Dr. Martin Luther King, Howard Hughes, and meandered on into a stream of football greats, movie hall of Famers and several gangsters and mafiosos from Miami and New York who shall remain nameless.
You see islands such as Bimini not only became known for the destination but the proximity of it to North America. Bimini became notoriously popular during the era of prohibition when the Americas made liquor an outlawed product.

It was during the 1920 when Bimini first became popular but it’s notoriety was later peeled back to reveal the actual beauty of the island which not only led to famous people such as Martin Luther King seeking refuge their to prepare his Speech, but famous actors such Susan Heywood and Martha Rey used it as a getaway to recharge their creative juices.
The bar in the past as Sandra recounts, “ was a wild and raucous place, with exceptional live music, dancing on the bar and the unpretentious come as you are spirit was openly welcomed.
Now with the restoration Sandra hopes to impart that same spirit of old, back into the new bar. Where celebs, regular folk and nomads from around the world, can relax have a great cocktail and reminisce on times of yesteryear.
Interested in forgetting about it all, visit the End of the World where the adventurous spirit is welcomed and serious talk is frowned upon.

About the author: Fabian Christopher is the Managing editor and owner of Sandy Slipper Travel and online magazine. An avid enthusiast of the Bahamas, he is always ready and available to make your vacation dreams in the islands a memorable experience.

Getting Married in the Bahamas 16 Times

BahamasDread — Wed, 16 May 2012 11:00:27 +0000

The Sweet 16

Today is a sweet 16 celebration! For those of you who missed my previous articles about the lucky 16 brides who are getting married in the Bahamas, you can reread it here. Today 16 lucky couples get to share their vows in the Bahamas. Each lucky couple got a chance to win their trip to the Bahamas, by sending in a photo or video including their betrothed and getting voted on by the public. Each couple chose from 16 breath-taking locations in the Bahamas to begin the rest of their lives.

Here’s snapshot of some of the most amazing places they chose:

Kane & Karen Michelle choose the lovely island of Bimini to read their vows and would could be more befitting than a “Lost in your embrace” wedding. With beautiful powdered beaches, endless opportunities to get lost underwater and the truly heavenly escape, Ernest Hemingway experienced when he visited this very island. I’m sure Kane & Karen won’t ever forget this magical wedding day.

Beautiful underwater escape in Bimini

Mikhail & Jade choose the Nautical Love Knot wedding which took them to the far outer bounds of the berry islands in the Bahamas. But it was so definitely worth it, to be delivered directly into Natures back yard. With long beaked pelicans combing the shores, teams of blue marlins frolicking in the surf all encompassed on one of the most serene islands located in this archipelago; this couple got everything right!

Here’s a look at the view out to the beach from their Bungalow:

Berry Island Bungalow

I’m excited for the 16 lucky couples as they recite their vows and two becomes one, a whopping eight times in one day. Furthermore to make their wedding day even more unforgettable they get to frolic in 16 of the most jaw dropping places on earth, all located in the Bahamas.

Now most of my friends don’t know this, but I’m an old romantic soul myself and if I could have chosen one of those 16 divine places to get married I would have chosen the lovely island of Acklins. Just listen to how its described,

” Gorgeous Golden Cove Beach is one of the most secluded beaches in The Bahamas – and one of the most beautiful in the entire Caribbean. The bright sunshine seems to create a golden haze as it reflects off the beach’s honey gold sands and sets the turquoise seas a-sparkle”

Now if that doesn’t sound like a dream come true, maybe this picture will do it justice.

Gorgeous golden cove beach - Acklins

If a destination wedding is what you have in mind, the Bahamas definitely has more than a few options for you to choose from. If your interested in seeing all 16 locations hop over to the Bahamas 16 weddings website, to see what the other couples will be experiencing.

Do you think these couples will have an unforgettable wedding day?

Related articles: Bahamas Destination Weddings

photo credits : www.bahamas16weddings.co.uk

Nature’s Massage Parlor: North Bimini Beach

BahamasDread — Mon, 14 May 2012 12:00:45 +0000

North Bimini Beach: Nature's Massage Parlor

Today’s post is about absolutely nothing!

Well absolutely nothing that requires you to think, consume or analyze.

When I awoke this morning, I realized that I would have to divorce Monday once and for all.

I tried to please her for years, but she didn’t want to change.

So I’m changing me and I invite you to join me.

I’m going to approach this first day of the week with a new zeal on life.

No more angst, avoiding or moments of distrust.

I’ll awake and approach her with calm, as I promise to take the first 5 minutes of that day and focus on a little slice of heaven in the Bahamas.

So get rid of the anxiety, imagine yourself on this beach relaxing and think about absolutely nothing for awhile.

Ahh, now doesn’t that feel good!
Brgds,

Fabian Christopher

related post: Finding your inner Paradise

My Zen Getaway: Long Island, Bahamas

photo cred: ziadaunallah via flickr

Kickback fridays – Getting ready for Kenny Chesney

BahamasDread — Fri, 11 May 2012 11:00:54 +0000

The King of Kicking Back - Kenny Chesney

As the weekend has slowly pulled back the curtain and we get closer to some good ole relaxation and some unbridled fun. I’ll be raising my glass, and getting my ears tuned up as I slowly integrate myself into the world of Kenny Chesney.

When I first read about Kenny Chesney coming to town over on my buddies blog (www.rumshopryan.com), I was ecstatic. Like could it be that this icon of laid back, flip flop sandals and island life would be coming to the most awe inspiring island of them all the Bahamas.

Now as heart-breakers go the Bahamas has broken a few, but Kenny Chesney has soared among the eagles in terms of how much he has been able to grace the hearts of his fans and become a part of their every days lives, as well as inspire lifestyle changes.

Heck as I listened to his first song on his greatest hits album, I was already swaying to the beat and refilling my glass. I don’t know if the words got me going or the tempo of the music, but when I get to see him live in concert at the Atlantis labor day weekend; folks have been telling me this is gonna be one heckuva a show.

To make this event more spectacular, Joy one of my best Sandyslipper fans will be in town for this event and we’ll be kicking it together and swaying in unison. Also as if the fun couldn’t get any more outrageous my best bud Mark Brown, the best travel impresario in Michigan will be in attendance with a raging group of folks, all bent on having a great time at the concert. So I’ll be in the midst of fans, friends and good ole music.

And this is one of things the Bahamas does well, it marries world class entertainment under the fauna and backdrop of a paradise.

Some things are sweet and some things are beautiful, and this performance will be both.

If excitement, fun and frolic is your thing then the Bahamas is calling your name.

Below is a video of the song that got me all fired up for the concert.

If you got any tips, advice or think there’s any other songs I should be diving into to make my experience even more awesome. Feel free to share!!!

The Seduction at Sandals: Pleasures Beach

BahamasDread — Wed, 09 May 2012 11:00:18 +0000

How seduction on the beach begins...

With the waves gently lapping at her feet,

she decided to rollover and snuggle for awhile longer in her antique hammock that nestled the cove on the beach.

After a hard day of walking an endless beach, rummaging for the perfect seashells and leafing through the life of Tolstoy

She decided to reward herself with the subtle decadence of peace and quiet along the untouched beach.

Besides who would know but her that it was an indulgence she hadn’t taken in awhile.

As she fell asleep from the cool tickle of the wind on the nape of her neck, she dreamed of an endless escape of luxury and pampering.

As the sweat trickled down the brow of her nose and stood there poised, ready to dance on her lips.

She was awakened by a careful brush against her breasts.

With the careful caress of a stranger, but the warm invite of a friend he pressed his body against hers to reveal..

Pause..

No you didn’t just walk into a Danielle Steele novel or the Titanic sequel.

But the fantasy unfolding above was part of a romantic getaway a client of mine asked me to envision for her and her fiance.

She said she wanted a getaway so steamy it was forbidden.

So seductive it shouldn’t be spoken about.

So raunchy you could..

Well you get the picture!

Filled with ideas of what delightful problems, ahem situations she could find herself entrenched with in the Bahamas.

I directed her to one of my favorite places for relaxation, elegance and romance Sandals Royal Bahamian.

She begged and pleaded with me, that if I wrote about her fantasy not to finish it before she fulfilled it

with her betrothed.

So I’ll have to leave you all with a cliff hanger, but I know you guys have great imaginations.

Here’s a few shots of other things they’ll be experiencing at Sandals Royal Bahamian very soon.

The Bedroom View

Room for Two

Dinner for Two

Where seduction begins

Are you ready for some seduction?

photocred twistiti via flickr

Pulse Edition 1: A New Dawn

BahamasDread — Mon, 07 May 2012 11:23:42 +0000

The beauty of the early morning Dawn in the Bahamas

There has been so many things going on in the Bahamas lately, that it will make your head turn.

Unbeknownst to most, but known to some our general elections are taking place soon. Rather today, and being a country based on tourism as its major industry, no matter which organization takes control there will be some rather big changes taking place that will change how the Bahamas is seen in the world’s eyes.

When I first rolled out this blog, I promised myself I would stay away from all the political melodrama that has befell my country, because I wanted this site to be a fun place for all my readers to hangout.

As time so has it, my plans have evolved as well as what my loyal readers expect of me. I have a great group of travel suppliers ( hey guys), who reach out to me often for feedback about the island that may very well help you my readers have a more enjoyable stay. So on Thursday’s only, I’ll dedicate it to the Bahamas pulse. A short but meaningful dose of whats new in the Bahamas that may affect you as a traveler, and anyone coming to these shores.

So back to where I began there are changes taking place, like a 2.5 billion mega resort named Baha MAr, that has already begun and about 30% complete that is springing up out the earth, a new airport that is about 74% complete which will marvel and compete with some of the best around the world, new landscapes along the western corridor, 5 major out- island developments, a Chocolate factory and a whole lot more.

As these monoliths are erected, we as agents of change must always be mindful of our duty to preserve the very essence of natural untouched beauty that the Bahamas has gained notoriety for. So you’ll be hearing more about our out-islands and our feverish work to make your flight connections available and easier to reach those untouched gems in the waters of the Bahamas.

By the time some of you read this, I would have already exercised my right to vote and hopefully cast it upon the party that will usher in and help further make the Bahamas some place you guys are happy to visit, read about and enjoy for years to come.

I hope these editions of the pulse continue to remain informative and fact finding for you and I’ll promise to keep all the other days at the Sandy Slipper, fun , rum filled and enjoyable.

Brgds,

from the Editors desk!

(always wanted to say that!!)

Photo courtesy: schreck via flickr

The simple pleasures in Life – Bimini Tides

BahamasDread — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:02:11 +0000

The jewels of Life

Some days its not important where you are

But where you are not!

Some days its not important who you are

But who you become!

and on those days when your trying to figure it all out

It’s good to have an escape from it all!

Is 16 your lucky number?

BahamasDread — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 12:06:50 +0000

The Bahamas 16 islands Wedding Invitation

Is 16 your lucky number?

Well it was for 16 lucky couples. Mentioned in an article awhile back on the Sandyslipper when we let the proverbial cat out the bag, and mentioned how 16 lucky couples would get a chance to have their dream wedding in the Bahamas, in 16 different beautiful locations.

Well that day is almost upon us. The 16 couples have been chosen and the wedding date is set for the 16th of May. What a coincidence eh?

Unfortunately for all my US based compadres, fan and friends this was a promotion strictly for the UK. But, hint hint I’m sure you guys will have an awesome promotion coming your way shortly. I don’t know what it is about weddings in the Bahamas that get me stoked. Maybe its the food, the celebrations or the crystal clear blue water but I love getting the invites and I always have fun.

For those of you who like all the mushy mushy stuff like me, here’s a look at the 16 lucky couples. You can also follow all of the preparations, pics of the pre-parties and excitement as they prepare for the big day here on their facebook tab!

If you could have a dream wedding or vacation in the Bahamas would island would you choose?

photo courtesy: www.bahamas16weddings.co.uk

Promotion sponsored by: The Bahamas Tourist office, Goldsmiths & Kuon

A birds eye view of the Exumas

BahamasDread — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 10:45:20 +0000

A birds eye view of the Exumas

As we slowly drift into the weekend, I sat at my desk yesterday wondering how could I get my zeal back.
It was as if I was landlocked an didn’t have any way out. Then after stumbling across this little gem on the web,
I realized I lived in the Bahamas, where my background was an oasis of fun and exploration waiting to happen.

The video below shows some of the beauties of the water in the Bahamas and the natural wonders of nature in the Exuma cays.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I did and it helps you shed those last winter blues.

photo cred: Nate Derrick via Flickr

Spring Break in the Bahamas: The recap, the concert and the Fun

BahamasDread — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 10:30:11 +0000

Some folks heard me talk about it, but they didn’t believe me. If I had to imagine it all in my head, there wouldn’t be enough room in there, to fit 2000 spring breakers, 7 parties, 4 days and 11 artists.
So instead of imagining it, I made it come to life.

Spring Breakers warming up at the 1st beach party

With the help of the Spring Break industry-leader, Xtreme Trips and live music production partner, Brightsound Entertainment, we were able to not only conceptualize the craziest spring break party week the Bahamas has ever seen, but we gave ever concert-goer a party that exceeded expectations.

The central focus of the 4 day party series was the two day private island Music Festival that included international dj celebrities, hip hop stars, a live performance by hip hop recording artist Wale of Maybach Records and world renown techno, dubstep and crowd pleaser Steve Aoki.

The setting for the two day festival was a private untouched beach that was only accessible by private ferry access and guarded by none other than the Bahamas Defense Force, our local Coast Guard squadron. Initially some thought it was overkill, until some nefarious Spring breakers tried to charter their own boat to the private island and were abruptly turned around and denied access.
But then we realized all our precautionary measures were well worth it.

Day 1

All of the students started arriving on Saturday and Sunday and as this was the first time we had ever put on an event of this scale, nobody knew what to expect. During the daytime on Monday Xtreme Trips threw a rocking pool party to get the kids in the mood.

Concert Attendees enjoying the Pre-party at the Wyndham

everyone joining in the fun

Having a blast

Hyping up the Dj

After a wild day at the pool and all the pre-partying we all began to wonder would the kids show up, would the music be right, would people have a good time?

As the minutes slowly began to tick away on Monday, and our first club party got set to start at Club Luna, we all sat by nervously as the clock struck 10:15 and we only had 100 guests in attendance. Was this party going to be an epic flop, or was this just kids being kids and showing up late as usual.
With adrenaline running high, and time slowly dragging I left the club to get some last minute provisions.

As I returned 30 minutes later, nothing could have prepared me for what i saw as I entered the parking lot. Moving from barren wasteland to a taxi infested parking complex. No parking spots remained and to see the droves of students lined up at the doors nearly brought a tear to my eye. But with no time to waste, I dashed inside to uncover the party in full swing and kids beginning to have the time of their lives.

Club Luna is packed and students are here to party!

Party Mascot poses with Girls

Party in the Dj Booth

Crowd getting electrified at Day 1 of the Electric Island Music Festival

With the party swinging until 3am, who would believe that the next concert would be kicking off in less than 6 hours.

Day 2

The first day of the electric island music festival got well underway on day 2 at 11am, and as the weather slowly began to clear up. We all knew we could be in for a day of epic proportions if everything went well. As the students began to fill the boardwalk and pile into the private ferries, the anticipation mounted as we hoped the performers would be as spectacular as we hoped.

Without fail, every performer on tuesday Dj Garcia, Dj Crespo, Ben G, White Panda & Wale performed until the students could dance no more and everybody left feeling like they had gotten their monies worth

Excited fans heading to the Island

First Ferry boat heads to the Island

Electric Island Music Festival: Nassau Bahamas

Loving the beach

Fan getting in the groove

White Panda warm it up

white panda salutes the crowd

Wale begins his performance

The crowd sings along with wale

Wale closes DAY 2 with a Bang

As the last students left the island in an inebriated haze, we all sat in wonder if they would actually make it to Senor Frogs for the concert after party. As true party revelers they did not disappoint. As senor frogs was packed to near capacity levels.

Day 3

With day two fully under our belts we started to feel semi confident that day three would be equally as exciting, and it was . With crowds reaching three times the previous days draw by noon, we know we were on to something big. As events go, somethings will definitely happen as planned and some things will definitely go off track.

Day 3 draws a huge crowd

Kap Slap Performs

Kap Slap in the crowd

As 2pm slowly rolled in, I suddenly realized the only performer who hadn’t arrived yet was Steve Aoki, our Headliner for day 3 of the music festival. As the heavens dictated I got a call at that very instant stating that Steve was at the airport and needed to be picked up and whisked to the concert immediately.

I raced to the airport as if the angels of Hades were on my heels and collected Steve from the arrival gate.

As we sped back to the island, I made calls of epic proportion arranging the private speedboat, security detail and sending forward notice that the star was on his way.

As steve began his performance the only thing that remained to be said of that day was WOW. Steve not only had everyone pulsing from his ingenious dj mixes, combined with his high level of energy and over the top stunts the crowd was riveted with adrenaline the entire performance.

Steve Aoki focused on the mix

The leap into the crowd

Steve Aoki flying through the air

Crowd Surfing

Aoki mingling with the fans

Steve prepares to throw his cake into the crowd

Enjoying Aoki's cake

Enjoying every minute

Not allowing the party to end, we celebrated and danced the night away at Club Aura in Atlantis, where all the artists got a chance to relax and mingle with the concert attendees.

Day 4

After reeling from 3 days of parties, everyone should have been too tired, too exhausted, too partied out to move.

But we had to close it out with a bang,so for one last day of go-hard or go-home we pulled off the most epic club party of the entire week.

The close out party for the Electric Island Music Festival

Let the glo begin!!

Glo accesories

Let it all hangout

Spring Break in the Bahamas, the best place on earth!

The team that made it happen: Beau Burns, Fabian Christopher & Todd Steinberg

Our 1st Electric Island Music Festival was a raging success, and we hope with the addition of more artists next year and a more expanded show you’ll stop on by and check us out!!

As we constantly strive to please all of our fans here at the Sandyslipper, we’ve made the official Electric Island Cd Mix available free of charge. Just click the link below to download your free copy today.

Link to the mix direct download: Click here to download!

Link to subscribe to the podcast with itunes: Click here to subscribe!

Also if you just want to listen to it now. Click on the player below!

Special thanks goes out to: The Ministry of Tourism & Kalik for partnering with us to make this event an awesome success. Also very special mention goes out to Viral Crew Media & JA Photography for the awesome event pics.