Silver Skies Magazine by Travel Media International

butch stewart: without peer born to fish Come learn the art of the catch

house beautiful Stranahan House is a piece of Florida history

sandwich heaven Where to find the perfect Cuban sandwich

get swept away to exumaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest gem: sandals, emerald bay T h e

I n - F l i g h t

M a g a z i n e

o f

berry, berry good Tasty treats that liven up your table

Michael Owen - International Football Player

PRC 200

www.tissot.ch

Barbados: Hilton Hotel 434-5767

Freeport: Port Lucaya Marketplace Barbados: Broad Street - Cruise Terminal - Vista Mall - Hilton Hotel - Sunset Mall Nassau: Rawson Square, Bay Street - 240 Bay Street - Atlantis, Beach Tower - Marina Village at Atlantis Almond Beach Village - Airport Curacao: Curacao International Airport Jamaica: Sandals Whitehouse European Village and Spa Nassau: Rawson Square, Bay Street - 240 Bay Street - Atlantis, Beach Tower

   

Celebrating life’s most memorable moments.

Signiﬁcant Savings • Certiﬁed Appraisals • International Guarantee of Authenticity Free 90-Day Replacement Plan • Jewellery Rewards • Instant Credit Exclusive seller of

1-800-6-NO-DUTY

ColombianEmeralds.com

FREEPORT: Port Lucaya Marketplace • International Airport Pre- Clearance NASSAU: Rawson Square, Bay Street • 240 Bay Street • Atlantis, Beach Tower Atlantis, Royal Towers • Marina Village at Atlantis Antigua • Aruba • Bahamas • Barbados • Cancun • Curacao • Grenada • Jamaica • St. Lucia • St. Maarten Airport • Tortola • Norwegian Cruise Line

What’s Inside Volume 1 | Issue 2 | 2012

FEATURES

10 Welcome Aboard 15 Flybys 60 In-Flight Service 61 Customs Information 62 Route Map

DEPARTMENTS 23

PLACES TO GO Florida’s Best Sunset The surprising place to be when the sun dips in the evening sky.

DON’T MISS 26 In Search of the Perfect Cuban Ham, pork, cheese...what’s not to love? A sandwich worth searching for. CREATIVE ENDEAVORS 29 Storm of Hate They were thrown together by Katrina. They survived by sheer will and untested strength. GETTING PERSONAL 30 Born and Bred to Fish School’s in session in The Waters of The Bahamas—if you’re lucky enough to make that elusive catch. LIVING WELL 37 Have a Berry Good Season Low in calories, high in benefits. Get the lowdown on these beloved berries. 6 • Volume 1 Issue 2

16 Wish List Shopping worth taking a vacation for, with fine jewelry from Tiffany, Cartier, Bvlgari & more.

55 This Old House Fort Lauderdale history comes alive in a Las Olas landmark that’s the site, scene and setting of tons of activities.

58 Coral Sands’ Four Cottages Offer Dream Homes Away From Home All the peace and quiet on one of nature’s best beaches. Now better than ever with chic cottages.

49 COVER STORY: Without Peer or Pause At 71, the cognoscenti of the hospitality industry shows no signs of slowing down. An up close and personal talk with Sandals founder, Gordon “Butch” Stewart, a man who says he won’t give up until he can’t get up.

While You’re There

Discover the Villas at Cape Santa Maria, an unmatched opportunity to own prime beachfront real estate in the beautiful south Bahamas. Each 1,800 square foot vacation home is beautifully appointed with rich hardwoods and Italian marble and gives you uninterrupted views of the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy full access to all the amenities of Cape Santa Maria Beach Resort and maximize your return on investment with the villa rental program.

PUBLISHER KENT JIMISON PUBLICATION DIRECTOR WENDY CLEMENTS EDITOR DIANE PHILLIPS CREATIVE DIRECTOR JANICE HARDY

CAPE SANTA MARIA

• BEACH RESORT & VILLAS • LONG ISLAND • SOUTH BAHAMAS

TOUR THE NEW VILLAS - IF YOU INVEST, YOUR VACATION IS ON US.

SALES & INFORMATION: 1-242-338-5273 • Toll Free: 1-800-926-9704 www.capesantamaria.com • Email: villas@capesantamaria.com

OB 4048b OAK BAY MARINE GROUP Air Currents magazine 4.625” x 4.75” prepared July 28, 2007

EDITORIAL STAFF ALEXAVIA DORSETT Craig Eldon ADVERTISING SALES KENT JIMISON TRAVEL MEDIA INTERNATIONAL (954) 346-0712 ADVERTISING SALES FOR FLORIDA & GRAND BAHAMA ADVERTISING OPTIONS, INC. (561) 736-7390 ADVERTISINGOPTIONS@EARTHLINK.NET CONTRIBUTING writers brian irwin • margie kaye CONTRIBUTING photographers j clark • daniel schwen • d tobias

TRAVEL MEDIA INTERNATIONAL 10001 VESTAL PLACE CORAL SPRINGS, FLORIDA 33071 (954) 346-0712 FAX (954) 252-2123. KJMSN@AOL.COM EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT (242) 394-0677 DIANE@DPA-MEDIA.COM

Nya has a secret she must never share. A gift she must never use. A world she must never question. And a sister whose life depends on her doing all three.

The Shifter • Blue Fire • Darkfall Published by Balzer & Bray, An Imprint of HarperCollins Publishers Sold at bookstores ever ywhere, or online at: www.barnesandnoble.com • www.amazon.com • www.indiebound.org www.harpercollinschildrens.com

www.JaniceHardy.com

8 • Volume 1 Issue 2

SILVER SKIES© 2012 is published quarterly for the approximately 1,000,000 passengers who travel annually on Silver Airways. Copyright 2012 by Travel Media International. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or in whole is prohibited. All opinions expressed in SILVER SKIES are solely those of the contributors. While every reasonable care has been taken, neither SILVER SKIES nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage to photographs and material submitted to this magazine. Information contained in these pages is subject to change without notice. Volume 1, Issue 2, 2012. Subscriptions available for $16.00 per year. Please send check or money order to: Travel Media International, 10001 Vestal Place, Coral Springs, FL 33071, Attn: Subscriptions.

MY STORY, MY DESIGN

Sterling silver charms from $25

My PANDORA jewelry reﬂects my passion, my moments and my own unique look. It tells who I am, where I’ve been and where I’m going. Tell the world your story with PANDORA jewelry. PANDORA.net

#284 Bay Street • 242.302.2800 Marina Village, Paradise Island Harbour Bay Shopping Center Mall at Marathon • Palmdale LPIA Departures Lounge

Welcome Aboard

Florida’s Hometown Airline Dear Valued Customer,

W Freestyle Turtle 36” x 36” acrylic on linen

fishartista®

• Original paintings • Gicleés on paper & canvas - all sizes • NEW Mini-Giclees w/easel • Notecards, holiday cards & posters

Head over Heels 30” X 40” acrylic on linen

In fine gift shops throughout Abaco

772-341-6566 www.rody.com kim@rody.com VHF ch.16: “Spirit”

10 • Volume 1 Issue 2

ith warm weather and the peak vacation season upon us, there’s no better time to hit the beaches and no better airline to take you there than Silver Airways, the airline that specializes in convenient travel to the greatest getaways. Our extensive service throughout Florida and to The Islands of The Bahamas has made Silver Airways the preeminent carrier to the finest beaches and destinations in this part of the world. You may already know that for years no other carrier has served more destinations in The Bahamas from more airports in Florida. But what you probably don’t know yet, and we are pleased to share with you, is the news that Silver Airways now operates more flights to more cities within Florida than any other airline. And along with our increased service, we are growing with new aircraft and a new world of service both on the ground and in the air. In April, we added daily scheduled service from Gainesville to Tampa and from Gainesville to Orlando. In June, we added service from Fort Lauderdale to Tampa and from Fort Lauderdale to Gainesville, quickly followed by daily scheduled service from Fort Myers to Key West; with the addition of service from Tampa to Jacksonville in August. From Pensacola and Tallahassee in the panhandle, to Jacksonville in the northeast, and all the way to the most southern point, Key West, Silver Airways covers the Sunshine State like never before, and unlike any other airline. With service spanning across Orlando, Tampa, Gainesville, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale, we’re living up to our esteemed nickname: Florida’s Hometown Airline. Our unmatched Florida network creates a wealth of travel opportunities for our customers. For business and political leaders in Tallahassee seeking to maximize productivity while traveling to Tampa or Fort Lauderdale, flying Silver Airways turns those hours spent driving into effective working time. For Seminole and Gator fans living in Central and South Florida, Silver Airways provides a quick and carefree way to return to campus on game-day and cheer on your favorite team. Silver makes Orlando’s theme parks more convenient for folks in Pensacola, and there’s no better way to maximize party time in Key West than by skipping the Overseas Highway. The Saab 340B+ aircraft introduced to our fleet this year and the service added this summer are just two examples of our commitment to providing you and the entire State of Florida the very best flight experience. Welcome aboard and thank you for flying with us. Sincerely, Darrell Richardson CEO, Silver Airways

Graycliff. FiveStarLuxuryatitsBest.

Good taste, great cuisine, superb wines, award-winning cigars and gracious living all come together at Graycliff Hotel and Restaurant, a beautiful, historic mansion, in the heart of Nassau.

THE HOME OF RELAXED ELEGANCE West Hill Street, Nassau, In The Bahamas

(tel) +1242.322.2796 (toll-free) +1800.476.0446 www.graycliff.com

The Hassle Free Way to Fly

Streamline your travel needs with Silver Airways SunPacs, the most affordable way to buy tickets with added benefits on Silver Airways!

Pensacola

• No penalties for reservation changes or cancellations • United Airlines MileagePlus® frequent flyer program • Name transferable • Two complimentary checked bags per passenger; 50 pounds maximum per bag • Available in packs of 12 or 24 One-ways • Valid for travel in either direction • Valid for one full year from date of issue • Prices and taxes determined by your city pair selection • Last seat availability *Reservation required, non-refundable, no re-issue or extension

Tallahassee Jacksonville Gainesville

Orlando Tampa

Fort Myers

Treasure Cay

Palm Beach Fort Lauderdale

Freeport

Marsh Harbour

Bimini

Eleuthers Governor’s Harbour Key West

Georgetown

Call 1-800-296-7010 or 954-302-6980 • 954-302-6982 or purchase electronic tickets on-line at www.gosilver.com

Flybys Community Newspapers Weathering the Storm

ince its debut in Rome on 59 B.C., newspapers have constantly evolved and adapted to change. From stone tablets to digital tablets, newspapers have had their fair share of setbacks, especially during the wake of social media. A recent Pew State of the News Media study notes when circulation and advertising revenue are combined, the newspaper industry has shrunk 43 percent since 2000. But newspaper reporters shouldn’t be so quick to pack up their laptops. The same study also points out that 23 percent of people aged 18-24 reported reading a newspaper daily and 52 percent of these “millennials” are picking up a newspaper at least once a month and up to 14 times a month. While analysts once speculated that social media would become a driving force for where people got their news, it has not had the halting impact they believed. Most readers still collect their news by going directly to the source, even if it’s to confirm a story that has gone viral in the social media space. People generally still have faith in the community newspaper. And Warren Buffet agrees, having recently announced that his company, Berkshire Hathaway, was buying 63 newspapers from Media General. The first few years of radio and TV were probably rough for the newspaper business, but newspapers have been around for centuries and a well-written feature story will always outlive a 140-character tweet.

Three Reasons Why the Kindle Fire is Hot for Traveling

t’s small enough to put in a purse and has access to more e-books than the Florida State University Library. When the Kindle Fire made its entrance with a rock-bottom price, it quickly burned through market share and created a firestorm for the tablet world. There are several tablets claiming to be the all-time favorite, but here are a few reasons the Kindle Fire is scorching hot for travelers. Size: You want to travel light and the Kindle Fire does the trick nicely, weighing slightly less than a pound. With a 7-inch color touchscreen and an 8GB onboard storage, (that's enough for 80 apps and 10 movies or 800 songs or 6,000 books), it’s the perfect pocket library on the go. You can also play games and surf the web without toting a bulky laptop or larger tablet. Wi-Fi: The Fire easily connects to available Wi-Fi networks and hot spots. Once connected to a Wi-Fi network, the device automatically connects to it again whenever that network is in range, making access easier and faster, especially in airport terminals. Price: At $199, the Kindle Fire is affordable, a great starter tablet or perfect for the user who doesn’t need all the bells and whistles. Given its price point and features, it is a big deal in a small package. Plus, you won’t be as upset about accidently leaving it in your hotel room as you would be about forgetting a $500 iPad.

It’s Like Cliffs Notes, But for Math

ath for school kids just got as easy as 1, 2, 3 with The Essential Maths Reference handbook by Catherine Quinn, UK educator who taught math for 35 years in England and The Bahamas. It was that experience that led her to pen a guide with everything you ever wanted to know about math but were afraid to ask. Intended as a practical guide for students aged 7-11, the little handbook is packed with formulas for any age. Here's why we love it. The Essential Maths Reference covers all the necessities from basic counting methods to economic principles like import and export. It's also a great help for those tricky fractions we hate so much. Luckily, the handbook is so small, it's a breeze to travel with and does not bulk down a purse and it definitely will not affect your kid's school bag that may be packed with tons of school books. Volume 1 Issue 2 • 15

Wish List

Colombian Emeralds International Celebrating Life’s Most Memorable Moments. Port Lucaya Marketplace. Grand Bahama International Airport. Rawson Square, Bay Street. 240 Bay Street. Atlantis, Beach Tower. Atlantis, Royal Towers. Marina Village at Atlantis. 1-800-6-NO-DUTY or www.ColombianEmeralds.com.

Gifts Galore!

Tiffany & Co. John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 302-2800; Crystal Court at Atlantis, (242) 363-3956; Marsh Harbour, Abaco; Harbour Island; Emerald Bay, Exuma.

The best shopping at the best prices. From Cartier to Tiffany, Tag Heuer to Movado, the very best vacation treats are just a stroll away.

NIKON John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 3022800; Crystal Court at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Dunmore Town, Harbour Island, Fisherman’s Village, Bimini Bay Resort & Marina.

Amijones John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 302-2800. Marina Village, (242) 363-1141.

16 • Volume 1 Issue 2

Angelique de Paris John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas, (242) 302-2800. Marina Village, Paradise Island.

The Perfume Shop Nassau, (242) 322-2375. John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 302-2872; Marina Village, (242) 363-1152.

Coin of the Realm Nassau, Charlotte and Bay Streets. (242) 322-4862.

Coach 303 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 326-0557.

Bvlgari Bvlgari Boutique, Crystal Court at Atlantis, (242) 363-5824. John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau (242) 302-2800.

Breitling John Bull, Crystal Court at Atlantis (242) 363-3956; Marina Village, Paradise Island; Port Lucaya, Marketplace, Freeport, G.B.; Marsh Harbour, Abaco; Dunmore Town, Harbour Island; Emerald Bay, Exuma.

Dooney & Bourke 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 3022800; Marina Village, (242) 363-1156.

Chanel John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 3022800; Crystal Court at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Dunmore Town, Harbour Island, Fisherman’s Village, Bimini Bay Resort & Marina.

Tiffany & Co. John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 302-2800; Crystal Court at Atlantis, (242) 363-3956; Marsh Harbour, Abaco; Harbour Island; Emerald Bay, Exuma.

Graycliff West Hill Street across from Government House, Nassau. (242) 302-9150.

Tag Heuer John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 302-2800; Marina Village, Crystal Court at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Harbour Island, Port Lucaya Marketplace, Freeport Grand Bahama.

Volume 1 Issue 2 • 17

Wish List

David Yurman Boutique Bay Street (242) 302-2878; Crystal Court at Atlantis; Marina Village; Paradise Island; Marsh Harbour, Abaco; Harbour Island; Bimini Bay, Bimini; Port Lucaya Marketplace, Freeport, Grand Bahama. (242) 302-2878.

Movado John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 3022800; Crystal Court at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Marina Village, Mall at Marathon, Harbour Bay, Palmdale, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Dunmore Town, Harbour Island, Emerald Bay, Exuma, Port Lucaya Marketplace, Freeport Grand Bahama.

Bvlgari Bvlgari Boutique, Crystal Court at Atlantis, (242) 363-5824. John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau (242) 302-2800.

Ebel John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 3022800; Crystal Court at Atlantis. Chanel John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 3022800; Crystal Court at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Dunmore Town, Harbour Island, Fishermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Village, Bimini Bay Resort & Marina.

Swarvoski 303 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 326-0557.

18 â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 1 Issue 2

The Perfume Shop Nassau, (242) 322-2375. John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 302-2872; Marina Village, (242) 363-1152.

Pandora John Bull, 284 Bay Street; Nassau, (242) 302-2800.; Mall at Marathon; Harbour Bay; Marina Village; Marsh Harbour, Abaco; Harbour Island, Eleuthera and Emerald Bay, Exuma.

Hublot John Bull, Crystal Court at Atlantis, Paradise Island, (242) 363-3965

A. Jaffe Signature Bridal Rings John Bull, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 302-2800.

Cartier Cartier Boutique, 284 Bay Street, Nassau, (242) 302-2872; Crystal Court at Atlantis, (242) 363-5808.

Volume 1 Issue 2 • 19

ust 55 miles off the coast of South

Florida lies Grand Bahama Island. A unique destination where you can bask on endless beaches, kayak through national parks, swim with dolphins, snorkel in crystal clear waters, golf, bonefish, rejuvenate in a world class spa or do nothing at all.

For our latest special rate promotions or our ongoing $50 rebate offer visit us at www.grandbahamavacations.com and enter the special rate code bahamas50.

Places to Go

22 â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 1 Issue 2

Places to Go

Key West’s Best Sunset A “sunning” view atop the historic La Concha hotel by Diane Phillips

t’s hard not to wax poetic when you describe the feeling of stumbling upon what might be the finest place in all of Florida to catch the sunset. The ultimate in a state named for its sun, revered for its all-day, all-year sunshine, its sundown. How many incredible places there are to witness the sunset—the beach at Naples, the far end of South Beach, the western reaches of the Everglades. And there’s the most famous sunset happening of all, the pier at Key West where throngs gather, guitarists strum and

They are all there for the same reason you are. To watch the pinks and salmons melt into the blues. To watch the sky reach down until it melts into the water and there is no more space between them than young lovers.

musicians dedicate songs to these moments of the day. But quite by accident, we discovered that the best sunset in Florida can be more than witnessed, it can be ingested in every awakened nerve ending of the body from atop an historic hotel with a rooftop view in Key West. The hotel located on Duval Street is branded a Crowne Plaza but has been better known for most of a century as La Concha. Built in 1926, its history lacks much that would make it legendary—not the kind of place where presidents slept or revolutions were planned—though only the imagination-challenged would fail to conjure up pictures of deals that were made in its halls and promises in its rooms. It

wasn’t too many years ago that the rooftop was used for body painting. Souls, stripped to their skin, got that skin decorated. Today, a new history is being written, for up on top of this refurbished building is a viewing platform that is unparalleled for what it offers when the sun fades for another day, resting till the morrow.

Roof with a view Enter the 1920s-era structure on Key West’s most famous thoroughfare and take the elevator to the top, exiting on the seventh floor. Stroll the wraparound catwalk, marvel at the shore and view below to your right, stop at the bar (there’s no outdoor service, it’s too crowded), pick up a drink and head Volume 1 Issue 2 • 23

Places to Go

There are, at this hour, 90 or 100 people sharing this private moment gulping in the air, sorting out the shelves of their memories. back out, continuing the length of the building until you emerge around the corner to a low-walled patio and a view so dramatic, it is literally jolting. There, lazily stretching out before you is endless harmony—the sea, sky, everything that Florida is all about, all there in one spot at one moment in time. The contrast from the busyness below—congestion of people, music, bikes, vehicles, surreys—is startling. The view is so tranquil, it awakens forgotten senses, a view not just of the water but of the trees and greenery of Key West, shockingly more abundant from above the city than apparent at ground level. Trees so large and mature they seem to wrap their protective limbs around buildings, hugging and sheltering them like sentries in a storm. Here, the sky is so big it’s like crossing Florida on the north side of Lake Okeechobee on State Road 80. A cruise ship is anchored off, its size dwarfed by the vastness of the scene. Here, at the end of the toe of Florida’s peninsula, water moves gently, swaying this way and 24 • Volume 1 Issue 2

Places to Go

that. You are not alone. There are, at this hour, 90 or 100 people sharing this private moment gulping in the air, sorting out the shelves of their memories. The people are of every variety, from everywhere. A woman with an oxygen tank, a man in black designer jeans with expensive boots and a black felt cowboy hat, tourists who came with their church group, an elderly couple, sipping their gin and tonic, toasting to life, holding hands. They are all there for the same reason you are. To watch the pinks and salmons melt into the blues. To watch the sky reach down until it melts into the water and there is no more space between them than young lovers. To say farewell, officially,

fun in the sunset The sunset celebration at Mallory Square is a daily ritual for visitors to this subtropical island at the bottom of the Florida Keys. quietly, to one more day in the finest place in Florida to whisper goodbye to the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s warmth. And to make their way, slowly to the elevator at the end of the long catwalk as light fades and darkness settles, descending to street

level, to the noise and the raucous scene below, calmed by the knowledge that the sun will rise in the morning and the ritual of its setting will be played out again the next day, even if you are not there to see it.

Volume 1 Issue 2 â&#x20AC;˘ 25

Don’t Miss

To a real aficionado, the search for the perfect Cuban means only one thing—the hunt for the perfect sandwich.

In Search of the Perfect Cuban Sandwich that is by Diane Phillips

o the uninitiated, the search for the perfect Cuban may conjure up an image of a great human being, one who made the transition from past to present without forgetting the Mom and Pop who helped him or her get there, continuing to overindulge them with reverence and talking of the old country as if they really planned to resume a life disrupted more than half a century ago. But to a real aficionado, the search for the perfect Cuban means only one thing—the hunt for the perfect sandwich, one that melts in your mouth at the same time it teases your taste buds with its solid ham, pork, cheese, 26 • Volume 1 Issue 2

pickles, butter and mustard all on grilled homemade bread with thick crust. So attached to the Cuban are the real fans of this ethnic delicacy that they call it by its simple first name, eschewing the word sandwich as if everyone should just know what it is. And that speaks volumes about the dedication. Think of it this way. There’s nothing more Americana than apple pie yet no American would say apple and expect everyone to know it meant pie. So Silver Skies took to the streets to try to find the best Cuban (sandwich, that is) in Florida. No easy task, but hardly one that met with resistance.

Here are a few of the restaurants that have managed to turn what the smug would call a fancy pressed pork and cheese sandwich into an art form.

The Columbia 8 locations, including three in the Tampa area, Sarasota, Clearwater Beach, St. Petersburg, Celebration, St. Augustine No reference to Cuban food would be accurate if it did not start with or at least prominently include the icon of Cuban food, The Columbia, now with eight locations. When there was only one, a family I know made annual treks from

the columbia Today, the restaurant has a grand total of 52,000 square feet with 15 dining rooms and over 1,700 seats, and encompasses an entire city block. The Columbia is Florida’s oldest restaurant, founded in 1905.

Don’t Miss 1993, this staple of the west coast diet is still run by the same Vilar family and has expanded to only one other nearby location, close enough to keep a careful watch on quality and consistency, and there are those who say once you’ve tasted a Cuban sandwich from The Floridian with real roast pork, you’ll never settle for deli meat again.

Miami to The Columbia in Ybor City, Tampa, an almost religious pilgrimage, a six-hour hike with car packed with kids, games and sleeping gear for the overnight hike long before interstate highways made travel easy. It was there, in Ybor City, legend has it, where the Cuban sandwich was born in the 1890s to feed hungry factory workers traipsing to and from work at the nearby cigar factory. The large brick factory has long since closed but The Columbia where the sandwich originated has blossomed and the menu reads like volumes of history, complete with photos and stories. According to legend, what started out as spiced roasted pork on Cuban bread evolved as different cultures found their way to the city—pickles contributed by the Jewish population, Genoa salami by the Italians, Swiss cheese by the obvious, ham, mayonnaise, mustard.

Jose’s Real Cuban Food 8799 Cortez Road, Bradenton, FL Without shame or explanation, Jose’s accepts the description of its ambience as “divey.” But as readers know, some of the best meat loaf and mashed potatoes can be found at a truck stop and if you want a good Cuban sandwich, you want to go where Cubans go. You’ll find them at Jose’s, a bit of a hole in the wall where heat—there’s still no air conditioning— matches the temperature of the rolls coming out of the oven every hour, trying to keep off with the sweating, but smiling customers.

The Floridian 230 107th Avenue, Treasure Island, FL 4424 W. Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL

At the top end of the dozens and dozens of Tampa-area restaurants with Cuban food besides The Columbia is The Floridian, dubbed home of the finest Cuban sandwich not just in the state but on the planet by the St. Pete Times and the local Fox TV station, Channel 13. Founded in

Miami/Miami Beach Turn two degrees in any barrio or direction and you’ll find a restaurant serving Cuban sandwiches in Miami, Miami Beach and Hialeah where the thriving Cuban population knows a good Cuban sandwich from an impostor. Some are little more than a take-out place, but all have great reviews.

Jose’s Real Cuban Food It might look “divey” but the food is divine.

Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop 186 NE 29th Street, Miami, FL Enriqueta’s has been around on 29th Street for so many years that no one remembers when it wasn’t there, but it’s still called one of the best restaurants you’ve never heard of, at least for relatively simple daytime fare, including a Cuban sandwich. Beware, this little Zagat-rated gem closes at 4 Monday-Friday.

Casa Lario’s 7705 W Flagler Street, 820 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach Rhythm gonna get you at Casa Lario’s owned by Gloria Estafen who teamed up with the original owner after she fell in love with the food she praised as authentic. Together they built a swankier location on Miami Beach almost within the shadow of the Fountainbleau and now the Cuban sandwich is served in a setting that is so chic it could easily be converted

to sushi. Hopefully, it never will.

Las Vegas Cuban Several locations including Hollywood and 6870 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach The Vilarino family fled Cuba with the mass exodus that became known as the Mariel Boat Lift in 1980, bought one restaurant in Hollywood, Florida, perfected the skirt steak served in healthy portions at low prices and went on to build a mini-empire of Cuban-style restaurants in South Florida. Despite their success, the family with the Zagat-rated small chain never lost its Cuban sandwich roots, just spread their wings to serve it in more places, and fans are mighty grateful with every bite into the tender and tasty morsels on the thick, fresh-from-the-oven Cuban roll.

Volume 1 Issue 2 • 27

Creative Endeavors

They scramble from one floor to the next as the water rises, a symbolic introduction of lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s struggles to overcome obstacles.

Creative Endeavors

Storm of Hate Characters thrown together in Hurricane Katrina leap off the page and cry out for the big screen by Diane Phillips

here are some books you read that should be left just as you found them—words on a printed page or maybe floating across an electronic screen. Then there are those whose words and characters leap off the page and beg to play the big screen. Storm of Hate is one of those. Written by a journalist who churns out hundreds, if not thousands of words a day on business matters, Storm of Hate is the big-screen production reduced to the written page, the tale of characters thrown together by happenstance and the worst natural catastrophe in the history of the United States, Hurricane Katrina. Author Jeffrey Todd was in Canada when the storm by which all other Cat 5 hurricanes will forever be measured slammed into the Louisiana coast, knocking over houses and buildings and boats and light poles like feathers flying in a

breeze and destroying life as it was once known. In New Orleans his characters gather, their dreams, faults, foibles, even their blisters are exposed and revealed in glaring detail. Nate and Janna, an interracial couple living in the Lower 9th Ward, each with their own pasts, miseries and mini-dramas, are trapped inside the house. They scramble from one floor to the next as the water rises, a symbolic introduction of life’s struggles to overcome obstacles. One survives, wanders, painting a picture of the destruction of a city as that character ends up in the Superdome where throngs gather, listening to voices of authority promising that buses will come, relief will be on the way. Inside the Superdome, hours pass, then days. Food runs out. Shouts of anger mingle with moans as the sick and injured are too slowly cared for and

the detritus of human life spills over in overloaded facilities that no longer have the capacity to behave. Back at the city’s finest hotel, a father awaits the arrival of his estranged daughter, due in that evening, never knowing whether she has made it to the city or whether she heard the warnings and stayed away, safe. His flaws, for decades hidden beneath a cloak of success and Armani suits, are bared for all the world to see. Back at the Superdome, an elderly woman lays dying until two people with strength they did not know they possessed bring her to the brink of wanting to live. Babies cry, not understanding. And the steam builds. As the crowd inside the sweltering Superdome grows more impatient and frustrated, SWAT team officers try to cope, barely able to contain the

discontent, resorting to piling up more and more cars as boundaries. But the riots are about to erupt and the officers, like all the other characters whose insides show as if they had no clothing, are stretched to the limit of human potential. Despite his physical distance from the scene of the storm, Todd brilliantly captures the essence of the anguish, a feat he says he was able to accomplish by interviewing several survivors who shared their stories. Maybe he should have asked them if they wanted to star in a movie. Storm of Hate Author: Jeff Todd Publisher: The Key Publishing House Available on amazon.com

Volume 1 Issue 2 • 29

Getting Personal

Born and Bred to Fish A tale of two fishing experiences by Brian Irwin

D our gaff: Gaffing a dorado or dolphin as it is commonly known; not Flipper the mammal, but the kind that shows up as mahi-mahi on a menu. 30 • Volume 1 Issue 2

ave is 22 years old. He’s eighthgeneration Bahamian and is one of three brothers who, along with their father Mike, operate their family business: charter fishing for marlin. These trophy fish of the sea are scarce, and although the crew and their four-boat fleet have an impressive track record, a marlin would be a boon.

Yet any day of fishing which yields a haul of fish is considered a good day, regardless of the type. The towers of Atlantis stood in the background as the 48’ Chubasco III gargled its way up to the dock behind Nassau’s colorful straw market. Here, hardworking locals sell handcrafts, stories, memories. Mike slowly

gyrated the boat’s wheel, backing the 48-footer to the seawall. In a moment, we were off into the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean, towing lines rigged with six-inch bait fish within minutes of departure. The ocean is broad and virtually featureless from the surface. Finding game fish in a vast expanse of

Getting Personal

fishing on the fly: To catch the right fish, you need the right bait.

water seems improbable; however Mike and his family know where to find the Pisces. Flotsam strings of weeds 10 miles out in the ocean, clusters of birds flocking over schools of bait fish, even a trundled 2x4 in the ocean provide the hints that have kept the Chubasco fleet motoring with tight lines for over 26 years. Our day was no different. Within an hour, the reels in the boat started screaming, their gears, capable of landing fish of over 1,000 pounds with luck and skill, spinning salty water under the pull of the fish. One and even two at a time, our party pulled in skipjack tuna and blackfin tuna, some the size of footballs, some twice that size. We were catching what, in my hometown in New England, goes for $20 for a slice the size of a

cell phone. Sushi. By the wheelbarrowful. No marlin yet. Dave explained that we were fortunate to get out past the reef, passage through which had thwarted all fishing boats for the prior week due to high winds and waves. And although you can find marlin when you least expect it, they are the grand prize of offshore fishing and are hard to come by. So when the reel, snug in its holster, shouted a shrill that meant a fish was on hook, the hope was that it was the most prized billfish in the world. And although it was not, the line peeled out in a fashion unlike that which a small tuna could yank. The strip was brisk. It was a mahi mahi. Commonly mistaken in name due to their other title “dolphin,” this fish (not mammal) is

Within an hour, the reels in the boat started screaming, their gears, capable of landing fish of over 1,000 pounds with luck and skill, spinning salty water under the pull of the fish.

not brethren to Flipper, the American iconic domesticated porpoise. Rather, these amber, sapphire and emerald fish are not only a prized game fish, charged with a fervor to jump when hooked, but are among the most beautiful in the sea. Also known as dorado, the first one was brought to the boat’s hull by Kelly McKinnon, a slight, yet

Volume 1 Issue 2 • 31

Getting Personal

Within minutes of leaving the dock, Delbert spotted a few bonefish holing up in knee deep water near the dock.

guide on Bonefish guide Delbert Smith atop the flats boat scouts Long Island waters for a sign of movement that would indicate bonefish below. tough former women’s lacrosse player and amateur underrated hip hop singer. Within 10 minutes of reeling,

the fish met the gaff (a hook mounted to a pole, used by mates to land fish into their boats) of young David. And the day had just begun. Six hours later we eased into Nassau harbor with what would amount to a heap of tuna and mahi. Dreams of marlin faded into the creamy green water along with the fishes’ scales as locals, hands heavily calloused from years of manual labor cleaned our fish for us. That night, we would eat our own catch at Goldie’s Conch House, a humble stand with colorful paneling and weatherbeaten, autographed 8x10 photos of visiting celebrities. Blackened mahi and a bed of vegetables adorned with fresh tuna followed a course of idyllic conch fritters and conch salad, a true ceviche made from conch cracked out of the shell on the dock just 20 feet away.

One-hundred and sixty-five miles to the southeast is a different fishery, a different Bahamas. Long Island, slim and lengthy stretches 80 miles from north to south, yet is only 3.7 miles wide at its broadest point. It’s a remote land through which the Tropic of Cancer passes, with a rich tradition of self-sufficiency and a focus on what is practical for survival. Long Island had its first bank robbery in 1993. It did not have island-wide power until 1994. There’s only one major road running the length of the island. Along its course lie pink shacks, simple local shops and roads to various attractions, almost all of which you’ll have to find yourself. One such attraction is the site of Christopher Columbus’ second landing in “The New World,” (the first was on San Salvador, a Bahamian Island to the east, though folks in

The 1st Name in Exuma Real Estate Judy Hurlock, BRI Broker

242.357.0600 242.345.0400 Judy@coldwellbankerbahamas.com

32 • Volume 1 Issue 2

Getting Personal Cat Island continue to make a strong argument that the first landfall was actually there). Another is Dean’s Blue Hole, a geological, submarine hole where the shallow ocean drops to a depth of 666 feet. The Bahamas has over 300 blue holes, and Dean’s, the site of the World Free Dive Championships, is the deepest. But most do not venture to Long Island to dive to lethal depths. Nor do they come to see the site where Columbus landed. They come here to fish for bonefish, the “ghost of the flats.” These stealthy fish, rarely exceeding eight pounds are fast, terrified of noise or shadows and provide the ultimate challenge for fly fishermen. We were in good hands, with local guide (law dictates that only native Bahamians can be bonefish guides) Delbert Smith. Smith, a 50-year-old Long Island native, is a soft-spoken man. His voice is almost nervous with kindness, carrying a soft ripple as he introduced

shhhhh The bonefish is known as the ghost of the flats. himself. “Sir,” he said, “today we will have a good day.” His sunglasses hid his sharp eyes, honed after years of stalking bonefish on the flats. His boat, a 17’ craft was impeccable, his manners more professional than the concierge at the Marriott in Boston

where I stayed just last week. All day, he worked, standing high on his elevated platform on the back of his boat, doing four things with simultaneous perfection. He moved the boat silently under the power of his chiseled arms. He screened the

Volume 1 Issue 2 • 33

Getting Personal shiny, shallow water looking for fish. He advised us where and when to cast. And he made sure we were happy. But like marlin, bonefish aren’t always around, and if they are, they’re not always hungry. Within minutes of leaving the dock, Delbert spotted a few holing up in knee deep water near the dock. Upon his command, I fired a fly six feet ahead of the roaming fish. It’s sleek, silver body coasted in toward my fly, knocked it with enough

strength to bend my tip, and then it was gone. The day wore on and like the bonefish, we followed the tide. The water drained out of the broad expanse of powdery sand that makes up Long Island’s west shore. The shin deep water, clear as gin, gradually eased back into the sea and along with it, the bonefish. Fishing was slow as we waited for the water to submit to the pull of the moon and flood the

On land, she may be genteel, but put a rod and reel in Lori’s hands and she’ll fight for the big one. Fishing aboard Chubasco III off Nassau in The Bahamas was all thrills and action, the antithesis of the silent stealthy approach to nabbing a bonefish 120 miles south in Long Island sandy flats once again. Around two in the afternoon, the sea once again began to fill up the basin in which we were fishing. Sea grass once again flowed in the water; doormat-sized rays glided into the shallows and crabs bubbled their way out of their holes to drink the cool ocean. We waded, under the strict direction of Delbert, scanning for tails or shadows of bonefish. With a “psst!” of his chapped lips, our guide pointing into the sparkling water, whispered: “fish.” I stripped fly line from my reel and began to cast, swinging the cord into the air. I whipped my fly toward the school of roaming fish, laid it down, and with a flash the school, terrified from the shadow of my cast, evaporated in a whirl of frothy water.

34 • Volume 1 Issue 2

Getting Personal with James “Docky” Smith, Stella’s resident bonefish guide. Over a crisp Kalik lager, I probed Docky for what it was like to guide here. To live here. Miles from so many of the world’s “comforts,” but perfectly situated among a hundred miles of sandy paradise. I asked him if he ever sees himself leaving Long Island. The 40-year-old native took a sip of the bubbly drink and replied. “Why would I? Everything I need is right here.”

Sunset brought us back to the coral colored cabanas of the Stella Maris Resort, where a steel drum band tinkled tunes to the crackle of a fire busy grilling fresh steaks.

good grill A cool and constant breeze makes the open pit fireplace at Stella Maris, Long Island, a resort favorite. As the sun fell toward the horizon we worked our way into twisted mangrove trees and shallow water, hungry lemon sharks cruising among the weeds looking for their dinner. We worked our way into the weeds and trees; shorebirds floated into their nests bringing food for their kin; bonefish stacked up against the mangroves waiting for enough water to enable passage into this safe habitat. Again Delbert whistled softly. I followed his finger, cast a line and began to strip my fly, a one-inch long rendition of a shrimp that was passed on to me by a friend in New Hampshire. I retrieved my line, felt a tug, and instantly, cord peeled from my reel. I had a bonefish on. Sunset brought us back to the coral colored cabanas of the Stella Maris Resort, where a steel drum band tinkled tunes to the crackle of a fire busy grilling fresh steaks. Scores of salads, crocks of spicy conch chowder and baskets of bread lay out for the guests as rum punch flowed and the sea breeze cooled the rooms. Talk of big fish and those lost filled the dinner table and then the bar, as we dined

Volume 1 Issue 2 • 35

Living Well

Bringing on the berries not only signals summertime, it supports a healthy diet.

Living Well

Have a Berry Good Season Healthy never tasted so great by Craig Eldon

t’s officially that time of year when the days are longer, the air is warmer, pools are the social hot spot and berries are in season. Since they’re now at their peak, it’s the perfect time to indulge. And bringing on the berries not only signals time for outdoor living, it supports a healthy diet. Packed with fiber and antioxidants, these juicy treats help fight off toxins associated with aging and a host of diseases including arthritis, cancer, diabetes and heart disease. You’ll feel even better knowing that berries are

low in calories. Strawberries are the lowest with just under 50 calories per cup, the recommended serving size. It’s not just the calorie count that counts. That little red strawberry is a powerhouse packed with stuff that’s good for you and totally absent of stuff that’s bad. It’s high in potassium, low in sodium and has zero cholesterol. When it comes to a big helper in a small package, it’s pretty hard to beat the prunus avium, better known as the cherry, which could be just the very berry best—unless you are on a low-carb diet. Full

of taste and texture, the cherry is nature’s medicine cabinet rolled into a fleshy bundle of wonder. Cherries contain anthocyanins, a red pigment that is a natural antioxidant, reducing the risk of hypertension, stroke, heart disease and diabetes. It also acts as a natural pain reliever, eases inflammation and can fight gout. High in potassium, the super fruit is good for the heart and kidney and lowers bad cholesterol. Experts say that raw sweet cherries are

Calendar of berry seasons Strawberry: Early June to mid-July. Red Raspberry: Mid-June to late July. Second crop from mid-August to mid-September in limited quantities. Gooseberry: Late June to mid-July. Black Currant: End of June to mid-July. Red Currant: End of June to mid-July. Boysenberry: Mid-July to mid-August. Loganberry: Mid-June to mid-July. Marionberry: Mid-July to mid-August. Nectarberry: Mid-July to mid-August. Blueberry: Mid-July to September. Lingonberry: Late August and September. Cranberry: Harvested in October; available fresh through December. Volume 1 Issue 2 • 37

Living Well loaded with vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients, but there is a price to pay for a single fruit that does so much. They’re a little higher in calories than the strawberry, 97 to a cup and for those on a low-carb regimen of 20-30 carbohydrates a day, a cup of cherries alone can contain 25 carbs. Unlike the cherry that has a stone for a heart, raspberries are hollow in the interior. But what surrounds

that empty spot is sheer heaven for the body, except in rare cases where untreated kidney disease or gallbladder problems could make it difficult to digest the high concentration of oxalates. Harvested from June-October, raspberries come in midway between strawberries and cherries with 64 calories per cup. But they overpower their berry competitors when it comes to dishing out the Vitamin C. A single

25 years of Marine Upholstery experience, creating Outdoor Furniture that weathers the elements.

Oasis

chic living

Show home quality furniture designed to live outdoors.

East Shirley Street, Nassau, Bahamas www.oasisoutdoorliving.com | 242-393-4498 | 242-394-7408 38 • Volume 1 Issue 2

cup of raspberries serves up 53.7% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of the vitamin that can make you feel and look younger and 41% of the RDA of manganese. Here’s a small tip that you’d never guess would bring out the best in the bumpy berry: serve with a few drops of balsamic vinegar. Long before there was Just for Men, there was hair dye made from blackberries and lye. But the real benefit of blackberries is their powerful antioxidants. The very component that gives the fruit its deep purple color has been shown to be the strongest cancer-fighting tool of all the berries with at least one study pegging it at 40% higher than any other berry. One cup of blackberries contains 62 calories and provides up to 50% of the recommended daily allowance of Vitamin C, though like most other berries is a bit high in carbohydrates. Some of the best blackberries are those that grow wild along the side of the road and while there are blackberry festivals all over the U.S., Canada and Australia, once picked, the fruit has a short shelf life, lasting only a few days in the fridge. So clip the end, freeze in a Ziploc® bag and your blackberries will keep for months. North America’s love affair with the little blueberry goes all the way back to the original native Americans who held them in such high regard that they believed they were created by the “Great Spirit” to keep their children from starvation and famine. That respect for the bitty berry carried on among early settlers and even today, it’s the country’s favorite muffin. Low in sodium and fat, the blueberry comes in at 70 calories a cup and is believed to help fight the effects of cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer’s.

South Eleutheraâ&#x20AC;ŚThe Best Kept Secret in The Bahamas for World-Class Diving and Fishing Ocean Fox Cotton Bay is a small, professional scuba diving and deep sea fishing operation out of Davis Harbour Marina on South Eleuthera (approximately a one hour drive south from Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbour). We offer incredible diving with wall dives, pinnacle reefs, small boiling holes, and a shark site, all in crystal clear water. Enjoy snorkeling and beach combing as well as deep sea fishing for dolphin, wahoo, tuna, marlin and sailfish. If your desires include the ocean, be it scuba diving, snorkeling, beaches or fishing, then let us customize a trip to meet those desires.

Ocean Fox Cotton Bay www.oceanfoxcottonbay.com (242) 334-6300

Fly Out Free! WHY AN “Out Island”? WHY

Stella Maris Resort Club? Consider:

There: A tourist-metropolis. . .crowded, noisy, with bumper-to-bumper traffic. A vacation machine, in which you count for little. Lost in sheer numbers. Here: Peace, tranquility, unspoiled nature. Lots of space to lose yourself in. Oldfashioned hospitality. The expense? Discover real vacation values: Very reasonable hotel rates. Daily FREE activities. “Sun & Sea”. . .”Diving”. . .”Fishing”. . . ”Honeymoon” packages. Bungalow rentals for 1or more weeks. Our Advice? Looking for Shopping Malls? Hot Night Clubbing? Flashy Casinos? Fast paced water sports? No, we don’t have it. Or, looking for warm-hearted friendliness, beautiful facilities. . . the oceans, the beaches, water sports at their best. . .in an enchanted island retreat. . .for just a small number of visitors? Then you belong with us.

Call Us.

R E S O R T C L U B Long Island, Southern Bahamas www.StellaMarisResort.com info@StellaMarisResort.com

800-426-0466 • 954-359-8236 Fax 954-359-8238 242-338-2051 (0) (3), Fax 242-338-2052

Be at Peace Peace and Plenty Resorts offer three small, intimate and relaxing hotels on Great Exuma for your vacationing pleasure. Complete with the amenities of home, Peace and Plenty Resorts give you a pampered haven you’ll come back to again and again. Spend your days enjoying our beautiful beaches, snorkeling, PADI scuba, fishing and more. Spend your nights dining at one of our restaurants, sampling the cuisine of local chefs. However you choose to spend your time, Peace and Plenty Resorts will make it memorable.

Peace and Plenty Resorts (800) 252-2210 • (242) 336-2551 • www.peaceandplenty.com

�� At the Abaco Inn, everything comes with a view. Our 12 bungalows, 8 luxury villas, restaurant, bar, even our freshwater pool - it just never stops being breathtaking.

T A N

Y O U R

T O E S

I N

T H E

A B A C O S

��

Visit www.MyOutIslands.com for details.

Sammy T’s Beach Resort

Cat Island, Bahamas

Awaken your soul...

The peace and quiet, the food, the staff, is what makes Sammy T’s the place you are searching for. Our resort has the feeling of home, and we like to think that we have invited some friends over for a couple of days, just to relax and regenerate themselves.

Cat Island is renowned for its totally tranquil atmosphere, its lush natural vegetation and miles of untouched spectacular beaches, including our private beach nestled within a cove. Sammy T’s offers a varied and entertaining schedule of sporting and leisure activities.

The resort features six individual one- and two-bedroom villas. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, ceiling fans, DVD library along with full bedroom and living room furnishings and a kitchenette with a microwave, refrigerator and coffee maker.

Sammy T’s Beach Resort • Bennett’s Harbour, Cat Island • The Bahamas • www.catislandbeachresort.com

AirCurrents2010.qxp:AirCurrent2010 6/30/10 2:19 PM Page 1 (242) 354-6009 • Fax: (242) 354-6010 • info@catislandbeachresort.com

...like no other place on earth

• • • • •

• • • •

Boats for rent and guides for hire Renowned Bahamian-American cuisine Freight & passenger air service available Full-service marina - deep water dockage

Friendly, casual atmosphere Beautiful secluded beaches Incredible SCUBA, snorkeling & fishing Charming waterfront cottages Unique swimming pigs, nurse sharks & iguanas

www.stanielcay.com | info@stanielcay.com | Bahamas: 242.355.2024 | US: 954.467.8920

Fly Out Free!

Imagine...

yourself at

Pigeon Cay!

FERNANDEZ BAY VILLAGE CAT ISLAND - BAHAMAS

Discover Paradise If you're seeking an authentic out island experience, look beyond Paradise Island and discover Fernandez Bay Village. This private island resort offers pristine white sand beaches and crystal

Pigeon Cay promises romance and offers the ultimate in privacy, seclusion and breathtaking views. Each of the seven cottages is equipped with all comforts of home and all are steps from the beach, located along a private 3-mile stretch of white, powdery sand beach. Instead of glitz and glamour, there is nature at her finest, incredible beaches to walk or run, turquoise waters to swim or snorkel, hills to climb or bike, caves to dive, or play a round of golf on a Par 6 course.

clear water for snorkeling, fishing and diving. Relax beach-side in one of the hammocks or sip a cool drink at the Tiki bar. Stay in romantic cottages perfect for couples looking to get away from it all, or a 2 bedroom beach house well suited for families and larger groups. Learn more at www.fernandezbayvillage.com

Reservations: 800-940-1905 / Front desk 242-342-3043 www.fernandezbayvillage.com

Pigeon Cay Beach Club Cat Island, Bahamas Phone/Fax 242-354-5084 e-mail: pigeoncay@starband.net www.pigeoncay-bahamas.com

Visit www.MyOutIslands.com for details.

The Hottest Deal in The Baha mas...When Turtles Fly! Who said that for rates to be this low it would have to be when turtles fly?! Searching for discounts on Bahamas Hotels? Our ‘When Turtles Fly’ package prices start at just $599 per person for 3 nights deluxe accommodations, round trip airfare on United Airlines from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Treasure Cay, Bahamas (TCB) and all taxes and service charges on both flight and room. Based on double occupancy in either a Deluxe Club Room or Waterfront room. Add on nights at 79-$99 per person per night.”

A Perfect Day at Small Hope Bay

Great diving and so much more!

What is your idea of the perfect island vacation? If it is scuba diving one of the largest and most unexplored barrier reefs in the world, great snorkeling, superb bonefishing, laying in a hammock, exploring nature, more Bahamas diving, having a cold Kalik, strolling on the beach, reading a good book, meeting interesting people, spending time with your family, or by yourself, I think that I have the place for you ... This small Bahamas all-inclusive resort is more than just another Bahamas hotel, we are the most established dive resort in the Caribbean. Our environment is very safe, peaceful, secluded, and a great romantic getaway. Come join us for a new adventure, a true Bahamas experience, a family vacation, a relaxing holiday retreat on the beach, or the Caribbean vacation of your dreams.

Celebrating 50 Years of Perfect Days!

With only 21 cottages and all inclusive rates, the Perfect Day is right here ...

www.smallhope.com

See our blog and testimonials. Follow us on YouTube, YouTube Testimonials, Facebook & Twitter

Totally All-Inclusive Small Hope Bay Lodge

Fresh Creek, Andros, Bahamas (800) 223-6961 â&#x20AC;˘ (242) 368-2013/2014 SHBinfo@smallhope.com

Fly Out Free!

Visit www.MyOutIslands.com for details.

SKY’S THE LIMIT

Put your feet up, relax and enjoy a book on our lovely pink sand beach. Or you can ﬁnd food, solace and the beverage of your choice at the Bistro, with a full-service swim-up cocktail bar. Sky Beach Club seamlessly blends modern amenities with the splendor of unmatched natural beauty and excellent service.

Accommodations range from luxurious poolside bungalows to 3200-square foot, four-bedroom, four-bath villas with private pools. Our elegant residences feature an abundance of glass to capitalize on the breathtaking views. Every detail is dedicated to modern luxury, comfort, and total privacy.

Sky Beach Club Resort Amenities Include: Amazing views of the Atlantic and the Caribbean. Secluded pink-sand beach. Contemporary dining in the Bistro. Inﬁnity edge beachfront pool with swim-up cocktail bar. Gated resort community.

Energy efﬁcient green construction. Concierge Services for island activities, ﬁshing charters and pre-arrival pantry stocking. Located 7 minutes south of the Governor’s Harbour airport.

For information on Reservations or Real Estate Sales contact us at (800) 605-9869 or visit our web site www.SkyBeachClub.com

Cover Story

Without

Peer or

Pause Sandals Founder Gordon 'Butch' Stewart

By Diane Phillips

I The hotelier without peer or pause loves what he does and it shows

father figure Butch Stewart, founder and father of the Caribbean’s most successful hotels, Sandals.

t’s 4 o’clock on a steamy Saturday afternoon and Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart hasn’t stopped all day. He worked through lunch. As usual. The phone rings. He makes plans for church, a 6:30 mass this evening. The phone rings again; he accepts a dinner invitation to an old friend’s house next door after mass. He’s going to church tonight so he can go fishing early tomorrow morning without missing a catch, a prayer or a beat. Sunday afternoon he’ll be back at work, studying business reports, before flying off the next morning to Florida for a week when he will have to meet and handle the next round of meetings and hotel visits and designers

and chefs and marketing people and everything else that demands and wins his personal attention. At 71, the best-known hotelier in the region, Butch Stewart, founder and father of the Caribbean’s most successful hotels, Sandals, shows no signs of slowing down. Why should he? The hotelier without peer or pause loves what he does and it shows—in his properties, in Sandals’ accolades and awards, in over-the-top occupancy rates even in the most challenging economic times. And most especially it shows in the twinkle of his eyes. Clear blue as the water below his balcony, warm and smiling, his eyes hold a

world of positive promise. Here, they say, is a man happy with life, in love with his surroundings and their bright colors, not ready to rest, still curious and very much alive. We catch up with Butch Stewart at one of his homes, this one on Paradise Island in The Bahamas. Whistling distance from the omniscient pink presence of Atlantis, Stewart’s fourstory home is a world unto itself, filled to overflow with color. We ride up a polished stainless steel elevator and that’s the last symbol of sterile we see. We reach the top level with an expanse of living space that stretches from view to view of the surrounding waters. Tall panes of glass, deep emerald Volume 1 Issue 2 • 49

“Designers,” he says, as if he’s speaking about unidentified flying organizers. “They all want you to go towards the sophisticated colors, earth tones, beiges, grays...I like color and I do have my arguments with designers.” green walls with a suede finish, oversized glass dish sculptures on the walls in hues of blues and purples and golds, a huge custommade circular carpet with red, tan and black swirls, custom-made upholstery on couches and chairs and pillows. And somehow all the colors and combinations go. Like living in the middle of happiness. For a moment,

SANDALS EMERALD BAY There may be no better example of a hotel that has been ‘Sandalized’ than Sandals Emerald Bay, Exuma. Sandals founder, CEO and hospitality cognoscenti Butch Stewart bought a foreclosed property that had fallen into disrepair, its lawns and landscaping burning in the hot Exuma sun, its windows boarded up, its fat-bellied TVs a decade out of style. That was three years ago. Today, Sandals Emerald Bay is one of the hottest properties in the region, complete with the option of butler-service suites. Located on a half moon beach opening onto a large bay of clear-as-ice, calm turquoise and cerulean waters, the hotel is a world unto itself with luxurious tropical accommodations, world-class spa, an 18-hole Greg Norman golf course, all the water toys a grown-up kid could want, oceanfront villas ideal for honeymooners or other lovebirds, and a host of restaurants, bars and lounges ranging from the Drunken Duck Pub to La Parisienne with its French menu and white-glove service. Like all other Sandals, it’s all-inclusive but its butler suites and exquisite dining scoot it a notch higher than many, happily for those to whom beauty and freedom from worry on vacation are interchangeable. While high-end rooms are commanding the price they deserve, Sandals Emerald Bay is more affordable with a special two-fly-free campaign offered by the Out Island Promotion Board, an organization dedicated to spreading the word about what’s often called the real Bahamas, the Family Islands outside Nassau and Grand Bahama that dot more than 100,000 square miles of open ocean and offer everything from a mom and pop cottage to the all-inclusive beachfront luxury of Sandals Emerald Bay. And getting there is easy with two non-stop flights daily from Fort Lauderdale on Silver Airways. 50 • Volume 1 Issue 2

I envision Butch Stewart as a kid with finger paints and no supervision. Just mischief in his eyes and the knowledge he’s going to get away with it. Not sure if it’s the disarming cherubic face or the color itself but suddenly you can’t picture him in a place without color. Not surprisingly, it’s one of the biggest fights he has with his team. “Designers,” he says, as if he’s speaking about unidentified flying organizers. “They all want you to go towards the sophisticated colors, earth tones, beiges, grays. They say it’s elegant.” He shakes his head as if those who like bland ought to be examined. “I like color and I do have my arguments with designers.” The very mention of designers is an example of how much the industry has changed since Stewart bought his first hotel in his homeland of Jamaica in 1981, not because he had any interest in hospitality but because the country was struggling and the family’s main business, appliances, could benefit from having a place to sell a surplus of air conditioners, fridges and other equipment to. It would not be the last time that Stewart’s purchasing power boosted, some would go so far as to say, save, Jamaica from an economic tsunami. Hotels, airline,

newspaper, an impact on currency. “When we first started, you built a hotel room and said ‘What color do you want to paint it?’ and you were done,” said Stewart. “Now, there are bathroom and spa designers and space designers. We have designers for the gardens, the pools, the restaurants.” One of his properties, the Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa, has 11 restaurants. Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island in Nassau has 10 and every one is different. Attention to design is not all that’s changed. Over the years, Sandals itself—a brand that has grown from the old Bay Roc and Carlisle Hotels in Montego Bay, Jamaica to an empire of more than 4,700 rooms in 22 hotels in five countries, serving

a true gem Nowhere has Stewart’s Sandalization produced more dramatic results than in the transformation of a foreclosed property in Emerald Bay, Exuma into a flagship luxury Sandals with butler-service suites, 10 restaurants, spa, 18-hole Greg Norman golf course, Sandals first hotel with marina and even a boutique version of the world-famous luxury shopping experience, John Bull. Getting there is also easy with two non-stop Silver Airways flights daily.

It would not be the last time that Stewart’s purchasing power boosted, some would go so far as to say, save, Jamaica from an economic tsunami.

more than one million guests a year, has catapulted from becoming the first allinclusive resort when the term conjured up images of frugal to the butler-served all-inclusive where you never leave the property because there’s no place you’d rather be. Branding has changed and the hotels

have evolved from the mid-90s names like Classic and Signature to Luxury Included® as the slogan in the 2000s to the most recent incarnation of romance ultra-suites, Love Nests. “That’s what it’s all about,” he says. He is not exaggerating. Five of his properties this year have enjoyed a repeat visitor rate of more than 50%. The success has not gone to his head. With obvious pride in his three grown children, all success stories in their own right with the oldest Adam now serving as CEO of Sandals, and Robert ‘Bobby’ as head of IT, he jokingly laments the cost of his daughter Jamie’s wedding, acknowledging

that Father of The Bride was his favorite movie. “I felt so sorry for Steve Martin pouring out his last penny, I wanted to cry,” he says. “Until my daughter got married and I felt so sorry for myself.” Crocodile tears about costs aside, he’s as proud of his pride as he is of his hotels. (Jamie’s since been featured in magazines including Haute). The dichotomy of financial prowess with the treasuring of simple pleasures—a good day’s fishing, a great meal, a stack of architecture, fashion and motor car magazines while flying on his private jet—keep him grounded.

Volume 1 Issue 2 • 51

pool party The mile-long beach adds appeal to Sandals Emerald Bay, Exuma. Sandals founder and CEO Butch Stewart understands the powerful connection between beaches, water and romance. Even today, as afternoon gives way to early evening and it is almost time for church, we are in a room with a dozen couches and thick upholstered chairs and art work galore, but most of the interview takes place where Stewart is clearly accustomed to sitting—at a plain, small square table in a corner with a view of his 73-foot Hatteras below. A member of staff knows his habits, brings him a yogurt, no designer label, just plain Activia, a little bran on the side which stays there, and a black coffee. The two local daily papers are laid out in the order he likes to read them. When the phone rings, he picks it up. ‘A-lo,” he says, the Jamaican dialect making distinct singing notes of 52 • Volume 1 Issue 2

what would otherwise be an ordinary hello. No pretenses. He calls another member of staff to bring him the new cell phone he requested. It’s a bottom-of-the-line model with a single compelling feature. It makes calls. “That’s all I want,” he says. I tell him my husband shares his views of phones that do everything but the laundry. “He just wants one that when you use it, the person on the other end can say, ‘Datchu?” (Bahamian for ‘Is that you?), I explain. “Your husband is a very smart man,” says Stewart. I’ll pass along the compliment. Despite his refusal to join the rush to iPhones and Androids, Stewart is very much a man of the times, knowing he has to be able

to keep pace with a hotel industry that’s constantly evolving. And he has been that way from the start. “We were the first to put a hair dryer in a hotel room,” he says. “We were the first to coin the phrase ‘special’ in the restaurant.” Now, sector evolution has reached new sophistication, ranging from going green to preserve the environment and the bottom line, to designing plunge pools for those Love Nests that are all about enhancing romance. “I really try very hard to keep modernizing,” he says, “without losing the basics of what makes Sandals Sandals.” The key—keeping everything as close to the beach as possible. Over-thetopness—water, fine sand beaches, lush landscaping

Despite his refusal to join the rush to iPhones and Androids, Stewart is very much a man of the times, knowing he has to be able to keep pace with a hotel industry that’s constantly evolving.

“You expect to lose money the first six months,” he said. But when six months turned into 12 and he was pouring money down what seemed an endless hotel drain, he called his old friend and asked for help.

everywhere. Excellent food. Offshore islands. Colors. Luxury. Service. Constantly exceeding expectations. Stewart has a name for what he does when he buys an existing property like his two Bahamas resorts, the former Four Seasons in Exuma and the Royal Bahamian in Nassau. He Sandalizes them. But long before he discovered the secret of Sandalization, Stewart endured tough times as the new kid on the hotel block. “You expect to lose money the first six months,” he said. But when six months turned into 12 and he was pouring money down what seemed an endless hotel drain, he called his old friend, George Myers, in Nassau, then VP At Paradise Island Resorts (now Atlantis) and asked for help. The two had gone to school together

in Jamaica and remained friends after Myers moved to The Bahamas. “I can’t tell you what to do,” Myers said. “But come to Nassau. Maybe you will see something that will help.” Stewart did. He shadowed his buddy for a weekend and realized it was in the attention to the individual. The turnaround began. Today, he goes from hotel to hotel, crisscrossing the region, watching every step of the process. “I want to see how check-in goes, how people are treated. I love all the new things we do to increase satisfaction levels.” He looks at how the grounds are watered. He studies the big picture and the detail of what goes into making that picture. Isn’t it about time he began to slow down, you ask. “I’d drive everybody crazy,” says the man who by

room with a view Once the domain of those trying to vacation on a dime, all-inclusives today are about much more, thanks in no small part to Stewart’s genius, turning a place to stay into a luxurious experience to love.

his own admission has not had time to read a book in five years though he keeps up with business magazines and industry trends. “I’m so motivated I can’t wait to get up each morning. I guess I will give up when I can’t get up.” And that could be a very long time from now. Accompanied by his two golden retrievers Monty and Alex who clamber all over dog-loving guests as if they were family, Stewart says good-bye for now. You turn for a last look at the man who has become a legend in the hotel industry and in business circles though he has never owned a share or stock in his life. And you realize that from the rear where the slight paunch of the good life doesn’t show, this 70-something in blue jeans and a pullover looks just like a teenager about to head out for any Saturday night. Life is very good, indeed.

Volume 1 Issue 2 • 53

eeped in history as old as the city of Fort Lauderdale itself and proudly protected in perpetuity from the hands of those who would love nothing more than to see skyscrapers in its place, Stranahan House on the New River at the eastern end of Las Olas Boulevard is a rare treasure. Its classic architecture and exquisite craftsmanship are outward signs of historic preservation, but its real story lies with the pioneers who built it—Fort Lauderdale’s first family —and called it home. Their existence—their successes, their failures, their place in the city’s history—mirror the times and the town itself. It was a time when mosquitoes ruled, air-conditioning was unheard of, supplies were delivered by barge and Dixie Highway, well, venturing that far west took real guts. Slip back in time more than 100 years ago. It 54 • Volume 1 Issue 2

first man on the scene Frank Stranahan was the late 1800s when Frank Stranahan, energetic and full of ideas, met Ivy Cromartie, Ft. Lauderdale’s first teacher, who at 19, was so tough she once walked miles to a student recital with her legs bandaged in newspaper to ward off mosquitoes chomping to devour her skin for supper. Her students were Seminole Indians and while she tended to their education, housed them when need

This Old House Stranahan House is a Las Olas Landmark

Photo by j clark/Wikimedia Commons

Volume 1 Issue 2 â&#x20AC;˘ 55

Photo by daniel schwen/Wikimedia Commons

Originally named The Pioneer House, the sturdy Stranahan House is built of solid Dade County pine, still so strong you can’t hammer a nail through the wood; you have to drill it.

56 • Volume 1 Issue 2

be, nursed and nurtured them, her husband, Frank, an entrepreneur traded wares with their parents at his trading post on the river. The location was fortuitous. Frank Stranahan was also the barge operator who ran goods between Miami to the south and Lantana to the north. And along with his shipping interests and trading post, Fort Lauderdale’s founding father turned his new home and business building into a bank, a post office, a community center and the town hall. Frank and Ivy Stranahan built the structure that housed just about all of Fort Lauderdale’s commerce

and education in 1901, expanded it in 1906 when it became their home as well as business and school and Ivy Stranahan lived in it until her death in 1971. Surrounded by tropical wilderness, the home was magnificent by standards of the day. No expense was spared. The Stranahans had running water, full indoor plumbing and electric lights. It had interior stairways, a marvel for the day as many of the world’s grandest homes still required owners to dodge rain or plan carefully when it was time to go to bed because the only means from the ground floor to upstairs was an outdoor staircase.

Originally named The Pioneer House, the sturdy Stranahan House is built of solid Dade County pine, still so strong you can’t hammer a nail through the wood; you have to drill it. No longer available, Dade County pine was hardwood that would put termite control businesses out of business. The lines of the home were clean, originally one story, later expanded to two stories with wide wraparound verandahs on both floors to catch the breeze off from whatever direction it was blowing that day. Its hip roof allowed warm air to rise and high dormer windows provided

Photo by dtobias/Wikimedia Commons

vents for the collected heat to escape. If the walls of Stranahan House could talk, they’d tell of the terror of the 1926 hurricane, the water rushing past and over. They’d tell of the horror, heartbreak and shock Ivy suffered when three years later, in 1929, Frank, at the height of the Great Depression, took his own life. Ivy Stranahan lived in the house until 1971 though she leased out the bottom floor as a restaurant that continued to operate for almost a decade after her death. When the restaurant closed in 1979, the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society and the

Fort Lauderdale Board of Realtors took on the restoration of Stranahan House and in 1984, it opened as a historic house museum. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and now owned and maintained by Stranahan House, Inc., it’s a popular site for weddings, special events and tours. Its place in the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s tony Las Olas Boulevard is as firmly ensconced as its place in history, linking Fort Lauderdale’s past with its present and the city’s founding family with the future.

They’d tell of the horror, heartbreak and shock Ivy suffered when three years later, in 1929, Frank, at the height of the Great Depression, took his own life.

Volume 1 Issue 2 • 57

photo by cookie kinkead 2010

From family to celebrity friendly, a steady stream of vacationers, honeymooners, lovebirds, fishing buddies, and individuals looking to spend quality time away seek out this glorious destination year-round.

By Margie Kaye

Coral Sands’ Four Cottages Offer Dream Homes Away From Home A s if the worldrenowned pink colored sand beach, sun streaked turquoise water, delectable island fare and laid back luxurious amenities weren’t tempting enough to make you pack your bags for the Coral Sands Resort in Harbour Island, Bahamas, they have recently added four new beachfront one- and two-bedroom colonial style cottages and another two-bedroom cottage to their inviting selection of accommodations offering just a few more reasons 58 • Volume 1 Issue 2

for you to come and stay a while at Coral Sands. Brimming with attention to detail and indulgent comfort, these beautifully appointed dream cottages are awash in environmentally friendly function and designer décor, making them the ideal destination for an island escape. A wondrous blending of luxury and tranquility converge for the ultimate in relaxation. One twobedroom and two onebedroom cottages are located directly on the

ocean front with breath taking ocean views; the other one-bedroom model is nestled just 100 feet from the beach with a spectacular ocean view. The cottages each feature plush memory foam king size beds stylishly dressed in fine Anichini linens, crowned with headboards and surrounded by custom night tables, a desk, and bookshelves beautifully designed to house your belongings, creating a comfortable and homey feeling.

Walnut plank wood floors adorned with area rugs add drama and warmth to each cottage, where every mood is enhanced with custom lighting and decorative blackout window drapes. Whether enjoying a book perched in the oversized reading chair, watching television on the 32” flat screen television or winding down to music on your iPod, every comfort and convenience is there for the guests to enjoy. After a day spent basking in the sun, you can wash your cares away in the

sensuous free-standing bathtub illuminated by soft chandelier lighting or step into the large walk-in shower boasting oversized jet shower heads and a sitting bench for a spalike experience. A round decorative porthole window invites sunlight, sunsets and star gazing, and adds to the essence of seaside serenity. If you can’t get enough of nature’s beautiful surroundings, retreat to your spacious outdoor covered terrace with designer lounging furniture and day beds, and all the fresh air you can inhale. The cottage wet bar complete with refrigerator, coffee maker and tea kettle keep your favorite libations and snacks close at hand for enjoying an intimate happy hour day or night. You can double your pleasure and your living space in the new twobedroom cottage, Sea Oats, the ultimate beach front villa at Coral Sands featuring the same artistry

and architecture of the onebedroom cottages. Sea Oats features two elegant master bedrooms, two luxurious bathrooms, kitchenette and dining areas presenting the ideal scenario for families and friends traveling together and maintaining their privacy when desired. The master Colonialstyle bedrooms are cloaked in warmth with walnut plank floors, area rugs and designer furnishings built with shee shan sustainable wood. Elegant French doors stretch nine feet tall welcoming sunlight and awe inspiring views of the world famous pink sand beach just steps down the path leading from the cottage. The living/sitting room offers a tranquil setting indoors, as does the spacious outdoor covered terrace. With ceiling fans stirring the intoxicating ocean air and an array of inviting patio furniture grouped atop the Ipe hard wood decking, the living is

laid back from sun up until sun down, and then some. The beauty of this quaint 37-room boutique hotel lies in the understated elegance that transcends the property, set along the notorious pink sand three mile stretch of beach recognized as the most beautiful beach in the Caribbean by the Travel Channel, and consistently voted as one of the top five beaches in the world. From family to celebrity friendly, a steady stream of vacationers, honeymooners, love birds, fishing buddies, and groups looking to spend quality time away seek out this glorious destination year-round. With weather consistently warm, in the 70s and 80s, balmy nights and breezy days make for a comfortable stay with a nobrainer light dress code and mindset of “anything goes.” Staying on the lush grounds at Coral Sands is an all encompassing date with down time, but if the adventurer in you beckons, Coral Sands’ efficient and friendly staff will happily arrange various island excursions including deep sea fishing, scuba diving, bone fishing, and scenic tours by bicycle or golf cart. Whether a picnic on a private island is on your wish list or a historic tour of Dunmore Town is right up your alley, your hosts will make it happen for you. When night falls and dinner plans call, gourmet dining is what’s on the menu at the resort’s own Terrace Restaurant, considered to be amongst

the finest restaurants in the Bahamas, and boasting a new and delectably varied menu. With culinary creations orchestrated by Executive French Chef Ludovic Jarland, there are tempting selections of surf and turf elegantly plated and sumptuously prepared to your liking. The chef himself often appears tableside to make his personal recommendations for a guaranteed palate pleasing experience. Pan

Seared Mahi-Mahi in a Salsa Verde Sauce, Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb, and Caribbean Bouillabaisse overflowing with an assortment of lobster, grouper, shrimp, mussels and clams bathed in a vegetable broth are among the favorites ordered each evening, along with creative spins on the fresh catch of the day. With all there is to savor at this beautiful island resort, isn’t it time to unpack your bags and stay a while? Paradise awaits at Coral Sands, where the living is easy in your home away from home. Chapel Street, Dunmore Town, Harbour Island, Bahamas. www. coralsands.com 800-468-2799 or 242-333-2350.

Volume 1 Issue 2 • 59

In-Flight Service

In-Flight Service NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Complimentary on ALL Saab 340Bplus Flights

Coca-Cola, Diet Coke Sprite Club Soda Ginger Ale Tonic Water

Orange Juice Cranberry Juice Apple Juice Bloody Mary Mix Spring water

Complimentary coffee and a selection of teas available upon request ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Available for purchase on ALL Saab 340Bplus Flights BEER $5 Budweiser Lite, Corona Extra, Heineken WINE $5 Chardonnay, Merlot SPIRITS $6

ABSOLUT Vodka Tanqueray Gin Captain Morgan Spiced Rum

Glenlivet Scotch Canadian Club Whisky Jim Beam Black Bourbon

Complimentary assorted snacks available. Beverage and snack options may vary by flight.

60 â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 1 Issue 2

Customs and Immigration

Customs and Immigration U.S. I-94 Arrival/Departure Record All travelers who hold a U.S. visa are required to complete an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record (one per person, including infants). Write in English, in capital letters. Be sure to include the street name and number, city and state of your address in the U.S. If you are transiting through the U.S., you may write TRANSIT and your final destination country. The Customs and Border Protection officer will place the I-94 Departure Record in your passport after inspection. Make sure you return the Departure Record to the airline representative before boarding your return flight. U.S. Customs Declaration All passengers (or one passenger per family) are required to complete a Customs Declaration before arrival in the U.S. Write in English, in capital letters. Be sure to include the street name and number, city and state of your address in the U.S. If you are transiting through the U.S., you may write TRANSIT and your final destination country. Please read both sides of the declaration and place your signature at the bottom of the form. Expedited Passport Control and Customs Clearance in the U.S.—Global EntryTM U.S. Customs and Border W W W . G L O B A L E N T R Y . G O V Protection (CBP) offers the Global EntryTM program in order to pantone 8401 metallic pewter expedite the processing of pre-approved, low-risk international blue is Pant 307cinternational travelers entering the U.S. Upon returning from TM travel, Global Entry -enrolled travelers may bypass the regular passport control line and proceed to the Global EntryTM kiosk. Global EntryTM program participants scan their machine-readable passport, U.S. permanent resident card or U.S. visa on the kiosk, place their fingertips on the scanner for fingerprint verification and make a customs declaration. The kiosk will issue the traveler a transaction receipt and direct the traveler to baggage claim and exit. Trusted

Traveler

Net work

The following travelers are eligible for enrollment in Global EntryTM: • Citizens and residents of the U.S. • Citizens of Mexico who hold a U.S. visa • Citizens of the Netherlands who are enrolled in Privium • NEXUS members • SENTRI members Application for enrollment in the Global EntryTM program is available at the Global On-Line Enrollment System (GOES): goes-app.cbp.dhs.gov. It costs only US$100, which covers enrollment in the program for a five-year period. The government will review the applicant’s information while a background investigation is conducted. Applicants undergo an interview with CBP officers at an Enrollment Center in the U.S. before final approval is granted.

Global EntryTM is available in the following cities: Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD-O’Hare), Dallas (DFW), Detroit (DTW), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Honolulu (HNL), Houston (IAHInternational), Las Vegas (LAS), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), Montreal (YUL), New York (JFK), Newark (EWR-Liberty), Orlando (MCO-International and SFB-Sandford), Ottawa (YOW), Philadelphia (PHL), Seattle (SEA), San Francisco (SFO), San Juan (SJU), Toronto (YYZ), Washington, D.C. (IAD-Dulles), and Vancouver (YVR). For detailed information, go to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection site, globalentry.gov. Countries participating in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP): Andorra Hungary New Zealand Australia Iceland Norway Austria Ireland Portugal Belgium Italy San Marino Brunei Japan Singapore Czech Republic Latvia Slovakia Denmark Liechtenstein Slovenia Estonia Lithuania South Korea Finland Luxembourg Spain France Malta Sweden Germany Monaco Switzerland Greece Netherlands United Kingdom

Volume 1 Issue 2 • 61

Routes

Silver airways is proud MileagePlus partner

Jamestown Franklin Cleveland

Johnstown

Havre Wolf Point

Glasgow

MT Lewistown

Sidney Glendive

Helena

Morgantown Clarksburg

Parkersburg Beckley

Miles City

Billings

Operated by Silver Airways United Airlines MileagePlus program does not apply

Bradford

Dubois Altoona

Washington D.C.

WV Lewisburg

Staunton Shenandoah

Muscle Shoals Greenville Tupelo

Atlanta

Pensacola Tallahassee Jacksonville

LaurelHattiesburg

Gainesville

• Service as of August 1, 2012 • Service as of October 1, 2012

Atlanta Cities operated by Silver Airways United Airlines MileagePlus program does not apply

Orlando Tampa

Treasure Cay

Palm Beach Fort Myers

Fort Lauderdale

Freeport

Marsh Harbour

Miami

***

Bimini

** *

** * *

- - - Seasonal service.

*** Cuba Route is Charter Service Only: ALL CUBA Charters are subject to U.S. Government approval. Havana

Governor’s Harbour

Key West

Eleuthera

Georgetown

62 • Volume 1 Issue 2

B E S T

F O R

I S L A N D

C A S T A W A Y S

All Butler The World’s First All-Butler Resort Sandals Emerald Bay is the world’s first All-Butler Resort, where every guest can enjoy the services of a personal butler who will take care of every want and need. From unpacking your suitcase to an impromptu picnic or dinner on your balcony, your butler is always on call — en-suite, by the pool or on the beach.

Global Gourmet

‘‘

The five restaurants that comprise the resort’s notable dining collection offer pairings of International cuisine with Beringer varietals corked exclusively for Sandals.

Caribbean’s

Best Golf Course

‘‘

TRAVEL & LEISURE GOLF MAGAZINE

Ocean Drive A GREG NORMAN-DESIGNED GOLFER’S PARADISE

The Sandals Emerald Reef Golf Club is a Greg Norman-designed 7,200-yard, par 72, championship golf course that hugs a rocky coastline, with emerald fairways and prevailing trade winds edged by the sea.

Your exotic private escape I S W I T H I N E A S Y R E AC H Sandals premieres a new level of luxury with the introduction of the world’s first All-Butler, Oceanfront Resort—Sandals Emerald Bay, Great Exuma, Bahamas. This magnificent, award-winning resort offers its guests pampered intimacy amidst the secluded islands of The Exumas. Guests will find oceanview, butlerserviced rooms, suites and villas filled with features to indulge body and spirit. Aficionados of world-class pleasure will discover a 29,000 sq. ft. Red Lane® Spa◆ featuring Dermalogica® products, a pro-grade tennis center and a Greg Normandesigned golf course.* If you seek out-of-the-ordinary luxury in the Out Islands, come experience your own exotic, private escape at Sandals Emerald Bay.

For more information call your Travel Agent or 1-800-SANDALS or 305-284-1300

sandals.com ◆

Spa services additional. *Green fees additional. Unique Vacations, Inc. is the worldwide representative for Sandals Resorts.

Emerald Bay Great Exuma, Bahamas

An Oceanfront Resort ROOMS, SUITES AND VILLAS APPOINTED TO PERFECTION Picture a sprawling island home, where the fine furnishings are inspired by the British West Indies, all the technologies are in place for your comfort, and windows overlook an endless sea of blue. This should give you the sense of what a typical suite is like at Sandals Emerald Bay. There are 183 rooms, suites and beachfront villas, and all come with the services of a butler trained to the exacting standards of the Guild of Professional English Butlers.