Atlantis - Day 5

Heading home, with transfers well executed and flight on time, we are reflecting on a great vacation and a fabulous package deal from Westjet.

Atlantis resort is definitely worth the visit if you like water parks and beaches. More than a dozen different pools to choose from, long expanse of beach (ocean front or more calm internal spots), lots of water rides and slides. For walkers, there are lots of paths and aquarium lined tunnels to explore.

 I recommend you skip the meal plan, unless you are a really big eater. Its too much food and restricts your choices as not all restaurants apply. There are 2 Starbucks on the premises (one open late), a pizzeria, sub shop, beach and pool side dining, etc for light meals and several fine dining options for that special evening.

We will definitely be doing this again.

Atlantis - Day 4

Started off today with another picture taking expedition. Got some great shots in the Predator Tunnel, as we were surrounded by sharks.

Joined some local friends at the Bahamas National Trust '23rd Annual Wine and Art Festival', a lovely outdoor event, showcasing over 50 talented Bahamian artists and featuring wine tastings from a selection of over 60 wines from around the world - what a civilized way to enjoy art!

Back to Atlantis for some more pool time and a couple more turns around the lazy river rapids. Discovered some more pools we hadn't come across yet - did some lengths across the Mayan pool, must be Olympic width.

After dinner we went for a vacation closing martini on the second floor balcony of Cafe Martinque and were pleasantly surprised by a Junkanoo parade, the national dance of the Bahamas.

Back at our room, we barely had enough time to reflect on our good fortune in catching the parade when the fireworks started. With a perfect view from our balcony, we took in, what I'm told could have been a wedding celebratory fireworks display. What an awesome way to end a fabulous day !

Atlantis - Day 3

Nice leisurely walk along the waterside paths for some panoramic vistas and photos to start our day.

After lunch we head to the Blues beach for some relaxation and great music, as well as the impromptu entertainment of what appears to be a wedding party.

On our way to the closest entrance to the lazy river rapids, we found another path we hadn't seen before. Did I say this place is big. Really!

Took a couple of turns on the lazy river rapids - about 20 minutes a circuit, then back to the other side of the Coral hotel for some time in the hot tub. Then through the tunnel and back to the Blues pool for a refreshing dip. 

A little stroll in the village, to pick up a cool Bahamas logo T-shirt, then dinner at Murphy's Deli. A great spot for a delicious meal, reasonably priced and reasonable portions (except for the huge slab of carrot cake - recommend you share dessert).

Set off to the far end of the resort to try out the margaritas at Mesa Grill and discovered yet another path we had not gone down before - really, we were sure that we had been over all the grounds by now. Loved the ambiance of Mesa Grill and the Cove.

The architecture, extensive aquariums and aquatic creatures, numerous pools and water activities are quite incredible. This is definitely a magnificent place.

Atlantis - Day 2

A great day in the Bahamas at Atlantis started off with an amazing breakfast buffet featuring an incredible array of local and traditional breakfast items, including an 'eggs your way' station - so hard to keep from over eating!

Another walk around the grounds, discovering more of the resort and surprising ourselves by how much we missed yesterday. This place is massive (did I say that already).

Spent the afternoon on the lazy river and water slides. This lazy river has rapids, tubes and drops - take the exciting or calm route, at your discretion. Coolest trip was the tube slide through the shark tank. You could move slowly and observe the sharks as they swum around you. Lots of different slides to choose from, with curves, black out or steep drops, depending on your courage.

Dinner at Virgil's, renowned for shared barbecued dishes. I recommend you do not go here unless you have a big group. We ate less than 30 percent of what we ordered - it was a ridiculous amount of food.

Finished the evening off with a martini on the upper porch of Cafe Martinique. Lovely view of the water in the marina and very pleasant spot to relax.

Atlantis - Day 1

Westjet was late once again, but at least not by much today. Took a while to figure out my headphones were working fine - its the seat jack that is defective. However, flight attendants are super friendly and nice, so was a good experience overall.

We booked the cheapest accommodation at Beach Terrace, but were upgraded to Coral - seems as though its a bit slow at this time of year. Several of the restaurants are also closed today and tomorrow.

Went for a walk around the grounds - its a massive place! Found the aquarium and the tunnels that are replicas of an ancient city, weaving around the aquarium. Lovely walk and lots of fascinating fish of all sizes, sharks and stingrays to enjoy.

Had an excellent meal at the Marketplace - fresh stir fry, rotis, blackened fish, lots of veggies and other sides, great antipasti and salad bar and, of course, great desserts. Also plenty that would appeal to children, so an excellent family choice.

CanStage - Yukon Style

Quite an interesting play - some slightly exaggerated flawed characters, each running from a past that is best left behind. Taking place amidst the Robert Picton trial, we learn a little about the anguish of some of those affected.

CMA Ontario Convocation

What a party! If you ever have an opportunity to join a loved one at his or her CMA convocation, I strongly recommend you attend. I won't give away any of the details, but this organization really knows how to celebrate its graduates and there is a lot of thought and attention that goes into making this a very special day. The pride and excitement of the graduates, as they receive their diplomas, was a joy to experience.