The Best Girls Trip in Exuma

Picture this, it’s 6 am, the ticket agent is calling last call for your 7 am flight, and you’re the only one of four at the airport. This was me. It was my first girls trip and I’m wondering where are my friends?! Thoughts of us missing the flight, the possibility of travelling alone and not knowing what to do or where to go crossed my mind. At this point I was just hoping they would all arrive soon. By 6:30, three out of four of us had arrived and after seven (yes s e v e n)  unsuccessful phone calls, lucky number four was awake and on her way. After, prayers, hopes, almost tears and jokes, we were all boarded and headed to Exuma. Within twenty minutes of flight, the water started to do this really, like really blue thing, like clear blue, sky blue, just beauti-blu-ful! Yes, I know that was super corny, but you get it right?

We had initially planned to visit Augusta Bay for breakfast, but my spirit was telling me I needed sheep tongue souse. As the spirit leads, I have to listen so off to the local favorite”JJ’s”! Despite being very quaint, this place was booming. People were lined off inside and out just waiting to get their Bahamian breakfast delicacies. Let me tell you, that sheep tongue souse was great. Spicy, meaty and delicious.

After breakfast was done, we were on our way to Grande Isle Resort to enjoy a day of relaxation and fun. As soon as you enter the pool area, you are stunned with gorgeous views of the ocean and the pool, coconut trees swaying in the wind and honestly, can I just live here? Lounging in the pool, photo taking and girl talk can really work up an appetite. We ordered an array of pizzas, burgers and wraps complimented by mango daiquiris and frozen margaritas. I wasn’t blown away with the food or service but it was an enjoyable experience.

A day in the sun can make you tired, but my friends literally slept for hours when we got to the apartment. I woke them up at 12 am to start getting ready for the evening. We were supposed to be visiting Rolleville’s Regatta. The regatta site was on the beach, duh, but you had to walk down a surprisingly long hill… imagine me sliding on a rock and rolling down the hill. I have the scrap on my knee to prove it.

We arrived at the regatta site and a longing for Cracked Lobster (crawfish) came over me. After walking around the site at least twice, I was saddened that all of the seafood offerings were gone. I settled for a plate of peas n rice, macaroni and BBQ ribs. Yes, I know it’s 1 am and this is what I’m eating. Thank you very much. Shortly before 2, everyone started to leave the site and head to the nearby club. This was it! I missed the Megan Thee Stallion concert back home, so I had to bring the knees to Exuma. The deejay was amazing. I was in a nostalgic bliss as he played 2008-2011 Vybz. If you know, you know.

Stocking Island here we come! The next day, the girls and I were off to one of the gorgeous Exuma cays. I’ve heard about Stocking Island numerous times before and the infamous Chat n Chill bar. From what I gathered, I figured it would be similar to Nippers and Grabbers of Great Guana Cay, Abaco. Sigh, my poor Abaco. My friends suggested that we visit Lumina Point instead of Chat n Chill because of the better quality food and ambiance. Lumina Point was beautiful. The buildings made me feel like I was on a deserted tropical island retreat. The food, however, was not good at all. I ordered lobster tacos that were oily and flavorless; many of the menu items were not even available. It is important to note, that the resort was in the process of being sold, so I’m sure there will be some revisiting done to the only restaurant on property. While the food definitely lacked in taste, I was stunned by the views surrounding the property. Wow, that beach, miles and miles of blue water and no one in sight. Lumina Point has such a different vibe than what I saw at Chat n Chill. You wouldn’t believe that you’re still on the same small cay.

You would think that after a full day, we’d be so tired that we would be in for the night. But no ma’am, thank you. We were here for Regatta right? So, we had to make it to Rolleville’s Regatta Beach Party. It was so much fun. At a cost of just $10, drinks and food were unlimited. I am not joking. Literally, all you can eat and drink for $10. I was shocked. I didn’t have any of the food, however, can I have another drink please? There were dance competitions and best beachwear contests. They were hilarious. The beach party was a great time with even better people.

Vacation goes by so fast when you’re having fun. Our last day in Exuma was absolutely amazing. We slept in, had yellow grits and tuna delivered for breakfast and didn’t have to be to the airport until about about 5:30 pm. We had plans to head to the Tropic of Cancer beach, however, we decided to stay in Georgetown and visit Jolly Hall Beach. I am so happy that we did. It was the most beautiful beach, I have ever seen. After a short photo shoot (Lol, not really) I just stayed in the water. Watching the trees sway in the wind, while I submersed myself in the ocean goodness. I was at peace. It’s something about being in the water that is so serene and relaxing. In that moment, nothing else mattered and I thoroughly enjoyed lounging and wading.

If you’ve ever been to the beach, you know how draining being in the water can be. After about two hours or so, I was starving. We went to the local Fish Fry and decided to give Shirley’s a try. We were quickly seated, service and the wait time were average. The food though was spectacular. I had been dying for cracked lobster, the entire trip and I finally got it and it was delicious. The lobster was perfectly seasoned, so crispy and wow, I need that again.

If Exuma is not already on your Bahamian Travel Bucket List, I’d say to add it right now! With so many cays, restaurants, activities and accommodations. There is something for everyone. I had a wonderful vacation, with my best girls and can’t wait for our next trip. Exuma me again, please.

 

In light of the tragic events that struck the islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama I ask that you continue to do whatever you can to assist; whether with your time, money or goods. Our people need us.