A resort getaway may aim to keep you on property spending money, but Donna M. Owens heads to the Bahamas to find chilling and thrilling ways to relax like the locals outside the resort’s prescribed activities.
When I plan an island escape, I want the requisite chill factor—sun, surf and palm trees—as well as adventurous escapades. This fall I choose to explore Abacos in the Bahamas. Despite the damage that some areas of the Bahamas suffered during Hurricane Irene, island officials say airports and cruise ports are fully operational and hotels and resorts are back in full swing.
Abacos, a mini archipelago of 100 islands less than 200 miles off the coast of Fort Lauderdale, is back to normal after Irene. Set on the sea of Abaco and the Atlantic Ocean, these so-called `Out Islands’ have white sand beaches, pristine waters and some of the world’s largest barrier reefs. The region is a hub for sailing, diving and more. Abaco is less well known than Bahamian cities with splashy mega-resorts, but it’s a treat for those who prefer an easy vibe and fewer crowds.
Thrill: Diving and snorkeling
I love the water, but exploring the deep blue sea has occasionally caused drama. One former snorkeling excursion left me so seasick and nauseous, that I swore off the activity. I was excited to discover “Dive Abaco!,” a popular scuba and snorkeling center located in Marsh Harbour, Abaco’s largest town. Owner Keith Rogers expertly outfitted our group with fins, masks and other equipment, took us out on a 28-foot vessel, dropped anchor and let Mother Nature take over. Between the skipper’s quirky sea tales, purple coral and abundant tropical fish, I was having too much fun to get seasick. Back on dry land, I picked up Bahamian art from the marina’s dive shop
