Paradise Island in the Bahamas has long been a tropical getaway for families, mainly due to its iconic kid-friendly option — Atlantis Paradise Island Resort, which also features a bustling casino.
But thanks to Warwick Hotels and Resorts, there’s also a luxury all-inclusive option where guests are not subjected to children’s shouts, jangling slot machines or any raucous noise at all: Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas.
Warwick, which is located on the south shore of the island, has a completely different tone than any other hotel in the destination. Unlike its family-focused counterparts, this property is perfect for relaxing, whether clients want to catnap by the pool or curl up in an armchair with a book.
When I visited the property during its soft opening earlier this year, I noticed that it has distinct character, though its specialty venues were not yet fully operational. The furniture aesthetic — which includes modern pieces, solid colors and lots of white — set the stage upon entry.
The hotel lobby is contemporary, attractive and airy and opens into a bar/lounge space that is typically quiet by day but lively at night. On-site restaurants and a pool terrace lie beyond a short hallway, and the man-made white-sand beach is uncrowded and picturesque, with just the occasional guest venturing into the water.
The 250 guestrooms are island-style chic, complete with blonde wood floors; neutral, soft furnishings that are accented by occasional pops of color; and stylish, black-and-white-striped rugs. All accommodations are outfitted with minifridges, dual USB charging ports and coffee/tea makers.
There are several room categories from which to choose: Water-view rooms offer appealing vistas of the harbor, but the Harbour Deluxe Balcony, Harbour Premium Balcony and one-bedroom Harbourfront Suite offer the ultimate Caribbean perk — an ocean breeze.
Resort guests are an international mix bubbling with grown-up bonhomie. Although there were no poolside activities, parlor games in the lobby bar are popular, and the pool bar is a lively, engaging scene (while stopping short of a party).
But if one element sets Warwick apart from other properties, it’s the high level of service. Though not intrusive, the staff here always anticipate client concerns, and employees give a degree of attention that is not just polite but genuine. (For example, if clients arrive early, the staff will want to check them in early. If guests lose their keys, staff nods in sympathy. And if anyone catches you without a drink, they might size you up to figure out whether you need another.)
This property is on the harbor side of the island, which added a touch of apprehension for me when it came to taking a swim (although the water was admittedly quite clear). Luckily, the gorgeous harbor views more than made up for it.
The Details
Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas
www.warwickhotels.com
