PM: The Bahamas is coming back

Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis yesterday declared that “The Bahamas is coming back” as he participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony for Baha Mar’s new $200 million luxury waterpark.

Minnis said the waterpark’s opening is a powerful signal of the revival of The Bahamas and that Baha Mar is helping to lead that recovery.

“Our major tourism market is the United States of America,” he said.

“They have one of the highest vaccination rates in the world, and their economy is growing robustly. After over a year and a half of challenges, Americans are ready to travel. The Bahamas is a nearby, well-known destination that managed the pandemic well.

“The sacrifices we made to abide by the public health rules are paying off. We have attractive properties across our spectacular island chain. We are open for business and ready to warmly welcome guests at hotels and vacation rental properties.

“In recent months our visitors have returned in large numbers. Airports are busy. Resorts are reporting increased occupancy levels. Cruise ships have returned – and there are more to come. Some ships are even homeporting, bringing added economic benefits to our country for resorts, taxi and tour drivers and other tourism service providers.”

The newest development boasts 24 water slides, 

including a group raft, a wave pool, action river, surf simulator, kids’ splash zones, private VIP cabanas, a casino gaming pavilion, nine new food and beverage options, and a private beachfront event space.

Baha Mar President Graeme Davis said the Baha Bay waterpark is a testament to the resort’s ongoing commitment to offer guests an exceptional vacation experience.

“Since opening our doors to the world just over four years ago, we have continuously expanded Baha Mar’s spectacular amenities and introduced industry leading initiatives,” Davis said.

“As I look over the past year at the unprecedented destruction to the world’s tourism and travel, I am extremely humbled by the perseverance and resilience, not only of the team here at Baha Mar, but by our entire community.

“Baha Mar’s endeavor and commitment to continue the construction of this development throughout the pandemic would not have been possible without the support and dedication of many of the distinguished individuals present today.

“As I said before, Baha Mar is the result of what happens when great minds and great hearts and human determination come together. Today marks a meaningful milestone in the strategic growth and evolution of Baha Mar as we unveil this $200 million Baha Bay and extend a warm welcome to our 500 new associates.”

Within the waterpark is a new amenity called The Market, which houses new restaurants including Cleo Grill, Sam’s Crispy Chicken, Plant Nation and Chill.

Additional individual restaurants include the famed Sugar Factory, Umami Burger, and Barracuda food trucks.

Baha Mar has said day passes will be available to the public later this summer.

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source https://thenassauguardian.com/pm-the-bahamas-is-coming-back/