THE OTHER SIDE
This past Winter break (2023), my husband and I surprised our kids, Frank (12) and Birdie (9) with a trip to the Island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. This island, along with The Other Side Hotel has been on my bucket list for years and It was finally our time to go. The hotel became our personal haven on this less touristy island of the Bahamas. This solar powered “glamping” resort not only offered a perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility, but also provided an intimate space where we connected with wonderful people from all over the world.
Our family's interaction extended beyond the incredible surroundings. We met and formed bonds with fellow guests from all over the world, creating an extended family during our stay. The warmth of the staff and the owners made it feel like a home away from home. Our kids loved playing with the owners' children, and we were embraced into a sense of community that was both genuine and authentic. Some of our favourite moments were watching our kids play chess and backgammon with international friends that they met on this trip.
One of my favorite things at The Other Side was our beachside “home” for the week, offering not only amazing views but also a beautiful outdoor bathtub, which quickly became a nightly indulgence for all of us. Sipping a glass of wine under the starry night sky of the Bahamas in a warm soaking tub is quite magical. After my soak, I would climb into the most comfortable bed and drift into a deep sleep. I rarely sleep well when I travel, but I had not problem sleeping at The Other Side.
The communal bar, another gem at The Other Side, became a central hub for socializing. Here, we could mix our own drinks, on an honor system. If you weren’t up for helping yourself, Theo, the resident bartender, was more than happy to mix up one of his amazing margaritas or a rum punch, sometimes my daughter Birdie would help Theo as well. As the evening unfolded, family-style dinners became a highlight, featuring amazing local food that showcased the rich flavors of the Bahamas. My favorite meal from chef was the lobster curry on the last night, it was one of those meals that you just never forget.
Nights were filled with relaxing activities – nightly backgammon games complete with wine or tropical drinks for the adults, while the kids played air hockey and chess battles. The atmosphere was vibrant, yet serene and very welcoming.
Our last day at The Other Side became even more memorable when the owner Ben took us and some other guests on a private snorkel excursion on his boat. The personalized experience deepened our connection to the place and the people. Throughout our stay, our kids continued to play with the owner's children, creating bonds that added an extra layer of warmth to our experience.
A special mention goes to Charlie and Chino, the dedicated boat captains, whose complementary service ferrying guests to and from Harbour Island and neighboring areas proved incredibly helpful. Their friendly and reliable service added a seamless touch to our exploration of the surrounding areas, making our stay even more convenient and enjoyable.
Our journey didn't end there. We've stayed in touch with several families we met at The Other Side, adding a global dimension to our newfound friendships. The anticipation for our next stay at this remarkable resort is already building. We are planning to be there again in just a couple month for the Thanksgiving holiday season. Stay tuned for a recap!
As a final note, for those times when The Other Side is fully booked, there's an equally beautiful alternative – The Ocean View Club on Harbour Island. Additionally, we eagerly look forward to The Other Side Farm Lodge, set to open November of 2024, promising another chapter of unique experiences in the heart of the Bahamas. The Other Side Hotel and its sister properties truly offer a collection of exceptional havens where every stay becomes a cherished memory.
