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TheBahamasInvestor.com
Monday, November 13, 2017 Monday, November 13, 2017 Tosheena Robinson-Blair |
The Cove at Atlantis rolled out the red carpet this weekend to VIP guests, debuting its refreshed ultra-luxurious Paradise Island resort in a series of lavish events paying homage to Bahamian culture in a truly authentic experience.
Nearly a year ago, The Cove embarked upon a journey to embrace Bahamian culture, infusing its essence into the resort’s offerings. Over the weekend the work of artists, musicians, designers, and chefs was revealed as guests were immersed in Bahamian culture, taking in art, design, and local cuisine, alongside the resort’s new look and feel.
The star-studded private event kicked off on Friday, November 3, with a surfside dinner on Paradise Beach where guests gnoshed on signature Bahamian fare, from conch (fresh out of the shell) to fresh-caught Nassau grouper wrapped in banana leaf, and sipped on bespoke Avion Paloma cocktails.
The evening featured a dynamic performance by musical guest Spencer Ludwig, in collaboration with Bahamian artists Tingum Dem, one of Nassau’s hottest party ban.
“To play in this scene is like playing in paradise, so inspiring,” said Ludwig. “The energy is amazing and it’s just pure joy.”
Executive fashion and beauty editor at Harper’s Bazaar, Avril Graham also picked up on the good vibes. “It’s high octane. It’s like energy and its fabulous and that’s what The Cove is all about.”
On Saturday, November 4, guests lounged on the white-sand beach and the newly curated poolscape by Lulu deKwiatkowski, the acclaimed artist, textile, jewelry and accessories designer.
Bahamian Chef Julie Lightbourn officially opened Sip Sip at The Cove, the chic Harbour Island eatery’s first outpost.
“I always dreamed about having a restaurant on another island,” said Lightbourn. “We have Harbour Island. We’ve been there for 15 years. Then, I was approached by The Cove to come and join them here on Paradise Island. It’s truly a dream come true.”
One ardent Sip Sip fan is Hollywood actress, Brook Shields.
“I’m so excited that Sip Sip is now a part of the whole equation because I’ve been a fan of Sip Sip for about 11 years,” said Shields. So frequent a visitor to Harbour Island, Lightbourn considers her part of the tiny island’s extended family.
“She [Shields] comes to Sip Sip with her daughters and her husband,” says Lightbourn. “Because I’m in the kitchen I never get a chance to speak with her, so I was so thrilled when she came rushing over to me and she said, ‘Julie it’s so great. I’m so excited I can eat at Sip Sip tomorrow. At last it’s here at the Cove.'”
Saturday evening at sunset, acclaimed Bahamian artist Antonius Roberts unveiled “Sacred Space,” a permanent, sculptural installation on The Cove Peninsula, celebrating Bahamian history. Similar artwork is installed at Clifton Pier.
The monuments, seven beautiful ladies created out of indigenous wood, are captured in the midst of a sacred dance.
“I invite you all to join these ladies…just come out here and dance to your music and share your stories with these ladies,” said Roberts at his launch, where local and international media, deputy prime minister Peter Turnquest, invited guests, resort executives and employees were in attendance.
Following the unveiling master chef José Andrés kicked off dinner for 250 under the stars with a preview dish from his upcoming restaurant, FISH by José Andrés, which is set to open this February at the resort. The dish, conch salpicon, was made with pomegranate, radish, cucumber, green pepper, tomato and salmon roe.
“You want to partner with people that very much believe in your same ethics because together you do more,” said Andrés explaining why he decided to collaborate with the resort.
After dinner wGrammy Award winning recording artist Fergie delivered an explosive performance. Her set featured songs from her new album, Double Duchess, as well as classic hits. The rhythmic sounds of DJs Leigh Lezark and Geordon Nicol, collectively known as The Misshapes, closed out the night.
“I’m thrilled to be back here at The Cove on Paradise Island. It is one of the most beautiful places on the earth,” said Fergie. “…I love performing here because it’s not so buttoned-up. It’s not so uptight. People are feeling the vibes and they just want to have a good time.”
The Cove, the 600-suite resort on Paradise Island, raises the bar among distinctive resort destinations. A repeat guest is actor Anthony McKie, who recently starred in the Hollywood blockbuster Captain America: Civil War.
“I’ve been to the Cove three times now,” he said. “I’ve been to Atlantis eight times. So I’m very excited to see the new additions that they’ve brought to the property.”
Situated between Cove and Paradise Beaches, within the 171 acres that comprise Atlantis on Paradise Island, The Cove recreates the feeling of being cast away on a private, white-sand sanctuary.
Designed by acclaimed interior architect, Jeffrey Beers of Jeffrey Beers International (JBI). The Cove features an open-air lobby, sensual suites and super suites, Escape retail store, dining and bespoke amenities. Private all-adult and family pools, lavish cabanas and ocean views are in abundance.
“It feels very fresh and clean and new that’s always nice when you’re on vacation,” said designer Christian Siriano. “You don’t have to worry about anything.”
CNN TV anchor Chris Cuomo a self-described “stiff,” reported having “nothing but fun” over the weekend getaway, while supermodel Karolina Kurkova took the time to see the dolphin, have great food and walk on the beach. The same beach-scape, actor J.R. Ramirez described as “just dreamy.”
“I’m producer and so when I see something produced so brilliantly I get overly excited,” said actress/producer Kathy Najimy. “They have really thought of everything to make not only our group but the people who are just organically here feel really comfortable.”
A lot of work and effort went into the weekend to make it truly memorable, said Atlantis president and managing director Audrey Oswell. “I’m very proud of all our associates and the team who worked to make this so special, here at The Cove and also at Atlantis. I’m honored to stand beside them every day.”
At least one guest left the property enthralled. “You have to come visit The Cove on Paradise Island,” said actress Jackie Cruz, one of the stars of the Netflix original series, ‘Orange Is the New Black.’ “It’s amazing, incredible. You’ll have the best time ever.”
tblair@dupuch.com