The Island House

I can’t believe I’ve never heard of this place before. The topic came up during a get-together with our friend, Tanya McCartney. She spoke about the upscale restaurants and the intimate movie theater at The Island House.

"You can buy your movie tickets online," she even said. I was intrigued. After visiting The Island House's website, my interest grew even more.  Alan and I were there the following weekend.

At the lobby of The Island House in The Bahamas

One of the seating areas in the lobby

Lobby sofa seating that makes you feel at home

I must say, it isn't what I would normally expect to find in Nassau. It's contemporary, sophisticated, and zen all at once. I just wanted to luxuriate in the simple but elegant surroundings. I loved everything about it.

The well thought-out details and stunning interior proudly spoke of the collaboration by global architecture firm Hart Howerton and renowned interior designer Champalimaud. Every nook could easily be a page out of Architectural Digest. I was impressed.

The front desk at The Island House

The Coffee Bar

More of The Coffee Bar's interior

This 30-room boutique hotel was built with the idea of creating a gathering place for both tourists and locals. The open layout, allowing ample natural light, helps achieve a welcoming attitude.

This fully Bahamian-owned property also features:
     • Six rental apartments for long-staying guests
     • Three dining options:
        - Mahogany House (Mediterranean) - See my previous story
        - Shima (Asian fusion)
        - The Coffee Bar
     • 48-seat cinema

Since wellness is also an important theme here, facilities include a lap pool, movement studio (gym with yoga, Pilates, and Barre classes), squash and padel courts, and a Bamford Spa. If I stayed here, I may never want to leave.

The lap pool

Outdoor gathering spot

The owners, born and raised in The Bahamas, intended to provide their guests a luxurious yet authentic local experience, quite different from what you might find on the opposite end of the island. Majority of Nassau visitors are passengers from cruise ships that dock near Paradise Island, located on the other side of town. Hence, The Island House beckons with their slogan, "Discover this side of paradise."

To promote Bahamian culture and talent, all artwork found here is created by local artists. My favorite -- a striking cardboard cut-out -- hangs on a wall facing the lobby elevator. The showpiece was crafted by Junkanoo artist John Beadle.

Intricate cardboard cut-out by Junkanoo artist, John Beadle

Lobby areas are enhanced with all-Bahamian art

On Thursday evenings, a local jazz band provides live entertainment. Sometimes band members include young aspiring musicians such as the gifted 12-year old trumpeter (recently accepted in Juilliard). On other evenings, another local band plays rake-and-scrape, also known as "The Music of The Bahamas," with goombay drums, accordion, and percussion produced by bending and scraping a handsaw.

Live entertainment on the premises

The intimate 48-seat cinema

Half-hidden among a grove of trees in Mahogany Hill, The Island House seemed to be the best-kept secret in town. Not anymore. Since opening in April 2015, it has grown staunch support from the local community and celebrities the world over. It has also captured the attention of the likes of Conde Nast and Travel Luxury Magazine.

This way to The Island House in Nassau

Being there reminded me of the saying, "Home is not a place. It's a feeling." And that feeling lingered with me long after that first visit, luring me to return. After only two weeks, Alan and I were back there for date night.


The Island House is located in Mahogany Hill on Western Road (found on the west side of New Providence Island, The Bahamas.) Just outside the exclusive Lyford Cay Club, it is about a 10-minute drive from Lynden Pindling International Airport. 

Only At The Peninsula

The Peninsula Tokyo
October 7, 2014


My Pen friends know this:  "Once a Peninsula fan, always a Peninsula fan." Having worked for the distinguished hotel chain once upon a time, I understand the true meaning of luxury and the legendary Peninsula service. My Tokyo visit wouldn't have been complete if I didn't get to see this illustrious hotel property.

The Peninsula Tokyo

Sitting in a prime area, The Peninsula Tokyo is located in the prestigious business district, Marunouchi, and only a stone's throw away from the Imperial Palace Gardens.

The Peninsula Tokyo is located in the Marunouchi business district

As with most Peninsula properties, its lobby is the focal point and the perfect place to have breakfast, lunch, or even classic afternoon tea. The Lobby boasts of "hanabi," a crystal chandelier inspired by fireworks. I just learned that overlooking this lobby is a private balcony with an exclusive table for four. It's an option available for those who want a unique afternoon tea experience. I wish I had seen that first hand.

The Lobby with its arresting piece of art under the "hanabi." 

Now the rooms! They are so spacious, luxurious, and unlike the typical accommodations in the city.  (See my previous post entitled Tip Not, My Dear Sir.)  I was very fortunate to take a peek inside the hotel's Deluxe Suite overlooking the Tokyo Imperial Palace Gardens. Just look at that incredible view!

The luxurious suite's living room area is wrapped with stunning views.

View of the Tokyo Imperial Palace Gardens from the Deluxe Suite

Separate bedroom area

Marble and stone bathroom with a large dressing room

After the quick tour of the suite, we approached the Concierge Desk to ask directions to the Tokyo Imperial Palace. The Concierge staff was pleased to give us a map and told us we still had plenty of time to roam the East Gardens before closing time. So off we went to our next destination!


This story was continued from Song, Dance, and Skill. A series on my Japan visit.