The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, is not just one of the finest hotels in the Bahamas, it’s one of the best on the planet. Made famous for many in the 007 movie Casino Royale, this resort has impeccable service, incredible hospitality and we think is up there with the best Four Seasons properties the brand has ever managed. To find out more about this awarded property, Wayfarer’s James Wilkinson spoke with The Ocean Club General Manager, John Conway.

John, you’ve been in the Bahamas for more than 20 years. What has fundamentally changed about the Bahamas in that time?

So much has changed in 30 years, I wouldn’t know where to start, but one thing that has not is the warmth of Bahamian hospitality.

What specifically defines the Bahamas and makes it distinct from other Caribbean destinations? What would a guest miss if they chose another island instead?

I haven’t been everywhere, but I put a high value on the warmth and friendliness of the Bahamian people. Convenience is another huge benefit for the Bahamas… most of our guests are from the United States.

If they go to another island, they’ll waste a day of travel both ways. It is very convenient to arrive to Bahamas. Additionally, the beautiful water the Bahamas has—the aquamarine water is incredibly gorgeous.

What is the Bahamas actually like as a place to live? Describe its rhythm and feel, as daily life or through the seasons.

My life here is so clearly associated with the hotel; so, while it’s hard for me to give a clear answer about living in the Bahamas, I would say it’s significantly more peaceful.

It’s a slower pace of life. I enjoy running every day, and the beautiful climate and ocean views are a true blessing.

What is the legacy of Ocean Club? Why did it become the iconic property in the Bahamas?

It starts with the fundamental hospitality that seems to be ingrained in the Bahamian service. Bahamians enjoy welcoming people to the Bahamas, and they truly make the difference.

Many of our team members have been here for decades. With our unique property, 107 keys on 36 acres, there’s nothing else like it.

The white sand beach, and the turquoise waters, it’s jaw-dropping, and where barefoot luxury seems to thrive in a place where generations of customers have come time and time again.

How does a stay at Ocean Club allow a guest to understand and experience the Bahamas in a way that wouldn’t be possible elsewhere?

A stay in the Bahamas is about the Bahamian people, the ocean, and the pace. A stay at The Ocean Club is this, but also more, it’s the historic, intimate setting.

For anyone who has walked into our lobby, it’s a place where you can exhale. Surrounded by artwork and the blue ocean, our property is a way to truly relax.

The Ocean Club is popular on so many levels, from the location to the design, rooms and food and beverage on offer. Tell us about your favourite things of the property.

The lobby is a favourite spot for the beautiful artwork, and aquamarine views just beyond the entryway.

The incredible vibe that happens every night in the Martini Bar – that social area is the heart and soul of the Resort.

Going down to the waterfront, having a cocktail at DUNE Bar before dinner at Dune, also is a bucket list item. The overall setting, the view, the environment – it’s a wow.

Tell us about the fantastic food and beverage on offer, which is some of the best in The Bahamas.

I’ve been a Jean-Georges fan for a long time, and we’ve been lucky to have his restaurant here with us for 25 years. The black plate and the tuna tartare are some of my absolute favourites of all time.

John, what are your favourite things to do in the local area?

Take advantage of the ocean – spend two to eight hours at sea, and come back to the resort, you’ll feel you’ve had a life-changing experience.

The water is so clear, and the natural beauty is so strong, it’s breathtaking, and you feel you are in a very special place.

ESSENTIALS: GETTING TO NASSAU, BAHAMAS

The best way of getting to Nassau in comfort and style.

American Airlines’ new Flasghip Business Class ‘Suite’

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American flies to Nassau from across the globe, including from key hub cities in the United States, with flights soon to be operated to those gateways from worldwide cities like London and Brisbane by the carrier’s new ultra-premium Boeing 787-9.

The enhanced aircraft offers passengers an elevated flight experience, with customers traveling in the 51 Flagship Suite seats enjoying more personal storage space, a wireless charging pad, USB-C and AC power and a one-of-a-kind chaise lounge seating option with an adjustable headrest pillow.

“Our customers will now enjoy a more elevated premium experience on this amazing new aircraft,” said American Airlines Vice President International and Inflight Dining Operations, José A. Freig.

For those opting for Premium Economy, customers will experience the redesigned seat with new headrest wings that give customers additional privacy and new calf and footrests that offer enhanced comfort.

The 32 Premium Economy seats also feature a new trim and finish, wireless charging, water bottle storage and USB-C and AC power, ensuring customers have a place for everything during their travel journey.

Customers traveling in Main Cabin will enjoy an inflight experience tailored for their personal travel experience.

Each Main Cabin seat offers USB-C and AC power and 4K QLED screens, featuring the newest inflight entertainment technology from Thales that includes American’s vast entertainment options, from blockbuster movies to audiobooks and children’s shows.