They say turning 30 is a cause for celebration. The time you go overboard and party until the sun comes up. At the age of 25, I had a party, at 30 I just didn’t have it in me. The years between turning 25-30 have changed me significantly. Some may say that I’ve truly become ‘boring’, but I call it growth. I’m not here to knock those over 30 that still party, I’m just saying, my eye lids can’t make it past midnight the way they use to. Therefore, I decided on something a little different, I decided to take a vacation to Kamalame Cay.
My love for traveling has only intensified as the years have rolled on and in the spirit of doing something different but staying true to the major in me, I decided to spend my 30th birthday on a private island. There are so many undiscovered treasures in my own backyard that I have yet to discover, that 30 just felt right to begin that journey. With over 16 major islands in The Bahamas to choose from, I set my sights on the 96-acre Kamalame Cay, a luxurious private cay complete with a boutique hotel, located just a ferry ride away from the island of Andros.
The journey began with a short early morning flight over to Fresh Creek, Andros on Le-Air Charter with a quick stop for passengers to hop on and hop off at Mangrove Cay airport. After I reached my final destination, a friendly taxi-cab driver was waiting to whisk me away to the Kamalame dock. Note, the ride is give or take thirty + minutes, if it rains it may add a bit of time. Also, there are lots of pot holes along the way, but it made for interesting conversation! During the ride I was able to get a tiny glimpse of Andros living and my cab driver shared a little history of the largest island in The Bahamas.
While I had absolutely no expectations of the resort and the island, I got a glimpse of what was to come as I saw the quaint ferry boat gliding over water to meet me at the dock. I was greeted by the most cheerful host ever, [her name slips my memory] and was offered a fresh cup of orange juice. The say first impressions are lasting, but I say so are second, third and fourth, because the entire weekend was filled with this same impeccable and major service.
After a quick transfer to Kamalame, my gracious host gave a little tour and rundown of the cay. The major points of interest on the island are the reception area, Pineapple House – the only spot where there is wifi!!!! The Great House – where I ate the most delicious meals all weekend, The Tiki Bar – where I lounged and sipped cocktails after swims in the sea – and Over The Water Spa – where I spent an hour on the table relaxing while sea breeze slapped my face. Last, but not least my room. An island chic beach suite highlighted with a sink tub and outside shower. What more can one ask for at 3-0? Maybe a longer stay!
The island is absolutely beautiful, serene and almost indescribable. It is littered with Kamalame trees, which is where its name originates, and coconut trees and colorful bougainvillea and other greens in between. The island has two modes of transportation, sand chariots [golf carts] or bicycles. I prefer the pink chariots! The staff are attentive, friendly and the one of the owners, David was inviting as ever! The island is known to host some of the most lavish and luxurious parties, and that weekend was no different. Another Leo was celebrating a birthday, and I was given an invite to the party, unfortunately too many cocktails and I couldn’t hang around for the celebration.
I couldn’t have dreamt of bringing in thirty any other way. On a private island, stargazing while listening to the waves rush in and out. The only thing I would’ve done differently was stay an entire week! While it was my first visit, it won’t be my last! I have to return, if only for “David’s Special” a serving of grits, with a delicious egg and bacon.
