This year I was fortunate enough to be able to take a trip to the Atlantis in the Bahamas for my senior summer vacation.
I had been begging my parents to go for years as I had been a few times on a day trip during a cruise. Yet, I really wanted to experience it fully. I wanted to stay overnight, eat all the delicious looking food I had eyeballed during those day trips, and practically live in their waterpark.
So for my final vacation before starting college, my parents agreed to take me. Let me tell you, it was worth every penny and I've been wanting to make a travel review about my experience for a while. So this is my unofficial but honest travel review of the Atlantis in The Bahamas.
1. Aesthetics (5 out of 5 Starfish).
That's me with the ice crystal sculpture.
Andrea Collins
Ok, this place absolutely gorgeous both inside and out. Just looking up images you can see this place is filled with long, white sandy beaches and aesthetically pleasing sights all over. The Atlantis is every Instagrammer's dream with its clean-cut lines and popping colors. The architecture is also done in an elegant manner to make you feel as if you are staying in royalty. My favorites were the Pegasus fountain, flying fish fountain, the ice crystal sculpture (at least that's what I called it), and the fireball in the casino
2. Waterpark (5 out of 5 Starfish).
The "Leap of Faith" waterslide, straight into a shark tank.
I loved the waterpark! If I had to say my favorite part of this whole trip, it would be that. The waterpark has an array of slides. All ranging from the daring "Leap of Faith", a slide with a straight drop into the shark tank to the mellow "Challenger Slide" where you can duel with friends. I highly recommend if you go, check out their Lazy River. It's anything but lazy, yet I guarantee that you will have the time of your life on it. If you get tired of the waterpark, there are plenty of private beaches to choose from and work on your tan.
3. Bedrooms (5 out of 5 Starfish).
I will say, I'm always skeptical about hotels that spend a lot of time on their decorations and amenities because I feel like they do not spend much time on the guest-rooms. Usually, the beds are hard, the hot water barely works, and you're lucky if you can get your tv on. I'm happy to say that this was opposite of the fact. The bed was comfortable, the bathrooms were spacious, and the tv did work. Also included with the room is a sound system for your phone. However, make sure you're on wifi or you have an international phone plan. Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, etc. do not work here. I used the wifi the whole time as it is spread throughout the resort.
4. Food (4 out of 5 Starfish).
"Nobu", one of the fine dining options at the resort.
The only disappointing part about this resort is the food. The problem wasn't that the food wasn't good, because, for the most part, it was. The issue was that there wasn't much to choose from. There's one main buffet called "Poseidon's Table" which is buffet style and included just about everything you can think of. It was good, but it was quite pricey, around $30 dollars per person for breakfast and only going up from there. There are other casual diners poolside or dockside near the marina, but they were still expensive. To switch it up, you had access to higher-end restaurants such as "Nobu", "Olives", or "Casa de Angelo" to name a few. We actually went to "Casa de Angelo" on our last night and it was the best meal that we had the whole week. It was hard to find a variety to eat because you couldn't explore outside of the resort because of how secluded it was.
5. Casino (5 out of 5 Starfish).
The giant fireball in the casino I mentioned above. I loved this thing, I wanted to take it home and put it in my living room.
I know what you're thinking, why are you doing a review on a casino? Aren't you underage? The answer is yes, I am underage in the United States, but in the Bahamas, I am not. In the Bahamas, the legal age for both drinking and gambling is 18. I've always wanted to play games in a casino to see what all the noise is about or why my Nana will stay in one for hours and never get bored. Also, I always thought this casino was especially pretty too. For my first experience gambling, I had a lot of fun and the Atlantis has an array of machines to play. They had everything from old school hand cranks to digital roulette.
6. Atmosphere (5 out of 5 Starfish).
The crab cage, as I call it. This was in the secret room that we explored.
Sheree Collins
This place has both a calm and relaxing atmosphere with a hint of excitement and adventure. You do things such as relax by the pool or read a book by the sea. The halls were always quite near the staterooms, no one was staying up late partying. Yet, there is excitement in the air. In the atriums, you're surrounded by loud music, lights are flashing, and there is always a bar having a happy hour. I mean, you even have a whole waterpark outside your door if you get bored of relaxing by the pool. For me, one of the most exciting moments was finding a secret room behind the main fish tank. It was comprised of smaller rooms, each containing a different type of fish. To this day I wonder how many people actually know that the area I explored exists.
7. Overall Experience (4 out of 5 Starfish).
I truly did love the Atlantis in The Bahamas and it will be a trip I won't soon forget. It won't be a trip I'll take again anytime soon as it is very pricey to go. This place is truly gorgeous, my photos and others photos don't truly do it justice. This resort is filled with fun and excitement for all ages alike. The reason it doesn't get 4 out of 5 Starfish is the food. I wish the quality had been slightly better at the lower price range, there had been a wider variety, and I wish that it had been cheaper too. I highly recommend this place and think you should take a "Leap of Faith" and go experience it for yourself.
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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
FAQs
Do you tip at Atlantis Bahamas? ›
All guests, ages 12 and older, will be required to pay a Mandatory Gratuity of (i) up to $5.00 per person per day in standard rooms and suites and up to $22.25 per person per day in specialty suites at The Coral, (ii) up to $10.00 per person per day in standard rooms and suites and up to $60.00 per person per day in ...
What can you do for free at Atlantis Bahamas? ›- Explore The Aquaventure Water Park. ...
- Enjoy Self Guided Tours Throughout the Marine Exhibits. ...
- Jumpstart Your Day At The Fitness Center. ...
- Take A Complimentary Gaming Lesson at The Atlantis Casino. ...
- For Bragging Rights Attempt To Complete The Atlantis Bucket List. ...
- Let's Go Window Shopping.
The total price for a family of four is generally between $900 and $1,700 per day – an average of $9,100 per week. These figures include accommodations, food, flights, some paid activities, VAT, resort fees, gratuities, and other fees.
How many nights should you stay at Atlantis? ›I think 4 nights, five days is perfect. There is a LOT to do, like Disney and then some, but 5 days is the perfect amount of time to do it in. Plus if you spend more than 5 days there you'll probably go home in poverty, it's pretty expensive.
Do you need water shoes at Atlantis? ›Wearing shoes, sandals or "aqua socks" is strongly recommended, especially for children of all ages. Guests with visible injuries (i.e. casts, bandages, etc.) are not permitted to ride the slides.
How much cash should you take to the Bahamas? ›Bahamas. You can bring as much or as little foreign cash with you to the Bahamas and take it out again. However, you are not allowed to exit with more than B$200, as the currency is restricted.
Is the aquarium at Atlantis free? ›Day passes are required for non-Atlantis guests to access Aquaventure, Dolphin Cay, the marine habitat, and beaches.
Does Atlantis have free breakfast? ›Concierge Amenities:
VIP check-in. Fully stocked mini-bars. Exclusive 25th floor Concierge Lounge with complimentary continental breakfast and afternoon hors d'oeuvres.
Drinks are free as long as you are gambling. Make sure to tip well so they come back to you more often!!
How much money should I bring to Atlantis Bahamas? ›While Atlantis Bahamas is bucket list-friendly, it's not exactly the most budget-friendly. Expect to pay at least $400 per night plus another $50-$100 per day per person for food and fees. And if you want a water or harbor view, tack on another $50-$100 per night.
How much does it cost for a family of 4 in the Bahamas? ›
A couple on a seven-day trip to the Bahamas can expect to pay around $4,300 for flights, accommodations, food, transportation, and entertainment. Meanwhile, a family vacation for four jumps to roughly $7,000.
What age is best for Atlantis? ›For young kids
While many resorts have kids clubs available to children starting at age four (or even older), Atlantis has activities and space for children as young as three years old. Atlantis Kids Adventures is for children ages three to 12 years old.
Yes, the tap water in Atlantis Bahamas is safe to drink.
Can non guests eat at Atlantis? ›You can access the main lobby of Atlantis without a day pass or without being a guest. The water park and pools are the only areas that you need to be a guest of Atlantis or Comfort Suites to access. Restaurants, casinos, lobbies are all open to the public.
Is a day trip to Atlantis worth it? ›I can honestly say that I enjoyed all that Atlantis has to offer and it was definitely worth it! In my honest opinion, the Atlantis Day Pass is worth it. If you can't stay at the resort, purchasing a Day Pass is the next best thing.
Do you need to bring beach towels to Atlantis? ›Fresh pool towels are supplied each day free of charge. So you can pack light and everything can be easily washed or dried. Use all that extra space for items you would rather bring from home than purchasing in the Bahamas.
Do you have to pay for food at Atlantis? ›What is this? The most important thing to note at the outset is that all food and drinks at the Atlantis are extremely expensive, plus 15% gratuity and 12% VAT tax are added. It is NOT all-inclusive; however, you can purchase a meal plan, which allows you to dine at certain restaurants.
Do you get towels at Atlantis? ›You can hire a towel
You can bring a towel in, but if you forget, you can hire one for 30 AED (around £60 at the time of writing). If you want to save a couple of quid, you can get a towel and a locker combo for 50 AED rather than 70.
Conversion rates US Dollar / Bahamian Dollar | |
---|---|
10 USD | 10.00000 BSD |
20 USD | 20.00000 BSD |
50 USD | 50.00000 BSD |
100 USD | 100.00000 BSD |
All of the major U.S. carriers consider roaming in the Bahamas to be International roaming. International roaming options are offered by all four major U.S. carriers. While the carriers do offer international plans or plan add-ons, quality of service - or service at all is not guaranteed.
Should I bring USD to Bahamas? ›
Currency and Exchange
Since U.S. currency is accepted everywhere, there really is no need to change to Bahamian. Also, you won't incur any transaction fees for currency exchange, or worry about getting stuck with unspent Bahamian dollars. Carry small bills when bargaining at straw markets.
The price of the Shallow Water Interaction is $130.00 - $150.00 per person throughout the year. Dolphin Cay's Deep Water Swim Program is an experience of a lifetime! Similar to our Shallow Water Interaction, you will have an up close personal experience with one of our beautiful Atlantis Bottlenose Dolphins.
Can you just walk into Atlantis? ›Atlantis is open to the public
You can walk right into the resort. Personally, I brought my boat and docked it at their free dinghy docks. You can walk right up to the resort though as well and enjoy their casino, restaurants and bars, as well as a few other things that are listed below.
The Suite Life: The $8,167-a-Night Neptune Suite at Atlantis, The Palm.
Can you bring your own food to Atlantis? ›Collapsible Cooler
Did you know you're allowed to bring your own food and drinks onto the Atlantis Resort? By packing a cooler and stopping at the grocery store, you'll save a fortune over the course of your stay at Atlantis.
Dress Code: During the day the dress code is casual, during the evening the restaurants prefer guests to be smart-casual, so shirts and trousers (full length) for men. During Ramadan some restaurants may close or alter their opening times.
What does full board at Atlantis include? ›Full Board option: includes breakfast, lunch and dinner with soft drinks. Lunch is available in 3 restaurants: The Shore, Wavehouse and Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay. Breakfast and dinner options are the same as with the Half Board option.
Can non guest go to Atlantis casino? ›But, you don't need to be a guest at the resort to visit this mega-resort. In fact, millions of visitors to Nassau take a quick taxi or water-shuttle ride to experience the resort's casinos and restaurants.
How much is a beer at Atlantis? ›Restaurants | Edit |
---|---|
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 25.00$ |
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | 100.00$ |
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | 8.00$ |
Domestic Beer (1 pint draught) | 3.75$ |
Meal in a cheap restaurant | 25 USD (12-50) |
---|---|
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) | 3.80 USD (3.00-6.00) |
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) | 7.00 USD (4.00-8.00) |
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle) | 2.40 USD (1.00-5.00) |
Water (0.33 liter bottle) | 1.90 USD (1.00-5.00) |
Should you carry cash in Bahamas? ›
It's always advisable to bring money in a variety of forms on a vacation: a mix of cash, credit cards, and traveler's checks. You should also exchange enough petty cash to cover airport incidentals, tipping, and transportation to your hotel before you leave home, or withdraw money upon arrival at an airport ATM.
How much is it to swim with sharks in Atlantis Bahamas? ›This encounter takes place at the Atlantis coral resort in the marine habitat but its run by blue adventures. It cost $130 per person in July.
What is the cost of one night in Atlantis? ›Atlantis, The Palm from ₹ 3,519.
What is the cheapest month to visit Bahamas? ›High season is considered to be November and December. The cheapest month to fly to The Bahamas is September. Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest The Bahamas flight deals.
How much is a Coke in the Bahamas? ›...
Cost of Living in Bahamas.
Restaurants | Edit |
---|---|
Coke/Pepsi (12 oz small bottle) | 2.44$ |
Water (12 oz small bottle) | 2.26$ |
Markets | Edit |
Milk (regular), (1 gallon) | 15.93$ |
Florida's Islands Are Cheaper Than The Bahamas (& Easier)
Many people dream of an island vacation where they can enjoy the pristine beaches with clear and turquoise waters, white sands with tall palms drooping over, and breathtaking views of the sea, along with unlimited water sports and fun activities.
With five days in our tropical paradise, you can enjoy everything Atlantis has to offer, from heart pounding adventure to blissful relaxation. Discover Mandara Spa for rejuvenating therapies or enjoy spectacular ocean views and challenging play at Ocean Club Golf Course.
Can you swim at Atlantis without staying there? ›Many people think they have to stay at the Atlantis Paradise Island resort to use its facilities. This isn't exactly the case! You can get an Atlantis Bahamas Day Pass and spend the day enjoying as little or as much of the resort as you want.
Who owns the Atlantis Bahamas? ›The Atlantis Paradise Island resort in the Bahamas is no longer owned or operated by Kerzner and is now owned by Brookfield Asset Management LLC and operated by Marriott International's Autograph Collection Hotels.
Are the pools at Atlantis saltwater? ›I think one of the reasons why the Atlantis is so expensive is to pay for the upkeep of their marine habitat. The resort offers 14 lagoons, eight million gallons of saltwater, and more than 50,000 aquatic animals representing over 250 marine species.
How deep is the Atlantis pool? ›
Each pool has a maximum depth of 4 4 in. This natural beach offers sunbathing and swimming. HOW TO ACCESS AND ENJOY — Access from the Beach Tower or Coral Tower via outdoor pathways.
Do you have to wear a mask in Atlantis Bahamas? ›All Team Members will be required to wear masks or cloth face coverings, and we strongly encourage our guests to wear masks or appropriate cloth face coverings. Complimentary masks will be available to all guests upon entering the property.
Is Atlantis Bahamas cashless? ›Credit Card Deposit Policy
Please note that the food and beverage outlets at Atlantis operate cashless. The resort will authorize an initial credit card deposit equal to $100 per day at check-in. Additional authorizations will be obtained as required throughout the stay.
Atlantis offers:
A year-round indoor pool. A seasonal outdoor pool and sun deck. Great pool hours. We're open daily 6 am - 10 pm.
As our guest, you have full access to all Atlantis water park features at no additional cost. Included are 11 swimming areas, 11 water slides, two Lazy River Rides, our protected Paradise Lagoon, The Dig, the Predator's Lagoon, all of our marine life habitats, and the ocean beach area.
What can you see for free at Atlantis? ›- Explore The Aquaventure Water Park. ...
- Enjoy Self Guided Tours Throughout the Marine Exhibits. ...
- Jumpstart Your Day At The Fitness Center. ...
- Take A Complimentary Gaming Lesson at The Atlantis Casino.
The best time to visit The Bahamas is November or late April, when you'll have fine weather and fewer crowds, and you're still outside the hurricane season.
Is it customary to tip in the Bahamas? ›In the Bahamas, service staff and hotel workers expect to be tipped. The usual tip for service from a taxi driver or waiter is 15% and $1–$2 a bag for porters. Most travelers leave $1 to $3 per day for their hotel maid, usually every morning since the maid may have a day off.
Should I tip people in Bahamas in USD? ›Tip in the local currency
Whenever you tip during your trip to Bahamas it is important to use the local currency, that is - Bahamian dollars. Otherwise you'll leave your service providers with cash they can't use without paying high fees on currency exchange.
Tipping butlers, tour guides, and massage therapists is optional at an all-inclusive resort like Beaches Resorts, where tipping and gratuities are included in the cost of your vacation package and not required for most staff.
Do you get free drinks while gambling at Atlantis Bahamas? ›
Drinks are free as long as you are gambling. Make sure to tip well so they come back to you more often!!
Do I need cash in the Bahamas? ›Credit Cards are used throughout most of the bahamas, especially in the tourist areas, but some of the smaller out island require cash for purchases, and sometimes even car rentals. ATM's are available throughout Nassau, Paradise Island and Freeport, but are harder to find in the smaller islands.
Can you brush your teeth with tap water in the Bahamas? ›You may utilize the tap water for washing fruits and vegetable, cooking, brushing your teeth, showering or any other activity requiring water usage. The tap water in Nassau hotels is perfectly safe to drink however, it may have a bit of a strange taste which is why the majority of people drink bottled water.
Can you spend US dollars in Bahamas? ›Currency and Exchange
The U.S. dollar is on par with the Bahamian dollar and is accepted all over the Bahamas. Bahamian money runs in bills of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. Since U.S. currency is accepted everywhere, there really is no need to change to Bahamian.
Here is a good rule of thumb: The $1 tip is dead, long live the $5 tip. Barmen get at least $2, unless you're buying a soda.
How much do you tip housekeeping in Bahamas? ›Hotel Staff: Who should I tip? Tipping in hotels in the Bahamas is customary and a general guideline to follow would be leaving your bell boy $1 per bag and tipping your housekeeping $2 per day.
How much alcohol can I bring into the Bahamas? ›Alcoholic Beverages not exceeding one quart of spirits and one quart of wine (Adults only), Tobacco not exceeding one pound in weight or 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars (Adults Only).
How much tip for a waitress at an all-inclusive resort? ›How Much Do You Tip at All-Inclusive Resorts? For a one-week stay at an all-inclusive resort, a couple should budget to spend about $150 US (or the local currency equivalent) total in tips. This means that you should bring about $20 in small bills with you to spend on tips throughout the day.
Is it rude not to tip at all-inclusive resorts? ›Tipping is not a requirement on your vacation at an all-inclusive resort, but it is the norm among guests in most cases. You can tip in US currency in most cases; however, it is best to avoid using coins because they are harder to exchange.
Do you need cash at an all-inclusive resort? ›Credit cards are gold around these parts but it's still a good idea to bring cash along when you travel, even on an all-inclusive vacation. While you won't be paying for meals or drinks, it's a good idea to make friends with your bartender at the beginning of the trip by leaving a tip up front.
Can I drink the tap water in Atlantis Bahamas? ›
Is Tap Water Safe To Drink In Atlantis Bahamas? Yes, the tap water in Atlantis Bahamas is safe to drink. However, as stated above, if you are not used to the conditions of a hot tropical country, it is better advised to stick to bottled water.