Elite Traveler March-April 2017

elite traveler MAR/APR 2017 71 et

Conch-shell diving ELEUTHERA, BAHAMAS

Glow-in-the-dark snorkeling

MALDIVES

The island of Eleuthera is a mystery to even the most seasoned travelers. A secluded area with welcome clichés of turquoise water, swaying palm trees and untouched white, sandy beaches, it is nearly 110 miles long but only a mile wide. Eleuthera’s crystalline waters are home to a Bahamian culinary specialty: fresh conch. Under the expert guidance of The Cove resort staff, guests can explore the sparkling waters in search of this tropical shellfish. Embark on a private charter to spot the spiral shells and dive beneath the waters for your catch. After catching their conch, guests are escorted to a private beach where they will turn their freshly caught seafood into a delicious conch-shell ceviche. Stay in The Cove’s oceanfront villa. Perched on a bluff and just a few steps from a private beach, the expansive three-bedroom villa offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, and it has every amenity available, including a private butler. Price $3,500 per night for oceanfront villa with conch diving for two Contact Meredith Rolle, guest services manager,

Experience a unique underwater quest by snorkeling after dark at Baros Maldives. After the sun sets, head out onto the resort’s house reef to witness the sea creatures who only come out at night. The resort also offers a glow-in-the-dark snorkeling experience to uncover a hidden fluorescent world under the sea. Snorkelers will have specialized blue flashlights that illuminate the neon yellow, green and red colors of the indigenous underwater inhabitants. Baros Maldives is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and the adults-only resort is a secluded haven. For ultimate privacy, stay in the 2,885 sq ft Baros Residence, hidden away from the rest of the island but with direct access to the beach and a dedicated butler on call 24/7. Price $2,820 per night for Baros Residence, excluding activities Contact Karin Spijker, dive manager, dive.manager@baros.com, +960 664 2672, baros.com

guestservices@thecoveeleuthera.com, +1 888 776 3901, thecoveeleuthera.com