travel
Premier Pickleball Destinations
By Julie Talerico
Sandals Royal Bahamian
Picklers can now add the all-inclusive Sandals Royal Bahamian to their list of luxe pickleball destinations ! The resort is located on the serene coast of Nassau , the capital of the Bahamas , home to white sand beaches , turquoise waters and calm breezes .
“ Due to the overwhelming demand for pickleball , our organization is converting or adding pickleball courts to as many Sandals and Beaches Resorts as possible , ensuring our guests have access to play in paradise while on vacation ,” says Sandals Royal Bahamian Director of Sales Simone Grey .
Last year , the resort constructed four new courts — and word spread quickly . Client inquiries for the sport are increasing , especially among groups who want to stay and play in paradise . Paddles and balls are complimentary .
Depending on the time of year , pickleball groups can enjoy up to 11 percent off room rates when they book a group contract . In addition , Sandals awards one complimentary room credit for every 12 rooms booked for travel January through August , or every six rooms booked for September through December 20 .
A stay at Sandals , which recently got a $ 55 million facelift , is all-inclusive , so there ’ s no need to carry cash or credit cards . In fact , the resort has a strict no-tipping policy . You ’ ll love the unlimited gourmet meals from 10 specialty restaurants , each boasting its own authentic
ambiance and decor , with masterfully prepared menus from award-wining top chefs . Two new food trucks — Coco Queen and Sweets ‘ N ’ Tings — bring a taste of Bahamian fare for lunch as well as coffee and sweets . Endless alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages keep you refreshed , including a long list of premium liqueurs and Robert Mondavi wines .
The all-inclusive stay encompasses amenities such as snorkeling , scuba diving , paddleboarding , kayaking , sailing , and windsurfing , plus a fitness center and daily and nightly live entertainment .
And what better way to celebrate a win on the pickleball court than to dive into one of the resort ’ s six pools , some with convenient swim-up bars .
A special feature at Sandals Royal Bahamian is a private offshore island , Sandals Barefoot Cay , a five-minute boat ride away and offering two secluded beaches — one for relaxing and the other for exploring an area considered the best in the Bahamas for snorkeling . The island also includes a pool , Jacuzzi , seafood restaurant and entertainment .
Playing pickleball is fun anywhere , but what could be better than volleying and dinking at an elegant resort a short walk from the warm and gentle waters of the Caribbean ?
For group bookings , contact Unique Vacations , Inc ., at 800.239.2484 . •
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