How to Spend One Day of Relaxation in Nassau, Bahamas

Nassau has changed over the last 10 years. But during my stay at this popular port of call, I still managed to find the relaxation I was seeking. Since my last visit, major chains have taken over and the original Straw Market has burnt down. As I disembarked from our Norwegian Cruise Line boat and headed to the British Colonial Hilton, where we had planned to spend the day sunning on the beach, I noticed many familiar brands. Starbucks, Dunkin' Doughnuts, and Burger King had all moved in to the capital of the Bahamas. While I had never been to any Señor Frog's Restaurant locations, I learned that there are several others, though not all directly on the water as this one was.

Despite the many excursion options that we were offered through the cruise and independently on the island, my husband and I wanted nothing more than to read our books on beach lounge chairs and maybe take a dip in the pool. Several hotels offer day passes for around $50, which allows visitors to use the pool and beach facilities for the day. Up to five cruise ships can fill the port in one day so, having a plan before you arrive is a smart move (you're sharing a small town with about 10,000 cruisers at the same time). The Sheraton and the Atlantis also offer day passes, but since our pursuit was peace and quiet, we opted for the hotel that is least like a beach resort and were extremely happy with the Hilton's brand of elegant simplicity. Although, it is located right next to Senior Frogs, which starts blasting dance music after noon. So if a little background noise bothers you, you might want to either stay onboard the ship, or snorkel under water a little longer.

Our day pass included a meal credit at the pool side bar, which has a simple but healthy menu. The Mahi Mahi wrap is bursting with delicious jerk flavoring, which goes nicely with a mango daiquiri. Remember, you are on island time, so if the service isn't as fast as a drive through, be patient and enjoy the view of the lighthouse until your order arrives. Snorkeling is also included, though in May, the water was still only 70 to 72 degrees and I'm a wimp, so I didn't use this option. The pool, however, was not crowded and plenty warm enough. The lobby, much like the entire hotel, is clean, simple and quiet, which is quite the alternative to the other hotels nearby.

After a very satisfying day of relaxation, I popped my head in the Straw Market for some overwhelming sales experiences and a barrage of straw and shell accessories. The site of the new Straw Market is currently under construction across the street and will be opening later this year. Negotiating with these vendors takes practice, and they don't necessarily want to bargain with everyone who walks by. The upper end stores down the road, on the way back to the cruise ship, include the finer jewelry and, of course, alcohol and tobacco. Don't believe the locals selling "real Cuban cigars." If those are real Cubans, I'm an award-winning actress. But you might want to at least sample some of the local rums for free on your way out. If you're really feeling adventurous, join Senior Frogs swingers club. I did. It was beautiful and not at all what you're thinking. While they do sell sugary concoctions by the yard, a hand-made Mojito I tasted was probably the best one I've ever tasted.