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Harbour Island

Damianos Sotheby's International Realty, Elle Decor, Sotheby's International Realty

Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty Media Partner, Elle Décor, Features Gumelemi Bluff Harbour Estate as Prime Example of Sophisticated Beach Living

Island Chic. Gumelemi Bluff Harbour Estate, a 3,106-sq.-ft. home on Harbour Island exclusively listed with Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty, is the featured property for Elle Décor’s “5 Ways to Transform Any Beach House into a Serene Tropical Oasis.”

(HARBOUR ISLAND, THE BAHAMAS) Dec. 5, 2019  – On an island known for its chic shops, historic homes, renowned residents and sophisticated seafront dining, Gumelemi Bluff Harbour Estate is distinguished by its expansive tropical grounds and its storied location situated 25 feet above sea level overlooking the harbour in The Narrows, the most exclusive address on ­­Harbour Island.

Attributes that didn’t escape the attention of the editors at Elle Décor magazine when they were in search of a residence to represent the essence of stylish island living for a feature called “5 Ways to Transform Any Beach House into a Serene Tropical Oasis” (Nov. 27, 2019).

“Gumelemi Bluff Harbour Estate epitomizes the Harbour Island lifestyle,” said Vanessa Ansell the Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty estate agent who, together with husband Christopher Ansell, is exclusively listing the home for sale. “This home personifies island living, from the panoramic views of the harbour that can be enjoyed from every angle and every room, to the cleverly configured single-storey layout—complete with a separate guest suite—to the more than 2500-sq. ft. of outdoor, poolside living space.”

With thoughtful accents such as outdoor showers, perfectly paired with indoor tubs, Gumelemi Bluff is the embodiment of chic tropical living. The home’s neutral tone interiors and abundance of sliding glass doors encourage a natural flow of light, while not competing with the bright hues of colour bouncing off the harbour.  Of particular interest to the editors of Elle Décor is the home’s perfect balance of modern-day pampering and traditional Bahamian hospitality.

“As can be said of Harbour Island itself, Gumelimi Bluff Harbour Estate encourages al fresco dining and entertaining – think outdoor pool table, bocce-ball court, and a freshwater pool,” Ansell said. “While offering contemporary conveniences such as wifi internet and a surround sound system, the residence is set on one of The Bahamas’ most historically preserved islands and is an ideal vacation retreat for hosting guests.”

“It was such a pleasure to work with the Elle Décor team and to share with them this unique blend of worlds that I’ve grown up cherishing,” she continued.  “Additionally, this experience brought into sharp focus the first-class exposure opportunities available to Sotheby’s agents, and how these media partnerships uniquely position and lend to our competitive advantage.

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About Sotheby’s International Realty

The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has approximately 22,000 affiliated independent sales associates located in over 1,000 offices in 72 countries and territories worldwide.  Each office is independently owned and operated.

 

About Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty

 Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has 10 offices located throughout the islands of the Bahamas, providing unsurpassed market knowledge of Abaco, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, Exuma, Nassau, Paradise Island, Ocean Club Estates, Lyford Cay, Old Fort Bay, Albany and Private Islands. Head office 75 Shirley Street, Nassau. For additional information, please contact 242-322-2305 or info @SIRbahamas.com.

December 5, 2019 by
Damianos Sotheby's International Realty

Harbour Island Living – The Secret Gem of The Bahamas

There is an island that is so exclusive, so pristine, and so unique, that the residents don’t want you to know too much about it. As with all good things, however, word is getting out that Harbour Island is the true gem of The Bahamas. Harbour Island, fondly known as “Briland” by locals and those in the know, has somewhat reluctantly ended up in the luxury travel spotlight, and with good reason. This wee little island has more character and easygoing glamour in its five-square-mile footprint than most world famous island destinations.

This peaceful island, located off the northeastern tip of Eleuthera, boasts great history, privacy from vacation crowds, and natural beauty. From the moment one steps foot on this beautiful Bahamian isle, there is a sense of calm and relaxation. While Harbour Island may be charmingly rustic (golf carts are the preferred mode of transportation), it is also home to luxurious five star resorts, dining, and a plethora of island adventure. Notables, including royalty and celebrities, live quietly among the friendly locals on this little island. Here, dirt paths lead to stunning estates – this is not South Beach or the Riviera and “Brilanders” want to keep it this way.

One of the more recognizable faces on the island is that of India Hicks, daughter of designer David Hicks, bridesmaid to the late Diana, Princess of Wales, and a distant heir to the throne. Just take a look at her photo stream on Instagram to get a peak into her beachy, yet sophisticated life on the island. She once made the mistake of suggesting Harbour Island was on its the way to becoming the next St Barths and has been making up for it ever since. Hicks is now one of the first to stand guard of the island’s authentic old Bahamian feel. Other famous residents and frequent visitors include Elle Macpherson, Diane von Furstenberg, Tyra Banks, Mick Jagger, and Zac Posen.

Harbour Island is only 3.5 miles long by 1.5 miles wide and has a year round population of 2000. Although it is a tiny locale, it is big on history. The island and nearby Eleuthera were originally settled by the Lucayan Indians until the 1500s. In 1648, the “Eleutheran Adventurers” inhabited the island and named it for its excellent harbour. Dunmore Town, the first and only town on Harbour Island, is named after Lord Dunmore, the Fourth Earl of Dunmore. Dunmore Town is best known historically for its shipbuilding, sugar refining, and hiding liquor during prohibition. A charming village, Dunmore still has the quaint New England architecture and colonial style clapboard houses. It was not until the 1950s that Harbour Island began to be known as a vacation destination in certain exclusive crowds.

From conch shacks to fish fries and its enchanting historic town, Harbour Island is begging to be explored. Harbour Island is probably most famous as a yachting destination with its illustrious Pink Sand Beach, which is protected by the world’s third longest barrier reef. Its waters are crystal clear and the pink sand gets its hue from microscopic bits of coral and shells, making for some of the most stunning ocean vistas in the world. The island is home to some of the best bone fishing and diving, and it has many charming boutiques selling local wares. Harbour Island is also the perfect launch point to go on an island hopping excursion by boat and see some of the other beautiful Out Islands of The Bahamas. No matter what you do in Harbour Island, whether it’s a day on the water or a day spent lounging on the beach under the swaying palms, a day isn’t complete without a little “sip sip” (the local term for gossip and a drink).

Harbour Island is not to be compared to other islands because it is what other islands strive to be. It is laid back, tropical, and elegant. It is the place where you can stay in a boutique five star hotel, go swimming, and spear your own fish for dinner. Should you have to leave this captivating and magical island (and you won’t want to), you will leave with the sand between your toes.

The news is getting out and Harbour Island is on all the best tropical destination lists including those by Travel + Leisure, Frommer’s, and Forbes. So, how to get there? It is a trip best suited to the more patient travelers. The North Eleuthera Airport is accessed only by direct flights from Nassau, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale. From the airport, take a taxi to the dock and then take another taxi, albeit a water taxi, across the bay to beautiful Harbour Island. There is also a daily fast ferry from Nassau.

About Sotheby’s International Realty
The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has approximately 22,000 affiliated independent sales associates located in over 950 offices in 69 countries and territories worldwide. Each office is independently owned and operated.

About Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty
Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has 11 offices located throughout the islands of the Bahamas, providing unsurpassed market knowledge of Abaco, Eleuthera, Exuma, Nassau, Paradise Island, Ocean Club Estates, Lyford Cay, Old Fort Bay and Private Islands. Head office 75 Shirley Street, Nassau. For additional information, please contact 242-322-2035 or info.Bahamas@SIR.com

August 17, 2018 by
Damianos Realty

Best Luxury Resorts in The Bahamas

Best Luxury Resorts in The Bahamas. The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, is among the best luxury resorts in The Bahamas. Located on Paradise Island in Nassau, New Providence, the five-star resort offers amenities such as three pools, five award-winning restaurants and lounges, eight Balinese-style spa villa and a Tom Weiskopf-designed 18-hole golf course.

Many buyers who end up purchasing luxury homes in The Bahamas discover the beauty of the country as a tourist while staying at some of the best luxury resorts in The Bahamas, not to mention worldwide. Whether it’s the country’s crystal-clear cerulean waters, powdery white sand beaches, five-star dining or tax-neutral environment, a significant percentage of those who enter The Bahamas as tourists decide to invest in a home here. And with several luxury resort destinations available throughout the country, it’s not hard to see why visitors might want to make the country a part of their permanent lifestyle.

The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort | Paradise Island

Since opening in 1962, The Ocean Club has been a playground for celebrities and discerning travelers alike. Set along a five-mile stretch of natural, white-sand beach on Paradise Island in Nassau, New Providence, the resort’s lush tropical grounds offer seclusion and relaxation while its award-winning restaurant Dune, offering French-Asian creations by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, satisfies even the most sophisticated palates. Private residences such as The Penthouse at the Ocean Club Residences offer guests the opportunity to purchase a home that comes with access to all of the amenities of a five-star resort.

Baha Mar | Nassau

Home to premier luxury hotel brands such as SLS, Grand Hyatt and Rosewood , hotel residences and time-share offerings, Baha Mar encompasses more than 980 acres along one of the world’s most spectacular white sand beaches on the north shore of New Providence. Since opening in 2017, the resort, which is the largest in The Bahamas, has quickly become a premier destination for cutting-edge culinary, resort amenities and visual arts experiences. Dining options include menus by some of the world’s most renowned chefs and houses one of the largest collections of Bahamian art in The Bahamas.

The Cove | Eleuthera

This intimate, 57-room resort offers a selection of stylish seaside cottages and villas, private white sand beaches, a fitness center, a hilltop infinity pool, an immaculate spa, an open-air sunset bar and a gourmet restaurant. Located on the northern end of mainland Eleuthera, The Cove is not far from Gregory Town, a tranquil bohemian settlement featuring homes with names like A Majestic View, Sandy Bottom and Surf’s Up.

Kamalame Cay | Andros

Just off the Andros Great Barrier Reef in the cerulean waters of The Bahamas, this family-run private island resort accommodates 70 guests in cottages, bungalows and villas spread out on 96 acres of lush greenery, coconut palms and deserted white sand beach. Amenities include tennis courts, a freshwater pool, a PADI-certified dive shop, the only overwater spa in The Bahamas and some of the region’s finest cuisine. In fact, the resort’s monthly luncheons are so popular, they’ve gained international attention, encouraging guests to invest in their own on-site property, such as the elegant Dorado, so they can return frequently.

The Dunmore | Harbour Island

Just steps from the famous Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island, The Dunmore is billed as a “coastal chic hotel with private residences” offering casual elegance in a glamorous retro Bahamian setting. In addition to stunning oceanfront views, amenities include beachside food and beverage service, a tennis court, a highly acclaimed restaurant and bar, concierge services, a heated ocean-front pool, a fitness facility and an outdoor massage area.

About Sotheby’s International Realty
The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has approximately 22,000 affiliated independent sales associates located in over 950 offices in 69 countries and territories worldwide. Each office is independently owned and operated.

About Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty
Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has 11 offices located throughout the islands of the Bahamas, providing unsurpassed market knowledge of Abaco, Eleuthera, Exuma, Nassau, Paradise Island, Ocean Club Estates, Lyford Cay, Old Fort Bay and Private Islands. Head office 75 Shirley Street, Nassau. For additional information, please contact 242-322-2035 or info.Bahamas@SIR.com.

July 10, 2018 by