The check-in process was seamless.  The staff at the front desk were polite and professional, checking us in quickly.  When we advised the person checking us in that the airline had lost our luggage, she was very helpful, informing us that it happens all the time and that our luggage would be sent to our room as soon as it arrived.

The breezeway/foyer on the way to our room was beautiful.  Cool light fixtures hang from the vaulted ceilings.  It’s open to the air and as it turned out, there was always a nice, cool breeze blowing through.  Of course it didn’t hurt that it’s winter.  When we arrived at the elevator, we passed by a security desk and were asked to see our key.  In order to access the building/elevator, you must either wear a bracelet, which is provided or show your room key.  The bracelet is also necessary to access the pool areas and beach.

The hallways were cleaned and smelled fresh despite the fact that smoking is allowed at bars and in designated areas.  That seemed strange coming from New York where everywhere is a smoke free zone.  When entering the room, my first impression was that it was very clean.  It smelled great and was spotless.  The door opens to the bathroom and a walk-in closet on the right and to the bed and living space to the left.  The bathroom was quite large with two sinks, large tub, (large enough for two people) a walk-in shower and a water closet.  It was designed well and easily allowed my wife and I to navigate without running in to each other.

The bed was not as comfortable as I would have liked and the pillows were terrible.  Most upscale hotels offer high quality feather pillows, these were foam. Despite the large size, they were not at all comfortable.  There’s a flat screen TV mounted on the wall that can be moved for better viewing. WiFi costs $21.95 per day which adds $150.00 to your room if you use it for the week.  In order to access the living room, which boasts a large flat-screen TV, you walk down two steps.  It’s great living space after a long day at the beach.  Sliding glass doors open to a balcony overlooking the Cove beach and the ocean.  The sunsets are as beautiful as any I have ever seen.  Each morning we would watch the cruise ships as they arrived, allowing for passenger excursions at the many shops and restaurants on the island.

Of all the amenities, the most appreciated was the turn-down service.  Each evening the staff would turn-down the bed, leave water, fold any unfolded towels, put on music and adjust the lighting.  There was something above and beyond about this service that surpassed any turn-down service I have previously experienced. The staff pays attention to the details.

About the only drawback to The Cove that would certainly be a deterrent to families thinking of staying there, is the cost.  Rooms in-season can run as high as $700-$800 per night and while there are certainly deals and packages available, with the added costs, (taxes, resort fees and gratuities) it won’t be an inexpensive stay.  It’s a beautiful property and a beautiful room but I have stayed in nicer for equal or lesser cost.  For the price, there are better islands for couples looking to get away.  For families, it’s the perfect vacation.  There are many, many activities in which to partake.  But if cost is not an issue, then I most highly recommend the Cove as the chosen hotel when visiting The Atlantis, Paradise Island.

Cuisine – Part 3