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This is the most upscale Sandals resort in the world. It's shockingly expensive, though you can often get special promotional rates that make it more reasonable. It originated as a very posh hotel, the Balmoral Beach, in the 1940s. In 1996, the Jamaica-based Sandals chain poured $20 million into renovating and expanding the property, which lies on a sandy beach a short walk west of the more glittery megahotels of Cable Beach. Everywhere, you'll find manicured gardens, rich cove moldings, hidden courtyards tastefully accentuated with sculptures, and many of the trappings of Edwardian England in the tropics. Note that only heterosexual couples -- and no children at all -- are admitted to this resort.

A favorite for honeymoon getaways, Sandals offers well-furnished and often elegant rooms, all classified as suites. Some are in the Manor House, while others are in outlying villas. The villas are preferred because they have romantic, secluded settings and easy access to nearby plunge pools. Some units have Jacuzzis and private pools, and some of the bathrooms are enormous. The bedrooms have thick cove moldings, formal English furniture, and shower-tub combination bathrooms loaded with perfumed soaps and cosmetics. The rooms that face the ocean offer small, curved terraces with ornate iron railings and views of an offshore sand spit, Sandals Key.

Bahamian and international fare is offered in generous portions in the property's restaurants. In addition to spectacular buffets, the options include white-glove service and continental dishes in the Baccarat Dining Room. The two latest additions include Kimono's, offering Japanese cuisine, and Casanova, specializing in Italian fare. Other choices are The Royal Café for southwestern grilled specialties, and Spices, for upscale buffets at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The pool here is one of the most appealing on Nassau, with touches of both Vegas and ancient Rome (outdoor murals and replicas of ancient Roman columns jutting skyward above the water). There is complimentary shuttle bus service to casino and nightlife options at the nearby Crystal Palace complex, plus concierge service in suites and upper-tier doubles.

The Art of the Massage--The Ultra Spa at Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort & Spa in Nassau has made the top 10 list of Spa Resorts in Condé Nast Travelers reader survey. The decor features walls and floors of Italian Satumia stone, rich mahogany doors and a collection of Pre-Raphaelite prints in gilded frames. One service offered, Massage Duet, allows couples to learn the art of massage from a professional so they can practice on each other in the comfort of one's hotel room.

© 2005, Wiley Publishing, Inc.