The Tribune

CANADIANS William and Doreen Raymond have brought 145 guests with them over the 15 years they have stayed at Sandyport Beaches Resort in Nassau.

Their frequent stays in their favourite suite establishes them as two of the resort’s most loyal guests and arguably, one of The Bahamas most steadfast repeat visitors.

Mr Raymond first came to Nassau on business in 1963 and stayed at the historic Montagu Beach Hotel. When, in 1998, he and his wife realised their growing love for The Bahamas, they signed up for a 30-year membership with Sandyport Resorts’ Vacation Club, guaranteeing the Raymonds their three-bedroom suite every year.

Since then, the Raymonds have spent many special occasions with the Sandyport “family,” including their 50th wedding anniversary when their entire family of 21 came to celebrate the milestone.

“We keep returning because it feels like coming home,” said Mr Raymond. “We have brought our five children, their spouses and nine grandchildren here many times and they love it too. The team led by Vernon, and Brigitte and everybody else, always make us feel welcome and at home.”

For Mrs Raymond, the magic is in the times spent together as family. “We have wonderful memories here, especially when we have all of the grandchildren together,” she said. “You should see them in the pool and the slide … we could show you so many photos, so many memories.”

Sandyport Beaches Resort General Manager Vernon Moss says that the fondness is mutual and he and his staff look forward to seeing them each time they return, guests in tow.

“It has been a pleasure over the years serving the Raymond family and their guests at Sandyport. We really look forward to them coming down every year ... and bringing cookies for the staff! They and their family are such a joy to have at the hotel.”

Mr and Mrs Raymond are an example of the strong contingent of repeat guests who make Sandyport a home-base when in The Bahamas. Members of the Vacation Club contribute to 30 per cent of the hotels’ occupancy.