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scooters are also available. At the CAPE SANTA MARIA RESORT you can look miles in any direction and all you'll see is warm and crystal blue water, sandy beaches and happy peo- ple. This is a boutique resort with only 20 bungalows designed in the classic Bahamian style and a handful of villas, located steps from the beach. This is the WOW factor. The property is classy, seductive, yet relaxed and inviting. Designed exquisite- ly, the villas reflect the elegant yet tranquil vibe of the resort. The living areas are bathed in vibrant color con- trasts with rich hardwood, and large, west-facing win- dows. The Villas at Cape Santa Maria feature new, high- end amenities. If you need it, they've got it. There are jetted tubs, full kitchens, entertainment centers and high-speed Internet. Villa guests can enjoy full access to all the resort's services — from scuba div- ing to bone fishing. Dining becomes an experience at the Cape Santa Maria Beach House. In the evening it becomes a hub of activity where guests can relax in comfort at the resort's restaurant and Oceanside Bar. The Beach House offers a 180° view of the beach and its sunsets. THE EXUMA ISLANDS, which are a part of the many islands that make up the Bahamas, is actually a group of 365 tiny, vibrant islands. It's also the largest island of the Exuma island chain. These landmasses provide the ideal laidback and adventure experience. Whether you are looking for a non-stop party or simply want to enjoy the area's culture, you'll find it there. Primarily known for their pristine beaches, snorkeling, sailing and fishing, The Exumas is also home for several boating competitions, including The Family Island Regatta, The New Year's Day Cruising Regatta, and the National Out Island Regatta. Check with the Tourist Board for exact dates. The Exumas is a historical smorgasbord. Check out one or all of the following. The Hermitage ruins is the last cotton plantation. The foundations of the main house and some old tombs are all that remain. In Williams Town, located in Little Exuma, there is the Salt Beacon, originally built to guide ships engaged in the salt trade. The beacon stands 30 ft. high and is a favorite attraction of visitors. If nature is your thing, The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, created in 1958, is the first marine fishery reserve in the Caribbean. This 176-sq. mile park was the first of its kind in the world and is known for its unspoiled splendor, exceptional waterfront, as well as its marine environment. Additional attractions are Allan's Cay Iguanas, highlighting fearsome looking yet gentle lizards, and Thunderball Grotto, a hollowed out island near Staniel Cay, that is great for snorkeling. There you can eyeball tropical fish, rare sponges and corals. Even Hollywood came calling. This setting was reportedly used for scenes from James Bond's Thunderball and Never Say Never Again, as well as Disney's Splash. Other places of interest are St. Andrews Anglican Church, Lake Victoria and the Straw Market. Historical highlights include: Rolle Town Tombs, Cotton Plantation Ruins & Loyalist Tombs, St. Christopher Anglican Church, Tropic of Cancer at Pelican Beach, Pompey Monument/-Ole Jail House, The Hermitage Tombs, Three Sister's Rocks, The Ferry Bridge, Patience House and the Shark Lady of the Exumas (an unusual museum and shop located in the home of Gloria Patience). Great Exuma Island is the largest of the Exuma Islands and the location of Exuma's capital city, George Town, which is 35 miles southeast of Nassau, stretches more than 120 miles and has a population of approximately 3,600. There is much to enjoy because The Exuma Islands, described as 'the fastest growing island in Black Meetings & Tourism December 2009: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 49 Photo Credit: Darlene Donloe