FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why should I come to Eleuthera?
Over 60 miles of the most pristine Atlantic and Caribbean beaches are the main attraction. Beachcombing, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and sailing are a few of the things you can experience. There is also lots of sights to see and be amazed.
Are you located on the Atlantic Ocean or the Caribbean Ocean?
Our cottages are on the Atlantic Oceanside right on the beach!
Do I need to rent a car? Who should I rent a car from?
We highly recommend that you rent a car for the duration of your stay. The vehicle will make transportation much easier and also give you access to many of the natural wonders around the island. Keep in mind that in the Bahamas we drive on the left side of the road. You can contact Nammin Rolls at 1 (242) 359-7166 or banro235@gmail.com. We also recommend Roderick Pinder (Jr Car Rental) 242-808-3131.
What are the driving directions to the cottage?
We are located on the Banks Road right next to Tippy’s. If you are traveling from the north end of the island take Queens Highway traveling south. Once you see the large harbour on your right keep an eye out for Haynes Road. Make a left onto Haynes Road and take it up the hill. If you travel into town you’ve gone to far. Once you get to the top of the hill and find an intersection make a right onto The Banks Road. Travel on Banks road for an additional until you see the cottages on the left side. They are Blue/Purple (Purple Papaya), Orange (Shooting Star), and Yellow (Golden Chalice). You can also put "Bird of Paradise Beachfront Cottages" into your google maps on your phone and it should direct you there.
Is the water from the tap safe to drink?
We recommend drinking only bottled water while in Eleuthera. Check out this site for more information: https://www.iamat.org/country/bahamas/food-and-water-safety
Who do I contact on the island if I have an emergency?
Is there daily housekeeping included with the rental?
There is NO daily maid service included with the rental of our cottages. If you are interested in daily housekeeping please contact us directly at info@birdofparadisecottages.com, additional charges apply.
Can I use American dollars?
The majority of shops and restaurants accept US currency but keep in mind that change will often be given back in Bahamian dollars. The exchange rate does vary, but generally, a 1 to 1 exchange is widely accepted. We highly recommend using cash where it is only accepted and credit cards where they are accepted.
Can I use a credit card?
Many shops, restaurants, and tour operators will accept Visa or Mastercard, but be sure to call and ask ahead of time. Never assume that your credit card will be accepted. There is an ATM located in First Caribbean Bank in Governors Harbour.
Is there WiFi at the cottage?
Yes there is very good WiFi network for each cottage that is included with the rental. Please keep in mind the internet can go out at times due to the island, and this is completely out of our hands, We do not take responsibility for loss of internet use, as this is an island issue which we are unable to control.
What are the bugs and insects like in Eleuthera?
We suggest not using hairspray, cologne or perfume while on the island. Wearing long sleeves and pants at night will help. The bugs primarily flow with the wind. Where the cottage is located on the Atlantic allows for a fairly constant ocean breeze, thus keeping bugs away. If you happen to have an evening with very little to no wind the bugs will be out. When traveling to the Caribbean side of the island take precautions also, as the bugs will be more prevalent on that side.
Will my cell phone work?
Your cell phone will work in Eleuthera if you have an international plan or want to pay the roaming charges. To avoid having to purchase an international plan or pay extra charges download WhatsApp to your phone. It’s a free messaging service that will allow for free calls and texts while connected to WiFi. We suggest calling your cell provider and asking for an international plan for the duration of your stay.
Are the electrical outlets the same as the United States?
Yes the outlets are standard North American Outlets. If you are traveling from Europe you will need an outlet converter.
What happens if the power or water goes out?
A backup generator is on-site and will kick in within 10-15 seconds of the power going out so you will always have power at the cottage. Please keep in mind that things do happen and are out of our hands. If there is an issue with the generator not working or any other loss of amenities, we do NOT reimburse for loss of power, cable, water, or any other amenities. The water can go out at times, and this is an issue which is out of our hands as well. When coming to the island please come with an open mind as some things happen that are out of our control. THere is no reimbursement for any of these issues.
Where do I go to swim with the pigs?
The traditional place to swim with pigs is on Big Major Cay in the Exumas, but you can also find swimming pigs in Spanish Wells on the far north end of Eleuthera. Contact DaSaltyPig at www.dasaltypig.com
Where can I purchase groceries, beer, wine, and liquor?
The grocery and liquor store is called Burrows. It’s located in the town of Governors Harbour, about 5 minutes from the cottage. Here you will find basic grocery items and across the street at the liquor store a pretty good selection of alcohol. There are no liquor stores open on Sundays in Governors Harbour. If you find your supply running low one of the bars will sell to you.
Can we prepare meals at the cottage?
All of the cottages are outfitted with an electric range, microwave, cookware, and numerous utensils. We suggest planning on making breakfast and some lunches at the cottage.
Is there a barbecue grill at the cottage?
There is a shared charcoal barbecue grill. Guests must request the grill, prior to their trip, it is a first come first serve basis. Using the grill also varies on the weather situation. The grill is put in storage so it does not get ruined from the weather, so please request upon booking.
Who can I contact to go on a boat excursion?
You can contact the Fishbone Tours in Savannah Sound at 242-332-6524,ask for Bubba. Bahamas Ocean Safari's- James 242-470-1930 https://bahamasoceansafaris.com Da Salty Pig at Dasaltypig.com or Tyman Fishing www.tymanfishing.com
Where can I rent kayaks and paddle boards?
We suggest HW water adventures. There site is here https://www.hwadventures.com/ . They have a number of different fun items that are for rent. They will deliver larger items right to the cottage. La-La’s Rental Service, Tarpum Bay. Call or text Latoya Carey: 242-557-7530; latoyacarey@gmail.com We do not supply a kayak or paddle board with your rental.
How far are the cottages from Eleuthera’s 3 airports?
The closest airport to Bird of Paradise is Governors Harbour (GHB), which is about a 15 minute drive. The second closest is Rock Sound (RSD), which is about a 40-50 min drive. The furthest and largest airport on the island is North Eleuthera (ELH), flying here will put you 60-80 minutes away from the cottage.
How far is the beach?
Silly question, staying here means you are on the beach. Walk out the back door and take a few steps and you’re in the ocean.
Do you supply linens, towels, and beach chairs?
Yes, we provide bed linens, beach towels, bath towels, and beach chairs for each cottage. Any missing items, the guest will be charged accordingly.
Are your pools heated?
The Shooting Star, Golden Chalice, and Purple Papaya pools are NOT heated. The pools only need a heater two months out of the year.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please read our cancellation policy prior to booking, booking with us confirms you agree to our cancellation policy. To reschedule your dates there is a fee as well. If you do reschedule you will be subject to pay the difference in rates/fees. We offer travel insurance and highly recommend you purchase it via our website in case there is any issues you may incur.
Cancellations and Refunds: Cancellation of or changes to your reservation must be made in writing. If made via email a confirmation of receipt must be made by a company representative or the owner. If you cancel more than 30 days before your scheduled arrival, 50% of the total rental amount will be retained by Bird of Paradise Cottage and the balance refunded to you. If you cancel 30 days or less before your arrival, 100% of your total rental fee will be retained by Bird of Paradise Cottages. The security deposit is 100% refundable if the booking is canceled regardless of time. No-shows, late arrivals, a decrease in the number of persons, or early departure for any reason, including but not limited to inclement weather or illness, are all non-refundable. Bird of Paradise Cottages recommends trip insurance to protect renter against loss from such events. Bird of Paradise Cottages' obligation to rent the property to you under this agreement becomes binding only if and when the first scheduled payment is made in full. Failure to make any payment when due will subject your reservation to cancellation and will be deemed a cancellation by the renter. There is a $200 cancellation fee, well as a rescheduling fee.