ELEUTHERA, The Bahamas -- Prime Minister Perry Christie toured the site of the new Cove Eleuthera Resort set to open in November on the island of Eleuthera. New Orleans entrepreneur and French Quarter hotelier Sidney D. Torres, IV recently purchased the 32 acre ocean front property with plans to return the resort to its position at the top of the list of the world’s best secret island getaways.  

Accompanied by Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe and Investment Minister Khaalis Rolle, the Prime Minister made it very clear that the government is determined to turn the Bahamian economy around and that The Bahamas is open for business and is investor friendly. “If you are frustrated, we are going to remove your frustration. We want to make things happen quickly in The Bahamas. This is an example of making things happen quickly in The Bahamas” said Prime Minister Christie.  

The current upgrades to the property have created 150 jobs so far with 200 permanent jobs expected to be created upon completion giving a much needed boost to the local Eleuthera economy.  

Extensive enhancements are now taking place behind the gates at The Cove, an exclusive, secluded 50-room resort that guests won’t want to leave. Twenty-six new garden and beachfront guest suites will complement the existing 24 rooms. Reservations are being taken now in time for November’s grand reopening.  

Highlights of the extensive renovations include a new 110 ft. Infinity pool, full-service Bahamian flavour restaurant featuring Chef Chris Lynch, who trained under New Orleans’ own Emeril Lagasse, a brand new sunset bar located on the Point of The Cove which overlooks the beautiful waters of The Bahamas, a cocktail park including a fire-pit and lounge area for evening cocktails, meticulous landscaping with walking trails for morning/afternoon strolls. A new “Bahama Bean” coffee shop from local Bahamian Coffee Co. features on-site, freshly roasted coffee, lattes & cappuccinos. A new fitness and business centre has also been added.  

All guest room makeovers include 500+ thread count bedding, ipod docking stations, 50” flat screens televisions, in-room wireless internet access, in-room safes and luxury brand bath amenities. Guest may also enjoy private fishing charters, amazing snorkeling and kayaking in the crystal clear waters of The Bahamas.  

In addition to The Cove’s 50 guest rooms and suites, 33 home sites are being added as well. Three will be completed by November. A model home is available for viewing. Financing is available through Torres IV Capital Investments.  

New owner, Sidney D. Torres, IV says “Eleuthera is a magical island and our goal is to bring the same legendary hospitality, food and décor of the New Orleans French Quarter to The Bahamas. We’re very excited to welcome guests back to the breathtaking secluded, pink sand beaches of The Cove Eleuthera.”

Private, exclusive air charters are available from New Orleans. Guests will be transported to the island of Eleuthera within a mere one hour and forty-five minutes.  

The Prime Minister and his delegation returned to the capital late Monday afternoon.