Welcome to the home of Barbara Nico, a Bahamian grandmother who is well loved by all who know her. Barbara lives on the Nassau side of the bridge to Paradise Island – a 10-minute drive from some of the best beaches on the island. She owns two friendly dogs who stay in the garden (they don't come indoors, so those with allergies need not worry). The only thing Barbara loves more than gardening is hosting guests from around the world.
The space
Known as Askaniya, Barbara’s home is home to travelers from all over the world. Barbara is a relaxed, informal, friendly and loving host who will happily welcome you into her heritage home so that you have a cozy place to sleep at night after your Bahamian adventures. Your room has a big closet for your suitcases and hangers for your clothes. You are welcome to use Barbara’s kitchen and backyard as your own. Keep in mind that the home was built in the 1950s (designed at the time by Barbara herself!), and the furniture and appliances can be a little older.
Barbara will have basic breakfast items available in the fridge and on the counter. Coffee, tea, bread, eggs, and sometimes cereal/oatmeal will be available. The kitchen has been newly refurbished and has a great blender, a nutribullet, a toaster and a dish washer. It's well supplied with spices, dishes and utensils for all your cooking. The bedroom has its own fan and A/C unit, but there is no A/C in the rest of the house (as the electricity bill can be incredibly expensive, we use fans).
Barbara will treat you, as she does all her guests, like a dear friend. She may offer you food when she cooks; feel free to do the same if you wish. She makes a big pot of coffee for everyone in the morning, and there is a selection of teas.
Guest access
Barbara herself designed and decorated her 4-bedroom home. It’s cozy, beautiful, and well-loved by the many travelers whom Barbara has befriended over the years. Her home is located near the center of town (a 5-15 minute drive to all the downtown shops and restaurants). You'll have access to her beautiful garden, the kitchen, the large living room and of course your room. The bathroom is shared with any fellow guests who are visiting – Barbara herself has her own bathroom.
We host guests who will make time to chat, share stories and perhaps a few meals, if time allows. We're not looking to fill up all the rooms all the time. This home has always created and sustained community for travelers and islanders alike, and we hope to keep it that way. At the moment, this is our only listing on Airbnb (although Barbara might have guests of her own in the other rooms).
Other things to note
The wifi is typical island wifi – it's a little weak and sometimes goes in and out. The wifi works decently well in your room, but you might have to reset the router from time to time if you have trouble. You can also catch the wifi signal in the garden (on the left side of the house as you walk in the front door).
The dogs bark at anyone who comes through the gate, but they are harmless. Don't worry about them! They're very friendly. If you are a light sleeper and you think the dogs moving around and occasionally barking might keep you awake, you might want to book one of the other two rooms at the back of the house (this room tends to be a little closer to the action).
Gardens have bugs – don't be surprised to see the typical critters (and sometimes small rodents) you typically encounter in tropical climates. Remember to bring bug spray and keep the doors and screens closed so they don't get in the house.
You'll find Barbara is extremely relaxed and friendly. Make yourself at home. As she'll tell you, "mi casa es su casa."