FREEPORT, Grand Bahama, December 4, 2019 – Freeport seems to be making great strides returning to its normal “fun-loving” status for residents and tourists alike in the aftermath of the devastation caused to Grand Bahama and Abaco, two northern Bahamian islands, the first week of September by Hurricane Dorian.
Freeport News photographer Jenny Russell, whom I had the good sense to hire when I was Editor of the Freeport News (2003 – 2009), just posted a collage of fantastic photographs on her Facebook page on the reopening of the Garden of the Groves with the following caption: “This was refreshing. By far the best post-Hurricane Dorian assignment that I have been on. The Garden of the Groves is open y’all, go check it out.”
The Garden of the Groves is Grand Bahama’s premier nature experience, where visitors can explore “winding trails through lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls and sparkling fountains,” according to its website.
Visit the picturesque chapel, which has been consecrated and is a favourite place for weddings, prayer and meditation.
Explore the Garden Shops, discover the sacred beauty of the Labyrinth, enjoy lunch or dinner at the Garden Café and Bar, or children can play at the newly expanded playground.
At Garden of the Groves indigenous and migratory birds and butterflies sip nectar or take insects from the many flowers and shrubs that were newly planted to provide nectar, insects and berries for wildlife. Since the Garden was re-opened it has been certified as a Wildlife Habitat by the U.S. Wildlife Federation because the new operators are providing the four basic habitat elements needed for wildlife to thrive: food, water, cover, and places to raise young.
