Frequently Asked Questions

Are Solstice and Kaleidoscope ever rented separately?
No. In order to ensure the complete privacy of our guests and to provide the full range of amenities, the two houses are always rented together for one price.

Is Solstice appropriate for children?
Solstice is good for school-age children but it isn't a place where toddlers can safely roam free. Young children have stayed at Solstice and had an enjoyable and safe time but they will need supervision. If you have young children, we can discuss your particular circumstances and see if Solstice is right for you.

How far is the beach from the house?
From Solstice, it is about 250 feet down a wooded trail. It is a one minute leisurely walk or 30 seconds if you are very eager. From Kaleidoscope, it is another minute or so on top of that.

Smoking?
It really isn't good for you. If you must, please not inside the houses.

What is the maximum occupancy?
12 to 16 people, depending on how many beds you use and how many people per bed. Between the two houses, we have:

5 bedrooms with one queen bed each
1 bedroom with two double beds
a loft with one convertible futon-sofa
the theater room with one double bed and one convertible futon-sofa

How close is the nearest grocery store? Restaurant?
Nothing is exactly "close" to Solstice, its remoteness is one of its charms. But you can reach the best grocery stores on the island and a half-dozen of the closest restaurants in 15 to 20 minutes.

Is the tap water safe to drink?
The tap water at Solstice is rainwater with no processing or chemicals added, for better or worse. It is tested once a year for purity but unlike your municipal water system back home, it is not constantly monitored. If you are sensitive or cautious, you may want to drink bottled water which is available at all of the grocery stores on the island. However, we drink the tap water ourselves and every guest we have spoken to has done the same without any complaint.

Is the rent tax deductible since it all goes to charity?
Solstice is not a registered charitable organization so your rent is not deductible. We, the owners, claim a tax deduction when the money is donated to the designated charities.

Are there lots of bugs?
It really depends on the weather.The usual formula is "Rain + No Wind = Mosquitoes." Long Island is drier than most areas in the Caribbean, especially during the winter and spring, so insects are not normally a problem then. During the summer and fall, there is a greater chance of bugs. However, often there are long dry spells during the summer that are bug-free or sometimes rainy periods during the "dry season" so you never know for sure. Rest assured that all the windows and doors at Solstice and Kaleidoscope are fully screened. The property is also up on a hill to catch the breeze and there are no nearby ponds and marshy areas.

Do stores and restaurants accept US dollars? Credit cards?
The Bahamian dollar is tied to the same value as the US dollar and the two circulate interchangeably on the island. Any bill may be paid with either currency and expect a mixture in the change you get back. A few of the larger grocery stores and restaurants on the island accept credit cards but most smaller establishments do not so it is always good to have plenty of US or Bahamian cash available. There are ATMs that accept most debit and credit cards near both of the airports.

Is Solstice accessible to people with limited mobility?
The path to the cove is not steep but it is a dirt trail with about 60 feet of elevation loss/gain. The very short trail between the houses is also dirt and a bit rough. Particularly in Solstice, stair-climbing is required to reach many of the rooms. Wheelchair users would have difficulty navigating the property.

Are there other web sites with more information about Solstice?
Solstice has a page on Facebook where we post new photos and information periodically. You can sign up as a "fan" and be notified as we add new content. We also have listings on Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO.com), HomeAway.com, Bahamarama, and Bahamas4u.

Have another question?
Contact us!