This cache sits at one of the island's most historic and beautiful archtictural jewels, right at the entrance of Nassau Harbor. The site is a famous one steeped in history, and should not be missed by first time visitors to the island.
Fort Nassau once stood on these grounds. The fort was built to protect the western entrance of the harbor. It lasted until 1873, when the site was converted to military barracks. In 1898, Henry Flagler, a U.S. oil magnate, purchased the land, and in 1900, built a wooden framed hotel. Due to wartime transporation difficulties the hotel did not thrive, and it eventually burned in 1922. The Bahamas government purchased the land the following year and built the Colonial Hilton Hotel that stands today. The gorgeous hotel entrance flanking the classic grand staircase harkens back to times long gone. The lobby is lined with palms and dark woods that reflect the era in which it was built. The hotel was quickly a commercial success, and has gone on to host many movie stars, heads of state, and other VIP's.
Sean Connery came to the hotel to shoot Thunderball in 1965 in one of his turns as James Bond. He returned to the hotel again in 1983, again as Bond, to shoot Never Say Never Again. Mr. Connery still lives on the west end of the island.
To find the cache, I would recommend a tour of the grounds. Entering the hotel through the main entrance, you can see why this hotel was selected for such movies. Exiting out the back, you can tour the grounds and see the hotel pool and the beutiful view of Nassau Bay and Paradise Island. The cache is on private property and was placed, not only with the hotel manager's permission, but also with his assistance. Yes, he actually helped me hide this container. I suggested the final location so that he wouldn't have anyone tromping through his nice greenery - so be warned and respectful of this, and do not wander into any of the bushes - there is no need. To find this cache, find a large item on the grounds that reflects the distant history of the location. Good luck!
