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Simply Breathtaking, a Visit to Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

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Seek Adventure and Find Solace in the Bahamas at Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham with its Stunning Beachside Property and Surreal Excursions.

March 18th – 21st, 2024

Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham, nestled on the beautiful Grand Bahama Island in Freeport, offers a picturesque retreat for those seeking an outdoor paradise. With turquoise waters greeting you from every angle, and a mere stroll away from lounging in surreal comfort, the all-inclsive resort promises an idyllic escape. However, while the setting is stunning, the upkeep of the resort leaves something to be desired. Plumbing issues marred our stay, necessitating a room change due to a malfunctioning toilet and lack of hot water. Unfortunately, this seemed to be a common issue among other guests. Despite these inconveniences, the proximity to paradise made it a minor setback.

Yet, what the resort lacks in maintenance, it more than compensates for in hospitality. From the cheerful concierge to the lively entertainment staff and attentive bartenders, every encounter was warm and welcoming. The laid-back atmosphere fosters connections with fellow guests, resulting in newfound friendships spanning states. However, amenities occasionally ran short, with items like chicken nuggets and certain mixers intermittently unavailable, alongside occasional shortages of coffee and beach towels.

Setting these minor hiccups aside, Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham, boasts a wealth of offerings to ensure a memorable stay. The expansive 26-acre property features a secluded beachfront, offering over 4,000 feet of pristine white sand and panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Delight awaits at the pool and jacuzzi, where a nearby bar stands ready to serve snacks and libations throughout the day. Land and water activities abound, catering to both leisurely pursuits and invigorating exercises. Dive into the depths of aquatic adventures with on-site sailing, kayaking, snorkeling, paddleboarding and even introductory diving lessons.


Prefer to stay ashore? Engage in a spirited game on the basketball court, test your aim at archery, rejuvenate your senses at the spa, or sculpt your physique in the gym. Little ones find their own realm of enjoyment in the activities room designed just for them. For the bold at heart, the resort’s own trapeze beckons, offering lessons from seasoned artists to help you conquer the skies. As daylight fades, the nightlife springs to life, providing opportunities to mingle with fellow guests amidst lounge singers, dance performances, and exhilarating karaoke sessions.

Each evening commences with captivating shows featuring the resort’s talented performers, setting the stage for a night filled with revelry. The festivities spill over into the common area, where dancing and interactive games keep the energy high until the wee hours, when the adults-only disco beckons with its pulsating rhythms, ensuring the celebration continues deep into the night.

The all-inclusive packages at Viva Wyndham pamper your palate with an array of culinary delights, served from breakfast until the early hours. Mornings commence with a lavish breakfast buffet, complete with an omelet station and if in situated in the VIP area, a friendly staff eager to pour your coffee and juices. Lunchtime brings a tantalizing assortment of chicken, beef, fish and pork dishes, alongside a fresh salad bar and an array of vegetables and rice. Freshly baked pizzas and delectable cakes tempt your taste buds throughout the day. At the well-stocked bars, expert bartenders stand ready to craft your favorite drinks or recommend something new to try. Come evening, the resort boasts three distinctive restaurants, each offering a culinary voyage of its own.

Embark on a tasteful journey through the tropics at Don Diego, where the flavors of the Latin Caribbean tantalize your senses. Indulge in authentic Mexican fare at this culinary haven, where every dish—from the savory nachos and tantalizing tacos to the succulent chicken fajitas—offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine. Conclude your meal with a choice of beloved Mexican desserts, such as Tres Leches and Churros, for a sweet finale to your culinary odyssey.

For an eclectic fusion of global flavors, Viva Cafe beckons with its innovative menu. Begin with tantalizing appetizers like the Obregon Salad or the pork and brie “Bruschette,” before delving into hearty mains such as vegetable lasagna or mushroom-stuffed ravioli. Indulge your palate with entrees like sesame seed tuna, Tamarind steak, or chicken with champagne sauce, each served with a delicious selection of sides. Save room for dessert, with tempting options like strawberry cheesecake or fruit cocktail with yogurt and honey, ensuring a satisfying conclusion to your culinary escapade.

Experience a taste of Italy’s culinary heritage at Dolce Vita, where handcrafted pizzas and pasta dishes take center stage. Begin with authentic appetizers like Carpaccio or Caesar salad, then savor traditional Italian pies or savory pasta creations. Round off your meal with unique desserts like Pannacotta or Affogato al Cafe, all paired perfectly with the house’s selection of red and white wines, ensuring a dining experience to remember.

One such extraordinary escapade offered by the resort is the enchanting experience of Swimming with Pigs. Picture yourself wading into waist-deep waters as a fleet of curious pigs gracefully swim towards you, their playful demeanor reflecting their eagerness for the apple treats provided by the facilitators. For a delightful 20 minutes, you’ll find yourself immersed in a surreal interaction, feeding and petting these friendly swimmers.

As the adorable creatures retreat, a chorus of baby pigs takes their place on the sandy beach, offering you the chance to cradle them in your arms and capture precious moments through your lens. Though unconventional, the allure of swimming with pigs has captivated the hearts of many, emerging as one of the most sought-after excursions at the resort.

Another popular aquatic excursion offered by the resort is Snorkeling with Turtles at Paradise Cove, just 15 minutes from the resort. Led by knowledgeable guides, guests will glide alongside graceful turtles as they snack on seagrass, surrounded by a vibrant array of fish.

Gain insights into the underwater world as guides share their expertise, enriching your snorkeling experience with fascinating discoveries.

Guests can also experience the wonders of the underwater world with a snorkeling and scuba diving tour at the nearby Rainbow Reef, conveniently arranged through the onsite dive shop. Board a boat directly from the resort’s shores for an hour-long exploration of this breathtaking reef.

Marvel at the stunning landscape and encounter colorful aquatic wildlife in their natural habitat. Your tour includes all necessary gear provided by the resort, along with knowledgeable guides who offer tips to enhance your experience. The Rainbow Reef diving tour offers a delightful way to spend an afternoon, immersing yourself in the beauty of the Bahamas’ underwater wonders.

While not arranged through the resort, another great way to spend a day is at Pirates Cove Zipline and Water Park where you can unlock a day of boundless adventure at just a stone’s throw away, promising thrills without draining your wallet. Nestled on 7.5 acres of prime beachfront real estate, this haven of excitement beckons with a cornucopia of activities including Jet Ski rides, to captivate your senses from dawn till dusk.As you set foot in Pirates Cove, prepare to be enchanted by the panoramic views of the Bahamas’ azure waters, painting a backdrop of serenity against the bustling playground of fun. Its vertigo-inducing ziplines, where daredevils can soar to heights exceeding 50 feet, each exhilarating ride a symphony of adrenaline and awe.

Amidst the rush of wind and the thrill of flight, expert guides weave tales of adventure, offering tips and tricks for the ultimate zipline experience and ensuring every snapshot captures the essence of your high-flying escapade.

But fear not, landlubbers! Pirates Cove caters to all tastes, with a treasure trove of watersports awaiting your exploration. Glide across the crystal-clear waters on Jet Skis, kayaks and paddleboards or embark on a buoyant voyage aboard floating mats and water bikes. For a dash of nostalgia and a splash of excitement, climb aboard the iconic Banana Boat, charting a course along the glittering intercoastal waterway, where opulent estates of Grand Bahama’s elite while you cruise along during your aquatic adventure. Those staying beachside can find plenty of other options as well including Tug-of-War, Volleyball and lounging in one of their few beach chairs with umbrella options.

Still, no voyage is complete without replenishment, and Pirates Cove delivers with a feast fit for seafaring royalty. Indulge your palate with authentic Bahamian delights, from succulent conch to tantalizing lobster dishes, each bite a celebration of island flavors. And as the day wanes and the sun dips below the horizon, surrender to the soothing touch of a beachfront massage, where licensed therapists pamper your senses with an array of holistic wellness treatments, ensuring your journey ends on a note of blissful tranquility.

Be sure to stay up to date on the property as plans are in place to expand the zipline, add a climbing wall, update the massage area and welcome in a new restaurant. Recently, the park has added a large waterslide.

For travelers seeking to explore beyond the organized excursions, look no further than the legendary taxi driver, Andrew Styles. Renowned throughout the island, Andrew is your ultimate guide to uncovering the hidden gems of Grand Bahama. From savoring authentic island delicacies like Gully Wash to indulging in the finest Conch Fritters and Banana Bread at a local Fish Fry, Andrew’s expertise ensures an unforgettable culinary journey across the island.

In conclusion, Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham stands as a beacon of excellence in the realm of hospitality, seamlessly blending luxurious amenities with thrilling adventures to create an unforgettable escape for discerning travelers. From the genuine warmth exuded by its dedicated staff to the awe-inspiring beauty of its beachfront setting, every facet of the resort is meticulously crafted to surpass your every expectation. Whether you yearn for serene relaxation or adrenaline-fueled excitement, Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham beckons as the quintessential destination for your dream vacation. Embark on a journey where indulgence meets adventure and let Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham redefine your notion of paradise.

  • Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

  • Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

  • Zipline at Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

  • Zipline at Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

  • Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

  • Turtle Swim in Freeport on Grand Bahama Island

  • Out at the local Fish Fry grabbing some Banana Bread

  • Getting on Banana Boat at Pirate's Cove Zip Line and Water Park

  • Pirate's Cove Zip Line and Water Park

  • Turtle Swim in Freeport on Grand Bahama Island

  • Out at the local Fish Fry grabbing the Conch Fritters

  • Pig Swim in Freeport on Grand Bahama Island

  • Pig Swim in Freeport on Grand Bahama Island

  • Pig Swim in Freeport on Grand Bahama Island

  • Pig Swim in Freeport on Grand Bahama Island

  • Snorkeling the reef by Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

  • Snorkeling the reef by Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

  • Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

  • Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

  • Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

  • Late night entertainment at Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

Attractions

BODYSCAPES Ignites the Miami Design District

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A Miami art experience that reimagines the female form as an evolving emotional landscape, honoring the ways women navigate vulnerability, transformation, and strength within the intimate terrain of their own bodies.


December 1, 2025

Miami is about to welcome an exhibition unlike anything else this season. A forty foot LED wall is lighting up the Design District with a monumental digital environment entirely shaped by women. BODYSCAPES, presented by Barcelona’s Load Gallery, opens its Miami edition at Jayaram Law Studio, and I was invited in early for a viewing before the public arrives.

Walking into the space felt like entering an emotional landscape rather than an exhibition. The imagery unfolded slowly at first, then washed over the room with color, motion, and softness that carried both vulnerability and undeniable strength. Bodies appeared as if carved from water and light. Figures dissolved into sky. The screen shifted from quiet introspection to powerful presence. As a woman, the experience felt deeply personal, as if the installation was acknowledging the parts of womanhood we often hold quietly.

Load founder Alex Simorré partnered with Miami attorney and arts advocate Vivek Jayaram to bring this exhibition to the United States. Jayaram shared that it is “one of the most compelling projects we have ever had the honor to host,” and after seeing it firsthand, the meaning behind those words becomes obvious.

Miami is a city that embraces complexity. Beauty, reinvention, identity, culture, movement, and resilience all coexist here. BODYSCAPES feels made for that landscape. It honors the nuance of womanhood and invites viewers to step into an immersive world that mirrors the emotional terrains women navigate every day.

Fourteen women artists, each expanding the body into something vast

BODYSCAPES features a global roster of women artists, each approaching the body as a living environment shaped by nature, memory, and emotion. Their work spans photography, digital video, AI, performance, and conceptual visual storytelling.

The full Miami lineup includes
Farrah Carbonell, Dancevatar, I M Devi, Michelle van Dijk, Alba Duque, Maria Fynsk Norup, Adaeze Okaro, Natalie Karpushenko, Emi Kusano, Christy Lee Rogers, SERIFA, Ivona Tau, X New Worlds, and Zhuk.

Together, they create a collective vision of womanhood that is fluid, surreal, grounded, and powerful.

Moments inside the exhibition that stayed with me

Alba Duque
Duque’s work confronts womanhood with radical honesty. In the group scenes, women gather across city streets and desert landscapes, walking shoulder to shoulder in underwear and soft neutrals. The effect is powerful. These bodies are unfiltered and real. They carry softness and stretch marks and strength with equal visibility. In quieter images, women hold their stomachs, hips, and thighs with a tenderness that feels both vulnerable and revolutionary. One of the most striking photographs shows a woman crouched low in the dust, holding another woman in a gesture of exhaustion and care. Another reveals a close-up of hands gripping the folds of skin on a stomach, a rare moment of truth that feels almost intimate to witness. Duque’s images celebrate women exactly as they are. No hiding. No smoothing. No pretending.

Christy Lee Rogers
Rogers’ underwater worlds feel almost cosmic. In one image, a woman floats against a star-flecked indigo sky, her white ruffled dress blooming around her like a constellation. In another, deep blue fabric twists around bodies tangled in motion, their limbs fading into shadow until they feel more like emotion than anatomy. The pink and lavender photographs toward the bottom of the page glow like memories half submerged, soft and dreamlike, as if you are witnessing a moment of surrender beneath the water’s surface.

Ivona Tau
Tau’s work shifts between digital fragmentation and bold color. One image shows a woman outlined in neon green and red, her profile dissolving into pixel-like texture that feels both artificial and strangely intimate. Another shows three women in sculptural blue forms, their bodies shaped into angular planes that look almost architectural. In the softer blue portraits, the figures’ faces melt into smooth, mask-like surfaces that suggest both anonymity and tenderness. Tau’s world is uncanny and emotional at the same time, revealing how digital distortion can expose truths rather than hide them.

Adaeze Okaro
Okaro’s photographs glow with deep amber and gold. Her women stand against a textured ochre backdrop, wrapped in flowing tulle that lifts and falls like flames. In one image, a figure is almost entirely veiled by soft orange fabric, holding a bouquet of white roses that feels ceremonial, almost sacred. In another, a woman raises her arms with slow, deliberate grace, the fabric pooling and drifting around her as if she is summoning light. The floral crown portraits are especially powerful, transforming the subject into a living sculpture of beauty, ritual, and self-possession.

What BODYSCAPES leaves you with

BODYSCAPES is not simply a digital installation. It is an emotional encounter. It views the female body not as an object but as a landscape of lived experience. Memory, tension, softness, conflict, healing, and rising strength all appear across the screen in forms that feel familiar in ways that words cannot always explain.

Standing there in the glow of the forty foot screen, I felt a sense of recognition. It was the recognition that every woman holds multitudes. That our bodies carry stories. That vulnerability and power are not opposites but companions. BODYSCAPES gives those truths space to breathe.

Miami will see many exhibitions this season, but this one feels singular. It feels like a place where women can finally be seen without restraint.

If You Go

WHAT: BODYSCAPES, a digital group exhibition presented by Barcelona’s Load Gallery
WHERE: Load Gallery Miami at Jayaram Law Studio
3800 NE 1st Avenue, Suite 500, Miami Design District
WHEN: December 2 through January 31 – open to the public December 2 to 9th, then by appointment only
COST: Free admission

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