Daily Photo: Atlantis

For every kid who’s dreamt of mythical creatures, far-off lands and ancient ruins, Atlantis is the realization of those dreams.  Of course, the real Lost City of Atlantis is unfortunately still lost.  But there is a worthy substitute and it’s in the Bahamas.

Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island in The Bahamas is everything you’d expect if Disney had a resort in Las Vegas except it’s in the Bahamas.

Despite the property being incredibly gigantic, I spent most of the time underground while visiting Atlantis.  Sure, I slid down some water slides, went for a dunk in the natural lagoon, swam in the pool, laid on the beach and restrained myself in the casino.  But what really captivated me was The Dig.

The Dig is a subterranean tour through the eyes of every kid who’s ever read a Jules Verne book.  Meant to showcase all the archeological “finds” of the ancient city of Atlantis, it’s not hard to suspend disbelief, if only for a moment, and be transported into a strange world where sea creatures, technology and strange people once lived intertwined with eachother.

Everything is themed.  The attention to detail is so fine that you’d be forgiven for believing you were actually viewing the ancient and elaborate ruins of a lost civilization.  The experience is so immersive that everything looks & feels real.

On the way to each room you’re treated to stunning views of large sea creatures swimming gracefully around the panoramic aquariums that line the walls.

I took this photo in the Submarine Room where, as the story goes, submarines once docked and launched.  In behind the well you can see a dive suit as well as an eerie corridor that leads further through the maze to more adventure.

If you ever watched 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and wished you were Kirk Douglas or Captain Nemo, Atlantis is definitely worth visiting and exploring.