Yes, you're right. But that wasn't your original question to which I was responding. If I understood your question, you were asking if anyone had been there. I didn't plan the trip to Atlantis or make the arrangements. One of my wife's sisters was getting married in Miami and her whole family was collecting there from all over the world. "The sisters" planned this family getaway. I just went along for the ride. We live in southern California. The best tropical getaway for us is Fiji.
For that amount of money, you could probably do better. But it wasn't a rip off. My wife and I had a good time and so did the kids. I've found that the best deals can usually be made when renting a house, especially when kids are involved. This past summer we rented a beautiful 4-bedroom house high in the Rockies with another family. It takes some research and planning, but there are great deals to be found.
Yes, I have been there with my family for a stay. It is pricey!!! The kids really enjoyed it. I have also been there for the day several times when a cruise ship I was on stopped in the Bahamas. (Edit: Day passes are still offered.) I have enjoyed everything from the pools to para-sailing off the beach. I prefer cruising over staying at resorts. However I still stay at resorts several times a year using Hilton and airline points. My next trip is to the Hilton Jamaica all-inclusive in late March for a "spring break".
BTW the cheapest way to stay is to book at the Comfort Suites Paradise Island which provides access to the Atlantis and is within easy walking distance. I think the rate for a room was $240 or so including access. 3rd and 4th people may be additional depending on the season. The cheapest way to stay on-site is in the Atlantis Beach Tower which is close to the beach (with excellent views) and many pools that the kids enjoy. Two rooms at the Atlantis Beach Tower were cheaper than a single room at the Royal Towers in the past when specials were offered.
One of my employers travels to Atlantis at least once a year. I stayed at Atlantis one night over a decade ago. Even with them paying my travel expenses I still thought it was grossly over priced. And subsequently finished the trip at another hotel, somewhere on Cable beach. Personally I'm not a big fan of the Bahamas. BUT traveling for a living and having been there as many times as I have you don't necessarily want to put too much weight on my disdain for the place.
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Thanks for the info on Atlantis. After further review, I can't justify paying those prices when I know I can get a house on any number of tropical islands that includes a pool and in some cases, access to a private beach.