Atlantis is on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, which is connected to New Providence island by a bridge. We flew into Nassau, on New Providence, and took a bus transfer that I had previously arranged through Atlantis. The cost of the bus for two was $39 round-trip. We flew from MSP on US Airways, with a stop in Charlotte. Many other carriers fly to Nassau, including Delta, United and AirTran. A recent search found no nonstop flights from the Twin Cities.Understanding how much your vacation will cost can be tricky because the menus that Atlantis shows online do not include prices. Visitors can determine a budget before departure by purchasing a meal plan. A variety are offered; the more you spend, the wider range of restaurants from which you can choose.

The resort frequently offers deals. The current one: Book by Dec. 26 to get a free fourth night of lodging and up to $400 in airfare credit.

For more details and to book, click on the Bahamas button (as opposed to Dubai) at www.atlantis.com or call 1-888-877-7525.

KERRI WESTENBERG