Known as the "Jewel of the Atlantic" for its pink sandy beaches, dependable weather, and touch of old England, life in Bermuda is as good as it gets. Residing to the east of the southern United States, Bermuda marks the northernmost point of the fabled Bermuda Triangle and is a major stop for cruise liners, as well as the final destination for package holiday-makers arriving by air.
Bermuda is known for its attention to detail and persona of high quality. This extends to hospitality, the depth of its attractions and activities, and the fabulous hotels and shopping. However, all of this high society living comes at a price, and Bermuda is not for the faint of heart, or, more to the point, light of pocket.
Its beaches are the main draw, as there are dozens of them and they are squeaky clean and beautiful. The agreeable, year-round weather sees to it that they remain a timeless attraction, with many easily accessible from the main town centers including Hamilton, the capital city. Hamilton has the pick of shopping and other amenities, and sits on a stunning harbor. It comes complete with a cruise terminal which deposits tourists right in the thick of it.
There is another terminal in the old town of St George’s; a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to some eye-popping sights leftover by the English colonizers. Bermuda remains a British subject today, but this is no forgotten colonial outpost. It is British born and bred, and the people, most of which are African descendants, have imparted their wonderful culture on this pleasant land and are happy to keep the status quo.
The winding alleys of St George’s offer the most intriguing walking and sightseeing, home to the region’s oldest Anglican church, as well as a variety of pleasant buildings and striking waterfront. Away from these two towns are many worthwhile destinations, including quaint Somerset Village in the far west, which is home to cute cottages and easy-going shopping. In between are a myriad of forts and museums scattered all around town revealing the rich history of Bermuda.
The islands are also home to deep cave systems — the Crystal Caves are particularly impressive —as well as a notable aquarium and many other family attractions. The main beaches — Horseshoe Bay and Elbow Beach — are always busy, though there are plenty more to escape the hordes. Bermuda is as fun in the water as it is on land, and all sorts of activities can be enjoyed in and around the ocean. The area is strewn with reefs, and long visibility makes scuba diving very popular. Water sports are also popular and include windsurfing and jet-skiing, while fishing charters, self-drive boating, golf, and tennis are other notable pursuits.
Bermudan hospitality is second to none and the eating, entertainment, and accommodation is all generally high-end. Accommodation is in everything from swanky guesthouses, cottages and fabulous beachside resorts though there is a long high season making price reductions only really apparent in the wintertime. Most food is brought in, which adds to the expense, but there are all types of cuisine available, including British and American, and the local fare is often tasty seafood.
Bermuda is remote, so most day trips take in the other islands and islets in the area. Divers will have a field day as there are numerous wrecks and lots of dive companies offering day tours. Also nearby is a bird sanctuary, while farther afield options include a week-long tour of the Bermuda Triangle.
Getting here is done by flying or cruise. The airport is modern and receives flights from US and Canadian cities, as well as from London Gatwick. Many Eastern US Coastal cities are only a two-hour stop making it an attractive weekend getaway. The airport is not far from the capital city and main hotel area although with a law forbidding tourists to drive cars, there is no car rental so visitors need to use public transport or pricy taxis. The road system is not expansive, but getting around by a combination of bus and ferry or scooter is fun.
Highlights
- The stunning pink sand beaches of Horseshoe Bay and Elbow Beach
- The UNESCO World Heritage town of St George’s
- English heritage apparent in old buildings, customs, and festivals
- Great year-round sun, with little in the way of heavy rainfall
- Fabulous Bermuda scuba diving and snorkeling
- A string of world class golf courses
- Some of the best boating this side of the Caribbean/Atlantic
- High quality hospitably and friendly locals