Bermuda Holidays

“Go to heaven if you want, I’d rather stay in Bermuda” Mark Twain’s quote sums Bermuda up in a nutshell. It is the island of choice for casual merrymakers, and the playground of the rich and famous. Bermuda is actually comprised of 138 islands and islets, but for the sake of simplicity, Bermudans simply refer to it as “the island”. Quite a few miles off the east coast of North America, the biggest and main islands are concentrated around the hook-shaped land formation. Consider Bermuda holidays for unforgettable time of life.

The Gulf Stream has a moderating effect on the island, so the weather is mostly balmy and humid. Winters are temperature, but daytime temperatures can drop to around 40 degrees Fahrenheit, so bring something warm, just in case.

A special word of caution is needed though; the hurricane season runs from June to November, so monitor the weather conditions on the National Hurricane Centre’s website before you plan your trip.

Bermuda is the source of many a myth and legend, and I doubt any traveler will need an introduction to the stories surrounding the infamous Bermuda Triangle. One almost expects to see broken carcasses of ships and planes as you travel toward the island. It is these stories of the unexplained that adds to the appeal of the region.

Even if the myths are greatly exaggerated, and your plane will not be swallowed up by the great unknown, Bermuda’s history was born out of a shipwreck. An English ship ran ashore here in 1609 on their way to Virginia, and eventually turned the island in a safe haven and permanent settlement as an English colony.

The concept of traveling to Bermuda to escape the nippy American winter is not a new one. In fact, people have been doing it since the Victorian times. A tradition of thriving tourism keeps the island going, even if they are no longer solely dependent on it. With such a booming tourist industry, great efforts have been made to cater to everyone’s culinary tastes, from British pub fare to West Indian cuisine.

However, if you are feeling adventurous, the local dishes are highly recommended, if just slightly unusual. Local food includes shark hash (think fish cakes) bay grape jelly and something called Hopping John; a simple rich and black-eyed peas mish-mosh.

Part of Bermuda’s appeal lies in its pink sandy beaches and massive coral reefs that ensnared ships, but this is only scratching the surface.

Thanks to its colonial past, the island has a surprising number of historic sites, dainty cottages a due to its strategic position on the trade routes of old, more forts per square mile than you can shake a stick at. To catch your breath, escape to the hidden coves and lagoons for peace and tranquility. Jobson’s Cove is an excellent choice.

Those who prefer something a bit more active, you can spend days exploring the surrounding reefs, and there is a variety of water based sports that will keep you thoroughly entertained. Hamilton is the only city in Bermuda, and the British influence here can be seen at large.

This is not to say that there are no other towns to explore, as Pembroke Parish is delightful, but Hamilton is the busiest and liveliest.  A walk down the old railway from Pembroke just outside of Hamilton towards George Town is also worth a special mention. Speaking of walking, tourists are not permitted to drive in Bermuda. You are not allowed to hire any vehicle with the exception of 50cc scooters, so you will have to rely on your own two feet, busses, ferries and taxis.

Bermuda Holidays – Accommodation

Accommodation is Bermuda can be quite expensive if you aren’t careful, but you do have some excellent options available to you. Romantic souls will love the local inns with their intimate atmosphere, while history buffs might prefer to stay in the model pink cottages so unique to this part of the world.

These houses are comfy and unpretentious with beautiful coral stone pathways. If you feel like splurging, there are of course beachfront resort and hotel options to pick and choose from. Many of these will cater to your needs on a fully inclusive basis.

Again, Bermuda can be expensive due to the significant import tax, even if the exchange rate to the USD stays the same. 1 Bermudian Dollar is directly equal to 1 US Dollar, and USD are widely accepted. Violent crimes can be problem in Bermuda, especially in the slums. This should not deter you, but make you aware.

Avoid alleyways after dark and don’t accept candy from strangers; basically just don’t do anything you won’t do in your own country.

Our Bermuda Holidays will definitely etch themselves on your memory.