Bermuda

I arrived in Bermuda with the weather in the mid 80’s and a light breeze. Bermuda is an easy place to navigate since tourists are unable to rent cars. Taxis are readily available at the airport and private transfers are very popular. While on the island, moped rentals (for 1 or 2 persons) are available for rent at most of the hotels. Driving is a bit tricky with the winding streets and driving on the left side of the road.

My stay at the Hamilton Princess was enjoyable. It’s a great place to stay if you want easy access to town…just a few minutes walk and a good view of the Harbor. The rooms range from very basic ROH (avoid these) to 1 bedroom suites overlooking the harbor with a private sitting area and balcony. While in the hotel, the Colony Pub is a good place to sample the signature dish of Bermuda…fish chowder with black rum and sherry peppers. I admit, it sounds a bit strange, but is addictive. The two other restaurants at the property are the Tiara Room, with a great water view and good view, but a bit stuffy and Harley’s, a fun casual Italian restaurant.

Other good restaurant choices are the Waterloo House (part of a Relais and Chateaux) and Little Venice for a wild, chaotic evening with good food and ambience. There are many small, locally owned restaurants in town that are worth a visit…Monty’s, Tuscany, Fresco’s and the Pickled Onion to name a few.

While in town, shopping is the main attraction with wonderful china and linen shops, along with clothing and jewelry. Cigar and Rum shops are extremely popular with tourists loading up for their trip home. Town is bustling, especially when the cruise ships are in dock. During my stay, the Norwegian Crown, Nordic Empress and Celebrity Zenith were in port generating a lot of activity. This might be a good time to get out of town and do a bit of sightseeing…. the lighthouses, Perfumery and Gardens, historical houses and museums. Water sports are a big draw...snorkeling and sailing are the most popular…Ferries run between Hamilton, St. George’s and Southampton.

A couple of other hotel suggestions are The Southampton Princess, Elbow Beach (totally renovated with spectacular beach and sunset views, and The Reefs nestled in the hillside.

I highly recommend Bermuda for vacation and business. It’s a very clean, low poverty, tourist-oriented island. You almost feel like you are in HEAVEN.