Bermuda is a one-of-a-kind island destination and full of surprises. It isn’t in the Caribbean as many people think - it is tucked away in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and warmed by the Gulf Stream. So it has a gentle, temperate climate all year round. There are gorgeous beaches – in fact you are never more than 800m from the ocean in Bermuda. And you can snorkel among the Atlantic's largest and most beautiful coral reefs. |
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Bermuda isn’t just one island - it consists of 181 named islands and islets. Most of Bermuda’s many islands are uninhabited, but eight of the larger ones, linked by bridges and one causeway, form this subtropical paradise. Seen from the air, Bermuda resembles a fishhook and this tiny destination is made up of only 54 square kms (37kms long, with a maximum width of 2.8kms). The hottest part of the year is May through mid-October, when temperatures hover between 23°C and 29°C. During the winter months, temperatures average a balmy 21°C.
Bermuda is the oldest British Colony, and has the second oldest Parliamentary Democracy after England, in the world. Because of its strategic position it also has a rich naval history and its culture is a mixture of British charm and island soul. In fact the Bermudian people are descendants of slaves from the West Indies and West Africa, English settlers, Irish adventurers, exiled North American Indian prisoners and Portuguese immigrants! African dances are still performed in the street on holidays.
With no neon signs, limited cars and green practices – Bermuda has a rare purity. But it also has wonderful spas and luxury resorts. Bermuda’s infrastructure is of a high standard and it is particularly well known for its first class golf courses.
Bermuda’s other claim to fame is 120kms of the most exquisite coastline in the Atlantic with its unique pink sand beaches. Tiny single-celled animal called Red Forams that live under the coral reef are responsible for the colour of Bermuda’s beaches. Their red skeletons mix with the white sand and broken sea shells creating a pink tinge that is one of the most remarkable sights on Bermuda.
Horseshoe Bay Beach is the most celebrated beach – a sweeping crescent of pink sand. West Whale Bay Beach has a fitting name, because in April you may see humpback whales migrating north to their summer feeding grounds. The large grassy area behind the beach is an ideal spot to enjoy a stunning ocean sunset.
For foodies Bermuda has lots to enjoy. You will find fresh island cuisine, international platters and locally caught fish prepared by world-renowned chefs. Savor the world’s best fish sandwich, or dine on lobster on the beach…
Island cuisine is a reflection of Bermuda’s blended heritage and ready access to premier local seafood such as wahoo and the ubiquitous rockfish. Traditional dishes include Codfish and Potatoes (served either the English way with hard boiled egg, egg sauce and olive oil or Portuguese influenced with a tomato-onion sauce), Hoppin' John (peas and rice), Pawpaw Casserole and, of course, Bermuda Fish Chowder. Bermuda is also famous for two signature drinks: the Dark ‘n Stormy (featuring Gosling’s Black Seal Rum mixed with Ginger Beer) and the Bermuda Rum Swizzle.
Bermuda’s relaxed pace doesn’t mean that there aren’t a ton of things to do if you want to tear yourself away from the beach. Unsurprisingly many activities revolve around the water – but there are lots of land based options as well.
Watersports
Partly thanks to its great naval tradition, Bermuda is considered the wreck diving capital of the Atlantic. Bermuda offers dive sites for all experience levels, from shipwrecks to reefs, as well as year-round temperate waters.
Flyboard is an exciting new activity in Bermuda. A Flyboard is a water-jet system that attaches to the rider’s feet with bindings much like those found on wakeboards. A 65-foot hose extends from the board and bindings to a Sea-Doo, which pumps water through the hose to the Flyboard, providing enough pressure to propel the Flyboard and rider into the air. And parasailing, water skiing, jet skis and more keep adrenaline junkies entertained.
Bermudians have always lived for the sea so boats are readily available for charter – whether you want to go diving or explore the coral reef on a glass bottom boat. Self-drive boat rentals are available if you prefer to be captain of your own ship and kayaking is very popular if you prefer to paddle.
Although it's completely coincidental that Bermuda is shaped liked a fishhook, this cluster of islands has been hooking deep-sea anglers for years and fishing charters are readily available. In the world of big-game fishing, three species are prized in terms of size, power and mystique: marlin, tuna and wahoo. Visitors to Bermuda will find all three of these species just offshore.
Land Activities
There are more golf courses per square mile in Bermuda than anywhere else on the planet. Golfers have always been drawn to the island's gorgeous scenery, agreeable climate and sophisticated array of before- and after-game activities. Most golf courses book advance tee times and hotels and guesthouses can assist guests directly.
There are seven courses, including Belmont Golf Club, Tucker’s Point Golf Club, Mid Ocean Club, Ocean View Golf Course, Port Royal Golf Course, Riddell’s Bay Golf & Country Club, and the Turtle Hill Golf Club. The island also has a Bermuda Golf Academy.
Mid Ocean Club, Riddell’s Bay and Tucker’s Point are private clubs, requiring an introduction by a member. However, most hotels can reserve tee times for guests. The Bermuda Government owns the Port Royal and Ocean View courses.
A lovely thing to do is to bike or walk the Bermuda Railway Trail National Park. This former railway spans the island end-to-end, winding from striking rocky coastlines to breathtaking backcountry greenery, providing a quiet escape for the visitor looking for an experience off the beaten path. You’ll encounter the unexpected along the trail - it’s an intimate way to feel the serene nature of island life, tucked away right in the heart of Bermuda.
Shopping is excellent in Bermuda and there is the added incentive of no sales tax! Cashmeres of Scotland, British tweeds, Irish Linens, Italian leather, Belgian lace and fine crystal and jewelry can all be found on Bermuda at competitive prices. Bermuda also has a thriving arts scene with unique local items and art galleries.
Bermuda Craft Market is the island's largest, most extensive craft outlet, with more than 60 friendly local artists ready to show their craftwork to visitors. Look for candles, Bermudian cedar work, ceramics, jewelry, fabric art, painted glassware, three-dimensional decoupage, needlework canvas, Christmas ornaments and quilts. Another neat shopping activity is to create your own fragrance at The Bermuda Perfumery. And Bermuda shorts, of course, are a perennially hot item as a souvenir of the destination!
Visitors will always receive a warm welcome from the friendly people of Bermuda who honour old world manners - "Good morning" and "Good afternoon" are an absolute must.
Bermuda's legal and legislative bodies are fashioned after Great Britain. When Parliament is in session, look for members wearing their traditional powdered wigs and gowns, reflecting adherence to British-style traditions - traditions that include a stable, efficient government.
Bermuda shorts were originally borrowed in the early 20th century from the British military's uniform for hot climates. Although often colourful - pink is a favourite - do not mistake Bermuda shorts as informal. Bermudians take their shorts so seriously, in fact, that they passed a law: no shorts shorter than six inches above the knee.
History
The town of St George is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest continuously inhabited town of English origin in the New World. It has original 17th century streets and buildings. In fact, Shakespeare’s The Tempest is believed to have been based on the founding of Bermuda and the typical Bermudian accent can still be traced back to Elizabethan English.
Almost every visitor to the island has photographed the 17th-century stocks on King's Square in historic St. George. But it's by exploring the narrow back alleys and cobblestone lanes, such as Shinbone Alley, that you'll really discover the town's old spirit.
Built by slave and convict labour, the Dockyard at the far west end of the island became a strategic outpost for the Royal Navy more than 200 years ago. In fact, British war ships set sail from this dock to attack Washington, DC during the War of 1812. The Royal Naval Dockyard has now been imaginatively redeveloped and transformed into charming shops and restaurants. Stop by the Dockyard to climb the ramparts, eat savoury fish 'n' chips, and visit a snorkel park.
Family Experiences
Bermuda is a great vacation destination for the entire family. Toddlers can spend blissful hours in shallow seawater or pools geared just for them, and older children can enjoy boat rides, horseback riding, hiking, and snorkeling. Most resort hotels offer advice for families with kids (including help in finding a babysitter), and many have play directors and supervised activities for various age groups.
Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo makes for a great family outing. It is home to a large collection of tropical marine fish, turtles, harbour seals, and other forms of sea life. In the museum, you'll see exhibits ranging from the geological development of Bermuda to deep-sea exploration to humpback whales. The zoo is home to alligators, monkeys, and Galapagos tortoises, along with a collection of birds, including parrots and flamingos. The North Rock Exhibit, in a 140,000-gallon tank, allows visitors to experience a coral reef washed by ocean surge.
Teenagers will love Crystal Caves at Bailey's Bay - their surreal formations took millions of years to come into being, and the great stalactites and stalagmites have a gothic grandeur. Crystal Caves are among the few caves in Bermuda whose tunnels and chambers can be accessed on a guided tour.
The Dolphin Quest Experience at the Bermuda Maritime Museum in the Royal Naval Dockyard offers in-the-water encounters with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins.
WestJet offers a frequent flight schedule all year round from Toronto to Bermuda plus connections from major cities such as Montreal and Vancouver. In high season there are up to 3 flights a week direct from Toronto to Bermuda. WestJet's customer service and pleasant flight experience is very in keeping with the ethos of Bermuda and a great start to your Bermuda vacation. And unlike destinations in the Caribbean which are a longer flight - Bermuda is just a 3 hour flight away.
Thanks to the frequent flights you have lots of flexibility for vacations of different durations. WestJet offers not just flights but a great choice of hotels and also complete packages. There are a range of hotels from upscale to affordable and from family oriented to adult luxury…. So whether you are looking for a golf vacation, a family holiday or a romantic couples break - visit www.westjet.com or speak to your Travel Agent.
Here are the hotel options available as part of WestJet Vacations packages to Bermuda.
4 ½ star Fairmont Hamilton Princess
Overlooking the stunning waters of Hamilton Harbour sits the Grand Dame of Bermuda resorts. The Fairmont Hamilton Princess is where history meets modern sensibility in Bermuda’s only luxury urban resort. It is conveniently located in the city of Hamilton. This full service hotel features a stunning infinity edge resort pool, a range of luxurious guest rooms and suites, and amazing dining experiences including an open-air casual bar and restaurant located on a new 66-berth marina.
4 star Elbow Beach, Bermuda
Elbow Beach is an intimate luxury island resort - a private haven for discerning travellers where guests enjoy personalized service and privacy. The 98 guest rooms and suites are set amongst 50 acres of beautifully manicured gardens that gently slope down to a stunning pink sand beach.
4 star Fairmont Southampton
Bermuda's premier luxury resort has two golf courses, private tennis and beach clubs, diving and water sports and the Willow Stream Spa. The Fairmont Southampton features six restaurants and is family friendly with a year-round Kids Camp.
4 star Cambridge Beaches Resort and Spa
This hidden gem on the west coast of Bermuda is on a 30-acre peninsula encircled by panoramic views of the water and four private beaches. Unparalleled amenities and services at the Cambridge Beaches Resort and Spa include an award-winning European-style spa, fine dining at the Tamarisk Restaurant, four private white-sand beaches, nature preserve, marina (seasonal), afternoon Tea served in the historic main house, infinity pool with cascading waterfall and secluded tiered decks.
4 star Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort & Spa
Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort and Spa creates an experience like no other. Gorgeous pastel cottages, first-class amenities and breathtaking sunsets combined with personal service makes this resort a true escape. A great choice for golfers - one round of golf is included per room per night
3 ½ start Grotto Bay Beach Resort
Grotto Bay Beach Resort sits on 21 acres of naturally landscaped gardens with crystal cave pods. Newly renovated and redecorated Oceanview and Oceanfront rooms with private balconies or patios are a comfortable retreat and perfect for relaxing. The relaxing Natura Spa is built into a natural limestone cave.
Want to know more about the destination? Check out Chris' Travel Notes!
Chris writes extensive Travel Notes for each show that will help you plan your next trip. Find out more about the Destination; Climate; Getting Around; Accommodation; Kids to Seniors; History; Sports and Activities; Attractions; Culture; Cuisine; Special Deals and where to go to get even more information!
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