Bermuda

Uniquely Bermuda

Article and photography by Michael Morcos

This is Bermuda, an autonomous island nation in the Atlantic a short flight from the Carolinas. Bermuda is very special in its cultural composition. With a little bit of British, some Caribbean and a hint of American influence, its people are warm, inviting, soft spoken and well educated. The land they call home is spellbinding, with amazing aqua blue waters, secluded golden sand beaches and a green landscape out of a fairy book tale.

Having spent a week there, I could best describe this island as being as unique as anywhere else I have ever visited. Bermuda is filled with mysteries that no one knows if they are real or fake, and some things that are just unknown: yes, there is such a thing as Bermuda shorts, no this is not a tax haven for millionaires because Bermuda is tax free and does not have illicit money, and still not sure if the Bermuda triangle is real!

Scuba and Snorkeling

Outdoor activities are a must in Bermuda, so early in the morning on the first day, we would do what is so well known here, underwater activities. On a relatively small boat, we navigated out past the jagged shores of the inner harbor to the south shore of the island to experience the simply magnificent: colorful exotic fish, healthy coral formations, and something truly unique - a couple of the over 300 shipwrecks including the Mary Celeste dive site. Captain Dave and his crew at the Blue Water Divers made this an outstanding and memorable day of sun, surf, and an amazing introduction to the best of Bermuda.

The indoor sea

From the waves we visited an interactive ocean experience, the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, a great way to understand the history of this island paradise. Since it is a secluded, its history revolves around maritime travel and the significance of Bermuda to explorers of the day. These facilities highlight its geography, climate, the America's Cup that was held here and even the phnomena of the Bermuda triangle.

Blue Hole Park

With such little area on a small island, Bermuda still has reserved space to call a park. At the Blue Hole Park, we would find the many beautiful indiginous plant life as well as those introduced to this island from other countries. Exceptional to this park are the many water caves including one of the best known which we would explore with our guide. We would also have the opportunity of swimming in some of the fascinating, hidden saltwater cave pools.

I now really appreciate people who sail board. They sure make it look easy. On this day, we would head out for lessons. Long story short; it was very difficult at first to just stand on a board. But after numerous falls, and with the help of a good instructor, we were navigating the beautiful shores of Bermuda in a matter of two hours. This would be one of the highlights of my visit, not so much the surf boarding bit, but more with the beautiful back drop of blue ocean and sand beaches.

Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art

The Bermuda art scene is well and thriving. This is what I would say after a visit to the Masterworks Museum that is found in the capitol of Hamilton. This was an initiative to promote local artists and define the arts scene of Bermuda. Many international renowned artists have their works on display as well. It is a pleasant surprise to see how important a place art has in the Bermudian way of life and culture.

Middle road

Nothing could give a visitor more of a snapshot in Bermuda than its main artery, the Middle Road. It is the backbone of the island that crosses from one side to the other. Life revolves around this central avenue. Although it has many different names, this magnificent road is incredibly green with lush vegetation and includes amazing ocean views, simple humble dwellings, posh estates, resorts and connects Hamilton to all cities east and west.

Town of St. George

A UNESCO World Heritage site, St. George is the former capitol. Found at the most eastern part of the island, it is a laid-back town with many historic sites that include forts and stately mansions. An electric bike ride through this area clearly reveals the charm of the small streets and harbor area restaurants that tend to a mixed crowd of both local Bermudians and international visitors.

Royal Naval Dockyard

On the opposite end of the island are the Royal Naval Dockyards. Here we would find the historic and imposing stone buildings the British built as part of their route to the Caribbean. There is a festive atmosphere here as this area is a great place to meet friends and families can enjoy a day of fun activities. This area also welcomes several ocean liners with plenty of foreign visitors. It is also a good place to shop and eat as there are local artist displaying there homemade products as well as micro-breweries and specialties restaurants. It is a highlight to anyone looking for another side to Bermuda.

Gastronomy

You will never go hungry in Bermuda, and as a matter of fact you might just put on a couple of pounds as you can indulge in just about any kind of food you might want. Eating ranges from haute cuisine served at quaint restaurants and luxurious resorts to mouthwatering local dishes found in the side streets of town. On this trip we did both and loved ever last bite.

Traditional Cod fish breakfast

Nothing could explain Bermudian food more than fish. Much to my tastebuds’ joy, the island nation offered an amazing treat in the morning – a Cod fish breakfast that would include the salted Cod fish itself, potatoes, stewed tomatoes, hard boiled eggs, onions, avocados, bananas, sausages, and other delicious ingredients that make this the national dish. Having this meal explained why it was so popular; it was hardy and a perfect food for the start of a full day of island life.

Accommodations

Bermuda has a long list of possible accommodations as this nation thrives on hospitality. The range of properties is long and varied but for the most part, visitors tend to choose the opulent resorts that can be found everywhere throughout the island. Each resort has its specialties, some tend to the golfers, and others are into beach and sea life. Our stay at the Grotto Bay Resort had been located directly on the water and had its own caves where we could swim in sea water.

As the saying goes, ‘time flies when you are having fun’ and a week in Bermuda past by in a flash. So much to see and do that we had very little time to just sit and enjoy this paradise in the Atlantic. I will return, and next time I will promise myself to read the books I bring with me while sipping a cool one on the beach.

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