Bermuda

BERMUDA

Though we took the long journey from Portland Oregon, we were actually quite surprised at how close Bermuda is to the East Coast. Flying from New York City you can arrive in Bermuda in just over two hours. Approaching the small set of islands, you marvel at the emerald and turquoise waters crested with white and pink hues of pristine beach along Bermuda’s shores. Even when previously visiting the Caribbean and various Pacific islands, we’d never seen anything quite like this tiny oasis amongst the midAtlantic. I felt a rush of excitement as I finished my English breakfast tea and readied myself to land in paradise.

Flying into Bermuda you first notice the expanse of white roofs dotting the green island surrounded by electric blue waters. The island is so well curated and controlled that it adds an almost fairytale-like quality. The white roofs are a specific white paint that filters rainwater underneath each dwelling, and every building is a gorgeous shade of pastel.

Arriving at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess we fell in love. The millennial pink facade spoke to me and gave me a sense of playfulness and sophistication. The service was incredible and everyone was so happy to welcome us to the island. They seemed to truly enjoy sharing their slice of paradise. We were perfectly greeted when we arrived to our room with a signature cocktail, the Dark and Stormy, a cocktail served on the rocks in a highball glass with dark rum and ginger beer and garnished with a fresh slice of lime.

The Fairmont Gold lounge was the cherry on top of an already incredible experience. The staff made the effort to get to know us, welcomed us by name, and helped us find the best activities to do and sights to see. Not only was it an added luxury, but it was also a great way to increase the value of our stay. We hit each event, from breakfast to afternoon tea, hors d’oeuvres to late-night dessert. As many know, the prices to eat out in Bermuda can climb quickly and therefore having the option to enjoy a light lunch of small appetizers and snacks in the Fairmont Gold lounge within the comfort of the resort is the highest perk we could possibly ask for.

What do travelers to Bermuda usually seek more than a peaceful day spent on the beach? The long southern stretch of the island provides ample beach for locals and visitors alike to enjoy without being overly crowded. It was especially enjoyable to have a private beach club hosted by the Hamilton

Princess called Sinky Bay. Taking a free shuttle from the hotel, we were transported into an island cove with pink sand, colorful fish, and hammocks in the water to relax in. For food and drink there was a bar at the edge of the beach that provided chair-side service where your orders would be brought to you at a moment’s notice. As we settled into our first beach day we started to understand the true meaning of paradise as defined by Bermuda. The bay is protected by a rock barrier from rougher surf, so the beach of Sinky Bay is incredibly calm and peaceful. There are plenty of beautiful fish to spot around the rocks, so we really enjoyed soaking up the sun at this famous location. We paddle-boarded, snorkeled and even kayaked around the bay before departing back to our hotel.

Honestly, we never really considered making the trip out to Bermuda but we are so glad we made the spontaneous decision to go. The archipelago has more to offer than we could have ever imagined. We can’t believe it has taken us this long to get to this gem in the Atlantic. Bermuda is unexpected, underrated, and extraordinary. Once we had spent just 24 hours there, Bermuda already had our hearts! We were amazed at the crystal blue water and pink sand beaches scattered all over the island. We loved learning about the island's architecture, culture, and history. How interesting to be in such a tropical place with a tradition of afternoon tea and pictures of Queen Elizabeth everywhere. We only wish we had more time to take it all in, but of course we cannot wait to get back to Bermuda one day soon and enjoy another Dark and Stormy cocktail.