It is easy to get lost in the history this small group of islands has to offer and just as easy to get lost in the many hidden beauty spots along the way. At every turn there is something unique and exciting to explore whether that’s in the island’s very own compact aquarium, museum and zoo located in Flatt’s Village - which may be small, but offers hours of fun and education for the whole family as well as close encounters with creatures that are often not found in UK zoos - or down in Bermuda’s very own Crystal Cave. An attraction of unrivalled natural beauty which began life over 3 million years ago and one that is only enhanced by an impressive modern lighting system and knowledgeable and interesting guide. The complex construction of the caves pristine white stalactites reflect majestically in the most tranquil, crystal clear waters you will find anywhere whilst also creating the illusion of objects appearing just beneath the surface when in reality, they are over 50 feet below. This is certainly a must-see on any trip to Bermuda and an experience you won’t mind repeating on your next visit. There are many other natural wonders to behold whilst visiting Bermuda thanks to the perfect subtropical climate. A botanical garden offers up both indigenous and endemic species as well as some exotic examples from around the world, whilst a lesser maintained ‘garden’ has developed in the grounds of Fort Hamilton, one of over ninety forts on the island, which overlooks the Capital city of Hamilton. Quite literally every turn will present a new discovery on Bermuda whether you come across a hidden lagoon, a historic artefact, or even Johnny Barnes; a Bermuda native who is found waving to passing traffic at the roundabout in Hamilton, from roughly 3.45am to 10.00am every workday, rain or shine! Due to the unique layout of the island and its roads, nearly all drivers at rush hour coming from the western and southern areas of the island pass Barnes at the roundabout. He is such a national institution that a bronze has been erected in his honour next to the roundabout. Traditions are a key to the Bermuda culture with many continuing from the colonisation era including the Peppercorn Ceremony which is held annually in order for the rent of a single peppercorn, as it was in 1797, to be paid by the Masonic Lodge for the annual rent of the State House. Thanks to the islands location and history, Bermuda’s culinary traditions are relatively simple. The ultimate in lunchtime dining is the widely available fish sandwich, using the freshest fish from the daily catch you can indulge in one of the best sandwiches around. Some restaurants will deep fry the fish, others will pan fry etc. but you will struggle to find a bad one on the island. There are plenty of places to eat across the island, but if you are in the Hamilton area, you have to try Ascots which is just up the road from the Fairmont Hamilton Princess Hotel. The atmosphere is fantastic and the food is excellent. There is an extensive wine list with vintages available and the food is varied and reasonably priced. The Fairmont Hamilton Princess is currently undergoing a major refurbishment whilst remaining open, which is set to be completed next year with phase one set for completion this month. With all new rooms and suites being added along with 1609, the new on-the-water restaurant which appears to float whilst you eat and a brand new marina below. This will be the
purelybermuda.co.uk | 0800 033 6335
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destination of choice for many, but book early to avoid disappointment as the suite facilities are limited and won’t last forever. Once the refurbishment has been completed, the Fairmont Hamilton Princess will offer the pinnacle in hotel services on the island. As a member of Fairmont Gold you have unlimited access to a private lounge where breakfast is served every morning, afternoon tea every afternoon and hors d’oeuvre’s in the evening along with free hot and cold soft drink access throughout the day and an honesty bar if you fancy something a little stronger before or after dinner. Alternatively you could stay at Fairmont’s other property on the island in the Parish of Southampton which boasts an impressively landscaped golf course hosting international tournaments throughout the year, a spa with one of the most incredible views you will ever see and a private beach on which you can enjoy some yoga at sunrise, the perfect way to wake up in Bermuda. Bermuda currently has a strict policy on hire vehicles on the island, at present, there are no cars available to hire, however at both Fairmont properties there are push bikes available to hire and mopeds available from the Hamilton Princess if you don’t fancy the exercise. The island is deceptive in its size, on paper it is a mere dot in the ocean yet once you arrive and begin to explore it quickly becomes a much larger place without losing the inviting community feel. Thanks to Bermuda’s sub-tropical climate, the island does experience some rainfall, but this falls throughout the year, not at any set time, and temperatures rarely fall below 18 degrees, so there really is no excuse not to visit. There are so many options when travelling to Bermuda that you will find yourself asking why you didn’t visit sooner. At under two hours from New York, you could even make it a stop-off to break-up the journey, or just to enjoy the pink sandy beaches. Purely Bermuda (freephone 0800 033 6335 | www.purelybermuda.co.uk) is offering 3 nights at the newly remodelled Fairmont Hamilton Princess followed by 6 nights at the Fairmont Southampton beach resort from £1,399 per person on a room only basis, based on two people sharing. Prices include flights with British Airways direct from Gatwick, 9 nights’ accommodation and roundtrip private airport transfers.. All that’s left to do is pack your bags and remember your shorts...the Bermuda ones of course!
The Fairmont Hamilton Princess, 76 Pitts Bay Road, Pembroke, Hamilton, Bermuda, HM 08 00 8000 441 1414 | hamilton@fairmont.com | www.fairmont.com/hamilton-bermuda
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