Bermuda is known for its beaches, shorts, Triangle, and rum. Bermuda is full of outdoor activities like sailing, snorkeling, and hiking. But did you know that the town of St. George is a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Culture Organization, UNESCO world heritage site? The island played an important role in the English settlement in North America. Two ships from Bermuda, the Deliverance and Patience helped supply the Jamestown, VA colony in 1610 during Jamestown's Starving Time.
From the East Coast, Bermuda is a quick 2 hour flight. From drizzly Boston, you arrive to a subtropical paradise, Bermuda. This is not the Caribbean. Make sure you pack your passport but bring your US dollars. There is a sense of formality compared to other islands. Bring your nice polo shirts, sun dresses, and sandals. However, the people are the friendliest - practically everyone greets you with a “good day”, “good morning”, “good afternoon”, or "good evening."
For a quieter part of the island, check out Grotto Bay Resort. Only a 10 minute cab ride from the airport. There are no car rentals on the island. Grotto Bay offers all-inclusive packages. Most rooms have a balcony and ocean view. The resort has its own beach, make sure you have good knees since it takes 2-flights of stairs to the pool, restaurant, and beach. Up in the Great House, there is a small gift shop, two restaurants, and bar. For breakfast there is a coffee shop that sells pastry, bagels, tea, coffee, and juice. Or you can opt for a breakfast buffet. Enjoy lunch down by the pool and beach. In the afternoon make time for tea and fresh scones. There are two dining options on-site, the Hibiscus Dining Room and the Palm Court Dining Room.
There are two ship wreck sites off the Grotto Bay beach area. Plenty of fish and coral live among the wrecks and rocky coves. One early morning, a sea turtle greeted me. The resort also has caves that you can swim in, however I hear that the water is cold.
A quick 5 minute walk down the street from the resort is the Swizzle Inn. Its motto is "Swizzle Inn, Swagger Out." Try their famous rum swizzle - fruit juices and rum. Their menu has pub standards but also Bermuda fish chowder - a local dish and try the grilled fish wrap. Across from the Swizzle Inn is Bailey's Ice Cream and the Crystal Caves.
St. George is located on the eastern side of the island. St. George’s historic area is compact and if short on time you can see most places in one day. The street names reflect the history, like Featherbed Alley and Church Lane Folly. Some places of interest include: King's Square, Town Hall, the Bridge House, Old State House, St. Peter's Church, Unfinished Church, and Somers Garden. The architecture and design also reflects the island's history - check out the foundation of the Old State House and breathe in cedar in the Town Hall and St. Peter's Church.
On Wednesday or Saturdays, make reservations for tea at the Bermuda Perfumery which is located in the Stewart House in St. George. The fresh made scones, cakes, and sandwiches provide a relaxing souvenir for your trip.
Near the Grotto Bay resort, take an early morning hike around Tom Moore’s jungle. There are well marked paths. You will encounter lush trees, cats and cool watering holes stocked with fish.
The bus is easy to use if you want to explore other parts of the island. Bus stops are marked by shelters as well as pink or blue poles. The pink pole indicates the bus is going into Hamilton. The blue pole means the bus is heading outbound, away from Hamilton. Prices are based on zones.
Being a British Overseas Territory lets you take advantage of the British offerings. I stocked up on British sweets from Marks and Spencer located in Hamilton. For authentic Bermuda shorts and preppy outfits check out the English Sports Shop, there are stores in St. George's and Hamilton.
My visit taught me about the historical links between Bermuda and the US. I appreciated some deliverance from my routine and will need some patience as I hope to return soon.
