I recently came back from the beautiful island of Bermuda, and it was such an amazing experience. Initially, my boyfriend wanted us to go to Bermuda in October after my trip to Paris, but I told him that would be way too much traveling for me for just one month (also, I have a day job!). So we decided to go in December instead which is the perfect time to engage in Bermuda’s Christmas holiday festivities in St. Georges and, you guessed it, the price was right!
When we arrived in Bermuda, we hopped in a cab to get to our hotel. Our cab driver asked us if it was our first time visiting and gave us a little rundown about the island. Along with giving us a little insight about the weather (it was pleasant, high of 72 degrees), he suggested that we should be extremely sociable since everyone on the island is nice, and we’re bound to bump into the same faces during our stay.
We have definitely received this kind of advice on every trip we’ve been on together, but, this guy was serious. I don’t know if it’s our luck, but every time my boyfriend and I travel together, we come across the nicest people ever — I’m talking about so nice they gave us free rides around town, and even a tour! And, this, my friend, is exactly what happened in Bermuda. If you’re planning to visit this remarkable island one day, read on as I spill bits of my camera roll and provide you with tips and tricks to help you explore Bermuda during your stay.
Where to Stay
Save: Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Hotel – we stayed at Grotto Bay, and loved it! The resort is about 10 minutes away from the airport, super cozy, beautiful, and has such a lovely staff. Learn more about Grotto Bay here.
Splurge: Fairmont Princess South Hamilton – If you’re like me, before going to a new place (whether it be a country, restaurant, salon etc.), you probably check Instagram first. While searching the #Bermuda hashtag on Instagram, of course Fairmont dominated the feed. Yes, the hotel is lovely! In my opinion, it’s perfect for those who are into the arts, or if you just want to stay at a hotel with an upscale and modern vibe.
Where to Eat
Marcus’ Bermuda – If you’re familiar with Marcus Samuelsson, you probably heard about this restaurant before. The food is amazing! Make a reservation before you go and try to go on a night when the live band is performing. If you’re a red wine person, ask for a glass of Merlot with your dinner. They had the best tasting Merlot I’ve ever had! As for food, try the steak or the jerk chicken.
Swizzle Inn: Fish sandwiches are a popular dishes in Bermuda, but when it comes to drinks the Rum Swizzle and the Dark & Stormy is what almost everyone is drinking. Swizzle Inn is one of the best pubs to try all three!
What to Do
Visit St. Georges – Take a free walking tour, or explore it on your own! Visit St. Peter’s Church, The Unfinished Church and make sure you’re there in time to catch the historical reenactment at Kings Square. When you get hungry get your grub on at Wahoo’s! And, for you folks that just can’t get away from your smart phone, there is complimentary wi-fi throughout the town.
Visit Crystal Caves – You can’t fully explore Bermuda without going down under and exploring its natural crystal caves. Take a tour through Bermuda’s gorgeous crystal caves.
Visit Hamilton- explore the streets of Hamilton, visit Queen Elizabeth Park and Bermuda City Hall & Arts Centre.
Visit Naval Dockyard – take a ferry to get the best views of Hamilton on your way to Naval Dockyard. While you’re there, visit the commissioner’s house which is located on the same grounds as the Bermuda National Museum.
Go to Front Street for Nightlife – Head to Cosmopolitan around 11pm for a night of fun and dancing to Reggae, Soca, Hip-Hop and R&B.
Getting Around
Budget-friendly: Bus
Time-saving: Cab
Other Things To Do:
Visit the beaches the water is fairly warm (about 68 degrees, but wasn’t warm enough for me) and you can’t go to Bermuda without exploring their pink sand beaches! That would be a waste of a trip!
Go shopping in Hamilton! Bermuda’s tax is factored into the price of everything so this explains why things seems pretty expensive.
Beauty Essentials to Pack (for light packing!):
Sunscreen (I use this by Josie Maran)
Bodywash (I used a sample of this from & Other Stories)
A lotion that can do both (I love this face and body lotion by Cetaphil)
A good face cleanser (I swear by this Fresh Soy Cleanser)
Other great reads to inspire your trip to Bermuda:
The Coveteur: How to Do Bermuda the Shiona Turini Way
Want more travel tips? Check out my Paris travel guide and see more of my travels using the hashtag #AJF_Travels on Instagram!
