Expert: Nan - 1/2/2008

Question
QUESTION: Nan,
Three of us (adults) are planning on visiting Bermuda from Mar 7 - 16.  We're looking for reasonable safe accomodations for 3 in a room (school teachers on a budget).  Also would like ideas of things to see while we're there.  National Parks, etc.  Thanks for your help.
Jeannie

ANSWER: Hi Jeannie,

Your best bets for reasonable accommodations are guest houses instead of more expensive hotels or resorts.  Many aren't open in March, but some are. Try Greenbank (www.greenbankbermuda.com), Salt Kettle or Little Pomander (www.littlepomander.com).  When last I knew, these were open either year round, or at least as early as March.  They are charming and will give you a real feel for Bermuda and her people.  You asked about "reasonable safe accommodations." Remember that YOU are as much responsible for your safety as anyone else.  If the three of you keep your valuables to a minimum, lock your doors/windows and be aware of your surroundings, you'll be fine.  Be smart.

Historically, you'll find the weather in March to be in the '60's (degrees Farhenheit).  I say this because many people believe Bermuda to be in the Caribbean with balmy breezes and 80-degree temps year round. Not so. You may even find it too early to swim comfortably.  Having said that, there are myriad things to do and see while you're there.  My top picks for you (without knowing a THING about your interests) are these (in no particular order): The Maritime Museum, The Aquarium/Museum and Zoo, the Town of St. George and Bermuda Society of Arts.  These choices will take you through Bermuda from end-to-end. Consider taking a tour by taxi.  Walk the Railway Trails. Rent a Boston Whaler and explore by water for the day.  (My pick for this is Robinson's Marina in Somerset.) I'd suggest renting a scooter, but since there are 3 of you, you'd miss out on the "conversations" along the way.  The Botanical Gardens are beautiful and you might also enjoy the Underwater Exploration Institute.  If you're into shopping, hit Front Street in Hamilton and remember that some stores have "branches" in St. George or in large hotels.  Bermuda itself is beautiful.  And the locals charming. The sea views are magnificent.  So no matter what you choose to see or do, chances are you'll have a wonderful time.  If you have specific questions, I'd be happy to try and answer them for you.  Enjoy!  Nan

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: HI Nan,
We do plan to rent 2 scooters, any suggestions for the best place to rent them.  We're outdoors type folks and want to see everything.  We like to say that we're adventurers, NOT Tourist.  Thanks for the info on the guest houses, we'll check with them.

Jeannie

Answer
Hi Jeannie,

Well now.  It's nice to know you're adventurers!  Great!  Then you'll love the guest house experience.  All of my recommendations give you ready access to folks who can really give you local flavor.  Off-the-beaten-path-type of information.  (The kind I like!) Of course there are more guest houses.  Check them out at www.bermuda4u.com or the official bermuda tourism site at www.bermudatourism.com though I've found this site to be dreadfully slow.  

My choice for scooter rentals is Oleander Cycles.  Very, very nice people and good bikes.  Ask them to deliver bikes to your guest house. They have several locations throughout Bermuda.  Visit www.oleandercycles.com, book your bikes online and get a discount. Scooters give you sooo much freedom.  I don't know where you're traveling from or what your experience is, but Bermuda is a British territory/colony (though the currency is pegged to the US dollar) so you'll be driving on the left.  With roundabouts.  (Such great inventions, those roundabouts.) You'll get "fanny fatigue" but cycling from one end of the Island to the other is great fun.  Plus, with bikes you'll have easy access to the great South Shore beaches.  Without a doubt, you must visit Warwick Long Bay around the cocktail hour to watch the parrot fish feed.  It's a nice long stretch of beach.  If the tide's right, you can walk through to Horseshoe Bay from here.   Like thin crust pizza?  Head to Rustico in Flatts Village.  Second to none.  Like Indian food?  Bike to the House of India in Hamilton (North Street).  It's off the beaten patch and excellent.  Sorry... I tend to get distracted with eateries...

Have a great time!  Nan