Expert: Nan - 4/16/2008

Question
Hey! I am graduating this May from high school and me and a couple of friends wanted to take a trip to a resort this summer. First of all, would Bermuda be a good place for a couple of eighteen year old girls to come to? (saftey and fun-wise!) Also, do you know of any good resorts that we could stay at that would be accomidating to us. Do you know of any weeks/months that are better then others to come and visit? Thanks for your help!!

Answer
Congratulations on your graduation Alison!  Bermuda is a simply beautiful place to celebrate just about anything.  Bermudians are very accommodating to all travelers.  You and your friends need to decide what type of fun you'd enjoy -- spending time on a beach, shopping, watersports, relaxing, etc. or nightlife/clubs.  Typically, Bermuda isn't known for its nightlife though there are a couple of clubs.  And, while I don't know this to be true, clubs may be open only to those 21 and over, not 18.  (If you want me to verify this, let me know.)  There are plenty of resorts that cater to families -- meaning that there are lots of things for young people to do either organized or on your own.  You'll need scooters to get around because there are no rental cars in Bermuda.  The other options are taxis, buses and ferries.  Safety in Bermuda, as anywhere, depends largely on your own actions.  Leave the bling at home, travel light in terms of valuables and cash and be aware of your surroundings and those around you at all times.  Over the years, Bermuda has seen an increase in crime.  Sadly, this is true at many destinations.  I can't stress enough to be SMART no matter where you go.    If you're going to enjoy an adult beverage, please, please, please don't use a scooter.  Take a taxi.  There's simply too much traffic on the road there these days with young Bermudians scooting around at the speed of light in a place where the roads are too narrow and too dark at night.  I don't mean to sound like your mother believe me.  Since you mention a resort, there are plenty of fine ones from which to choose.  If you and your friends want to enjoy a beautiful setting in a somewhat self-contained environment, then that's the way to go.  Check out Elbow Beach and the Southampton Princess.  Those would be my two top picks for you.  The Southampton Princess is just a spit away from the famous Horseshoe Bay with which you may be familiar. Both resorts offer top-notch service, great beaches, dining options and pools (other sports as well). If it's pure nightlife you want, I'd go further south into The Carribean.  May is a fine time to visit as is any summer month.  Keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June through November.  But I wouldn't keep that planning your trip -- September or October might be a little if'y.  For weather, visit www.bermudaweather.bm to see the weather in any month over the last several years.   Hope you have a wonderful trip!  Nan