Expert: Nan - 4/25/2010

Question
Hello,
I'm writing to get some advice on our upcoming family vacation to Bermuda in July.  My husband and I have been to the island twice, but will now be returning with our one year old. We're wondering if Bermuda requires use of a car seat to ride any of the taxis or buses.  We were hoping not to bring one on the plane but didn't know if it was required for travel on the island.  Also, do you know of some attractions that would be good for the little one, and which beaches are good for a child learning to swim?  We're staying at Grotto Bay, which I know has a nice beach, but would also like to check out some others.  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Sarah,

First, my apologies for the tardy answer. I've been out of town and forgot to change my "out of office/vacation/availability" settings. Forgive me.

Now, on to your question. I'm not the most qualified person to give information at all about a one year old, let alone traveling with one so I almost opted out of answering your question. Having said that, I've done some research about car seats and have found that Bermuda taxis are exempt from the car seat rule so you can carry your little one on your lap - but that's a choice you'll need to weigh heavily. There are none available in the cabs and probably not in the buses either.

Grotto Bay is a well-equipped venue with activities that will probably appeal to a toddler. My own experience over the years has shown that Shelly Bay is an excellent choice for a child learning to swim because of its calm, shallow waters.  Lots of little children seem to enjoy Shelly Bay. (Lots of big ones, too, including me.) It's small, with a nice beach, shade trees, a children's play park and a food concession. The waters are very, very calm (great for serious swimming). It's on the North Shore Road near Flatt's Village.

Flatt's Village is home to another child-friendly venue: the Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo. (I believe any time the word "zoo" is used around children, it's a winner!) Also in Flatts is a great Italian Restaurant: Rustico. It books quickly.

If lifeguards are important, you can find them on duty from 10:00 to 6:00 pm at John Smith's Bay, Horseshoe Bay, Clearwater Beach and Turtle Bay. The latter choices may also be good for a small child - lots of locals go to Clearwater and Turtle Bay. These are in the East End. Clearwater has a playground.

I hope you find this information helpful. Again, my apologies for the delay. Just remember to pick up your handy little Bermuda maps at the airport when you arrive. You'll find these destinations easily marked. (I love these little maps and use them to wrap small souvenirs for folks back home.)

Enjoy your trip!
Nan