Expert: Nan - 9/7/2010

Question
Wishing to visit 12th Jan 2011 for 14 nights, visited 12 years ago stayed Little Sound area by Gibbs lighthouse.
Anything we should take into consideration this time such as extra's not told about, Taxes etc.
Suggestions onplaces to stay at also.

Answer
Hi Jane,

I, too, stay near Gibbs Lighthouse when I travel to Bermuda. (You may be delighted to know that the folks who own Rustico and Primavera restaurants have opened a new restaurant there called The Dining Room. On our visit last month we enjoyed a stunning view of the South Shore during a wonderful meal.)

Our "home away from home" for the last 16 years of travel to Bermuda is Sound View Cottage, off of Horseshoe Road, but they operate May through October so I can't suggest that you stay there.

We have also stayed at Little Pomander guest house in Paget Parish very near the City of Hamilton - just across Hamilton Harbor. (Two other properties where we've stayed in the past have closed.)

Of course resorts are plenty to find in Bermuda such as Elbow Beach, Grotto Bay, Southampton Princess (very near the Lighthouse) and the Hamilton Princess and many more, but have you considered renting an apartment? For a 14-night stay, that might be a good alternative for you. And perhaps more affordable in the long run?

Visit bermudagetaway.com and check out the properties - which include Barrule for approximately $130 per night with a ferry stop almost at your doorstep and right on the Harbor. This website also includes a few bed and breakfasts such as Watercolours, which, I've read is a favorite of many. Again, a very nice view. There are other sources of apartment rentals and I'm not affiliated with any of them. So "google" and see if something suits you. Otherwise, I'd stay at Elbow Beach simply because you're already familiar with the South Shore area and it might be a nice memory for you. Expensive, yes.

Like most places, Bermuda has changed in 12 years. There is more traffic on the tiny roads and more scooters being driven recklessly. But, in January, I doubt you'd notice. Since you were last there Trimingham's has closed - yes, it's hard to believe - and the cruise boats have only now returned to Hamilton Harbor after an absence of several years (the larger boats port at St. George's and Dockyard). Front Street in Hamilton has changed almost drastically due to shop closure, etc. but Bermuda continues to be a charming place with warm locals who make you feel welcome and beautiful surroundings. It's still my destination of choice.

I can't say that I've noticed any tax changes. Prices can still be considered high to some.

Rustico is a favorite eatery with some of the best pizzas I've ever had. It's in Flatts Village. You'll also notice new restaurants and bars - one of which is in the old Belmont hotel area called Blue. It offers a wonderful view of the Harbor.

I hope you find this information useful. If you have more questions, I'd be happy to try and answer them.

OH..and don't forget to check out the art exhibits at the City Hall and Arts Centre in Hamilton on Church Street and the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art at the Botanical Gardens.

Best Regards,
Nan