Expert: Michael - 5/31/2006

Question
Hi,  I'm considering a trip to Bermuda.  What is the best time to go?  I've been told Bermuda has a 'buggy' season, when there are lots of bugs.  Is this true?  Months I am considering are March, April or June.  What is the weather like during these times?  We are considering a cruise, but would also consider an 'all inclusive' resort.  Do you have any recommendations?   
Thanks so much
Kim

Answer
Hi Kim,

Your concideration of Bermuda for a well deserved vacation is worthwhile.    

Best time to go out of your listed months is June.  I base this on temperature of both the air and sea surface.  March and April are a bit cooler and unless your were a cool weather person I would pass on March or April.  However March and april would be perfect for golf and tennis.

Linda and I have found over the years that June does bring a bit more showers.  I would suggest an umbrella.  I am not saying your vacation will require an umbrella over you every day all the time.  For me an umbrella is standard packing.  June will be warm and humid.  It is the begining of their summer season of June, July, August, September and even October.  June will require shorts, tee's, light clothing.  Just what I think you are expecting.  The humidity won't be unbearable as July and August can be. June is what you would expect for near perfect summer weather.

There is no buggy season in Bermuda.  Forget about bugs.  No flys, midgies, sand fleas, or mosquitoes.  You may find palmetto bugs (cockroaches)scurrying across the sidewalks in the evening.  Most rooms will have a can of spray under the sink. I don't mean thousands either, just here and there.  This startles Linda.  For the fun of it when walking at night I suddendly gasp and she jumps. So clearly you've been given some bum info regarding a buggy season.

A cruise from the northeast will give you a few days on the island.  Depending on what cruise line you travel with depends where on the island you would most likely spend most time.  Personally I would consider only the lines that dock at Hamilton (Front Street) and/or the town of St. George (Penno's Wharf or Ordanance Island.)  These are the areas that have more to do and will cause you to have lovely memories of Bermuda.  So look close at the cruise line itinery.  Because accomadations and meals are included on a cruise this option makes the trip cost effective.

The All Inclusive type resorts ... hmmmm.  I honestly don't think they are worth your effort.  Harmony Club has been the primiere all-incluse for decades.  They are not on the beach and my most recent recollection is that they are ending that program.

Grotto Bay offers an all-inclusive option.  Grotto Bay is nice.  Not the best, but very, very nice. Worth considering, but not the inclusive option.  I wouldn't limit myself to eating at one place.

For me Kim, I like to put the package together.  I can get a 10 or 15% discount with Oleander Mopeds by reserving online if I want do the moped way.  It's fun too.  Linda and I rent a double.  I seekout best air at Priceline.  Jet Blue with lower pricing now has a gateway out of NY if that would work for you.  I'm hoping this will bring down the cost of flights which run $450-700 R.T.  Through Priceline I place a request for $275 to $300 out of Boston.  Taxes are not included and can run $75 - $100 more.  The way the system is set-up they will tell you the final cost.

Meals are another costly factor Kim.  But if you put a little thought into it you can find moderatley priced dining and leave the more costly, like Coconuts, for that special occassion.  Look for early bird specials, Sunday brunch, take in the absolutley wonderful pubs for lunches and/or dinner.  They offer full menues from pub food like burgers and fish & chips to whatever you would get anywhere else.  Pubs are a big part of the ambience of Bermuda. You can make a reservation at any hotel to dine too.

Transportation is easy accross the island.  They have a well functioning bus system.  You pay in exact change, tokens, tickets, or a 3 to 7 day pass.  The cost decreases accordingly.  All you need is the Transportation Guide and the Handy Reference Map issued from the Department of tourism and available at a visitors kiosk.  Bus tickets are available at a post office.  Tokens are available at the main bus terminal in Hamilton or hotels and the like.

OK Kim.  The best thing about staying in a hotel, cottage colony or guest house is the fact the you get two more incredible things.  1.) More time on the island which you would not regret.  2.)The experiance of interaction with Bermudians.  Both are the best.

Best for the buck is the Rosedon Hotel.  A great offering.  They have much going for them.  Located in town, lush gardens surrounding their pool, a hot breakfast served to your room, your patio, or table at the pool.  They offer complementary transportation to a beautiful southshore beach, and afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, and an honor bar.  They are a lovely five minute walk to Front Street for shopping, restaurants, gardens, the bus depot and/or stop, and Albouys Point (ferry dock.)

I think I covered your questions and more Kim.

If you have any further questions or need recommendations just write.  It is really a pleasure reflecting and sharing what I've experianced and learned of Bermuda.

Happy planing.
Michael