Expert: Michael - 5/8/2004

Question
We are planning a vacation to Bermuda in July.  What area of the island do you recommend?  We were looking at St. Georges since it sounds like there is alot to do besides the beach.  Also, we are looking into renting a cottage instead of staying at a hotel.  Any recommendations or things to look for?  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Todd,

July is prime in Bermuda. Hot, humid and tropical.  Very islandy.

The island is small enough where you can realize the enjoyment of all areas.  However Todd,  my recommendation for you as a first time vistor is to find a place on the Southshore.  The Southshore is the area of the island that is host to the most spectacular beaches of where you may be spending much of your visit.

A day trip to Hamilton and another day trip to St. George are definate requirements and would not be out of the way whereas staying in St. George would cause you precious time spent traveling to the Southshore (via Hamilton and transferring busses) beaches if you did it a couple of days or more.

Some resorts that are spectacular on the Southshore are The Reefs, Cambridge Beaches, Pompano, all in the catagory of "cottage colonies" which are groups of buildings with a few units.  We love them!

On the other hand Todd, St. George is a historic town.  Our very favorite part of the island.  300 years has seemed to  past St. George by.  Lovely quaint shopping, some very nice moderatly priced restaurants and outstanding pubs, a super golf course and a couple, three beaches, Archillies Bay and Tobacco.  Archillies is heads above Tobacco for us.  A moped will give you much more access to other beaches, Turtle Bay, Whale Bone, Clearwater.  Of the last three Turtle is a favorite of ours.

There is not too much in St. George for accomodations.  St. St. George's Club is a world-class time share that does rent 1BR and 2BR cottages to the public.  This place is really world-class with a pub, a restaurant overlooking the harbour, three pools and beautiful grounds.  All within walking distance to the village.

One smaller cottage that is not found on the Department of Tourism's website is the Taylor House.  To see this inexensive cottage go to www.bermudagetaway.com and click on Taylor House.

Linda and I have chosen the Taylor House to extend our stay this September.  The fellow who runs it seems very helpful.  We are looking forward to it.

Another great selection is right downtown Hamilton.  It is called The Rosedon.  Think of it as a Bed & Breakfast.  They have a pool in a lovely garden setting.  Afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, a hot breakfast delivered to your room, or patio or poolside whichever is your choice.  They offer compimentory R.T. taxi to a famed Southshore beach.  An honor bar speaks of how Bermudian this place is.  We loved it and is our selection for when we want to stay in Hamilton.  It is within walking distance of everything Hamilton has to offer, and the bus depot and ferry service, and a multitude of restaurants too.  Just an A+ choice.

Most of the above resorts are available to see at the department of tourisms website.  www.bermudatourism.com, or call them at (800)BERMUDA and ask for their Where To Stay brochure with accompanying rate schedule.

Don't hesitate Todd to write if I can help you with any further inquiries.  We love Bermuda, have traveled there more times than you would believe and share information from experiance.

Happy planning!
Michael