Expert: Michael - 1/28/2004

Question
Hi

Michael

We intend to go on holidays to Bermuda in October/November. We like warm to hot weather (upper 70s to lower 80s) as we come from London, England! Is this a good time to travel to Bermuda?

We are also thinking of staying at the Reefs or Cambridge Beaches as we seek a high standard of accommodation and service whilst retaining some informality as we are on holidays (we like to dress smart casual in the evening but it would be nice not to have to wear a jacket for dinner...). Are these the right places for us or would you suggest some other place?

Thanks for your help

Daniel

Answer
Dear Daniel,

You have good taste.  Your selection of Bermuda won't dissapoint you.

October is a wonderful month to visit.  We have been many times in the month of October and the weather is pretty steady, or predictable.  From a forty-five year mean this is what you can expect... average air high = 79.4F,  average sea temp = 77F, RH 73.9%.  We have always had some rain.  However, not enough to spoil ANY of our stays in the month of October.  The monthly average is 19 rain days totaling 6.5".

November turns to what they call shoulder season.  It is billed as Rendezvous Time.  Basically the weather is a bit less desirable in November.  The asverage high will be 74F and the sea 67F.  Rain days are the same but the total acumulation is a couple of inches less.

With this said I would encourage you to select of the two October.  Linda and I are warm weather seekers and October is very nice indeed.  The humudity of the summer months is passed yet all the flowers will be in bloom.

Your selection of either the Reefs or Cambridge Beaches is excellent too.  We have never stayed at either but surely is on our list and regarded as the finest of the cottage colony types (our favorites).  Both are very Bermudian and the service will be impeccable at either.

If Linda had to make a decision between the two no question she would pick The Reefs.  We dine always once each visit at Coconuts at The Reefs.  It is magnificent and an experiance.  Tropical, al fresco and gourmet pre-fix.  I have friends that select The Reefs all the time and claim the other restaurant on site is equally as good.  Their  beach is pink and beautiful, with a backdrop of ash rock.

As you already know Daniel, both The Reefs and Cambridge come highly regarded. The Reefs is half the distance to Hamilton that Cambridge Beach is.  But CB offers ferry service to Hamilton.  CB also boasts of the best chef in Bermuda, or once did.  They have several beaches to choose from.  My sense is  that it would be a bit quieter too.  The cottages are all differnt in interior design having an antique look.

You have a tough desicion ahead of you Daniel.  I would not recommed a third place for you because you are choosing between the best in that catagory.  However, do know that whichever you select you will not be disapointed.  Once selected don't second guess your choice.  You will be delighted.  Of that I am certain.

Smart casual will work at either.  Do pack a jacket in the event that one night it would be required.  I like the smart casual look too, and would get away with a collarless evening shirt with a suit jacket over it with my bride in an islandy dress.

Should you have any other inquiries don't hesitate to write.

Happy planning!
Michael