Bermuda can be summed up in one word: perfection. That’s exactly the interpretation I got as soon as I stepped foot off of the place to my island getaway. This would later be confirmed throughout the duration of my stay, for a number of reasons.
To start, the culturally diverse island, which is steeped in British tradition and tinged with Caribbean charm, is what dreams are made of. From the people, to the beaches, to the food, to the people and culture, there’s no shortage of a good time. And to sweeten the pot, Bermuda is just 1-½ hours by plane from most major East Coast cities, so you can leave work in the afternoon, and make it to the island by happy hour. How’s that for a win/win? And for those who need an extra reason to escape their Caribbean fix, the island is full of British-influenced traditions—everything from afternoon tea to cricket matches—making a visit here like stepping back to the colonial era.
Don’t want to take my word for it? Here are 7 reasons why Bermuda is right for you.
The pink sand beaches
Appropriately designated to have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, a day on the beach in Bermuda is full of pink sand, turquoise waters, and endless blue skies. This right here should be convincing enough to make you want to jump on the next flight to this secluded island. Not to mention, the legendary beaches include the iconic Horseshoe Bay, which was recently named one of the best beaches in the world. Looking for something more off-the-beaten-path? Try the pristine, otherworldly Cooper’s Island.
The parties
Bermudians can party… hard. So if that tickles you’re fancy, then you’ve definitely come to the right place (don’t worry – if you’re not a partier, there’s still plenty of options for relaxation and unwinding too). If you’ve never heard of Bermuda International Race Week (May), Liv Bermuda (July) or Cup Match (August) then you’re certainly missing out. Attracting tourists from across the globe and returning Bermudians back home to their island, these 3 events are certified to be a great time.
The drinks
Rum connoisseurs, rejoice! Gosling’s Black Seal rum is the prized ingredient in both Rum Swizzle (a local specialty) and the Dark ‘n’ Stormy (an internationally famous cocktail in its own right, which got its start in Bermuda). Bacardi is headquartered here, too, so you know the drinks are always prime.
The distance
After about a 120-minute flight the East Coast, the view out your plane window goes from gray and dreary clouds and water, to festive pops of blue water, green trees and pink-and-yellow Bermudian beach houses. Never has there been an easier commute to paradise. Not to mention, flights are usually reasonable during the winter, so if you want a quick weekend escape from a blizzard, you can head to Bermuda and expect the temperature to be a few degrees higher.
The people
Visitors hail Bermuda as one of the friendliest places on the planet. And this is no tall tale. An instant welcome as soon as you arrive on the island, Bermudians sure know you to make you feel like you’re home away from home. No wonder the island has so many repeat visitors.
The culture
While most islands find their influence from the British, French, Spanish, and even Dutch who were squabbling over territories in the West Indies, Bermuda was left to its own devices as a British colony. And if you know anything about Bermuda, then you know its culture is almost an exact replication of British culture. Everything from language to sports is done the British way on Bermuda. I mean, where else in the Caribbean (yes, Bermuda is not the Caribbean, but it is often compared to the West Indies), and experience a Cup Match?
The local flavors
Thanks to its mid-Atlantic location, Bermudian cuisine blends flavors and culinary techniques from England, the Caribbean, the U.S. and South America into a delicious mixture. What better combination of delectable cuisine could you ever want? And if you haven’t heard about its island staple, then you’ve officially been living under a rock. No summer trip to the island is complete without trying the Bermuda fish sandwich. Often time’s tourists are on the hunt for the best fish sandwich the island has to offer. If you want a head start, head to: Art Mels Spicey Dicy, Rosa’s, Seaside Grill, Swizzle Inn, Tribe Road Kitchen and The Black Horse Tavern.