Travel Guide: Bermuda

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After teasing for over a week with Bermuda content, I am finally ready to share my complete guide to the island. Even though we were only there for a quick, long weekend we covered so much ground and got amazing tips from locals and vacationers alike! I’m also sharing what we didn’t get to, but still high on my list for our next trip.

Where to Stay:

• Hamilton Princess Hotel: Are you sick of me raving about this place yet? From what I’ve heard, this is the place to stay in Bermuda. Every detail of this resort is absolutely stunning and has the perfect location for enjoying nearby Hamilton. All of the pictures you see on Instagram really doesn’t do it justice.

Where to Eat & Drink:

• Marcus’ Bermuda: As much as we like to explore new restaurants when we vacation, Marcus was just too good to only visit once. Conveniently right at our hotel, it’s the restaurant to see-and-be-seen in Bermuda. Have a rum swizzle before heading off to dinner, or just enjoy your meal right where you are. I highly recommend their fish sandwich with parmesan fries, you will leave happy and very full.
• Rock Island Coffee: David and I have a knack for finding the local, artsy coffee shops whenever we travel and I think we have a new favorite! Situated right in downtown Hamilton, you will find this coffee shop tucked away, one block back from bustling Front Street. It has an awesome, “locals only” sort of feel and a good cup of iced coffee. Keep in mind, cash only!
• The Hog Penny: When in a British Territory, eat as the British do. I was hankering for a bowl of Bermuda Fish Chowder and this restaurant is the first name to pop up. Topped with Black Gosling rum and sherry, it was perfect for a breezy island night. Our dinner continued with very traditional British fare, think Shepherd’s Pie or Fish & Chips. When I left I was practically in a food coma, but so worth it.
• Devil’s Isle Cafe: If you are looking for a farm-to-table restaurant in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, this little spot is a must visit. It’s a great choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and everything in between. Their extensive small plates list are perfect for sharing or if you can’t make up your mind. Even simply grabbing a cup of coffee from here would be a great option.

What to Do:

• Beach hopping: Sadly, two of the three days we were in Bermuda were cloudy and rainy. It was a great opportunity for us to relax and do nothing. On the third day, the rainy had cleared and there wasn’t a cloud in the sky. We jumped on the chance to rent a Twizy and head down to the southern coast of the island for some beach hopping. It’s hard to pick a favorite, but I will share tomorrow the one that seemed like it was straight out of a postcard. While you are in the area, you should also head up to Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse for stunning 360 views of the island.
• Sip an island specialty: Bermuda is known for two cocktails and they definitely served as a his vs. hers situation. My personal favorite is the Rum Swizzle. Both black and gold rum are mixed with all kinds of fruit juices and a dash of bitters to make for the perfect island cocktail. David, on the other hand, was partially to the Dark and Stormy. Again rum based, specifically Gosling, all you have to do is top the glass with ginger beer and add a lime wedge. If you are a fan of Moscow Mules, you should definitely give this one a try.
• Visit St. George’s: This was the one activity that we didn’t get to during our short visit. Dang you rain! Located on the east side of the island, St. George’s served as the original capital and is now the historic district. If you want to really get a sense of the island’s history and how it came to be, this is the place to go. As you would come to expect from Bermudian architecture, be prepared for buildings of every color. This is the first priority the next time we go back.

Where to Shop

• Shop in Hamilton: It may be the capital of Bermuda, but it still feels like a small town. There is a lot of amazing shopping to be had in these pastel lined streets. Right on Front Street, the main drag of the city, you have to stop by both the English Sports Shop and Lili Bermuda for ideal souvenir shopping. At English Sports Shop, you can buy great pieces to add to your closet: blazers, Bermuda shorts, and especially crewneck sweaters, all in a rainbow of colors.
• Follow your nose: Lili Bermuda has been bottling the scents of the island for over 90 years. With 16 scents to choose from, it’s hard to pick one. I brought home with me the Fragrance Library to sample most of them. So far, my favorite is Sunkiss. It smells like an orange creamsicle and will always be associated with my trip. They also have a great selection of men’s fragrances too.

For being an island only 20 miles long, right in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, there is so much that Bermuda has to offer. It truly is the closest thing to paradise you can find.

Love from NYC,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

What To Know About Bermuda

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Bermuda is a quick jump from the east coast. In two hours or less, you will find yourself in a perfect island paradise with stunning pink sand beaches and impossibly turquoise water. Before you book your trip, here are some quick little things for you to know. Don’t worry none of these will discourage you from going!

No Car Rentals for Vacationers

Because the island is small and full of winding two-lane roads, tourists aren’t allowed to rent cars. In fact, even locals are limited in the number of cars their family can own. Instead, efficient taxis are available all over the island or you can rent a scooter. We opted for a third option, renting a Twizy. It’s a tiny, two-seater, electric car that is perfect for seeing the island.

US Money is Accepted

The currency rate between the US and Bermuda is perfectly even and both are accepted everywhere. When you use cash, you may get either one back. It’s always important to carry plenty of cash on you, especially if you plan on taking a cab, but credit cards can be used at most places on the island. As you would expect from a gorgeous country, the Bermudian currency is stunning. I brought a few smaller denominations home as an easy, little souvenir.

Bermuda is NOT in the Caribbean

Because the weather on the island is pleasant year round, people incorrectly assume Bermuda is in the middle of the Caribbean Sea with Puerto Rico or the Bahamas. Situated about 1,000 miles off the coast of North Carolina, Bermuda stays warm because of the Gulf Stream winds that constantly blow on the western side of the island. With that in mind, it can be very breezy here, and bringing a light jacket or scarf for layering is a great idea.

The island is Zika Free

Babymooners and families rejoice! Bermuda is a warm-weather beach destination that is free of Zika. In fact, I don’t think I was bothered by a single mosquito on the entire trip. While we were visiting, we saw a slew of parents-to-be and young families enjoying the sun without stress.

There is a high season vs. low season

The peak time to travel to Bermuda is between May and October. Although there will be more businesses open, the crowds will much more intense too. When I booked a trip for February I was very hesitant, thinking about weather and businesses being closed for the season. While a lot of the island closes on Sunday, it didn’t really change our plans at all. Visiting during the low season will also guarantee better deals and fewer crowds to work around.

One thing is for sure, I have definitely become a lifelong fan of all that Bermuda has to offer. Because of it’s accessible and laidback lifestyle, it’s going to be a detitanation I visit annually for years to come! You should book a trip as soon as possible!

Love from NYC,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

What to Pack for Bermuda

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Inspired by the pink walls and pop of green accents all around the Princess Hamilton Hotel, I couldn’t have been happier to pack up all of the bright, colorful pieces I could find. Packing for an international destination can seem like such a daunting task, but that’s doubly true when you’ve never been there before. Here’s a quick look at my Bermuda suitcase, with updated links, so you know exactly what to bring as you fly over the Atlantic Ocean.

Floral Maxi Dress

When you travel to a brightly colored island, it only makes sense that you dress to match. You’ll find some nicer restaurants throughout the island and this floral maxi dress from Banjanan would be a perfect option. It’s an incredibly breezy spot, so layer with a light jacket or scarf if you chill easily.

Cashmere Sweater

When we traveled to Bermuda, it was during their off-season. It was warm by New York standards, but locals were certainly bundling up. This cashmere sweater from J. Crew will keep you warm if it happens to drop below 70 degrees.

White Jeans

These white J. Crew jeans are always on my packing list. They are incredibly comfortable and go with just about everything. These are the kind of jeans that can be dressed up or down. I love pairing them with any of my espadrille wedges.

Neutral Sandals

Even though I’m usually a huge over-packer in the shoe department, I only took one pair on the most recent trip to Bermuda. Seriously, one pair of flat sandals is all you need. I’ve been in love with this pair of Carrie Forbes for months and I think it’s time to finally invest.

One-Piece Swimsuit

There are over 50 miles of coastline on this tiny island, plus countless pools to enjoy. Bring a swimsuit with a bright color to pop against the pink sands and turquoise waters. The waves can be pretty intense, so I opt for a J. Crew one-piece suit.

Bright Swimsuit Coverup

After you take your dip in the Atlantic Ocean, it’s really hard to have the perfect coverup on hand. This Lilly Pulitzer dress doubles as a coverup and sundress. It gives you the option of going straight from the beach to date night.

Striped Tee

Don’t forget to pack a comfy and casual outfit for while your lounging around the hotel. The Hamilton Princess had this great seating space right on the marina. I could curl up with a good book and Rum Swizzle. My original top from Vineyard Vines has long since been sold out, but this tee from J. Crew makes for the perfect substitute.

Navy Chino Shorts

These shorts from J. Crew are another travel essential! The 4 inch inseam is the perfect length, especially if you have short legs like me. They come in a rainbow of colors that change with each season. I’m in love with bright and cheerful yellow, it’s a new color for a classic silhouette.

Oversized Silk Scarf

Like I said earlier, it can get pretty breezy on Bermuda. I always had an oversized silk scarf on hand to layer over my outfit. It works extra hard for you as a swimsuit sarong or head wrap. Since they’re so small, don’t be afraid to pack more than one.

Rattan Statement Earrings

Sometimes, you just need your earrings to make an extra statement. Thanks to St. Armands Designs, my little collection has grown over the past few months. These rattan earrings are one of the most versatile in my rotation. Don’t let looks fool you, they’re extra lightweight and easy to wear.

Straw Clutch

I brought exactly two handbags with me to Bermuda. The first was a straw tote bag, which carried my laptop and beach essentials. The second was a simple straw clutch. It works with every single item I packed for the island paradise. I own several, but this bag from J. Crew is a current favorite.

Go-To Sunglasses

You can’t go to an island nation and not bring your most trusted pair of sunglasses. I typically rotate between two pairs. For me, it’s either this tortoiseshell pair by Karen Walker or my most cherished Krewes. Both kept the sun out of my eyes and get the job done.

If you’re going to Bermuda, you can expect to pack light. My weekender bag from Tuckernuck (don’t forget the monogram) held everything I brought plus had room for souvenirs. As you’re packing, consider customs at the Bermuda airport. The line can get pretty long, so you may want to think about checking a bag. Again, just some food for thought!

To see my full packing list, be sure to check out my guide below and stay tuned for another week of Bermuda content.

Love from NYC,
Katie

Updated January 2021

Cashmere Striped Sweater || White Denim || Flat Sandals || Straw Clutch || Colorful Scarf || Go-To Sunglasses || Floral Maxi Dress || Weekender Bag || Swimsuit Cover-Up || Striped Tee || Statement Earrings || One-Piece Swimsuit || Chino Shorts