Bermuda
 

I am planning a trip to Bermuda next summer. I'm not sure which resort to stay at or what is the best time to travel there. I think I have the accomodation choices narrowed down to Elbow Beach, Southampton Princess or Marriot's Castle Harbour. This is a special occassion and a surprise gift, I want to book the best I can. If you've been and have any advise, please e-mail me. Thanks <BR>

I stayed at the Marriott and it was very nice. However, I was there during low season this past January, and there wasn't a lot going on. Plus, not all the restaurants were open; we were limited to one restaurant. The Elbow Beach is also beautiful, and I would consider that one next time. The nice thing about Bermuda, is that you could pretty much stay anywhere, as the island is incredibly clean. It's easy to get around by scooter or bus; cabs can get costly. If you want to go in to Hamilton to try different restaurants, the Marriott may be far away and require cabbing it in the evening, as busses only run until 6 or 7 pm, I think. So we were somewhat limited in dining, especially since we had mealplans. I was told meals were really expensive, especially for a Canadian. However, unless you eat an awful lot, the mealplans were too much food and limiting since we always had to eat at the Marriott. All of the large hotels are great in Bermuda. You can literally see the whole island by bussing, going by scooter, or hiking/ biking on trails. I loved Bermuda, and found the people to be very friendly. There is virtually no poverty; a local told me the average wage was $12/hr. See the fort in St. George, the crystal caves, take the ferry or bus to the armory (neat little stores there), and enjoy the scenary. Locals told me that the best times to go are June to September, although that is peak season. But, in January it was quite cool and rainy (not suitable for shorts or swimming). Have fun!

I was at the Southampton Princess last October. It is a mega resort high up on a hill. It is 15 minute <BR>ride to Hamilton (the heart of Bermuda) either by car or ferry. You get to their beach by jitney from <BR>their reception area. It is nice but it is mega. <BR>Because it is so big it attracts alot of conventions. I think next time I will try Elbow Beach. The previous post is reflective of my experience in Bermuda. I found the bus to be the best means of transportation. From Hamilton you can catch a nice modern air-conditioned bus to anywhere for less than $5.00 per person RT. The climate was <BR>nice but just barely warm enough for the beach.

I stayed at Elbow Beach last April and loved it. The hotel is gorgeous, the food delicious and the <BR>beach was one of the prettiest I have seen. It is also in a great location as you are close to Hamilton. They also have afternoon with great scones, sandwiches and pastries. It is a very classy hotel with excellent service.

I read that Elbow Beach hotel is undergoing renovations this summer. <BR> <BR>I stayed at Horizons and Cottages, an elegant place on the top of a hill. It was very pretty - with a lot of flowers and great views of the island and ocean. The food was excellent. It's within walking distance to Elbow Beach. E-mail me if you have any questions.