kaya

My friends and I are attending a wedding in Bermuda and we need an house OR a hotel that can accomodate five to ten of us (we can be broken into two's or four's) and a cheap airfare. We will be there four days/five nights. Air alone is already $600! We were quoted for $1200 at Elbow Beach (with air). I feel there's a better price out there. Can anyone help?

Linda

Depends on your dates of travel. If you are travelling during the high season for Bermuda yes the rates will be high. Bermuda has a short season. You get better rates in the off season.

nina

Where are you flying from? If east coast, you can do MUCH better than $600 for air. Are you trying to book for the summer already? That's why the fare is so high. Let us know where your leaving from.

kaya

The wedding is in June 2002 and we're flying from New York. Should I wait a few months from now to book something? I thought it was cheaper to book something in advance. Thanks for your advices!

Tanya

The last few times I have flown from Nova Scotia I have spent almost $600 even when booking 4-5 months in advance. I am not sure you will do much better but your travel agent should be able to advise. It is my experience they only put so many "cheap" seats on any available flight and once they are gone, you are out of luck. The one thing I did find out that first class to Bermuda from Halifax (approx 2 hour flight) is about $80 more expensive than their regular seat.

June is a high season. There are several cottages available. I know I saw a travel brochure with several suitable accommodations. Ask your travel agent. Bermuda is expensive, so if you get a housekeeping unit, think about taking some essentials with you for making breakfast, etc. I always take a freezer order with me (steaks, bacon, sandwich meat, etc.) as well as frozen orange juice, coffee, seasonings, etc. It helps to reduce the cost of groceries when you arrive. Expect to pay about $10-20 for lunch (without drinks) and evening double that amount. If you are going to be spending a lot of time with your friends, I would recommend accommodations close by. Travel can get expensive as well. Try and get a good taxi driver and ensure you order your taxis in advance of when you need them or you wind up waiting and waiting. The bus/ferry is an alternative during peak times. $36 will get you a 7 day pass and will take you all over the Island. You can also get a 3 day pass.

Lots to do on the Island. Recommend spending at least one day at the beach. Horseshoe is great but there are many more that aren't as crowded on the South Shore. Definitely check out don't stop the Carnival which is an all inclusive cruise from Hamilton out to a little spot. Drinks and meal included for around $70US per person.

Hope you find something suitable. You'll love Bermuda!

nina

kaya I fly from NY to Bermuda in June and Oct. and have never paid more than $ 400. Wait a bit longer, I guarantee the rate will be lower than $ 600. Last year at the end of March I bid on Priceline and got 4 R/T tickets for $ 311 each from JFK at the end of June.

For inexpensive lodging try Skytop Cottages, Valley cottages and Paraquat apartments.

Anishka

Kaya, try Royal Palms Hotel (www.royalpalms.com)in Hamilton.
We have stayed there recently and could not have been more happy with our choice. All you need to know about this hotel in on their website. Good luck.