It was March, and it was cold. I was in desperate need of an escape from snowy Toronto, and found myself on a relatively short 2-hour flight to Bermuda for a long weekend. Little did I know, this tiny island nation in the North Atlantic Ocean would leave such an indelible mark on my heart.
Beyond its famed pink sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, which are certainly a draw and a must-visit, Bermuda has a rich history dating back to the early 1500s when it was a British colony. But what truly sets it apart is the warmth and hospitality of its people. From the moment I arrived, I felt a genuine welcome and eagerness to share their island’s secrets, and more importantly, local hotspots for food – which we will get into that later.
As mentioned, the must-visit spot is Horseshoe Bay, an iconic beach with pink sand and clear blue waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. When walking down to the beach, head to the right near the rocks for a smaller, kid-friendly beach area that still has stunning clear waters that is also warmer than the main area.
And for nature lovers, the Crystal Caves with their intricate formations and crystal-clear pools are a sight to behold.
For anyone who wants to be transported back in time, a visit to St. George, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will do the trick. The town is full of colourful historic buildings and also has its own pristine beaches.
And if you’re a foodie, don’t miss the local delicacy of wahoo fish, fish chowder, and fish sandwich. The traditional fish sandwich in Bermuda is typically made with fried wahoo fish, tartar sauce, coleslaw, and served on raisin bread. Following a local’s advice, the best spot to try the fish sandwich is Woody’s, where they are known for their large portions and delicious food.
The fish sandwich at Woody’s is particularly famous because they use fresh, local fish and add their secret hot sauce to it, which gives it a unique and delicious flavour. Woody’s is also a casual spot with a great atmosphere, which makes it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the local food culture in Bermuda.
Another famous restaurant in Bermuda is The Swizzle Inn, which has been around since the 1930s. Located in Bailey’s Bay, the restaurant’s name comes from “swizzle” – a local mixed alcoholic drink typically made with rum and fruit juices, and is often served with crushed ice.
The Swizzle Inn serves a variety of other Bermuda specialties, such as fish chowder and fish sandwiches, and has become a must-visit spot for anyone visiting the island.
Because of its mild climate and incredible scenery, Bermuda is a popular destination for golfers. The island has several world-class golf courses, and golfing in Bermuda is generally regarded as a top-notch experience. The Rosewood Bermuda is home to a stunning 18-hole golf course designed by Roger Rulewich, and the course is set on 200 acres of rolling hills and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Here, golfers can also take advantage of the resort’s luxurious accommodations, spa, and dining options.
With a range of hotels and resorts, including The Rosewood and The Reefs Resort & Club, Bermuda caters to a variety of budgets and preferences.
But in the end, no matter where you stay, you’ll fall in love with the food, scenery, and pink sand beaches that make Bermuda truly unforgettable.
The author was hosted by The Bermuda Tourism Authority.