Colonial splendour, pink sands and palm trees

Bermuda is the United Kingdom’s oldest continuously inhabited overseas territory. It was first settled in the early 17th century when English ships travelling to Virginia were wrecked off its shores, and the survivors claimed a new territory for King James I. Over the next few hundred years Bermuda gained a significant population, and with its beautiful pink-tinged beaches and shallow azure waters it would eventually become a highly desirable tourist destination. Bermuda’s generous taxation has helped it to become an important financial centre, attracting several major corporations to set up a permanent base there, and has made it one of the richest per capita countries in the world. It continues to be a very popular tourist destination for both British and American holidaymakers thanks to its superb climate, great beaches and elegant colonial buildings.

Why Go?
There is certainly a hint of British and American influence in Bermuda, but the islands have a distinct cultural identity that lends Bermuda individuality and enormous appeal. Relax on pink-sand beaches, shop in tax-free boutiques and live it up with the jet set in beautiful Bermuda.

When to Go?
It is important to remember that Bermuda is not in the Caribbean, so the peak season for holidays in Bermuda is in the summer, from late May to September, the opposite of the Caribbean islands where it gets busy in the winter. Bermuda’s climate is humid sub-tropical, with temperatures in August averaging around 30˚C. Rain showers occur all year round but are soon dried up by the hot sunshine.

How to get there?
Flights to Bermuda Airport, or L. F. Wade International Airport (BDA) as it’s now known, are available from Gatwick Airport with British Airways. Located on the island of St. George’s, 10 miles from the capital of Hamilton, this is the only airport on the islands. However, you might still take an alternative route flying via New York, which might work out cheaper if you can find the right flights.

Must see
Bermuda’s soft pink sandy beaches are truly a thing of beauty, and are not only a sight to behold, but also a wonderful place to spend the day sipping cocktails in the sunshine. The former capital St George’s, with its old colonial fortifications, is listed as a World Heritage Site, which is well-worth exploring and makes for a good day trip alternative to sunbathing and shopping. In the capital Hamilton visit the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, which features fascinating exhibitions related to underwater exploration, marine biology and the ecology of the ocean.