Bermuda

Four Days of Blue Sunshine

I love traveling. For Thanksgiving, I had two days off from work so I wasn't going to waste a four day weekend stuck in East Coast traffic and cold climates. I mentioned my desire to pop off to someplace warm to my friend, Gwen, one day over lunch. This turned into discussions of Key West, New Orleans, the Bahamas, and other places before settling on Bermuda. So off we both went to stay in Hamilton at the Fairmont Princess hotel. We left on Thanksgiving day way too early - a 7:30 flight if I remember well. On a bonus note, somehow Gwen if an elite-status flier with American so be got upgraded to business class! So I quickly reclined in my super-comfy reclinable leather chair with leg-rest extension and settled in for a nice 2 hour nap.

I loved exploring the island - from The Dockyards to St. George. We got most everywhere by bus or ferry. Here are some highlights:

Fulfilled obsession: photographing the flora and fauna, plus the local Xmas parade scene.

Most futile search: Gwen's quest for a Pain Killer; this is a Tortola drink, not a Bermuda one; she soon found solace in a Swizzle, I found happiness in a Dark & Stormy.

Best meal: Waterloo House where we had a wonderful meal in a lovely setting, and we got several additionals (foie gras, dessert wine) without the additional charge!

Funniest reaction: Gwen's look when an older guy tried to compliment her by saying she looks like Hillary Clinton; her response, "I think that is the worst thing anyone has ever said to me!"

Scaring Gwen Take 1: Walking part of the Rains-to-Trails walk, I sort-of treaded a little on someone's lawn looking for a connection to the shoreline ahead. The sign "Beware of Dog" didn't disturb me, even when I saw a black pit bull running down to the property line at us. Gwen hightailed it while I casually sauntered back to the path knowing the collar with the grey small electronic box on the dog's collar meant he'd stop at the invisible fence or get a good shock; Gwen wasn't as convinced of this but sure enough, he stopped and just barked like a grumbly kid.

Strangest "best food find": chicken pot pie at the Hog Penny Pub; best crust and yummy fillings I've ever had, and in an island environment, go figure!

Best shore exploring: Beach at the Princess in Southampton; wonderful rocks and crystal clear water through which you can see the bottom of the ocean floor; the most beautiful blue water I've even seen.

Biggest regret: forgot my swimsuit when heading over to Southampton for brunch which turned into a great beach combing afternoon.

Best English present: Marks & Spencer's, where I got my mom some chocolate biscuits and mints she adores, and I haven't been able to fins them since I moved from Seattle and would trek up to Vancouver for them.... shh, it is a surprise for her on Christmas.

Scaring Gwen Take 2: walking section of the narrow Bermuda roads where the sidewalks end.

Would I go again? Sure, but next time I'd bring my snorkeling gear and diving certification. I'd also stay at one of the smaller, boutique hotels and spend more time exploring the trails and parks. I'd also take time to charter a sailboat and perhaps dive some of the shipwrecks surrounding the perimeter of the island.