Elite Traveler July-August 2018

EXPLORE BERMUDA

GUIDE TO

As Mark Twain once said, “You go to heaven if you want to, I’d rather stay right here Bermuda.” And we certainly agree. The tiny island in the Atlantic (yes, the Atlantic, not the Caribbean) packs an enormous punch in its 20 square miles. Pastel houses with white roofs perched on verdant hills, curvy roads carved into cliffs, some of the clearest turquoise water you have ever seen, and its famous pink-tinged beaches make up the dreamy island landscape. But there’s so much more than its incredible natural beauty. Bermuda played an important part in global history, from early British settlers exploring the New World to espionage during World War II. It has refined cuisine, a vibrant and friendly culture, spectacular water sports and now its formerly staid hotel scene is catching up with the island’s popularity. The first new build in 45 years, The Loren at Pink Beach, opened last year to great acclaim; two of its most iconic hotels, Hamilton Princess and Rosewood Tucker’s Point, recently emerged from multimillion-dollar renovations; and a spate of new luxury properties, including Caroline Bay — a Ritz-Carlton Reserve — and a St. Regis, are on the horizon. And with its prime location just 90 minutes from the east coast of the US, there has never been a better time to listen to Twain’s wise words and head to an island more superb than heaven.

by Kristen Shirley

DININGANDDRINKING

SWIZZLE INN It wouldn’t be a trip to Bermuda without a stop at Swizzle Inn for its famous, and dangerous, Rum Swizzle — its motto isn’t ‘swizzle in, swagger out’ for nothing (if you have too many, you’ll be staggering out). The Swizzle is so beloved that it’s largely considered the national drink. Family-friendly during the day, the inn can become bawdy at night. Check out the visitor books, which regale readers with tales of swagger going back to 1942. swizzleinn.com

WATERLOT INN For the best steak on island, head to Waterlot Inn, a fairly formal restaurant that cherishes its British influences. Start with theWaterlot Caesar salad, prepared tableside with much flair, then move on to a specialty cut of beef imported from one of the best ranches in the US. Save room for dessert; the menu includes a homemade Snickers bar, and bananas Foster for two— if you ask nicely, they’ll let you flambé it yourself at the table. waterlotinn.com

HARRY’S BAR During happy hour, there’s only one place to be: Harry’s Bar, which has been a longtime favorite for locals and visitors alike. Harry’s partnered with another island institution, Goslings Rum, to create a unique blend. Take a cue fromMalcolmGosling Jr and order the Harry’s Old Fashioned, which uses the special rum from his family’s cellars. Take your drink out to the patio, which has views of Hamilton Harbour. harrys.bm