Bermuda Romantic Island Destination for Couples
Mid-Atlantic Destination Now Offering Lovers Value-Priced Packages
Apr 29, 2009
Bermuda, which is celebrating its 400-year anniversary this year, has long been a desirable and romantic destination whether for a getaway or honeymoon. Its rolling hills, carefully landscaped gardens, signature architecture, breathtaking beaches and British influence lift it a notch above most West Indies and Caribbean islands.
But the island's unique mid-Atlantic Ocean location and its history of catering to the luxury travel market have made it a pricey choice. Now things have changed. A slumping economic market has slowed tourism, and the Bermuda hospitality market is responding by providing value pricing for couples no matter what their budget.
Upscale Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa on Bermuda
One of the most upscale resorts on the island, Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa, is known for catering to couples. Guests who stay four nights or longer at Cambridge Beaches between now and Aug. 21 receive a $400 resort credit. In addition the resort also offers special packages, including "Sensual Sunsets" with extra amenities including ocean-side spa treatments and dinner on the beach at sunset.
While early fall and late spring offer some of Bermuda's most desirable weather and fewest crowds, the deepest discounts are seen in winter, outside of the holiday season, because of the chilly weather.
Those who prefer a quiet vacation will appreciate that Cambridge Beaches is an adult resort where visitors must be 16 years and older. The exception is holiday periods from Nov. 1 through Jan. 15 and one week before and after Easter.
"The majority of our guests are couples on romantic getaways; most of them are celebrating a special occasion, such as a honeymoon or an anniversary," said Nadja Talevi, guest relations manager. "We specialize in small and intimate wedding events and host approximately 35 to 40 weddings per year."
The resort has been ranked by Travel & Leisure in the Top Ten of the World's Best Hotels for service, and the10,000-square-foot Ocean Spa at Cambridge Beaches is a "most excellent spa award-winner for the Caribbean," Conde Nast Johansen guide.
In addition to checking out the spa's experience rooms with beautiful crystal displays and mood lighting, couples can relax walking along the resort's beaches and in its garden labyrinth. They can also take part in enrichment activities like weekly wine tastings and culinary demonstrations by the resort's master chef.
While Cambridge Beaches offers excellent value, less luxurious options on the island include the more basic 9 Beaches, Elbow Beach, Fairmont Hamilton Princess, Fairmont Southampton and Grotto Bay Beach Resort.
Fun Things to Do While Staying on Bermuda
No matter where they stay adventurous couples will want to take advantage of the island's snorkeling or diving, fishing and sailing. For on-land excursions there is the Crystal Caves, featuring subterranean crystal clear lakes, stalactites and stalagmites. There are also lighthouses, forts, gardens and parks to explore. The Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo definitely are worth visiting.
Shoppers can find plenty of fashionable boutiques on Front Street in the capital city of Hamilton, on the east side of the island, and craft shops at the Dockyard, on the west. The Dockyard is also home to Bermuda Maritime Museum and Dolphin Quest.
The island's excellent bus transit system runs between the two areas with many stops along the way. A taxi can be hired or mopeds rented. LaBella's favorite mode of transportation on the island is the Railway Trail train.
Top restaurant choices are La Coquille, which features a French Provencal/Mediterranean style; La Trattoria and Little Venice, both Italian; and The Lobster Pot, a seafood restaurant. All are located in Bermuda's Pembroke region.
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