Spring in Bermuda – Low Fares, Short Flights

Beaches, Golf, Spas Ideal for Weekends, Multi-Generational Families

© Grace Lichtenstein

Apr 12, 2009
Reefs Hotel Bermuda, Photo: Reefs Hotel
Older vacationers who honeymooned on this mid-Atlantic island are returning now for anniversaries or quick getaways, lured by pink sand, aqua ocean and Jet Blue.

Bermuda has always been a favorite destination for honeymoons. Now with competitive nonstop airfares from New York and Boston spurred by Jet Blue’s entry into the market, boomers, seniors and their families are rediscovering its gorgeous pink sand beaches and amenities such as golf, tennis, spas and upscale restaurants.

Bermuda’s location, less than two hours by air from the East Coast, makes it a perfect weekend getaway. It’s not unusual for couples who came to this UK territory years ago to return with adult children and grandchildren in tow.

UK’s Oldest Colony

In 2009, Bermuda is celebrating the 400th anniversary of its discovery by shipwrecked sailors bound for the American colony of Jamestown.

Among the events scheduled: a parade on May 25, which is Bermuda Day, through the streets of Hamilton, its capital, and the visit in Hamilton harbor July 11 through 15 of the vessels taking part in the Tall Ships Fleet Challenge, a race around the Atlantic.

Bermuda Weather in May, June, July

Although Americans sometimes think Bermuda is in the Caribbean, it is actually hundreds of miles north of that region, on approximately the same latitude as North Carolina . Thus high season is May through October, with temperatures averaging a high of 76 in May, 81 in June and 85 in July.

The astoundingly clear turquoise ocean waters, especially on the island’s south side, are warmed by the Gulf Stream. The beaches are famously pink. One of its most renowned boutique hotels, the Reefs, is perched on its own private beach, with coral reefs protecting guests who can swim, snorkel and kayak from the beachfront that is just steps from their rooms. It also has two tennis courts.

The Reefs, a 62-year-old family-owned hotel, welcomes many loyal vacationers who have come back 20, 30 and more times over the years. With 65 rooms and suites, the hotel has been renovated and expanded.

It is completing the Reefs Club, a 19-unit private residence club of two- and three-bedroom villas to give its loyalists the option of buying 1/10th fractional interests for return visits. The fractional ownerships are priced at $350,000 for 2 bedrooms, $410,000 for 3 bedrooms. The expansion also will include a much larger spa than the one now on the property.

In contrast to the Reefs’ intimate size is the Fairmont Southampton, located nearby on the island’s highest point. A megahotel with 593 rooms and suites, it boasts an 18-hole golf course, 11 tennis courts, fitness center, spa, its own beach, and extensive convention and meeting rooms.

To summarize - whether you seek a smaller hotel for your Bermuda stay or an all-in-one resort, this little island country has both.


The copyright of the article Spring in Bermuda – Low Fares, Short Flights in Senior Travel is owned by Grace Lichtenstein. Permission to republish Spring in Bermuda – Low Fares, Short Flights in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.


Reefs Hotel Bermuda, Photo: Reefs Hotel
Fairmont Southampton Hotel Bermuda, Photo: Fairmont hotels
Bermuda sunset, Photo: Fairmont hotels
   


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