There's plenty to do, from lounging at the luxurious resorts on the southern coast to wining and dining in bustling Hamilton, all of which are easily reachable via a rentable motor scooter—or taxi, for the wind-averse. "Travel to Bermuda is very reasonable in terms of pricing, but remember to purchase your tickets early," says American Express Travel Insider Bob Jones. "[And] the weather in Bermuda in [early] fall is an average high of 89, with a low of 72, if you're looking for a beach vacation."
As part of our Fall 2012 Getaway Guide, we've partnered with American Express and their Travel Insiders to create an itinerary for the best five days ever in Bermuda. American Express Travel Insiders are travel agents that have extensive knowledge in a specific destination or special interest area. These Insiders not only have insight into the best hotels, dining and attractions, but also the hard-to-find hidden gems of any destination. You're coming, aren't you?
Fairmont Southampton
If you want to be in the middle of all the action, stay at the big, pink Fairmont Hamilton Princess, or, for a more laid-back locale, try the Fairmont's Southampton property. For more intimate accommodations, consider the affordable Aunt Nea's Inn at Hillcrest in the historic St. Georges area, which has a cozy, residential feel. These properties and many more can be booked through Amextravel.com.
Through the Fine Hotels & Resorts program, American Express Platinum Card members get room upgrades upon availability, special check-in and check-out times, and breakfast options when booking at participating hotels such as the Fairmont Hamilton Princess, Elbow Beach, the Fairmont Southampton, and Rosewood Tucker's Point—which total a $450 value per stay.
The Swizzle Inn on Baileys Bay
Start your vacation off on the right foot with a taste of the island's own Goslings Rum—in the form of a Dark and Stormy or a Rum Punch—at casual pub, Swizzle Inn, which has locations in Hamilton as well as Bailey's Bay. When in Hamilton, be sure to stop into the Lobster Pot for their popular fish chowder, featuring black rum and sherry peppers.
If it's Italian you're craving, have dinner at Portofino, also in Hamilton, and order the tender calamari appetizer and share a pizza.
One of the most essential dining experiences in all of Bermuda is at Mickey's Beach Bistro & Bar in the always-buzzing Elbow Beach Hotel. If you were waiting for an opportunity to break out your preppy Bermuda attire, this would be the place to don it—while enjoying "Prawns Provencale" beachside.
For a quintessential English moment, consider stopping in for the much-lauded afternoon tea at The Heritage Court in the Hamilton Fairmont Princess.
Those with a sweet tooth should try the fresh French pastry at The Dockyard Pastry Shop or score a scoop of ice cream at Bailey's.
A fish in Bermuda
Two great beaches to hit in Bermuda are Horseshoe Beach and Tobacco Bay Beach. On South Shore's Horseshoe Beach, swim out into the water and explore Bermuda's sea life and unique rock formations.
Tobacco Bay Beach, in St. George's, is also an optimal spot for snorkeling, or just lounging on the sand and taking in the view.
Another popular beach is Jobson's Cove. The tiny, sheltered cove is gorgeous choice to enjoy calm waters.
For another look at wildlife and an assortment of exotic animals, visit the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum, and Zoo in Flatts, where you'll get to check out Flamingos, Wallabies, and Lemurs up-close and personal. Check out their special events listings for excursions like their Sunset Nature Cruise featuring the Castle Harbour Islands.
There are also various shipwrecks around the island, consider checking out the Sea Venture and Constellation in particular, the former sank in the 1600s and the latter sank in the 1940s.
16th hole at Port Royal Golf Course
Perhaps by the end of the trip you will have fallen in love with Bermuda's sartorial style, you can pick up the island's signature shorts at The English Sports Shop in Hamilton.
Can't you imagine yourself on the beach, enjoying a Dark and Stormy, right now? Don't miss your chance to recharge and relax.
