New York City 3.3 hrs

Boston 3.2 hrs

Philadelphia 3.5 hrs

Miami 3.6 hrs

Los Angeles 11.8 hrs

San Francisco 12.0 hrs

Dallas-Fort Worth 7.4 hrs

Chicago 6.9 hrs

Hamilton: As both the capital city and commercial heart of Bermuda, island life centers around Hamilton. It is a bustling enclave of pastel Victorian buildings and the island's best variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Front Street, ideally set along Hamilton Harbour, is the main street. Go ahead, try to resist lingering at one of the inviting cafés that overlook the sparkling water!

St. George's: Bermuda's first capital, this well-preserved city is all about charm. Actually Britain's second settlement in the New World, the history runs deep here with many original streets and colonial-era buildings still intact. The sightseeing is among the island's best.

Royal Naval Dockyard, Ireland Island: Once called the "Gibraltar of the West," the Royal Naval Dockyard was built as a shipyard and resupply facility for the British Navy during the 1800s. It was in service as late as 1951 buttoday, it has been restored and reinvented as a dynamic arts and shopping complex.

South Shore Park: A fabulous coastal reserve that stretches for 1.5 miles, South Shore Park protects some of Bermuda's most beautiful pink and white sand beaches. The best way to experience it is by walking the beautiful coastal trail that links half-moon bays and coves divided by lovely rock outcroppings.

Bermuda includes 181 islands and islets arranged in a fishhook-shaped chain. Only about 20 of the volcanic islands are inhabited. The coastline is characterized by small bays and sandy beaches which are pale pink in color, resulting from a mix of sand with crushed coral, tiny pieces of shell and calcium carbonate. Just offshore, Bermuda boasts the Atlantic's northernmost coral reefs. The interior is characterized by an abundance of sub-tropical plants and flowers and rolling green hills. A cave system winds underground.

The moderating effects of the Gulf Stream keep Bermuda's semi-tropical weather mild, and its winters are cooler than in the Caribbean islands to the south. There is no distinct rainy season, and when showers fall they are brief and quickly followed by sun. The heart of hurricane season lasts from late August to early November, though strikes are rare and there is plenty of advance notice to prepare. When threatened by a hurricane strike, one should expect a 2-day displacement from evacuation to safe return.

Spring average 74°

Summer average 80°

Fall average 76°

Winter average 70°

By far, the most popular time is from March through November when the weather is best, the water is warmest, and the greatest number of festivities are scheduled. Off-season runs from December to March, when the water is colder and the crowds are smaller, perfect for land activities like golf, tennis, shopping, or island exploring, rather than water sports.

Golf: There are 8 world class golf courses in Bermuda, designed by such respected architects as Robert Trent Jones and Charles Banks. Each has challenging greens and distracting scenery, accommodating all skill levels. Overall, Bermuda is a destination for people looking for a refined vacation with luxury, comfort, and tranquil waters.

Scuba Diving: Bermuda is famous for its scuba diving. The main attractions are its coral reefs and collection of shipwrecks. Stranded on broad reefs, over 400 sunken ships are easily accessible to divers. Just as fascinating are the coral formations and shoals of fish, octopus, eels, and other underwater animals. Bermuda boasts the Atlantic's best visibility, up to 300 feet, as well as close proximity to New York (2.1 hours).

Relaxing Break: Bermuda is conveniently located in the North Atlantic ocean, just 2.1 hours from New York. Vacationers love the carefree island lifestyle and British charm. Beautiful pink sand beaches and a collection of pampering resorts make Bermuda ideal for those wanting to escape everyday life and simply relax on the beach.

Historical Sites: History buffs could spend an entire day in St. George's. The Old State House, built in 1620 is Bermuda's oldest building. The lovingly preserved Tucker House is still filled with 18th-century furniture. St. Peter's Church was first built in 1612 and was often renovated, so that it contains architectural styles spanning 4 centuries. Also worth a visit is Fort St. Catherine, which houses a museum of island history.

Scuba Diving: This is a main event in Bermuda, and has won the title as one of the world's Best Beginner and Best Wreck sites in Scuba Diving magazine's Reader's Choice Awards! Every great dive destination has a signature, and Bermuda has at least three. 1) The greatest collection of diveable shipwrecks in the world, with over 400 ships lying stranded on broad reefs. 2) The Atlantic's best visibility, a claim backed up by a scientific study showing underwater visibility of a stunning 200-300 feet. 3) Access and more access. It's a quick non-stop hop from the east coast of the US, barely long enough for the in-flight movie!

Beaches: The beaches in Bermuda are too numerous to list! There are some favorites, though, like the North Shore's Clarence Cove in Pembroke, with super-calm waters ideal for families. The protective reefs of Elbow Beach in Paget Parish also keep its water calm, and add great snorkeling to the attraction. Other popular stretches include Tobacco Bay Beach in St. George's, Jobson's Cove in Warwick Parish, and Horseshoe Bay Beach in Southampton Parish. If you'd rather escape the crowds, try secluded Somerset Long Bay in quiet Sandys Parish and remote Astwood Cove in Warwick Parish.

Golf & Tennis: There are 8 world class golf courses in Bermuda, designed by such respected architects as Robert Trent Jones and Charles Banks. They each have challenging greens and distracting scenery, but their skill levels vary to accommodate all. Tennis is something of a national pastime, not surprising since the first game of tennis in the Western Hemisphere was played here!

Hamilton Day Trip: The city of Hamilton is ideal for strolling and full of interesting sites. Highlights include the Bermuda Historical Society Museum, impressive Fort Hamilton with great harbor views, the Bermuda Aquarium, Zoological Garden, the Crystal Caves with their underground lake, and much more. Additionally, Hamilton is the departure point for the delightful Glass Bottom Cruise over Bermuda's gorgeous marine ecosystem.

Spittal Pond: Smith's Parish near Hamilton is the location of Bermuda's largest wildlife sanctuary. Follow its network of beautiful trails and you'll have the chance to spot hundreds of species of exotic, colorful birds.

Boating & Fishing: Despite the plethora of sunken ships, Bermuda is still a major hotspot for sailing with its calm waters and endless deserted islands. You can rent your own sailboat or motorboat, or charter one. Anglers can set off on their own as well or hop aboard a deep-sea fishing excursion. The catch of the day could well include marlin, amberjack, and tuna!

Spas: Do you just want to relax? Bermuda comes through with an excellent selection of invigorating spas. Top choices include The Spa at Sonesta Beach Resort, the Secret Garden Spa & Body Tech Fitness at the Southampton Princess Hotel and the Strands Day Spa in Hamilton.

Shopping: Then, there is the shopping. Hamilton is the best area for it, though St. George's and the Royal Naval Dockyard have an excellent selection of shops, too. Besides local crafts and wares, Bermuda is a great place to find bargains on such imports as Wedgwood china, crystal, perfume, English cashmere, wool, and Irish linens. Definitely include a stop at the famed Trimingham's department store, built in 1842.

Dining is a refined activity in Bermuda, and the 150-plus restaurants serving virtually every popular international cuisine will please every taste. American, British, Italian, German, Mexican, Indian, Greek, Chinese, and more are all available. Seafood is always just-fished-fresh and tops every menu; mostly everything else is imported. Local delicacies include wahoo steak, mussel pie, Hoppin' John (black-eyed peas and rice), cassava pie, and guinea-chick (spiny lobster). You may have to wander into Hamilton to find these specialties, but they are well worth the trip! Many restaurants prefer men to wear a jacket, and some even a tie, especially after 6pm, while women usually wear semi-dressy attire.

Gourmet

Tamarisk Dining Room has one of the island's most fashionable addresses and pampers diners with attentive service and a rich international cuisine from a frequently-changing menu. The wine cellar is impressively stocked. Cambridge Beach, Sandys Parish

Newport Room: A restaurant in the plush Fairmount Southampton resort, the New Port room is unequaled in its sumptuous but subtle yacht-like decor and succulent French cuisine. A memorable meal is guaranteed, with only the freshest ingredients carefully chosen for their flavor and texture. The menu is constantly evolving, but expect such entree choices as duck breast with cinnamon-and-fig sauce and baby veal chops. Equally impressive as the food menu, the wine list includes a vast array of international wines, all served in Irish crystal. Reservations are a must. 101 South Shore Road, Southampton Parish

Highly Recommended

The Carriage House was once a warehouse for the Royal Engineers, but it is now a vaulted 18th-century brick-walled dining room with an unbeatable view of St. George's Harbour. Candlelight enhances the grotto-like setting where you dine on a blend of Continental, English, and local dishes. The Bermuda Triangle, a combination of filet mignon, shrimp, and chicken breast, is a favorite, as is the Sunday brunch St. George's Parish

Tom Moore's Tavern: Bermuda's oldest restaurant, Tom Moore's Tavern was originally built in 1652 as a private home. Its namesake, Irish romantic poet Thomas Moore, visited in 1804 and wrote some of his most famous verses here. Now one of Bermuda's most popular upscale restaurants, Tom Moore's Tavern features a cozy setting with 4 fireplaces and darkened cedar walls. The food is predominantly classic French and Italian, with seafood being the specialty. In the summers look forward to fresh Bermuda lobster. Throughout the year, a number of delectable entrees are offered, including quail pastries stuffed with goose liver and truffles, grilled rockfish, and freshly sautéed yellowtail - all served with greens and very rich sauces. Reservations are highly recommended at this landmark venue. Walsingham Lane, Hamilton Parish

Local Flair

The Black Horse Tavern is located a bit off the beaten path and is an authentic locals' favorite. Its regulars insist that there is no other eatery on the island that better prepares genuine Bermudian fare. St. George's Parish

Waterlot Inn: This magnificent and historic waterfront inn is now part of the plush Fairmount Southampton resort. Overlooking Jew's Bay, the Waterlot Inn has been offering delectable Bermudian fare to the backdrop of breathtaking sunsets for over 300 years. Boasting AAA Four Diamond status, the food is accordingly superb. The menu consists of entrees ranging from seafood to pasta, with the savory dry aged steaks being among the best on the island. Beautiful outdoor terraces and gardens are perfect for enjoying a pre-dinner cocktail. Reservations are required at this esteemed Bermuda restaurant. 101 South Shore Road, Southampton Parish

Romantic

Café Lido creates the perfect setting for a special evening with a beachside location, relaxed atmosphere, and Mediterranean style. Fresh fish is the highlight of the menu, and weekly specials are prepared with flair and care. Elbow Beach

La Coquille: One of Bermuda's most sophisticated French restaurants, La Coquille is also one of the most romantic. Dine with your loved one in an intimate and ornate setting, on the upscale eastern extension of Front Street. The cuisine is vaguely Provencal, with such menu items of sautéed breast of duck in blackberry sauce, and veal marinated in balsamic vinegar served with porcini mushroom fettuccini. Whisper sweet nothings as night descends, and finish your meal with a sherry or coffee. Reservations are highly recommended to ensure a table at this renowned Hamilton restaurant. Pembroke Hall, Hamilton

More cozy and subdued than most islands, nightlife on Bermuda is somewhat limited outside of the resort hotels. There are no casinos, but you will enjoy a choice of friendly bars, local music venues, comedy clubs, and more.

Pubs: For a laid-back and amiable hang-out, look no further than the popular Frog & Onion, located in the historic Royal Naval Dockyard, and Hamilton's Hog Penny, a casual establishment featuring nightly entertainment.

Clubs: For dancing and club music from rock and blues by both North American and local bands, check out The Oasis Nightlife & The Rock Room on Front Street in Hamilton. Another good choice is The Palace, hopping until the wee hours with upbeat music from the 60s, 70s, and 80s.

Bay View Bars: Overlooking Hamilton Harbour, the Pickled Onion martini bar/restaurant has a great breezy balcony and plays festive local music. In Blue Hole Hill, Baileys Bay, the Swizzle Inn Pub is famous for their own concoction called the Rum Swizzle, and nightly performances by Calypso and steel drum bands.

Gombey Dancing: These dances provide an inspiring and jubilant experience of the island's folk traditions. Performances are sometimes scheduled with very little notice, so check for shows with your concierge upon arrival.

Bermuda Jazz Festival: Jazz music's best participate, with past performers that have included include George Benson, Chaka Khan, and Roberta Flack. Royal Naval Dockyard, September

Bermuda Festival of Performing Arts: A selection of plays, musical performances, dances, and other stage productions are featured in three theaters in Hamilton. January-February

Golden Rendezvous Month: Seniors age 50 and older are the VIPs at exclusive bridge tournaments, ballroom dancing, special tours, and more! February

Bermuda Kite Festival: This tradition began as a Sunday School teacher's creative way of explaining how Christ ascended to the heavens. Since then it has been as much a part of local Easter celebrations as music on the beach and codfish cakes. Horseshoe Bay, Good Friday

Bermuda International Film Festival: Only a few years on the international film circuit, this festival focuses on "firsts" - first-time directors, producers, screenwriters, and leading actors. A festival ticket provides access to all films. May

Queen's Birthday Parade: The official birthday celebration for chief of state Queen Elizabeth II, with all the top political and civil service folk in attendance in top hat from the Premier to the Police Commissioner. The Governor (representative of the Queen), dressed in full ceremonial whites, plumed hat, and blue sash, inspects the regiment troops. A 21-gun salute splits the air and the governor leads the crowd in three cheers for the queen. Hamilton, June

Sandcastle Competition: The Institute of Bermuda Architects hosts this fun but quite competitive event with several categories, including one for tourists! Entrants have 4 hours to build their masterpieces, which are judged by an IBA council. Horseshoe Bay, September

Culture Shock: The biggest reggae show in Bermuda attracts thousands of people during its 2-night run. The event is 2-tiered: there is Dancehall Night, with driving tempo and lyrics attracting a younger crowd, and Culture Night, which has a more adult following and music described as more "rootsy." Dancehall originated in Jamaica and has had an impact on many American rap artists and local reggae performers. The Bermuda show features top local reggae artists and top Jamaican singers. Hamilton, November

Your best daytime clothing choices are loose-fitting, natural fibers in a tidy casual style. In the evening, almost all nice restaurants require a jacket and tie. Because of its more refined character, bathing suits and bare feet must be kept to the beach and pool areas in order to avoid offense. Visitors should also bring a light sweater for winter evenings.

English is the official language.

Electricity is 110 volts/60 cycles AC, so you will not need an adapter or transformer.

We strongly advise that you confirm the following information and regard this only as a basic guide.

Entry: You must have a valid passport, a birth certificate with a raised seal and a government-issued photo ID, a US naturalization certificate, a US Alien Registration Card, or a US re-entry permit. In addition, all visitors must have a return or onward ticket. If you are planning on staying in Bermuda longer than three weeks, you must apply to the Chief Immigration Officer, Government Administration Building, 30 Parliament Street, Hamilton HM 12, Bermuda, phone 011-441-295-5151.

Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: Effective January 23, 2007, ALL persons, including US citizens, traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda will be required to present a valid passport, Air NEXUS card, or US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document, or an Alien Registration Card, Form I-551, if applicable.

The passport requirement does NOT apply to US citizens traveling to or returning directly from a US territory. US citizens returning directly from a US territory are not considered to have left the United States and do not need to present a passport. US territories include the following: Guam, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Swains Island, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Bermuda Customs: Visitors may bring duty-free apparel and articles for their personal use including sports equipment, cameras, 200 cigarettes, 1 quart of liquor, and 1 quart of wine. All imports may be inspected on arrival.

US Customs: Returning US citizens who have been abroad for 48 hours or more are allowed to bring back, once every 30 days, $800 worth of merchandise duty-free. There is a flat rate of 10% duty on your next $1000 worth of purchases. Be sure to save your receipts.The duty-free limit for gifts received is $100. You cannot bring fresh foodstuffs into the United States; tinned foods are allowed.

Departure Tax: $20

American Consulate General: Crown Hill, 16 Middle Road, Devonshire, Bermuda, phone 011-441-295-1342

Bermuda Department of Tourism: Global House, 43 Church Street, Hamilton HM BX, Bermuda, phone 011-441-292-0023, fax 011-441-292-7537

Atlanta: 245 Peachtree Center Avenue, NE, Suite 803, Atlanta, GA 30303, phone 404-524-1541

Beverly Hills: 268 South Beverly Drive, Suite 488, Beverly Hills, CA 90212, phone 323-933-2416

Boston: 44 School Street, Suite 1010, Boston, MA 02108, phone 617-742-0405

New York: 205 East 42nd Street, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10017, phone 212-818-9800