Bermuda for Lovers

by Paris Permenter & John Bigley

Pink sands, elegant resorts, and an upscale destination combine to pamper lovers.

Since the days of Mark Twain, Bermuda has attracted travelers seeking a luxurious retreat with warm summers and temperate winters, perfect for a round of golf or a game of tennis. Located off the North Carolina coast, the island has long been a favorite getaway with honeymooners, golf buffs (boasting more golf courses per square mile than any other country in the world), and travelers looking for a safe, upscale island destination.

Although technically not part of the Caribbean, Bermuda has all the sun, sand, and surf of its southern neighbors. Located 650 miles off the coast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, Bermuda ranks as one of the most elegant of the island destinations. It combines a slightly formal British atmosphere and its country's position as one of the world's richest countries with the island's semi-tropical climate to create a setting where palm-lined roads connect Easter egg-colored houses.

With weather that's often described as only two seasons -- spring (69 degree average in January) and summer (85 degree average in July)-- Bermuda is a couples' delight.

Although many consider Bermuda to be one island, the country is actually formed by about 180 small islands. Seven of these islands are connected by causeways and bridges, and this forms the landmass referred to as "Bermuda." The broken shoreline means a full menu of beaches, most found on the south side from Southampton to Tucker's Town. Most hotels are not located directly on the beach, but one is never far away: Bermuda is, at its thickest point, only one and a half miles wide.

Selecting a resort may be your toughest decision when it comes to Bermuda; this destination is filled with delightful hotels that offer a full array of luxuries and facilities ranging from golf courses to fine dining. Here are some of our favorites:

Elbow Beach Bermuda, http://www.elbowbeach.com
One of the island's largest hotels has a full menu of activity options: 5 championship tennis courts, a putting green, volleyball, a half mile sand beach, kayaking, snorkeling, Olympic sized climate controlled pool, and more. Rooms here are delux with a full menu of options: dataports (hey, don't even think about it, though; remember, this is a romantic getaway!), minibars, 25 channel TV, bathrobes, bed slippers, and more.

Fairmont Hamilton Princess Hotel, http://www.fairmont.com
Located on the edge of Hamilton Harbour, this downtown hotel has a cooperative agreement with its sister hotel, the Fairmont Southampton Pricess so guests can enjoy both facilities. The guest rooms here are decorated in soothing colors and have views of the gardens or Hamilton Harbour (our choice).

Fairmont Southampton Princess Hotel, http://www.fairmont.com
This luxury resort stands on a high above the sea with views of the island. The large resort includes golf, a spa. This is a large resort with 564 guest rooms and 36 suites.

Pink Beach Club, http://www.pinkbeach.com
Looking for peace, quiet--and privacy? Then the Pink Beach Club might be just the place for you. "Guests who celebrate at Pink Beach Club are afforded time alone to enjoy each other," said Michael Williams, managing director, Pink Beach Club. "Our cottages are spacious and most have breathtaking ocean views, our beaches are private and quiet, we offer in-cottage breakfast service each morning and in-cottage massages for the ultimate in pampering." The hotel is located on 16 acres of gardens with two pink sand beaches. This hotel also offers destination weddings. Most couples exchange their vows under the hotel's moongate.

For More Information: To learn more about Bermuda, check out the official website at http://www.bermudatourism.com.