Beyonce Knowles: Bermuda rocks

Beyoncé and Alicia Keys love the Bermuda Music Festival

Wednesday, 6 May 2009

A-list stars such as Beyoncé Knowles, Alicia Keys and Catherine Zeta Jones love Bermuda's pink sand beaches, crystal clear water and friendly atmosphere.

Beyoncé and Alicia have both performanced at the annual Music Festival, which is a must-see event in October, and Catherine has a home there with husband Michael Douglas.

Formed out of a series of volcanic erruptions, Bermuda offers dramatic coastlines and stunning views. Flowers tumble over garden walls, tiny white sails flutter on the horizon and painted stone cottages nestle into the countryside.

Temperatures soar from May until November and the island is only 6 and half hours away from the UK with British Airways.

What can I do there?

There are a number of ways to explore the lush green coast of Bermuda. Buses run regularly and will take you to all the tourist spots for as little as $2.50 (£1.50). If that doesn’t take your fancy, hire a moped for the day ($80, £49) or chill out in an air-conditioned taxi. Cars can only travel at a maximum of 20mph so expect a gentle ride.

The Royal Naval Dockyards, on the north-west coast, is perfect for a family day out. Swim with dolphins at Dolphin’s Quest ($250, £154), visit the Maritime Museum ($10, £6) to understand more about the trans-Atlantic slave trade or while away the hours at the local art gallery and craft fair.

There are plenty of historical sites to visit on the island, including St Peter’s Church, the Botanical Gardens and the stunning Crystal Caves ($18, £11), which are over 30million years old. If all that sounds too energetic, hit Horseshoe Bay, put your feet up and listen to waves roll in.

Where can I shop?

Bermuda’s bustling capital Hamilton is awash with restaurants, bars, designer stores and ice cream parlours.

For a change of pace visit St George's, on the east coast. This is the oldest English-speaking colonial town in existence. A whole day could easily be frittered away just walking the cobbled streets, browsing through old bookshops or sipping cold beers by the harbour.

Is the food good?

Bermuda prides itself on fine dining, good quality wine and exciting menus. Visit the Seahorse Grill at Elbow Beach for the ultimate food experience. Ask for David, the hunky in-house wine specialist, who will talk you through the menu and recommend wine to complement your dish. Fish chowder, scallops and pork tenderloin are particularly good.

If you fancy something simple, check out the Pickled Onion bar in Hamilton. It offers tasty food, live entertainment and a fabulous rum cocktail ($7, £4).

What about nightlife?

Bermuda swings into life on a Friday night, keeping locals and tourists entertained well into the early hours of the morning. Try out salsa lessons at the Veranda Bar at Elbow Beach or visit Swizzle South for cheap pitchers, a friendly vibe and outdoor seating.

Where’s the best place to stay?

Blow the budget: Elbow Beach is a firm favourite with the likes of Alicia Keys. This four-star resort offers award-winning restaurants, beachfront villas and luxury spa suites. 50 acres of lush green gardens gently slope down to the hotel’s private beach. Double rooms range from $475 (£292) per night (peak season) to $680 (£417) for a Premier Ocean View, set in the grounds of the resort.

Mid-range: Dawkins Manor provides affordable rooms close to Elbow Beach. The apartments offer self-catering facilities, air-conditioning and some come with a private terrace. Set in pleasant grounds, with a pool and sun loungers, this property is a hidden gem. Rates start from $295 (£181) per night for a single room during the summer months.

On a budget: The Paraquet apartments are perfect for those looking for a no-frills bargain break. Offering basic accommodation, clean living space and self-catering facilities, these rooms are only a stone’s throw away from Elbow Beach. There is a nearby supermarket and even an American diner on the doorstep. Twin rooms cost from as little as $176 (£108) per night to $220 (£135) with self-catering facilities, including kitchenette and fridge/freezer.

Any buts?

There’s no doubt that Bermuda is a little pricey but what price is Paradise? Holidaying on a budget is possible. Opt for self-catering accommodation such as guest houses, use public transport and stock up at local supermarkets

Fact file
Currency: American dollars
Language: English
Best time to go: May-November (temperatures reaching a sizzling 30c)
Flight time: Six and a half hours
Getting there: Direct flights from British Airways. Prices from £555 return
Expect to pay: Two course meal and bottle of wine £30, rum cocktail, £4
For more info: Visit bermudatourism.com

Bermuda Fact Box

BA Holidays offers a 5-night stay at the four-star Elbow Beach from £1,316 per person, based on July/August 2009 departures. Offer includes return BA flights from Gatwick from £606 and accommodation only from £710 per person for the duration.

For reservations ba.com or call BA Holidays on 0844 493 0758. For more information visit bermudatourism.com.

See our dazzling Bermuda photo gallery>>

Alison Adey

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