Page 20 - AAA Every Day – AAA Hudson Valley – January/February 2020

Pretty In Pink
The island territory of Bermuda sits all by itself in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, six hundred miles off the coast of North Carolina. This isolation somehow adds to Bermuda’s charm. An overseas territory of the United Kingdom, Bermuda comprises some 140 islands, most of which are small and uninhabited. Some of the friendliest people to be found anywhere live in Bermuda, primarily on eight main islands, which are connected by bridges and a causeway.
Bermuda is Britain’s oldest colony, and the British influence is prominent, from the governor’s annual tea party to the powdered wigs the judges in Hamilton might
wear. Its proper, civilized culture includes rules banning billboards, neon signs and speed limits over 20 mph.
Few trees exist on this temperate island, but the vegetation is lush. The temperature averages 70 degrees in the winter and anywhere from 75 to 85 in the summer, making it an attractive year-round destination.
Though the Bermudan archipelago covers just 20 square miles, it features 64 gorgeous
miles of coastline, including its famed pink-sand beaches. Visit South Shore Park, which stretches from
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Photo: IStockphoto: CodyJHphotography Photo: IStockphoto: lawrencetfay
Warwick Long Bay to Horseshoe Bay, for the highest concentration of pink-sand beaches.
There’s never a lack of outdoor activities to enjoy in Bermuda. The vibrant sea life and abandoned shipwrecks make it a perfect place to snorkel or scuba dive, while its lush greenery is home to more golf courses per square mile than anywhere else in the world.
At the eastern edge of the island group lies historic
St. George, a World Heritage Site. First settled in 1609, it is the oldest English-speaking colonial town still in existence. The town served as Bermuda’s capital until 1815 and featured charming street names like Old Maid’s Lane and Petticoat Alley. Its historic town square, replica stocks and colonial houses are not to be missed.
The current capital of Hamilton bustles with culture, cuisine and commerce. Visit its quaint boutiques for top-notch shopping, and head to Front Street after 6:00 p.m. when the nightlife begins.
The fortifications of the Royal Naval Dockyard, known as the “Gibraltar of the West,” date back to the 19th century. The Dockyard now features the Bermuda Maritime Museum, the Commissioner’s House and Dolphin Quest, a perfect place to swim with dolphins. Cruise ship passengers can find plenty to love about a cruise to Bermuda, including several peaceful days at sea and picturesque towns to explore.
Contact your AAA Hudson Valley Travel Agent and book your tropical vacation today! Call 518-426-1000 or email booktravel@aaahv.com.
Photo: IStockphoto: © Darryl Brooks
Photo: IStockphoto: Anna Bryukhanova
Bermuda