Bermuda: a different island getaway. Atlantic Ocean paradise offers visitors a novel and unique vacation

Ebony, June, 1991

BURMUDA

A Different Island Getaway

Atlantic Ocean paradise offers visitors a novel and unique vacation

PINK sandy beaches, the "hop'n-John" mussel-pie delicacy, and, for the truly adventurous, a game of "Crown and Anchor"--if it's the novel and unique vacation you seek, look no further than Bermuda for a very different island getaway.

Like its distant Caribbean neighbors, Bermuda has a warm climate, balmy ocean breezes, glistening windswept beaches, exotic delicacies, palm trees and lush vegetation, and an intriguing Black culture. Bermuda also contains several surprises that visitors may find quaint and refreshing.

For one thing, Bermuda is relatively close to the United States. Located due east of Cape Hatteras, N.C., the Atlantic Ocean paradise of 150 islands is less than two hours away from most cities along the Eastern seaboard.

And although Bermuda is not located in the Caribbean, the warm winds of the Gulf Stream keep the temperatures between 67 and 84 degrees. The islands' 315 days of sunshine ensure a pristine, postcard-perfect environment. The beaches sparkle with pink--yes, pink--sands, and every street is lined with colorful floral arrangements.

Bermuda's predominantly Black population has developed an international reputation for being cosmopolitan, informative and friendly.

Bermuda also offers a pleasant escape from one of America's biggest hassles--traffic jams. The island nation is one of the few places in the world where rental cars are banned, and the speed limit is 20 miles-per-hour. Mopeds, bicycles, horse-drawn carriages, taxis, ferries, and an extensive bus system make for a safe and efficient transportation system that encompasses the 21-mile-long island.

For the sports enthusiast, Bermuda has some of the world's best golf courses and tennis courts. Green fees begin as low as $25 and with plenty of instruction and equipment available, the only things needed to play on the 100 clay, grass and Har-tru tennis courts are tennis whites and energy.

The waters around Bermuda offer an underwater paradise for divers and snorkeling enthusiasts, while deep-sea fishing, swimming, sailing, windsurfing and yachting are popular pastimes for those who want to remain above the water's surface.

In addition to these outdoor activities, Bermuda is also a paradise for shopping. Visitors to the islands can find reasonably priced crystal, jewelry, perfumes and sweaters.

For those seeking a quiet retreat, the main island offers its historic Railway Trail, a scenic park that follows the roadbed of Bermuda's former railroad stretching 21 miles from Somerset to St. George's Island. Tourists also can see the Botanical Gardens or visit museums, galleries and historic sites.

Bermuda's most festive time is in August during the Cup Match Cricket Festival, a major gala devoted to Bermuda's most popular sport.

Reminiscent of the Super Bowl and the frolicking atmosphere of a Black college homecoming football game, the Cup Match offers a championship caliber cricket game with all the extras. Outside of the stadium, people picnic and party under umbrellas, listen to the strains of Calypso and reggae music, play "Crown and Anchor," an English board game, and sample local delicacies, such as "hop'n John" mussel pie, fish chowder and a spirited concoction called a "Dark and Stormy."

Bermuda offers both charm and excitement, holding its own with any other island paradise. Whether lazing in the sun after a quiet picnic or dancing to the calypso beat, vacationers quickly understand and appreciate the beauty and difference of Bermuda.

PHOTO : The pink sand of the Bermuda beaches is the pride of the islands. The sparkling shorelines, warm temperatures and balmy breezes make for an idylic paradise that is enjoyed by persons of all ages, including (below) younger beachcombers.

PHOTO : Cricket is not only Bermuda's favorite sport, but the cornerstone of one of the island nation's most celebrated festivals--the Bermuda Cup Match Cricket Festival. The islands also offer historical sites, including (left) its famed Maritime Museum.