Often referred to as the "Jewel of the Atlantic," Bermuda boasts enchanting natural beauty and cultural heritage, multitudes of local events and authentic Bermudian experiences. From a renovated historic railway trail ideal for outdoor adventures and a floating pirate-inspired bar stocked with rum, to master golfers competing in headliner tournaments and unprecedented hotel renovations, Bermuda is unveiling an array of new offerings and developments for visitors to experience this summer/fall season. Following are a few highlights of the island's newest happenings:
Hotel Openings & Additions
- Phase One of Fairmont Hamilton Princess Renovations Complete:The first phase of the more than $90 million renovation to Fairmont Hamilton Princess features renovated guest rooms and suites, the new 1609 Bar and Restaurant, a 60-berth marina, an open-air casual dining experience overlooking Hamilton Harbour, the Samuelsson at HP pop-up restaurant, an infinity-edge resort pool and an extensive public modern art program including pieces created by Andy Warhol. Phase two of the renovation will begin in September 2014 and will feature the development of a new signature restaurant, a new Heritage Court Restaurant and Bar and new guest rooms in the main building of the hotel.
- The Fairmont Southampton On-going Renovation: Slated for completion by May 2015, all 407 guest rooms at Fairmont Southampton will receive $11.5 million worth of design renovations. The East and West wings of Bermuda’s largest hotel have already been updated with new contemporary furnishings, which make the rooms light and bright to create a leisure resort feeling true to the spirit of Bermuda.
- Elbow Beach Re-Opens as Independent Resort: The Elbow Beach Bermuda Resort reopened as an independently managed property in May under the direction of Burns Group, represented by its president and veteran hotelier Edmund Burns.
Deals/Packages
- Endless Summer: Encouraging travelers to truly experience all of Bermuda’s hidden gems year-round, Bermuda’s Endless Summer promotion offers guests the option to extend their stay and receive a complimentary third, fourth or fifth night, based on a three-night stay. The “Endless Summer” offer must be booked now through November 27, 2014 and is valid for travel between August 23 – November 30, 2014.
- Tiny the Tree Frog Package: The luxury Rosewood Tucker’s Point has partnered with Bermudian author Elizabeth A. Mulderig on a package featuring her popular children’s book, Tiny the Tree Frog. The package includes a special welcome amenity, an autographed book, CD with Bermuda tree frog sounds, Tiny the Tree Frog stuffed animal and tickets to the Bermuda Zoo and Aquarium. Available now through December 31, 2014.
- Golf Packages: Visitors can play like champions and be treated like one too with a variety of golf packages available at island resorts throughout the year. View these golf packages and others here.
Attractions
- The Bermuda Perfumery opens Hamilton Storefront: The iconic Bermuda Perfumery, headquartered in historic St. George, recently opened a second store on Front Street in Hamilton for visitors to test, try and purchase their own island fragrance created exclusively in and inspired by Bermuda. Guests can also see a display of the 150-year-old perfume found on the Mary Celestia, a Civil War-era shipwreck off of Bermuda’s coast.
- Calico Jack Restaurant Open in Dockyard: Heritage Wharf in Dockyard is now home to a pirate-themed floating bar, Calico Jack, which opened in June. The floating bar is set on a repurposed ferry and features local woodwork as well as a pirate’s bounty of rum.
- New Historical Tours and Re-Enactments: Visitors can experience living history of Bermuda’s UNESCO World Hertiage Site, St. George's, with a variety of new tour options now offered by Bermuda National Trust. Free tours with period-costumed guides feature significant moments in Bermuda’s history, such as its involvement in the American Civil War, and also emphasize the importance of the historic buildings found throughout the town. The tours began in May 2014 and are offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 2 p.m.
Developments
- Bermuda is Venue Finalist to host 35th America’s World Cup: Bermuda is one of the final two destinations with the opportunity to host the 35th America’s World Cup, the world’s most prestigious sailing competition, in 2017. The America’s Cup Event Authority has cited the island’s long history of success with other major sailing races such as the Newport to Bermuda race and the Bermuda Gold Cup match-racing event, and the close-to-shore racing location within the Great Sound as major positives for Bermuda’s bid. A decision on the host location is expected before the end of the year.
- Railway Trail Footbridge Update: The footbridge, linking sections of the Railway Trail, will not be open to the public until November 2014. However, a couple of sites along the Trail that were previously closed for the last 30 years have now been opened.
- Dockyard’s Victualling Yard Makeover: The West End Development Company board and local design firm, Wilson Allen Architecture and Interior Design, are working on the feasibility of transforming Dockyard’s Victualling Yard into an all-weather entertainment venue with a condo hotel. The initial design plans feature a contemporary roof design, year-round alfresco dining and a large event space as well as food, beverage and retailers.
Upcoming Events
- Bermuda Triangle Golf Invitational (September 12-14): Golf enthusiasts from the worlds of entertainment, sports and media compete for charity tournament titles and longest drive. The weekend also includes non-stop beach parties and entertainment.
- 3rd Annual Peace Day Weekend (September 18-21): Visitors can pay tribute to John Lennon at the 3rd Annual Peace Day weekend, featuring an art show, concert and road race.
- PGA Grand Slam of Golf (October 13-15): Four of the world’s best professional golfers will descend on the Port Royal Golf Course for the 32nd PGA Grand Slam of Golf.
- RBYC Argo Cup (October 21-26): The penultimate event of the Alpari World Match Racing Tour heads to the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club with the Argo Gold Cup sailing event as 17 teams race head-to-head for the King Edward VII Gold Cup Trophy.
For a full list of new events and happenings in Bermuda, please contact Ashley Cox at ashley.cox@turnerpr.com.