Page 471 - The British Big Four

the SNUBA and SCUBA experience. Our PADI
SCUBA centres are among the best in the
world. The peak diving season runs from March
to November, although some operate year-
round. Most of the large hotels have their own
SCUBA centres.
Non-swimmers can also enjoy the world
beneath the waves through the wonders
of helmet diving, also known as bell diving.
Enjoy a walk along the ocean floor between
vibrant coral reefs while breathing through an
air hose connected to the helmet. Come face to
face with fish and marine life as you experience marionbermuda.com
the other-worldliness of life underwater.
OTHER WATERSPORTS
Snorkelling in Bermuda’s clear waters is
great fun, anywhere, any time. All you need
is a mask and snorkel. Go with family or
friends, or take one of the tours organised
by Bermudians who know our waters like the
back of their hands.
Any number of other water-based activities
are waiting for you, including stand-up paddle
boarding and kite surfing. Parasailing a ords a
bird’s-eye view from as high as 300 feet. It’s
an extraordinary experience that anyone can
enjoy. You can take o and land without getting
wet, if you prefer that to the splashdown that
some find exhilarating.
Kayaking has become a popular way of
exploring Bermuda’s many outlying islands.
Rent the kayak, paddles and safety equipment
and take o to enjoy panoramic views of
Bermuda, or discover a beach all your own.
MARION TO BERMUDA RACE SHoPPING
arouNd
JUNE ODD YEARS
FULL OF SURPRISES—that’s a shopping excursion in
The race begins in the best sailing waters in the
Bermuda. It can take you all over the Island: City of Hamilton,
northeast, Buzzards Bay o the picturesque and St George’s, Royal Naval Dockyard and plenty of stops o the
beaten track in between! It’s a great way to discover Bermuda
historic town of Marion, Massachusetts. The length and how it inspires the creativity of its people.
of the course is 645 nautical miles and finishes o of Hamilton o ers visitors a new and di erent shopping
experience. The retail scene was once one of big shops; today
St. David’s Head, Bermuda, a few days later. the image is one of a vibrant variety. The shops are smaller, the
boutiques are interesting and there are hidden corner stores
which never fail to have just the right quirky fashion to appeal
to the savvy dresser.
Front Street is the ‘high’ street of Hamilton and the colourful
shop fronts make a bright promenade where discerning
shoppers can browse through stores with carefully chosen
merchandise imported from Europe’s leading manufacturers:
fine china and crystal, quality linens, elegant timepieces and
jewellery are still the top sellers. Three long-standing liquor
merchants o er great prices on wines and spirits—especially
Bermuda rum! Collectors of African art should head for the
Crisson Hind Gallery, where the work is sure to impress.
Take a detour from Front Street into the bustle of Reid and
Queen Streets and the scene changes. These two streets boast
both classy and funky boutiques, not to mention an everything-
under-one-roof department store with a very impressive range
of fragrances. Delve into Washington Mall o Reid Street and its
sister mall, Washington Mall 3, opened with the main access o
Church Street for everything from the essential and practical to
NEWPORT TO BERMUDA RACE the fun and frivolous. While you are in the area follow any of the
well-turned out locals to one of city’s notable and numerous
JUNE EVEN YEARS beauty salons.
Founded in 1906, this was the first ocean race North Hamilton is regaining its distinction for its ethnic eateries
and its shops. Original African imports such as tribal drums,
designed for amateur sailors in normal boats. Since instruments, masks and sculptures share space with fabrics in
glorious regional patterns, as does brilliant coloured jewellery
then, every two years Bermuda waits with anticipation and finely tooled leather accessories and sandals.
for the winning boats to sail into the Island. A visit to Bermuda is not complete without a gentle stroll
bermudarace.com browsing through the old Town of St George. Once the capital
of Bermuda and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, St. George
THE ARGO GROUP GOLD CUP ciT y oF Ha MilTon SHoPPing has a sleepy feel, but as you meander through the square and
alleys, you’ll be intrigued by the town’s small, quaint souvenir
OCTOBER
The ultimate yachting event featuring international
one-design craft competing for the oldest match-
racing trophy in the world. Hosted by the Royal
Bermuda Yacht Club. More info at:
bermudagoldcup.com
GOTOBERMUDA.COM 23 24 1.800.BERMUDA