Traveling to Bermuda on a budget.... any suggestions?

[pjlla]

Going to Bermuda next month with my Mom to visit DD during her semester abroad (studying at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences).

Airfare was more than I had thought it would be, but I had the $$ set aside. Mom has graciously and generously offered to pay for the resort. Now on to food....

In looking around at websites, etc, it seems like this will be pretty expensive on-island.... so I plan to bring along whatever I can. I am pretty good at cheap travel and almost ALWAYS bring along food at least for breakfasts in the room.... and this time I will plan to bring stuff for light lunches too. We are limited to what can be made with just a fridge and coffee maker (this particular resort does not offer in-room microwaves... even for a fee). But having some experience with this, I think I'm all set (although any suggestions are appreciated). I have also investigated local restaurants, markets, and food trucks.... so I think we will eat healthy and well on our budget!

We will buy a 7 day bus pass.... Mom isn't keen on the idea of renting a moped and driving on the left, so I'll defer to her comfort level on this one. I know that an unlimited bus pass will be best because it won't leave us nickel and diming every decision to venture out.

In looking around at various activities around the island, they are all pretty expensive. The one day tour I looked into was $175/pp for just the day (that being said, it did include transportation and lunch). The most affordable things I was able to find were mini golf (not really interested) and cave tours (but my Mom is pretty claustrophobic and has already said "have fun without me"). Of course, we will visit lots of beaches and go snorkeling whenever/where ever possible (bringing our own equipment), and I will take in whatever local history I can. We will, of course, visit the Swizzle Inn for a rum swizzle, collect shells and sea glass, and enjoy the local nature and architecture. But it would be nice to have some sort of idea about really SPECIFIC things to do (on a budget).

Any suggestions for enjoying Bermuda ON THE CHEAP?? Thanks in advance...............P

 

[teller80]

I'd start by asking your daughter what she wants to do while you're there (isn't that the focus of the trip?). How much time will she have with you?

 

[westcoastfldisneygirl]

I LOVE Bermuda! DH is part Bermudian, and still has family there, and it's one of our favorite travel places.

Last time we went, we did a Celebrity cruise, so we ate on the boat. Food was REALLY expensive there, to be honest. I'm no help there.

Our group went to see Fort St Catherine. It's SO pretty, and makes for some really good photos opportunities. It was only $7 a person to get in.

Make sure you go to Horseshoe Bay. It's SO pretty, and it's definitely a no-miss spot.

I was going to suggest Grotto Bay and go into the grotto, but I see that's out. It was really cool to go in, and people were swimming in the grotto! The photo of DH and I in the grotto is one of my favorite photos from the trip.

Have fun! I'm jealous. I can't wait to go back!

 

[pjlla]

I'd start by asking your daughter what she wants to do while you're there (isn't that the focus of the trip?). How much time will she have with you?

Good thought.... but since she is there for school we won't have a ton of time with her..... the most we are hoping for is having dinner with her a few times and a few hours each day on the weekend. She is in classes pretty much 9-5 M-F. But I'm sure she will be anxious to "show us around"! I'm hoping to do things with her that her fellow students aren't really up for.... like maybe some history type stuff. And of course, she will want to show us around the Institute!

I LOVE Bermuda! DH is part Bermudian, and still has family there, and it's one of our favorite travel places.

Last time we went, we did a Celebrity cruise, so we ate on the boat. Food was REALLY expensive there, to be honest. I'm no help there.

Our group went to see Fort St Catherine. It's SO pretty, and makes for some really good photos opportunities. It was only $7 a person to get in.

Make sure you go to Horseshoe Bay. It's SO pretty, and it's definitely a no-miss spot.

I was going to suggest Grotto Bay and go into the grotto, but I see that's out. It was really cool to go in, and people were swimming in the grotto! The photo of DH and I in the grotto is one of my favorite photos from the trip.

Have fun! I'm jealous. I can't wait to go back!

I may have to venture into the Grotto without Mom! Love her and want to do stuff with her, but she will be understanding if I venture off without her a bit. We went to Nantucket together last fall (with my aunt along as well) and we did a lot of stuff together during the day, and then in the late afternoon/evening with they were ready to rest, I took the time to venture out on my own. It worked out well and I anticipate it may work out like that again. I had kind of planned to splurge and get Mom a massage in the grotto spa, but obviously that won't be happening!

DD has already mentioned taking us to Horseshoe Bay...... the pictures online look divine! And thanks for the heads up about the Fort. I am a sucker for local history....and at $7/pp, it sounds like something that is within the budget! Thanks! ..........................P

 

[GypsyPearl]

I have a cruise to Bermuda in about 3 weeks so I'm in research mode right now as well. I've lucked into some threads on another board that are frequented by locals so I trust the information. As far as dining, it is expensive from what I've heard, but the best place for local Bermudian food is supposed to be the buffet in the supermarkets. In Hamilton, there are two specifically mentioned, the Supermart on Front Street and The Market Place on Church Street.

As far as activities, I've concentrated on the Dockyards area since that's where our ship docks. I'm confined to a mobility scooter and unfortunately the island and the available transportation are not very accessible. For instance, the activity that's always mentioned is the "Ducking of the Wench" in St. George's, but there is no way for me to get to that end of the island. In the Dockyards there is a historical sketch in the Victualing Yards of the Dockyards at 9:30am Tuesday-Friday followed by a walking tour of some of the historical buildings. I am hoping I'll be able to do that.

Anyway, hope you have a great time. October is supposed to be a fabulous time to visit Bermuda!

 

[pjlla]

I have a cruise to Bermuda in about 3 weeks so I'm in research mode right now as well. I've lucked into some threads on another board that are frequented by locals so I trust the information. As far as dining, it is expensive from what I've heard, but the best place for local Bermudian food is supposed to be the buffet in the supermarkets. In Hamilton, there are two specifically mentioned, the Supermart on Front Street and The Market Place on Church Street.

As far as activities, I've concentrated on the Dockyards area since that's where our ship docks. I'm confined to a mobility scooter and unfortunately the island and the available transportation are not very accessible. For instance, the activity that's always mentioned is the "Ducking of the Wench" in St. George's, but there is no way for me to get to that end of the island. In the Dockyards there is a historical sketch in the Victualing Yards of the Dockyards at 9:30am Tuesday-Friday followed by a walking tour of some of the historical buildings. I am hoping I'll be able to do that.

Anyway, hope you have a great time. October is supposed to be a fabulous time to visit Bermuda!

I'll have to go look into those things you've mentioned! So far I have a short list of assorted affordable things for Mom and I to do. I hope you have a great visit too!! Sounds like you have done your research. FWIW, there is a website called bermuda-attractions.com (I think) and it had GREAT lists for dining, resorts, tours, etc. And of COURSE, trip advisor is a god-sent! ...................P

 

[Belle & Ariel]

The bus pass also includes ferries. There is a morning and late afternoon one that will get you

I have a cruise to Bermuda in about 3 weeks so I'm in research mode right now as well. I've lucked into some threads on another board that are frequented by locals so I trust the information. As far as dining, it is expensive from what I've heard, but the best place for local Bermudian food is supposed to be the buffet in the supermarkets. In Hamilton, there are two specifically mentioned, the Supermart on Front Street and The Market Place on Church Street.

As far as activities, I've concentrated on the Dockyards area since that's where our ship docks. I'm confined to a mobility scooter and unfortunately the island and the available transportation are not very accessible. For instance, the activity that's always mentioned is the "Ducking of the Wench" in St. George's, but there is no way for me to get to that end of the island. In the Dockyards there is a historical sketch in the Victualing Yards of the Dockyards at 9:30am Tuesday-Friday followed by a walking tour of some of the historical buildings. I am hoping I'll be able to do that.

Anyway, hope you have a great time. October is supposed to be a fabulous time to visit Bermuda!

The bus pass also includes the ferries which should be very accessible. You can get a 3 day pass for about $30 that includes unlimited bus and ferry rides. It has been a few years since we were there, but there was an express ferry that went from St. Georges to the Dockyard a few times a day. The other times you switched ferries in Hamilton. The dunking is fun but has scaled back in recent years--ten years ago, two cruise ships docked in St. Georges 3-4 days every week in season. I don't think any do regularly now.

 

[maxaroni]

I am here now and food is very expensive. We did budget for it but it can still be a surprise the first night We are a party of 4 with 3 of us repeat visitors. 2 did a tour at the museum at the Dockyard an 2 went to the crystal caves. Both very much enjoyed. We did a 5 hour taxi tour at $50pp, 3 hr min. We are traveling with my near 80 yr old dad (very repeat guest...has done mopeds many times) opted to not do scooters this time. He had full intentions of riding again (rides 120 miles per week on a pedal bike) but got a bit nervous this time. Cab drivers are courteous and cabs plentiful. Be aware that buses, while an inexpensive and easy way to get around, only stop at bus stops. May sound silly but the bus stop nearest our hotel is a 10 minute walk.we can get a ride from the hotel to the edge of the property to then get to the bus but it's hit or miss on the return trip.

We do have breakfast included in our room rate and have been busy and haven't stopped for lunch. Cruise ships are winding down but when ships are in, the dockyard gets crowded.

 

[maxaroni]

The bus pass also includes ferries. There is a morning and late afternoon one that will get you

The bus pass also includes the ferries which should be very accessible. You can get a 3 day pass for about $30 that includes unlimited bus and ferry rides. It has been a few years since we were there, but there was an express ferry that went from St. Georges to the Dockyard a few times a day. The other times you switched ferries in Hamilton. The dunking is fun but has scaled back in recent years--ten years ago, two cruise ships docked in St. Georges 3-4 days every week in season. I don't think any do regularly now.

Most ships now dock at the Dockyard due to the increased sizes of ships. St george is no longer a port and many do not get into Hamilton anymore. Thanks for the heads up as we will be looking into getting to st george tomorrow (here now) and will look to see about the express ferry.

 

[Belle & Ariel]

Going to Bermuda next month with my Mom to visit DD during her semester abroad (studying at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences).

Airfare was more than I had thought it would be, but I had the $$ set aside. Mom has graciously and generously offered to pay for the resort. Now on to food....

In looking around at websites, etc, it seems like this will be pretty expensive on-island.... so I plan to bring along whatever I can. I am pretty good at cheap travel and almost ALWAYS bring along food at least for breakfasts in the room.... and this time I will plan to bring stuff for light lunches too. We are limited to what can be made with just a fridge and coffee maker (this particular resort does not offer in-room microwaves... even for a fee). But having some experience with this, I think I'm all set (although any suggestions are appreciated). I have also investigated local restaurants, markets, and food trucks.... so I think we will eat healthy and well on our budget!

We will buy a 7 day bus pass.... Mom isn't keen on the idea of renting a moped and driving on the left, so I'll defer to her comfort level on this one. I know that an unlimited bus pass will be best because it won't leave us nickel and diming every decision to venture out.

In looking around at various activities around the island, they are all pretty expensive. The one day tour I looked into was $175/pp for just the day (that being said, it did include transportation and lunch). The most affordable things I was able to find were mini golf (not really interested) and cave tours (but my Mom is pretty claustrophobic and has already said "have fun without me"). Of course, we will visit lots of beaches and go snorkeling whenever/where ever possible (bringing our own equipment), and I will take in whatever local history I can. We will, of course, visit the Swizzle Inn for a rum swizzle, collect shells and sea glass, and enjoy the local nature and architecture. But it would be nice to have some sort of idea about really SPECIFIC things to do (on a budget).

Any suggestions for enjoying Bermuda ON THE CHEAP?? Thanks in advance...............P

If you like history, there is a very old church in St. Georges, I think St. Peter or Paul. Princess Diana and Charles visited there early in their marriage and the lady working there when we went showed them around and told us all about the visit and showed things from the visit. We also browsed ourselves and it was interesting.
You can walk to Tobacco Bay from there which has great snorkeling. St. Catherines is close also. I love walking around St. Georges.
Near Horseshoe Bay is Jobson's Cove which has decent snorkeling. I have heard Church Bay is good but both times we were there it was too rough. John Smith is a nice quiet beach and so is Shelley. Horseshoe is beautiful but all the cruise ship passengers go there and it gets crowded. Elbow is similar but not as crowded.
We love the bus rides because you see so much of the island. It is beautiful.

 

[Belle & Ariel]

If you are there now see if they are still doing Harbor Nights in Hamilton on Wednesday nights.

 

[SingingMom]

Don't miss The Swizzle Inn for the best rum swizzles in the world!!

 

[pjlla]

The bus pass also includes ferries. There is a morning and late afternoon one that will get you

The bus pass also includes the ferries which should be very accessible. You can get a 3 day pass for about $30 that includes unlimited bus and ferry rides. It has been a few years since we were there, but there was an express ferry that went from St. Georges to the Dockyard a few times a day. The other times you switched ferries in Hamilton. The dunking is fun but has scaled back in recent years--ten years ago, two cruise ships docked in St. Georges 3-4 days every week in season. I don't think any do regularly now.

Thanks for that heads up! I have done extensive research into the buses and ferries.... wanted to be sure that they were user friendly and affordable. DD will be picking up two 7- day bus passes for us next weekend, so we will be "ready to go" as soon as we get there!

I am here now and food is very expensive. We did budget for it but it can still be a surprise the first night We are a party of 4 with 3 of us repeat visitors. 2 did a tour at the museum at the Dockyard an 2 went to the crystal caves. Both very much enjoyed. We did a 5 hour taxi tour at $50pp, 3 hr min. We are traveling with my near 80 yr old dad (very repeat guest...has done mopeds many times) opted to not do scooters this time. He had full intentions of riding again (rides 120 miles per week on a pedal bike) but got a bit nervous this time. Cab drivers are courteous and cabs plentiful. Be aware that buses, while an inexpensive and easy way to get around, only stop at bus stops. May sound silly but the bus stop nearest our hotel is a 10 minute walk.we can get a ride from the hotel to the edge of the property to then get to the bus but it's hit or miss on the return trip.

We do have breakfast included in our room rate and have been busy and haven't stopped for lunch. Cruise ships are winding down but when ships are in, the dockyard gets crowded.

I am hoping that the "10 minutes here, 10 minutes there" walking doesn't take its toll on my Mom.... she is an active 74 years young, but does get concerned about excessive stairs/steps or walking a lot on uneven ground. I know that the bus does stop right outside our resort, so that will be helpful.

We are prepared for the expensive foods.... we are planning to bring as much as we can reasonably bring/eat without it becoming a hassle.... breakfast and lunches in the room (or brought along as a picnic) and save our $$ for a fun dinner out and/or evening cocktail! We aren't big foodies, so we will be more than content with this.

Do you mind if I ask where you are staying right now?

If you like history, there is a very old church in St. Georges, I think St. Peter or Paul. Princess Diana and Charles visited there early in their marriage and the lady working there when we went showed them around and told us all about the visit and showed things from the visit. We also browsed ourselves and it was interesting.

Saw that listed in the "top things to do in Bermuda" on Trip Advisor today..... St. Peter's church in St. Georges. It sounds lovely!

You can walk to Tobacco Bay from there which has great snorkeling. St. Catherines is close also. I love walking around St. Georges.
Near Horseshoe Bay is Jobson's Cove which has decent snorkeling. I have heard Church Bay is good but both times we were there it was too rough. John Smith is a nice quiet beach and so is Shelley. Horseshoe is beautiful but all the cruise ship passengers go there and it gets crowded. Elbow is similar but not as crowded.
We love the bus rides because you see so much of the island. It is beautiful.

I'm sure we will try at least 3-4 of the various beaches.... Horseshoe Bay, Tobacco Bay.... Can't wait to see them all!

If you are there now see if they are still doing Harbor Nights in Hamilton on Wednesday nights.

I researched it and it ended for the season on September 2.

Don't miss The Swizzle Inn for the best rum swizzles in the world!!

Yummm!!

********************

Thanks for all of the helpful suggestions and ideas!..............P

 

[maslex]

We were there last month. LOVE Bermuda. This was our 3rd trip. First time stopping by The Swizzle Inn. Tried the Rum Swizzle. Yums!!! We were a party of 4. Three of them had the burgers but I had the fish sandwich. THE BEST fish sandwich. Soooooo good. One of highlights of our trip was an hour long horse & carriage ride all around St. Georges. So nice.

 

[maxaroni]

We are at Cambridge Beaches currently. Have stayed at Hamilton Princess, Elbow Beach, Sonesta. This is my 5th trip to Bermuda, dads 8th or 9th, DHs 2nd and DSs 1st. Where will you be?
Sounds like you have things pretty well organized. We ate at the Swizzle Inn. Love the Swizzles!! Also are at the Frog and Onion at the Dockyard. Weather has been lovely. It is hot during the day but cools off in the evening.

 

[gracie1]

Are all the hotels nice in Bermuda? I see many of you stay in hotels instead of cruising which I'm looking into but would love feedback on the hotels!! The fairmount southampton is one I was looking into

 

[Belle & Ariel]

We cruise. Holland America Veendam docks in Hamilton for 3 1/2 days. We much prefer it to the Dockyard.

 

[maxaroni]

All hotels are lovely. Southampton Princess is gorgeous. 3 of the 4 of us are not cruise people and the 4th cruises the smaller ships, Renaissance in the past, as well as Oceania. We prefer to fly and spend the time at the destination but simply personal preference.

Are all the hotels nice in Bermuda? I see many of you stay in hotels instead of cruising which I'm looking into but would love feedback on the hotels!! The fairmount southampton is one I was looking into

 

[maxaroni]

Years ago most did dock in Hamilton and agree that it is preferable to Dockyard. Again, personal preference. We are not cruise people but in Dockyard when 2 ships were in at once. Last time I was here, ships did not dock at the Dockyard.

We cruise. Holland America Veendam docks in Hamilton for 3 1/2 days. We much prefer it to the Dockyard.

 

[shoney]

Back in May, we took the first ferry from the dockyard to St. Georges. There was a man, former mayor, on the ferry offering free walking tours. He was just working for tips. We heard from someone else there was another guy on the Hamilton ferry as well. If you aren't on the ferry itself, plan on waiting for its arrival and you will see him. He was offering it to everyone.