Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SEEING THE
SIGHTS
Even though a large number of people live on this
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small island, you should never feel crowded. There
are no billboards or neon signs, and, except for the
rush hour in and around Hamilton, relatively few cars to
spoil the rolling countryside. Most houses seem to fit quite naturally into
the landscape.
Because of Bermuda's small size, it's easy to get to know the island parish
by parish. There's much to see, whether you travel by bike, ferry, bus, or
taxi. You'll need plenty of time, however, because the pace is slow. Cars
and other motorized vehicles, such as mopeds, must observe the maxi-
mum speed of 24kmph (15 mph) in the City of Hamilton and St. George,
and 32kmph (20 mph) in the countryside. The speed limits are rigidly
enforced, and there are severe penalties for violations.
If you're visiting for the first time, you may want to follow the tradi-
tional tourist route. The Aquarium, Devil's Hole, and cruise-boat outings
are all popular for first-time visitors. For travelers on a second, third, or
fourth visit to Bermuda, a different experience unfolds. Once you've done
all the “must-sees,” you'll want to walk around and make discoveries on
your own. The best parishes for walking are Somerset and St. George's,
and the City of Hamilton.
But don't fill your days with too much structured sightseeing. You'll also
want time to lounge on the beach, play in the water, or hit the links; and
to enjoy moments such as sitting by the harbor in the late afternoon,
enjoying the views as the yachts glide by. Absorbing Bermuda's beauty at
your own pace and stopping to chat with the occasional islander will give
you a real taste of Bermuda.
In this chapter, we go on a do-it-yourself tour, parish by parish. Also
consider taking one or more of the walking tours that we describe in
chapter 3.
SANDYS PARISH
Sandys Parish is one of the island's real beauty spots. If you're looking for
a place to just wander about and get lost on a summer day, this lovely
parish is well worth your time. Fort Scaur and the Royal Naval Dockyard
on Ireland Island are the major attractions. If you're pressed for time, skip
the Gilbert Nature Reserve and St. James' Anglican Church.
