story/Mitchell McClung + photos/Bermuda Tourism Authority
Bermuda has long been a popular destination for Canadian travellers. Its highly accessible location and direct flights from Toronto, Montreal and Halifax, have made it even more attractive to Canadians looking for a warm getaway.
“We’ve seen a huge increase in the number of Canadian air arrivals,” said Nina Steinhoff, the director of marketing for the Bermuda Tourism Authority. “For us, we are up over 20% in August, and over 30% overall. And I think we are leading, or one of the leaders in the Caribbean for the Canadian traveller.”
BermudAir has also expanded its flight schedules, making it even more convenient to fly the airline. Bermuda’s Canadian marketing campaign and social media efforts have also resulted in a large upswing in Canadian visitors to Bermuda.
With the rise in visitors, Bermuda wants Canadian travellers to learn about the opportunities that await in the destination year-round. While the high season, which takes place from May to October, is the most popular time for tourists to visit, Bermuda offers rewarding experiences in the shoulder and low seasons that can be ideal for many travellers.
Bermuda’s sub-tropical climate makes it a year-round golf paradise. Milder temperatures during the off-season mean less humidity and a very comfortable experience. Bermuda is a fantastic alternative to escape the cold and enjoy a warmer climate while hitting the links.
The shoulder season in Bermuda is also a great opportunity for clients looking to avoid the high season crowds while enjoying a better value in hotel pricing. A more relaxed experience while sightseeing and enjoying some excellent outdoor recreation will reward travellers visiting in off-peak months.
The Crystal and Fantasy Caves can be enjoyed all year and their clear, azure underground pools are simply stunning. Families will enjoy combining a cave visit with an excursion to the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo, which is located near the caves.
The Bermuda Railway Trail follows the path of the former Bermuda Railway and can be enjoyed as a hike or by bicycle. Visitors will enjoy scenic landscapes, coastal views and lush green nature. Divided into nine sections, travellers can choose as short or long of an experience as is suitable for them.
No trip to Bermuda is complete without a visit to the historic Royal Navy Dockyard, where the National Museum of Bermuda features a fascinating maritime history and British influence. The most visited attraction in Bermuda also offers excellent dining, shopping and leisure activities and rain or shine, travellers will always enjoy an engaging day at the Dockyards. Whale watching excursions in March and April is the perfect time to see majestic Humpback whales, combining the best of wildlife and a serene boat trip.
Bermuda’s pristine beaches can be enjoyed in March and April as well as October and November. Tobacco Bay and Horseshoe Bay are some of the most popular beaches, but there are many small coves waiting to be discovered by visitors. There are still many opportunities to swim during the shoulder season, but even if the waters are cooler, taking advantage of the sub-tropical weather with a kayaking excursion, fishing trip or even horseback riding along the beautiful sand beaches will provide an unforgettable adventure.
Bermuda has an excellent food scene and is represented by a fusion of British, Caribbean, Portuguese and West African influences. Of course, being an island destination, seafood is a prominent component of the culinary experience in Bermuda. Wahoo and Tuna are absolute must try dishes for visitors, but the best part of visiting in the off season is that spiny lobster season takes place between September and March and is a local delicacy. Being a cosmopolitan destination, there are restaurant choices to suit every palate and budget. No visit to Bermuda would be complete without enjoying a local cocktail, and a Dark’N’Stormy, which is a mix of Gosling’s Black Seal Rum and ginger beer or a Rum Swizzle, which is a fruity rum drink, will be the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Bermuda’s ambitions for increasing their growing share of the Canadian international travel market is based upon a very strong offering, with convenient flights and a sub-tropical climate that provides for a year-round exceptional experience with its beautiful nature, unique culture and the warm and welcoming people.
