Bermuda

Often mistaken for a Caribbean destination, Bermuda is actually more than a thousand miles from the Caribbean. In fact, this small subtropical archipelago of about 180 islands sits in the middle of the northern Atlantic, about 650 miles off the coast of North Carolina. The islands, a total of just over 21 square miles, are divided into nine parishes, all linked up through a causeway and bridges. Bermuda is decidedly British and many sights reach back to colonial days. You can watch cricket matches, enjoy high tea or a Pimm's on ice. But the culture also has a heavy African influence and the combination is enticing. Visitors have long been ...

Often mistaken for a Caribbean destination, Bermuda is actually more than a thousand miles from the Caribbean. In fact, this small subtropical archipelago of about 180 islands sits in the middle of the northern Atlantic, about 650 miles off the coast of North Carolina. The islands, a total of just over 21 square miles, are divided into nine parishes, all linked up through a causeway and bridges. Bermuda is decidedly British and many sights reach back to colonial days. You can watch cricket matches, enjoy high tea or a Pimm's on ice. But the culture also has a heavy African influence and the combination is enticing. Visitors have long been attracted to Bermuda, as evidenced by dozens of ships that have wrecked on its treacherous shoreline. Drawn by superb golf, excellent shopping and dining, visitors also come for the luscious pink sand beaches, plentiful spas, magnificent wreck diving and, of course, the opportunity to wear Bermuda shorts.

About the Expert

Debra Landau has written eight Lonely Planet guidebooks, including books on the USA, Caribbean, and the South.