Bermuda

Bermuda is a chain of subtropical islands in the western North Atlantic, about 1,000 km off the US east coast. The main islands curve into a fishhook, linked by bridges. The Gulf Stream keeps the climate mild: the warm beach season runs roughly from May to October, and the rest of the year is gentler and quieter.

The south shore is known for pink-sand beaches – Horseshoe Bay, Elbow Beach, Warwick Long Bay – and coves of turquoise reef water for snorkelling and wreck diving, plus sailing and golf. Hamilton, the capital, has pastel Front Street on its harbour, while the old town of St. George, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is all lanes and small squares. Pastel cottages wear white stepped limestone roofs that catch rainwater. The Railway Trail suits walking and cycling; Crystal Caves, Gibbs Hill Lighthouse and the shops and crafts of the Royal Naval Dockyard make easy outings.

Visitors can’t rent ordinary cars, so it’s taxis, ferries or small two-seat electric cars. Try fish chowder laced with sherry peppers and black rum, a fish sandwich, the Sunday codfish breakfast and a Dark ’n Stormy of rum and ginger beer; Bermuda shorts remain smart dress. Bermuda suits couples, golfers, families who like calm beaches and anyone after a polished, easy island near North America.