To Kiss A Dolphin
Written: Nov 29 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Beautiful beaches, architecture, encounter with dolphins
Cons: very expensive
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| whalewatcher's Full Review: Bermuda |
Welcome to Bermuda - a lone coral island, just a mere dot in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, a jewel in it's own right, yet only a 1 1/2 hour flight away from the East Coast of the US. Overlooked by many, Bermuda is quite different from the ever popular Caribbean Islands, most notably it's economy. It is a little known fact that Bermuda is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, and you will be hard pressed to find unemployment, slums or major crime here.
Flying the British flag as a self governing colony, Bermuda is thriving, it's wealth bolstered by international banking and insurance. There is no income tax or sales tax, and although tourism is important to the local economy, the Government only allows 5 cruise ships per week to call on it's ports. The fear of becoming over crowded is also evident in their strict immigration laws, and only the very wealthy can afford to buy Real Estate here.
But make no mistake, this beautiful island is a Mecca for those enjoying sun, sand, beaches and such sports as golf, tennis and, of course, cricket. Known for it's 'pink' sand, Bermuda has miles of some of the finest beaches, and you can find a secluded spot to call your own without difficulty.
Long a favorite of divers, the reef surrounding the island has been the scene for many ship wrecks, a haven for prime diving sites and equally great for snorkeling. It's a bit of a boat ride to get there, but the rewards are multifold.
Bermuda's somewhat Mediterranean architecture is so colorful, stucco exteriors come in every pastel color imaginable, enhanced by lush vegetation everywhere. And this island is clean, clean, clean!!!
Hamilton, Bermuda's capital, is a bustling town with popular Front Street along the Harbour, where shopping is a it's best and you can have your choice of fine restaurants or pubs. Docked cruise ships provide endless entertainment with people streaming to and from, and music can be heard from their decks.
Accommodations are expensive. The word 'cheap' does not exist here, except for possibly bargains in jewelry, especially gold. We stayed at the Princess Hotel in Hamilton, a huge pink sprawling resort with every amenity you can think of, and a price to match!
To get around, tourists love to rent mopeds. But here is a word of warning. The streets are narrow, there are no shoulders, traffic is heavy and you drive on the left! Riding a moped is great fun but can cut your vacation short. One person in our group wrecked, leaving most of his skin on the pavement and had to be flown home. So, drive carefully.
One of the most remarkable and memorable experiences to be had here is a chance to visit and participate in the Dolphin Quest Program. I say "chance" because you must submit your name to be entered in a form of lottery, in hopes to be one of the lucky few to 'swim' with the dolphins. Located on the grounds of the Southhampton Princess Hotel, this 3 acre facility is home for several dolphins, trained to interact with humans. The cost for this is high, but most of it is put into dolphin research. The staff consists of mostly volunteers, who love working with these animals, in fact, there is a waiting list to be able to do so.
IF YOUR TRAVELS EVER TAKE YOU TO BERMUDA, DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS.
In fact, submit your name until you are chosen, you will not regret it. It is important to know that these dolphins, although held in captivity, do have some freedom. Kept in large pools during the day, they are let out at night into a large netted area in the ocean. As you know dolphins are expert jumpers and they can easily jump out, in fact, often do so. But they return, having grown dependant on their trainers and on being fed.
Your hour in the water with these amazing creatures defies description. They literally swim into your arm, play with you and, yes, come up to you and let you kiss their 'smiling' faces. To look deep into a dolphin's eye is realizing that there must be a soul, it's a captivating and humbling experience which somehow leaves you closely connected to these remarkable animals forever.
Don't get me wrong. Nothing compares to the beauty and grace of dolphins in the wild and that's how I prefer seeing them. But programs such as these help educate the public about these incredible animals, their habits, environmental challenges, and how we can help in their survival.
The next time you think about vacationing in Florida or the Caribbean, don't forget about Bermuda. The least expensive way to visit this island is by cruise ship, which limits your time there, but a least you will have seen and experienced it's charm.
Recommended:
Yes
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whalewatcher
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Member: Claudia Testa
Location: Charles Town, West Virginia
Reviews written: 197
Trusted by: 244 members
About Me:
Travel fever is chronic. I hope no one finds a cure!
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