With summer suddenly upon us, there’s no reason not to start fantasizing about weekend getaways. Besides, once the brutal heat starts casting a constant glare on the city pavement, you’ll be wishing you followed through with all the brilliant ideas that popped into your head daydreaming in your cubicle. Brilliant idea No. 1: Cambridge Beaches in Bermuda.
The British territory is a two hour flight from New York. (Surprising, right?) And Jetblue flies from JFK, with one-ways starting at $63. After a quick mid-flight slumber, you’ll be transported to a tropical paradise with pink sand beaches, potent Dark & Stormy cocktails, and a population of incredibly friendly folks who speak with an Elizabethan English-inspired accent that might sound a bit bizarre at first. Don't worry, you'll acclimate quickly.
Cambridge Beaches is situated on a 30-acre peninsula at Bermuda's western edge, 30-minutes by cab from the airport. It offers the ultimate seclusion for those who like peace and quiet and an abundance of activities for the rest of us ADD-suffering city types. Enclosed by four private beaches and its own coral reef, you’ll have your pick of 94 airy rooms in pink stucco cottages (très Bermuda-style).
If you’re in the 'ultimate vacay splurging' frame of mind, inquire ahead of time about the pool suites. They’re one-bedroom cottages that include a private infinity or plunge pool and a spa-worthy bathing area. Did we mention that all of the rooms are equipped with Bose surround sound? And, you’ll be handed a Dark & Stormy as soon as you walk into the Palm Beach country club-inspired reception area. Ah, yes, this is a good fantasy trip so far.
Here’s a dreamy sample itinerary for a Friday-to-Monday excursion:
Friday Night: -The Cambridge staff will escort you to your room or villa in a mondo golf cart (you can keep your drink, don’t worry). -Take a stroll down to the beach and have a bite and a tropical libation at casual open-air restaurant Breezes (think Tom Cruise's backdrop in Cocktail, minus the prowling cougars) on the cove, or sit out under the stars next to the infinity pool at Shutters. Eat, drink, and be merry.
Saturday: -Kayak or sail along the coast for a half day. (The view of Bermuda’s brightly-colored architecture from the water is mind-bending. Okay, no, but ridiculously stunning.) -Rent a scooter. They’re a lot less dangerous than they look and they're the best way to navigate around the island and take it all in. -Ride the scenic route to Hamilton and stop in for a brew at Robin Hood on Richmond Road. Stroll around the city center for midday window shopping and perusing. -On the way back, drive on North Shore Road and stop at every beautiful public access beach you see. Jobson's Cove is a standout where you can swim out to nearby rocks through the crystal clear water. -Check out roadside watering hole and cafe Swizzle Inn, which holds the unofficial accolade for best Rum Swizzle concoction on the island. Order a pitcher. -Once back at Cambridge beaches, down a few toddies and take advantage of the putting green and croquet lawn. A little healthy competition is good for any holiday. -Get out to Tavern by the Sea for waterfront dining and Indian/German fusion (sounds weird, we swear it’s good). The view is a huge selling point.
Sunday: -Stay local for breakfast and try the Tamarisk Room buffet at Cambridge Beaches, overlooking the ocean, of course. -Hop on your scooter and head down to the Royal Naval Dockyard. Remember, you must be selective about where you stop: many of the vendors here are cruise-ship friendly (not a good thing). Be sure to pop into the Bermuda Arts Centre at Dockyard, a non-profit contemporary art space with local goodies aplenty. -Choose from 100 different rums at the Veranda Bar in the picturesque Elbow Beach Hotel (fronting a favorite Bermuda beach) on your scooter ride back. Also, an extensive cigar selection is available. You’re on vacation, right? -Either dine at Colony Pub Steakhouse in Hamilton for your last hearty meal before heading back to your big, bad job and that thing called reality, or The Carriage House overlooking St. George’s Harbor. -Post your pictures on Facebook and force your friends to hate you.


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