Located some 600 miles east of the Carolina coast this 21 square mile fishhook archipelago composed of 8 main islands and numerous volcanic fragments draws half a million visitors a year who come to experience its mild climate and conservative British charm. Bermuda recognizes Queen Elizabeth II as the head of state although it is a nominal British territory.

 Discovered by Spanish Captain Juan de Bermudez in 1503, the English colonized the island in the early 1600´s. During the American War Between the States, Bermuda was the center of British blockade-running into Confederate ports. Later, during the prohibition era in the United States, rum-running proved most lucrative for the island.

 Visitors today enjoy Bermuda´s coral sand beaches and the clear waters of the North and South Shore which are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Some 300 Spanish, French, and English wrecks lie here in waterly graves, making Bermuda a delight for divers.

 >>>>>>>

Tourists in Bermuda are not permitted to rent cars, so the best way to explore the island is by bus, bicycle, motor scooter, and ferry. Touring Bermuda usually begins in Hamilton, the capital. Here the Bermuda History Museum exibits furniture of Old Bermuda as well as silver and china. Also here is a letter to the people of Bermuda from George Washington thanking them for their assistance  during the Revolutionary War. Above the town, Fort Hamilton, surrounded by moat-gardens, offers a panoramic view of Hamilton and the harbor.

 Rural Bermuda offers charming villages with their displays of the homes, churches, and gardens of Old Bermuda. Near Harrington Sound in Paget Parrish, are located the Botanical Gardens and Camden Estate with colonial memorabilia.

 Colonial Bermuda is best seen in the winding streets and alleys of St. George, the country´s first capital. St. Peter´s Church, thought to be the oldest Anglican church in the hemisphere is here. Opposite St. Peter´s is the Confederate Museum, the headquarters of southern blockade-running activities.

 A visit to historic St. George must include a trip to Duke of York Street and Somers Gardens where the heart of the founder of Bermuda, Sir George Somers, is buried in accordance with his wishes.

 Bermuda is a favorite for weddings and honeymooners. A marrige license application can be obtained from the Bermuda Registrar General´s Office. The cost is $200 and there is a waiting period of 48 hours from completion of application. Proof of citizenship is needed and if applicable, a  divorce certificate(s).

 A galaxy of hotels awaits you in Bermuda -- from luxury leaders to the more economical.  Restaurants feature local as well as international cuisine. In addition to snorkeling and scuba, Bermuda offers superb sport fishing, sailing, tennis, golf, horseback riding and other recreational activities.

 Bermuda -- a destination for half a million visitors a year enchanted by a combination of the quaint British charm of yesteryear and the natural beauty of its delightful beaches, waters, and countryside.