By Annabel Cooper
Those lucky enough to maintain their regular income during the pandemic may have managed to save a little extra over the last year because they were out and about less and having less fun.
Now that fun is back on the agenda, here are some ideas for supporting local businesses that may not have been so lucky, while enjoying yourself at the same time.
INDOOR EXCITEMENT
Any establishment that only offers indoor entertainment has had a very tough time in recent months, but they are up and running again and offering patrons of all ages a great day, or night, out:
Xtreme Sports Fun Zone:
Treat the kids, grandchildren, or just you and your friends, to hours of roller skating, playing laser tag, gaming or enjoying the creative lab. There is a bar and outdoor seating, which is popular for party nights and booking is easily done via their website. xtremesportsbmd.com, 7 Waller’s Point Road, St David’s.
FryDay’s Trampoline Park:
Bounce your worries away or exhaust the children in this massive loft full of not just trampolines, but basketball hoops, a slide, a foam pit, dodgeball, volleyball, jousting, arcade games and mini bowling. If you want to go all out, book a ‘glow party’. www.frydaysfec.com, Sail Loft Lane, Royal Naval Dockyard.
Masterworks:
Hidden away in the Botanical Gardens, Masterworks is a peaceful place to escape the outside world and immerse yourself in Bermudian art. Currently on display is the ‘Peaceful Art Protest’, created to support the work of BLM Bermuda and ‘Once Upon An Ocean’, which features pieces focused around the idea of “building a Bermudian identity through art”.
CULINARY FEASTS
Bermuda’s restauranteurs have gone above and beyond to serve their customers while adhering to ever changing guidelines. A few have even opened new establishments. Support these new businesses by enjoying a meal out:
Aurora:
Aurora is a fine dining restaurant at the Newstead hotel offering what they describe as “a new ocean to table concept” of fresh seafood dishes, as well as other tasty-looking options. Located where Beau Rivage used to be, it also boasts exceptional views of Hamilton Harbour. Aurora.bm, Newstead Belmont Hills, 27 Harbour Road.
Munchies by the Sea:
Enjoy fresh Bermudian food while taking in an exceptional Bermudian view at Munchies by the Sea, which overlooks the St George’s harbour. Tuck into fish sandwiches & nuggets, shepherds pie, macaroni and cheese, peas and rice, and chicken on their bright and spacious outdoor patio. 50 Water Street, St George’s, Tel: 261-5641
Baan Thai:
Up until now, authentic Thai food has been missing from Bermuda’s culinary offerings. This changed with the opening of Baan Thai in March. Boasting “the best Thai food west of Chiang-Mai”. The head chef is actually from Chiang-Mai and the smells and flavours of the food will transport you straight there. Baanthaibermuda. com, 87 Reid Street, Hamilton.
DAY IN ST. GEORGE’S
What better spot to be a tourist on your own island than in the mystical town of St George’s. Have it all done for you by booking one of Kristin White’s history or culture tours (kristindotcom.com), which can even be done on a bicycle.
Enjoy unique shops such as Long Story Short, The Things We Love and art gallery, The Dragon’s Lair, and stop for a quick snack or coffee at BruMae Gourmet or Mama Angie’s Coffee Shop. Enjoy lunch, dinner or drinks by the water at Munchies by the Sea, Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio or The Tempest Bistro. By the end of the day, you’ll feel like you’ve had a temporary vacation.