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by Elizabeth Roberts, The Daily Telegraph, September 2, 2016
The grand pastel-pink Hamilton Princess has been a landmark on the waterfront of Bermuda’s capital city since 1885. Nonetheless, it is a stylish and modern affair with a luxury spa, two outdoor swimming pools and three restaurants.
Location 7/100
With stunning views across Hamilton harbour, the hotel is in a tranquil spot just 10 minutes’ walk from Front Street, the colourful main waterfront street in the city centre with its bars, restaurants, luxury shops and ferry terminal. Those who wish to reach Bermuda’s famous pink-sand beaches on the South Shore can catch a bus from the Hamilton terminal 12 minutes’ walk away or hire a scooter.
Style & character 8/100
Behind the Victorian colonial façade of the hotel – nicknamed the Pink Palace – lies a stylish and luxurious modern hotel. Some of the traditional Bermudian charm of the venue has been lost as the hotel has been renovated. However, despite being part of the Fairmont chain, the hotel, owned by a Bermudian family, maintains some endearing local features - from the charming doormen wearing smart Bermuda shorts to the rum cocktails, made with the local Gosling’s brew, served in the bar. There is an impressive world-class art collection on show in the public spaces with works by Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst and Banksy, among others.
Service & facilities 7/100
Service is a little hit-and-miss. The above-mentioned doormen are real characters - warm, friendly and highly knowledgeable. They have clearly worked there for years, remembering little details that make guests feel special. However, during my stay a large proportion of the front desk staff appeared to be trainees who, while pleasant and enthusiastic, were slightly green and disorganised. The hotel has a spa, two outdoor swimming pools – both with lovely views of the harbour - several high-quality clothes and gift shops and three restaurants from fine dining to casual.
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Bar
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Fitness centre
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Laundry
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Parking
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Pool
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Restaurant
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Room service
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Sauna
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Spa
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Steam room/hammam
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Wi-Fi
Rooms 7/100
With marble bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows, the sophisticated rooms and suites are decorated in neutral colours with dark woods and splashes of colour through rich upholstery. There is a little too much dark wood – something lighter would have been more in keeping with the sunshine outside – but the rooms are comfortable, cool and spotlessly clean. There is free wireless internet, Keurig coffee machines and free high-speed Wi-Fi.
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Food & drink 7/100
There are three restaurants including Marcus, run by celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, which features American favourites such as fried chicken and ribs, as well as local seafood. Rather pricey - even by Bermuda standards – the food is good, but not amazing. However, the views from the terrace over the harbour, the sleek contemporary decor and the warm and engaging staff make it worth visiting. I enjoyed the Fish and Grits – made with chargrilled local Wahoo – enough to order it for a second time on a repeat visit. The buffet-style breakfast at the Crown and Anchor restaurant has plenty of choice, from bacon and eggs to a Continental selection of meats, cheeses and fruit.
Value for money 6/100
Double rooms from $379 (£288) per person in low season and from $549 (£418) in high season. Rates do not include breakfast at $29/£22 per person plus 17 per cent service charge. Wi-Fi is free.
Access for guests with disabilities?
The hotel offers four wheelchair accessible rooms. Rooms can be fitted with temporary grab bars for the bathtub, shower seats and toilet extensions.
Family-friendly?
Babysitting services are available at a charge. Cribs and cots are provided at no extra cost. Connecting rooms are available. Children age five and under eat free off the children’s menu and those aged six to 11 are offered half price on the regular menu.
76 Pitts Bay Road, Pembroke, Hamilton HM 08, Bermuda.00 1 441 295 3000fairmont.com
This article was written by Elizabeth Roberts from The Daily Telegraph and was legally licensed through the NewsCred publisher network.
