During your visit to Bermuda you may want to peel yourself away from the pink sand beaches and golf greens long enough to experience the culturally rich cities of Hamilton and St. George. You will be glad you did.

It may be the business hub, but the city of Hamilton reflects a unique character, packed with historic buildings, churches, shops, museums, galleries, parks and gardens – all set alongside a picture-perfect natural harbor.

At 12 noon, wander up to Fort Hamilton where authentic kilted pipers, drummers and dancers perform the bagpipe ‘skirl’ of the Bermuda Islands Pipe Band. This Skirling Ceremony takes place overlooking the harbor in an old fortress and never fails to hold its varied audience captive! (Note: this is a seasonal event; your Time & Place concierge will happily advise.)

And while in Bermuda you’ll definitely want to catch sight of the Gombey Revue. A mixture of British, West African and indigenous new-world cultures, Bermuda Gombey dance is a fun cultural experience to witness. The swirling rhythm and vivid costumes of the Gombey dancers and musicians are an exciting, historic Bermuda folk art event, reflecting the island’s rich cultural history. Gombey dancing plays a prominent role during Harbor Nights (held every Wednesday at Hamilton City during the summer) and Market Nights (held every Tuesday at St. George during summer), so plan accordingly.

While Hamilton provides a glimpse into contemporary Bermuda, history buffs will adore historical, Old-World St George. A World Heritage site, the town is the oldest English-speaking colonial town still in existence. You’ll want a day to absorb and explore the town’s picturesque cottages, and its wealth of military, civic and religious architecture. Do give yourself time to get delightfully lost wondering the quaint lanes and alleyways!