Rates & Reservation Policies

The rates that we've listed throughout this section are "rack rates" -- the rates you'd be quoted if you walked in off the street. These are helpful largely for purposes of comparison. Especially at the big resorts, almost no one ever pays the rack rate. By booking a package deal that includes airfare, or just by asking for packages and discounts at the hotel when you make your reservation, you can usually do much better. At small hotels and guesthouses, the rates quoted here are much more likely to be accurate. Before you book anything, read the "Packages for the Independent Traveler" section.

All room rates, regardless of meal plan, are subject to a 7.5% tax, which will be tacked onto your bill. A service charge (10%-15%) is also added to your room rate in lieu of tips; remember that the service charge does not cover bar tabs. Third-person rates (for those occupying a room with two other people) are lower, and children's rates vary according to their age.

Note: The rack rates we've listed in this section include tax and service charge unless otherwise noted. However, we strongly encourage you to confirm what the rates include when you reserve, to avoid any misunderstanding. Hotels usually quote you the full rate you'll pay upon checkout; they don't want misunderstandings either.

Bermuda's high season is spring and summer -- the opposite of the Bahamian and Caribbean high season. Most of Bermuda's hotels charge high-season rates from March (Easter is the peak period) through mid-November. A few hotels have year-round rates, and others charge in-between, or "shoulder," prices in spring and autumn. If business is slow, many smaller places shut down in winter.

You may see some unfamiliar terms and abbreviations used to describe rate plans. AP (American Plan), sometimes called "full board," includes three meals a day. MAP (Modified American Plan), sometimes called "half-board," includes breakfast and dinner. BP (Bermuda Plan) includes full American or English breakfast. CP (Continental Plan) includes only continental breakfast (basically bread, jam, and coffee). EP (European Plan) is always cheapest -- it includes only the room, no meals.

Note that prices aren't uniform in several of the larger, older resorts, which offer a wide range of rooms. For instance, one guest at the Elbow Beach Hotel might be paying a price that can be categorized as "moderate," whereas another might be booked at a "very expensive" rate -- it all depends on your room assignment. So even if you can't pay $200 (£104) per night, it might be worth a call to see if a cheaper room is available.

Accommodations that are members of the Bermuda Hotel Association require 2 nights' deposit within 14 days of confirming a reservation; full payment 30 days before arrival; and notice of cancellation 15 days before scheduled arrival to avoid forfeiting your deposit. Some smaller hotels and other accommodations levy an energy surcharge; inquire about this when you make your reservations.

Tips for Saving on your Hotel Room

How far is the room from the beach and other amenities? If it's far, is there transportation to and from the beach, and is it free?

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Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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				Frommer's Bermuda 2008 Author: Darwin Porter Pub Date: September 04, 2007 Price: $17.99				Related Titles: Bahamas For Dummies, 4th Edition Caribbean For Dummies, 4th Edition Frommer's Bahamas 2008