Bermuda

Bermuda is a small string of 138 coral islands and islets in the Atlantic Ocean off the southeast coast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. This self-governing British colony is said to be a tiny chunk of England that floated away in search of better weather – and that's just what you'll find in this beautiful vacation spot. Bermuda has a remarkably mild sub-tropical climate that seldom allows extremes of either heat or cold, with an average temperature of 70 degrees, making it a perfect island escape. The islands are encircled by protective coral reefs and miles of soft pink sandy beaches, providing a haven of sparkling clear blue and green water for swimmers, snorkelers, scuba divers, beach-combers and sunbathers. Bermuda is a tiny country, only 21 miles long and about a mile wide at its widest spot, only about one-third the size of Washington, DC. But, every square mile of this beautiful haven is filled with candy-colored homes and hotels, exotic flowers and plants, relaxing island music and breezes, and stunning views of vibrant ocean sunsets. These days, many tourists arrive in Bermuda via one of the many cruise lines that list it among their other tropical destinations. However, if you fly to the island and choose one of the many fine hotels, you'll have more time to rent yourself a moped and explore the island up close. Beyond the quaint cottages, historical churches, lighthouses and colonial history, the Botanical Gardens are exquisite, the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute is incredible and, of course, you can visit Dolphin Quest for a chance to swim with the dolphins. For a tiny little slice of island life, Bermuda has so much to offer, you don't want to miss it.