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All good things come in 3s
As some of you may know, I had originally booked a trip to Bermuda for 2021. Point-based flights in BA First were readily available at the time, and at a cash price of around €18,000.00 for 2 people (osewood had very good offers at the time with around €1000 per night in the Harbor View Suite and even a good daily credit (mine was even $200). Unfortunately, Bermuda didn't let us in because of Covid (or with totally stupid restrictions, not sure anymore).
New attempt in 2022, this time I booked the new St. Regis. But Bermuda initially stuck with its test regime of PCR before departure, testing upon arrival, after 4 days and so on. You were then allowed to wear an armband for this. No thanks. Also reviews of St. Regis were not good and Rosewood no longer available). The whole testing thing was then waived two weeks before the planned departure, but by then I had already looked for an alternative. By chance, I then found another award flight for 2024, these things are now very rare. However, a return flight was only available after four days, which is quite tight and decadent. In the end, I decided to spend six nights in Bermuda and then, after I had found a return flight from Washington Dulles (BA-F points flights are now also rare from the US and Business is not really my thing), three nights in Philadelphia and four nights in Washington. The flight from BDA to the US was expensive, as point flights were not available, I booked an AA flight to Philadelphia, at €1800 for 2 people, it was truly no bargain. Unfortunately, the flight was canceled, but I was offered a connecting flight in Charlotte at no extra charge. With a regular charge of €5000 (no typing error!!!), it wasn't a bad deal, but an eight-hour journey and arrival in Philadelphia around 11 p.m. actually requires compensation for pain and suffering. So no thanks, at this point the third cancellation was pending. In the end, however, I decided on a United flight to Newark, which at €1500 for two was almost a bargain (OK, sarcasm alert) and in the ever-popular Boeing 737-Max. As a result, even the rental car from EWR was cheaper than from Philadelphia, where the largest car available was either a BMW 3 Series or a Chrysler 300. In Newark, however, a BMW 5 Series was available. So in the end the trip was on and after Hurricane Ernesto had briefly jeopardized the matter again, it actually and really started at the beginning of September! |
Hugo Junkers Lounge
Before the flight, BA had initially pleased us by canceling the flight we had booked at 11 a.m. and now flying at 7 a.m. That meant an 8-hour layover at Heathrow, which of course is less than ideal.
At the airport in Düsseldorf, I was then able to see a huge line in front of the Economy Check-In of Eurowings at the crack of dawn. They just can't get it right! The BA business check-in was empty. To my surprise, they asked for our ESTA. Here you already link the return flight, but we managed that online. Strangely, they have Club World tags at check-in, but no First tags. Not a problem, but strange. They might as well use standardized priority tags if you always get those in business on a leg with transfer connections. To our amazement, our flight took off from the A gates, which are actually the Lufthansa and Eurowings area. So we went through the security check of the B gates to get to the Hugo Junkers Lounge. Fortunately, there was no one in front of us at the security check. The lounge was actually the same as always, and pancakes are now also available at mealtimes. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...93addbf6b7.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f6cfd3bf3a.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...eca5a106dc.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ef24034837.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0bc863f2ab.jpg |
DUS - LHR
The flight was on time and, as always with the magnificent BA Club Europe, you have to be annoyed when you consider that the seat pitch easily falls short of many an economy class. An outrageous impertinence.
https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2b58e2f157.jpg To book a seat in advance, you have to pay an additional €24 on a First feeder flight! Since I was still a Bronze at the time (no congratulations please), I was allowed to book 1 week in advance. Ultimately, though, it doesn't matter if you sit in the 2nd, 3rd or 4th row. All the same crap. The food is actually always quite decent, though: I had the vegan English breakfast and a frittata. Both were edible, though the bread rolls were, as always, not great. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a02a3de1f3.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b20a5a8e50.jpg On approach to Heathrow, we had a good view of the city center with Tower Bridge and the London Eye. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...168683bac8.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b18fa8cbd7.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...36fbb8a9cf.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9617439216.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e679c309da.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...12beb4f111.jpg Kew Gardens. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c22c88a7a8.jpg Syon House https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...76297bd3e9.jpg London Heathrow! https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...41525f1a33.jpg |
Originally Posted by offerendum
(Post 36544184)
Strangely, they have Club World tags at check-in, but no First tags. Not a problem, but strange.
Even then it doesn’t matter, BA don’t offer priority baggage |
Originally Posted by darthlemsip
(Post 36544578)
Even then it doesn’t matter, BA don’t offer priority baggage
|
Sofitel London Heathrow
Thanks to the change of flights, we had an eight-hour layover at Heathrow. In the past, I would have tried to get a cabana, but BA has discontinued that service. So I decided to look for a day room. The only hotel in Terminal 5 is the Sofitel. After all, it has five stars, but at 230 GBP, the price was not a bargain.
After our arrival, we went through passport control without any waiting and then went to look for the Sofitel. Unfortunately, the signposting is terrible. The location is actually really practical, as you can walk directly from the terminal to the hotel via a corridor. The little lamps on the ceiling were a bit strange; they looked more like Christmas decorations than September. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b7f9a1311d.jpg There is also a Sixt rental station in the upper lobby area. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...961250cf89.jpg The lobby has a few shops and there are flowers next to marble. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3fd9df564a.jpg The hotel is large (605 rooms), with several wings. There are bars and restaurants in the areas between them. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0b085d36a5.jpg Check-in was quick. The day room is a luxury room, so not the lowest category. The room was a manageable size, but generally not bad. Maybe not so great for living, but perfectly fine as a day room. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...60b23ebd9e.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...317f9e765a.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0618e32dab.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...619593c64a.jpg There were free drinks. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4ec46c4150.jpg The view of the interior wasn't that great, of course the windows didn't open. It was quite depressing, to be honest. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5cd530ab8d.jpg The bathroom was actually good, there was a large shower and a bathtub. Not overly luxurious, but decent. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6f3c0e98ac.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bcf2b6c6a6.jpg The Sofitel has a nice pool, judging by the photos, so of course I wanted to try it out. Once there, I had to learn that the pool doesn't open until 9 am. Not great, but OK. I was also told that the visit is only included for larger suites, otherwise it costs. I didn't ask how much, but in the past it was apparently 25 GBP. Of course, that annoyed me a bit, as it made me feel a bit ripped off. I preferred to go to sleep, I don't need to go swimming that badly. After a good night's sleep, I checked out and went back to Terminal 5. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8c089a0916.jpg It was definitely a good decision to get a day room; I would do it again in a pinch. Sure, it's a bit overpriced, but at least you can relax well. |
Originally Posted by offerendum
(Post 36544211)
Looking forward to reading your TR. They are always entertaining. |
Originally Posted by GregWTravels
(Post 36547769)
I can see my flat in this photo!
Looking forward to reading your TR. They are always entertaining. |
Concorde Room
Before we could enter the Concorde Room, we had to attend a premiere. It was my first time using British Airways' “First Wing”. It's a bit of a stretch to call it a “wing”, but it does have somewhat more elegant check-in desks with seating and a separate security check (unfortunately I didn't take any photos). Nevertheless, it's a vast improvement on the usual LHR chaos. We were at the security check immediately and in no time at all we were at the entrance to the First Class lounge.
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7067eb588d.jpg The special thing about the BA First Class lounge is that practically no one who flies BA First uses it. It is purely a status lounge. For us, as for probably all first-class passengers, it was off to the Concorde room. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fdd6bb803a.jpg A lot has been written about the Concorde Room, so I'll keep this brief. We went to the dining area, where lunch was just being served. The menu: https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c123106f54.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fa0861635d.jpg At least there was a mocktail, actually there were 4 to choose from. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...61c52dc505.jpg Bread https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3dfaac6230.jpg Shellfish bisque, lobster & crab tortellini https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...cc60e0ac85.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...06aeed4d0f.jpg The soup was really good, so we could be really satisfied. Moving Mountains Burger with sweet chilli mayonnaise and mature cheddar chees https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c270ca932e.jpg They asked again if I really wanted the vegetarian burger. Yes. The burger itself was nothing special, but it was quite good. It's not really first class, but I wasn't hungry for the other things I could eat. GF had Chalk stream trout, amphire, new potatoes & Choron sauce https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f552efa67b.jpg It looked quite good, but didn't taste particularly good. Neither of us was really satisfied with the dish. In a restaurant, you might have complained, but you wouldn't have been likely to go back there again. Desser menu https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3e81b78204.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4daf2de4c1.jpg I just had a mango sorbet, which was good. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...143fa77f46.jpg Chocolate mousse, chocolate crumb & cherries https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b8151713ad.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9ed6050caf.jpg Well, a bit too sweet and covered in crumble, but overall quite good. Another visit to the washrooms – very clean, but unworthy of a first-class lounge. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0dea62faf3.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4cb603ec5a.jpg It is a well-established tradition that the gates at Heathrow are only announced at the last moment. That's why we had to leave when it was finally announced. We left from the B gates, but there was no time to visit the lounge there. In any case, the routes to the satellite terminals are one of Heathrow's biggest weaknesses. You have to squeeze into a train with countless passengers (sure, walking for 25 minutes would also be an option, although the plane might have left in the meantime given the short lead times), and that has absolutely nothing to do with First Class. On the way, we met this busy worker: https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2baea29551.jpg |
There are ways to get ahead of the gate announcements at LHR, the BA fliers mention an app called Flightly or something like that? Flighty? And the lounge dragons also know in advance.
The day room for 230GBP has me on the edge. Can't tell if it's too much or not... what's 5 star about a hotel you stay 8 hours in, really? It's certainly dirt cheap by your standards though :D Looking forward to the rest of the trip report. |
Apart from the usual FR24/ FlightAware suspects, for BA at LHR they have a fairly reliable (gates can change as Ops re-arrange) Wayfinder at: https://wayfinding.maps.ba.com/departing
This both gives the best indication of the intended gate, and a step-by-step route to it. The tunnel is a good alternative to the crowded transit - you can either walk it all or make use of the travelator :) |
Originally Posted by Fabo.sk
(Post 36550724)
There are ways to get ahead of the gate announcements at LHR, the BA fliers mention an app called Flightly or something like that? Flighty? And the lounge dragons also know in advance.
The day room for 230GBP has me on the edge. Can't tell if it's too much or not... what's 5 star about a hotel you stay 8 hours in, really? It's certainly dirt cheap by your standards though :D Looking forward to the rest of the trip report. I tried the Heathrow homepage, but no success. I asked the dragon during my last stay but she couldn´t answer. Perhaps next time, even as I´m quite sure the next long hault will not be with BA. |
Originally Posted by Tocsin
(Post 36551035)
Apart from the usual FR24/ FlightAware suspects, for BA at LHR they have a fairly reliable (gates can change as Ops re-arrange) Wayfinder at: https://wayfinding.maps.ba.com/departing
This both gives the best indication of the intended gate, and a step-by-step route to it. The tunnel is a good alternative to the crowded transit - you can either walk it all or make use of the travelator :) |
Arriving at the Rosewood
When leaving the airport, we immediately found the taxi queue. In the taxi itself, I noticed that there was no device for credit cards. Now I also knew why so many people had rushed straight to the ATMs in the terminal. I only had dollars from my last trip to the USA, but no Bermudian dollars. So I just had to hope.
The short ride cost around $30, as taxis charge here. The good thing is that US dollars and Bermuda dollars (conversion rate fixed at 1:1) are accepted in parallel in Bermuda, so I could easily pay with my dollars. At the hotel, the first surprise came. There was no one at the door and no one else in sight. I then unloaded the suitcases with the taxi driver. Even though it was 8 o'clock in the evening, it was rather strange for a Rosewood hotel. Eventually someone came and agreed to help us. Then we went to the lobby. This seems quite intimate, with a central room with a seating area. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...71f275d64d.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5c915fea5a.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...df1c26451a.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bcd8aaf801.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bb948c424e.jpg The reception. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2b9edd2e9b.jpg Concierge area https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ca6023d687.jpg Check-in was quick and friendly. We were told that an upgrade was out of the question because we had already booked the highest category. Well, there are still the Royal Suites (the surcharge of around $800 didn't quite make sense to me), but that's not uncommon. Anyway, according to the internet, the hotel was partially booked during our stay. We then learned that our suite was not in the main building. GF was only partially enthusiastic. So it was not possible to walk to the elevators. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5d7dce1aef.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3c119c4f55.jpg |
Rosewood Bermuda
As already mentioned, our Harbor View Suite was located in a separate house just below the main house. This photo illustrates the difference in height and it´s shot from one level above our house.
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2b88ce3273.jpg Here is a photo of the house from the sea side. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...00b7632866.jpg We stayed on the lower floor, so we had to go down a few steps to reach the two entrances to our suite https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...cb81455833.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...aea7133581.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...26ccde4b07.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...04c38afd9a.jpg I must say, I have seen more inviting doorbells in my life. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7bc5b9ff50.jpg But the plant came with decoration. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e961487b5e.jpg But the real values are on the inside, as we know. |
Rosewood Bermuda
Then let's take a closer look at the room. There is a floor plan on the homepage that also fits roughly.
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c75fa66ca6.jpg First of all, you stand in a large hallway, and one of the doors, which according to the floor plan leads to a storage room, was locked (would have been good for suitcases). https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e5e01b388f.jpg It is convenient to have a relatively full second bathroom. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5d252b4071.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b0d14f58ca.jpg I still wonder if the window art is supposed to be there or is just embarrassing for the hotel and (hopefully) quite unique in a $2000 suite. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fd691f5fd5.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d6fa4e31b5.jpg The living room was quite large with a dining table, seating area and a bar, the purpose of which I don't really understand. I found the large double doors to the neighboring room disturbing, as sounds could be heard through them. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b332c87a72.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0ee3271661.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9235639bf1.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...da90d45550.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...69f231d744.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...562cc16fec.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...532fc46859.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0178ec545b.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...02c299860f.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8b5082a28c.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...955707ff29.jpg I've seen nicer light switches. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...36839e5afc.jpg Between the living room and the bedroom was a double door that somehow looked like a public hallway. I don't find it appealing or cozy. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...61bb7cdc10.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...173b31e33f.jpg |
Rosewood Bermunda
The bedroom was nicely furnished with a four-poster bed. The dark wooden wardrobe is probably typical of the island, but I would have preferred a light one anyway.
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...62aa99b055.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...49c89653a8.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c73c6d4598.jpg A little paint from time to time couldn´t hurt. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5c3860e3a4.jpg From the bedroom, a hallway led to the bathroom and the second entrance door. The hallway could not be closed off from the bedroom, which I find that less than ideal. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b3a947902e.jpg The bathroom was large, but I didn't really like the washbasins. The water pressure from the shower head was relatively weak, and the hand shower could at best be described as a trickle. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...400891e4f4.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2a0aaeae0b.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...abe1c35928.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c4d690b8cb.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5d754f6817.jpg The bathroom was actually good, but had a huge problem. One day it stank of something burnt. I called the reception immediately and it was cigarette smoke. The technician explained that the air conditioning would circulate it from other rooms. Apparently someone was smoking in their room. They wanted to call security. But it still smelled a few times, though not as bad. You can't open a window and you can hardly get the smell out. Of course, that's not possible. I would have liked to know which guest it was, so I would have been happy to go past. More about the hotel's troubleshooting later. The luxury bathrobe. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...cf64945891.jpg Door in the toilet - am I the only one who loves it? https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...918119e59c.jpg A relatively small and simple wardrobe with too few options for hanging clothes. I put a few things on the shelf above, but that was only clever to a limited extent. After that, they were partly white with dust. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...db0dd45da3.jpg |
What happened with the German intermission mid-post? :D I can read it regardless, but just caught me by surprise.
Interesting read for sure, and looking forward to the rest. That Rosewood does look a bit dated, doesn’t it? |
Rosewood Bermuda
The suite has two balconies. On Flyertalk, someone once described the view from the suite as absolutely beautiful; I won't comment on that.
First, the balcony off the living room. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5e353bca42.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...be975c8a54.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e41eccc47b.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b32be80fd6.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...83df7800e4.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0e9fe34e44.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bccf83cca8.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...432fd5b92b.jpg The balcony off the bedroom is larger. It's not really a place to feel comfortable, though, as it would need a good tidy up. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3fd9932c27.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b3ee3ede79.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d3bf19a7ab.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5bad04bd0c.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3a2b9d024a.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4d1c6c81e0.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b38e927a37.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7a738adb62.jpg View on the airport. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e2624119b4.jpg |
Originally Posted by SKT-DK
(Post 36560407)
What happened with the German intermission mid-post? :D I can read it regardless, but just caught me by surprise.
Interesting read for sure, and looking forward to the rest. That Rosewood does look a bit dated, doesn’t it? The Rosewood definitely seems dated, but it was renovated not too long ago. That's alarming. That´s about the renovation in 2018 (!!!): https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/be...8/roof-wetting Around 6 years old (with Covis closed seasons) and already looking old and worn. |
Sometimes I look at your reports and think, if I could afford it, I would be happy to pay that much for what you're getting.
Sometimes I think what you're getting is nowhere near worth it. This is definitely the second category. |
Originally Posted by Fabo.sk
(Post 36561877)
This is definitely the second category.
|
Rosewood Bermuda
The site is quite large.
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3bba5540ff.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d9655c75fc.jpg That is why there is this triad. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4af11c9889.jpg The interesting thing is the key, for which you have to sign an agreement to pay €25 in the event of loss. The key belongs to We were told at check-in that our buggy would be placed outside the door immediately. When I went to get it the next morning, it wasn't there. If it was forgotten, it's understandable. Upon request, the cart was then placed in the lobby driveway without further explanation. The doorman obviously had too much work already. I turned the key and it broke off like butter. This of course makes it difficult to start. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4dc956a698.jpg The doorman's reaction was one of mockery (“you are strong”), head shaking and stupid comments (“oh my god!”). Super professional and an example of world-class service. No solution was offered at first and I was left without a cart. The next day I approached one of the managers and after a little waiting time I actually got a cart and it was even explained to me. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d0bffc8722.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5cc5d99f43.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b1ec33c19f.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...181b4bdd59.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...eb41e4fe33.jpg Our version had a nice halogen lamp, there are also versions with LED headlights (this one is from the golf club, but the hotel also had such versions). https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...95288aaba7.jpg You can also make the cart rainproof. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8c31b3aaaa.jpg It's not fast, but it's a great way to get around the grounds. Having your own cart is definitely a good idea. |
Rosewood Bermuda
Now let's take a little tour of the hotel grounds. From our house, a staircase led down to one of the two beaches. To be honest, a broom could have been waved here.
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...17edd85e91.jpg But we're not taking the stairs now, we're going to the main house. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ba0e8a937f.jpg The Harbor Castle pool is located in the lower part. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8b22704133.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...582bf46a16.jpg Some of the rooms near the pool have their own cabana. I would describe the pool as quite ordinary. Not bad, but not heavenly either. There was a beautiful mirror at the top. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ee5e051da7.jpg There was a long corridor that was open at the side. There was also a few play equipment. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3194d546cd.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...281332dbfd.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...239423d0cd.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b83c54a403.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0c64b8dd48.jpg There are also movie nights for children. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ce2c67c342.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...efe1d4724e.jpg The area next to the aisle looks like this: https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...903b0b13bb.jpg Behind it is the main pool. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9646a91c89.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...540dd455bd.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...113fec2482.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...be6f6513fc.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6ffb0db69e.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5ebe2de0ab.jpg The stairs to the Island Brasserie terrace. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a185123579.jpg There is a garden reserved for spa guests. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b9aef3d72f.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1ef6903325.jpg The SPA with its pool. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b287f2ffb2.jpg |
Now it looks like a family resort that has a few luxury villas attached for some reason that everyone keeps forgetting about...
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Originally Posted by Fabo.sk
(Post 36566397)
Now it looks like a family resort that has a few luxury villas attached for some reason that everyone keeps forgetting about...
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Rosewood Bermuda
think I'll tell you something about the beach at this point. To get to the beach club, it takes a good 5 minutes by cart.
When you arrive, you are first impressed by the very beautiful beach. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...52d91fca1a.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8d430e8f00.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9a46be735b.jpg Unfortunately, the flag did not bode well on our first visit. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c2393da2f8.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4d10791497.jpg In fact, it was not recommended to swim in the waves. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d5f1a11f0b.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d5e9acc094.jpg It was noticeable that there were loungers lying around even though there were no guests sunbathing on the beach. Regardless of the water level, which is of course beyond the hotel's control, the beach did not look perfectly maintained. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d062afa5d6.jpg But there is still the beach club. Some work was going on, which led to loud noises, but I won't hold that against it. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a16952eb7c.jpg There is a pool. Nothing fancy, but OK. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3c7bb6792c.jpg What we then experienced was anything but OK. When we arrived at the pool, we looked for a lounger. There was a kind of counter with towels, behind which sat a lady. However, she did not pay any attention to us, but played on her cell phone with a bored expression. Even when we started to get two loungers ready, she was not motivated to at least offer us help. Why should she? Is that really expected if you work there???? I guess they don't really know. I don't think I need to explain what I would do with an employee like that if I were the manager of the hotel. But I was also more than shocked in other ways – I have to say it so clearly. Neither the chairs nor the tables were even remotely what you might expect in a self-proclaimed “ultra-luxury” hotel. Even in a 2-star place on Malle, something like that would annoy me. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8639981a47.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...49c9fafc7e.jpg When I later said that the place probably needed renovating, I was told that the beach club had just been renovated. But they agreed with me that such chairs and tables do not meet the standards of the Rosewood. I just wonder: Has the GM never seen the beach club? You really notice things like that on a simple tour. Incomprehensible to me. The next time we visited the beach, we at least had a yellow flag, but comfortable bathing was not possible then either. Snorkeling was out of the question. But even now, you couldn't help but smile. If I remember correctly, six hotel employees were sitting in the shade, minding their own business. When a guest came and made eye contact, someone came and helped them find a lounger. It was quite funny how a hole was dug in the sand to put an umbrella. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...58599f72f2.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7148ddec3d.jpg Then there was a towel each and that was the end of the service. There was no water or anything like that, you could get it at the other end of the beach. After that, you went back to the group of employees and enjoyed life. So there were enough staff, that wasn't the problem. Apart from the most necessary, the staff simply doesn't do anything. In this form, they could have fired 5 of the 6 employees, saved a lot of personnel costs and the service would have remained at the same (low) level. Again, the question is: isn't anyone monitoring this? You can see that yourself! The responsible manager has to intervene in such matters. I would not just stand by and watch inactively with my employees. I would definitely put a stop to such conditions. Here, too, the condition of the very uncomfortable loungers was rather suboptimal, and I have seen better sunshades. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8bfaa53125.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a8e70da583.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5707eb1744.jpg We were looking for a small snack. If you put up a flag (of course the overworked beach staff won't tell you that at first), an employee comes with a petrol-powered quad and it stinks all over the area. The employee was a nice guy though and even though he had explained to us where we could get water, he then brought something with our food. The food itself was good. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a4001cd59b.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...76aafe11ba.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f64765a8e2.jpg There is also a children's pool at the Beach Club, which I obviously did not use. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4b38223623.jpg I don't think I need to say much about the Beach Club. The beach itself is very beautiful, but unfortunately it is also very prone to waves. If you like to splash around, this is not the perfect place for you when the weather is not 100% perfect. |
Rosewood Bermuda
There is also a fitness center. The room is well equipped, no complaints there.
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Rosewood Bermuda
Perhaps some of you are wondering why there is no dinner. The explanation is simple. On the day of arrival, we were just not hungry after there was more than enough during the flight.
Breakfast is served in the Island Brasserie. You have to go up the stairs to the first floor. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e371399ee2.jpg The long hallway leads past the conference rooms. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6b18304ddf.jpg The bar is located in front of the brasserie. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7647a779e6.jpg The restaurant has interesting wallpaper. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0961c2ddae.jpg Breakfast is à la carte. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...744d43fa5a.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a6378927a9.jpg We both had the Bermuda Benedict. Really good. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b2cc1fa13f.jpg The bakery basket was disappointing. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...de83abb7da.jpg Fruit plate https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5d628aa6a4.jpg |
Front Street Hamilton
After breakfast, we set out to explore the island. After an expensive taxi ride, we stood on Front Street in Hamilton. It is often referred to as a luxury shopping street, but I won't comment on that now. In my opinion, there are not many attractive boutiques. But there are pretty colorful houses. The “famous” traffic island was not occupied by a policeman in Bermuda shorts.
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d7fc817429.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...815137c60a.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b2d0485d83.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...406afeb063.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bd2bc4651a.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6e2020ffd3.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d1b0a87b10.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...737ccc53ba.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ac8ba9c5bf.jpg |
Point Pleasant Park Hamilton
A few meters from Front Street at the harbor is Point Pleasure Park with the HMS Jervis Bay Memorial.
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e085d06dd9.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b9d9987870.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1c7f734778.jpg The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...90eb4f7172.jpg Cute green house https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6971205297.jpg |
Queen Elizabeth Par-La-Ville Sculpture Park Hamilton
A little inland, the Queen Elizabeth Par-La-Ville Sculpture Park is located. It is a very nice small park with sculptures. You do not pay an entrance fee.
https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1112d9c87f.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c827e5f648.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fcb17f863f.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...12aea00b08.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5699c4c835.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...39537afa4f.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...75fb4dd40e.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...595c111f81.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...64db0e35da.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3e9cba7516.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...557c356c2a.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8cc2a34b33.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...891ce29ab8.jpg |
That hotel seems to be riding the Rosewood brand coattails and is a major ripoff -- that's not even close to luxury, not 4 stars. Maybe 3. I would have been pi$$ed off.
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Originally Posted by NYC1
(Post 36571323)
I would have been pi$$ed off.
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Town Hall & Arts Center Hamilton
The Town Hall also houses the Arts Center with 2 galleries and a theater.
It is a pretty white building. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...573e0b230b.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f79af7e510.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fde51fa361.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...913a721094.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e51633d20a.jpg There is a large staircase with an interesting picture of the Queen. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...61c6cd885f.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...87de78ef97.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fb4d4d315c.jpg Bermuda National Gallery https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7694d6c1f3.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...62239aebb1.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ec7ad5ccc1.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f080f12cc7.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...69d2c03044.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a88b4c5444.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d1348bee6d.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...03b9ae4fe0.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2ad2f524b8.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...828a5bf583.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fc3bd6ef95.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...07795a7784.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e7a0b30306.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3f38ee8581.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d1a32c18f8.jpg Bermuda Society of Art - The People´s Gallery https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...479999bf61.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e6a80f476c.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...dae121816a.jpg |
Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity Hamilton
The Anglican cathedral was built between 1886 and 1905. The stone was brought from France. The church is very reminiscent of British churches.
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...57bfb46b3.jpeg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...dddf9c21b.jpeg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a47a383d1.jpeg Inside, it is quite classic, as you would expect. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...668b7d2a2.jpeg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0654482aa.jpeg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0e53b35e3.jpeg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4f6e677d4.jpeg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4267fba0d.jpeg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b09aa5a82.jpeg |
Cathedral of Saint Theresa of Lisieux
A few meters further on is the Roman Catholic Cathedral. With fewer than 10,000 members, the Diocese of Bermuda is not exactly large and is probably one of the smaller dioceses.
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Suffice to say that I think there is an overwhelmingly large range of options where $2000 can be burnt with higher margins of return.:D
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Originally Posted by jerrychuang
(Post 36582810)
Suffice to say that I think there is an overwhelmingly large range of options where $2000 can be burnt with higher margins of return.:D
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