Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Bermuda 
An ultimate escape with a royal connection is the Fairmont Hamilton Princess hotel in Bermuda. The creation of this timeless property took place way back in 1885 when the "Pink Palace," as it is fondly referred to by Bermudians, was built and named in honor of Princess Louise, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria of England. It quickly became a winter retreat for the well-to-do and celebrities, including writers Mark Twain and, later, Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond.
 
During World War II, the hotel was home to Allied servicemen while the basement became an intelligence center.
 
The Fairmont Southampton, the Hamilton's sister resort, sits atop Bermuda's highest point, a regal location for the island's premier property. The property is home to the Newport Room and the Waterlot Inn, two of the island's top dining establishments, as well as four additional restaurants. Amenities include a world-class spa; the Beach Club, which is situated on one of Bermuda's famous pink sand beaches; an 18-hole golf course, indoor and outdoor pools; numerous tennis courts; and most importantly for us divers, a PADI 5-Star dive operation, Dive Bermuda.
 
Dive Bermuda has operations at both the Fairmont Hamilton Princess and the Fairmont Southampton, allowing them to cover the vast expanse of wrecks and dive sites that Bermuda has to offer.
 
Bermuda has always been steeped in history, much of which involves more than 400 ships that have met their demise on the extensive reef system that surrounds most of the island. These reefs and their seagoing victims have earned Bermuda the title of "Shipwreck Capital of the Atlantic." Relics and structures from wrecks dating as far back as the 1600s still exist in numerous places along the reefs for divers to explore. Schooners, steamers, freighters, passenger liners, a French frigate with 40 cannons, an iron barque and even a Confederate gunrunner are some of the vessels that had unfortunate endings here. Today, they are covered in thick growth and attract a variety of marine life including barracuda, morays and large schools of snapper as well as provide shelter and protection for numerous invertebrates including anemones, sponges and lobsters.
 
There's something for everyone on this British enclave, from history buffs to nature lovers. As divers, we get to combine our love of both and satisfy them sumptuously.

For More Information
www.fairmont.com
800-257-7544