J.R.

Which of these has the best beach? Can you tell me about the rooms? Can't decide between Bermuda or Hawaii

Liz Schulman

You are not comparing apples to apples- Stonington's beach is probably better or at least larger but one is a very deluxe property--the Reefs-while the other is just a hotel to stay at with an interesting concept-student staff in the culinary departments. There is also a great difference in price-The Reefs is more expensive and with reason. Hawaii and Bermuda are not really comparable either. When you go to Bermuda you stay at one place for the entire vacation--great public beaches-good restaurants-ok shopping-wounderful ambiance-the natives are very nice-I love Bermuda but there are those who don't-don't ride mopeds--too many serious accidents that can certainly ruin vacation and perhaps life- <BR>Hawaii is very different-you usually visit more than one island-lots of activities and sightseeing if you are one Maui, Hawaii, or Oahu--beautiful on the other islands-Depending on how long you are there determines how many islands you visit-If you are on the east coast it is a very long way away--I decided I would never go to Hawaii again unless it was a stop on a trip to the far east or Australia. I live in the east and the Caribbean is just as nice and not so far---I suppose I would feel differently if I lived in California. If I lived on the west coast I probably wouldn't fly all the way to Bermuda when I know I could have a wonderful vacation in Cabo San Lucas. Hope this has been helpful.

carl

Rarely have I seen a post that so clearly answers a question as Liz's does. I can only add that we have stayed at the Reefs for years, and while it is a high-end resort, their goal is to make guests feel perfectly at ease. It's more like visiting freinds than going to a resort. Many staff people have long tenures and a real stake in pleasing you. Additionally The Reefs is next door to Sonesta so you can enjoy the large hotel benefits while staying at a more intimate resort. Hope you enjoy your holiday whatever you decide!

P.L.

I've been researching where to stay in Bermuda since I'm planning a trip this summer. Stonington Beach is next to Elbow Beach resort and has a great beach, I've heard nice things about the Reefs but it's a more quiet hotel. As far as Hawaii goes - I've been and I don't think you can beat such a beautiful place. <BR>

Kristy G-Hynes

Please see my comments on Stonington Beach Hotel at the Cambridge Beach, Lantana or the Reefs topic. I loved every second at Stonington and I give a detailed discription in that topic.KGH

mary kruft

just had a honeymoon at stonington in June....can't recommend it enough.....if you have specific questions, please email me. Did the "dine-around" thing and visited the Reefs.....would consider staying there as well.....either way you've chosen a great place......the food at Stonington was amazing and we loved the beach and being close to Elbow Beach hotel but not being in a big hotel.........stonington was lovely.......enjoy!!! the only drawback is that there is no exercise/fitness room at Stonington.....no big deal though. <BR>

lara

Just returned from Bermuda. We stayed at The Reefs and visited Stonington on the dine-around plan. <BR> <BR>Beach is nicer at The Reefs. However, I disagree with the comments about The Reefs being worth the money. We stayed in a cottage (only room available) and it was very dumpy. I heard comments from other guests about the hotel rooms being small and having a bug problem. For $400+ per night I was expecting a lot more for my money! Stonington staff is less professional than the staff at The Reefs (the student thing) but they were friendly. Food was good at both places. <BR> <BR>Can't speak for Stonington but the atmosphere at The Reefs was very sedate. <BR> <BR>If Stonington is less money than The Reefs I would go with Stonington. Reefs vrey overpriced for what you get in the way of amenities and service.

mare

Try the Sonesta (near the Reefs). It had a lot to offer. In house shopping, daily activities (boat cruises, etc.), dine-around meal program, dive shack right and motor scooter rental right at property. Close to ferry and Gibbs Hill lighthouse. Rooms are adequate (how much time do you really spend in one other than to change and sleep?). Sonesta would be an excellent choice. <BR>

J.R.

<BR>Lara, please give a few more details about your stay at the Reefs. I am just about ready to give then a deposit for next June. I would really like any help.