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Expat Exchange - The Essential Guide to Southampton 2024
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The Essential Guide to Southampton

By Betsy Burlingame

Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

Summary: Living it Up in Southampton: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.

Welcome to Southampton! If you're planning to move to Southampton, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Southampton has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Southampton.

Southampton, is a picturesque parish known for its stunning beaches, lush golf courses, and historical sites. Tourists and locals alike can enjoy a variety of attractions in this beautiful destination. One of the most popular sites is Horseshoe Bay Beach, a crescent-shaped beach with soft pink sand and crystal-clear waters. This beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling, and it also hosts the annual Bermuda Beach Art Festival. Another beautiful beach in Southampton is Church Bay, which is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

For golf enthusiasts, the Port Royal Golf Course is a must-visit. This 18-hole course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., offers stunning ocean views and challenging play for golfers of all skill levels. The Fairmont Southampton Golf Course is another excellent option, featuring a par-3 course with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

History buffs will enjoy exploring the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, one of the oldest cast-iron lighthouses in the world. Visitors can climb the 185 steps to the top for panoramic views of the island and learn about the lighthouse's history at the on-site museum. The Whale Bay Battery and Fort, a historical military site, is another interesting attraction, offering insights into Bermuda's defense system during the 19th century.

Southampton also offers several parks and nature reserves for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The Seymour's Pond Nature Reserve is a serene spot for birdwatching and nature walks, while the Hog Bay Park features walking trails through lush forests and open meadows, leading to a secluded beach.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Southampton, Bermuda, offers a diverse range of dining options and lively bars for visitors to enjoy. The Dining Room at Gibb's Hill Lighthouse is a popular restaurant located at the base of the lighthouse, offering delicious Bermudian cuisine with stunning views of the island. Another popular dining spot is the Waterlot Inn, a historic steakhouse located in a 17th-century building. This elegant restaurant offers a sophisticated menu featuring prime steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list.

For a more casual dining experience, the Henry VIII Restaurant & Pub is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. This English-style pub offers a diverse menu, including traditional British fare, sushi, and local seafood dishes. The lively atmosphere and live entertainment make it a great spot for a night out.

Visitors looking for a taste of Bermuda's nightlife can head to the Boundary Sports Bar & Grille, located at the Fairmont Southampton. This lively sports bar offers a wide selection of beers, cocktails, and pub fare, as well as live music and sports screenings. Another popular nightlife spot is the Jasmine Lounge, also located at the Fairmont Southampton, which offers a more sophisticated atmosphere with live jazz music, creative cocktails, and a selection of fine cigars.

Recreational activities in Southampton, Bermuda, cater to a wide range of interests, from water sports to nature walks. Snorkeling is a popular activity in the area, with several companies offering guided tours and equipment rentals. Blue Water Divers & Watersports, located at the Fairmont Southampton, offers snorkeling tours, scuba diving lessons, and equipment rentals for visitors looking to explore the underwater world.

For those who prefer land-based activities, the Railway Trail is a popular choice. This scenic walking and biking trail runs through Southampton, offering stunning views of the coastline and the opportunity to explore the island's natural beauty. Horseback riding is another popular activity, with companies like Spicelands Riding Centre offering guided trail rides through the scenic countryside.

Finally, for a more relaxing experience, visitors can indulge in a spa day at the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Southampton. This luxurious spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps, as well as access to a beautiful outdoor pool and sun deck.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Southampton: Making the Most of Life and Connections

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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