The Reefs, Bermuda blog

2012 Holiday schedule

2012-11-15T10:53:00.000-04:00

The holidays at The Reefs are always a magical affair. Excitement fills the air as we put the finishing touches on our schedule of holiday activities. There's something to please everyone!

Bring an ornament to adorn The Reefs’ tree while singing along to carols during our Christmas Eve tree trimming party, toast marshmallows and sip hot cocoa at our beach bonfire and enjoy a special dinner Christmas Day.

Monday, December 24

10:30 a.m. – Lighthouse tour with Glenn or Clarkson. Meet at the front desk.
2:30 p.m. – Sail boat race with Glenn or Clarkston. Meet at The Reefs Club pool.
5:30 p.m. – Christmas cheer, tree trimming and egg nog in the lounge.

Tuesday, December 25

11 a.m. – Christmas egg nog drinks with Santa in the lounge.
12 to 3 p.m. – Christmas Brunch in Ocean Echo.

Wednesday, December 26

7:30 a.m. – Morning walk with Glenn or Clarkston. Meet at the front desk.
2 p.m. – Sand castle competition on the beach.
4:30 p.m. – Bingo with Glenn in the lounge.

Thursday, December 27

10:30 a.m. – Lighthouse tour with Glenn or Clarkston.
2 p.m. – Golf putting competition at the putting green at The Reefs Club.
5 p.m. – Blind wine tasting in the lounge.

Friday, December 28

7:30 a.m. – Morning walk with Glenn or Clarkston. Meet at the front desk.
2 p.m. – Golf chipping competition on the beach.
5 p.m. – Tour of hotel and wine tasting in the Wine Room. Meet at the front desk.
6 p.m. to 11 a.m. – Latin Night

Saturday, December 29

10:30 a.m. – Lighthouse tour with Glenn or Clarkston. Meet at the front desk.
2 p.m. – Cocktail competition in the lounge.

Sunday, December 30

4:30 p.m. – Bingo with Glenn in the lounge.

Monday, December 31

8 a.m. – Cool Dip with David Jr. on the beach. Meet at the beach — we provide towels and coffee and a little courage if needed!
2 p.m. – Pool competition in the Club house at The Reefs Club.
6:30 to 7:30 p.m. – Wine, champagne cocktails and canapés in the lounge.
7:30 to 10 p.m. – Special 5-course New Year's Eve Menu at Ocean Echo.
10 p.m. to 1 a.m. – Musical entertainment by Working Title
11:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. – Cocktails in the lounge.

Tuesday, January 1, 2013

New Year's Day Swim at the Beach.
11 a.m. – Bull Pups and Bloody Marys in the lounge.
2 p.m. to midnight – College Bowl games on big screen in the Wine Room.

Around the World in Five Wines

2012-11-09T14:26:00.000-04:00

Take a journey around the world at our new International Wine Dinner Series.

The five-course wine pairing dinner starts off in the sunny climes of South Australia. We then jet quietly to the US to taste a rich Napa Valley Chardonnay. This is followed by a hop over to France to taste some aromatic Alsace Riesling. Seatbelts are then firmly fastened as we head to Italy and taste a robust Nebbiolo. Finally arriving in Chile, we taste an exquisite late harvest Sauvignon Blanc. Petit fours & snifters of Hennessy V.S.O.P Cognac will then be served in the departure lounge, to cap off a truly magical night of food and wine.

This intimate affair is limited to only 40 guests, and includes a reception in the lounge before and after your dinner at Royston's. Our chefs will prepare all your meals right in front of you in at the show kitchen, while Gosling's very own wine aficionado showcases the perfect wine to accompany each dish.

Reservations & schedule

Seating for these dinners are limited to 40 guests and are $175 per person. Please make your reservation in advance by calling (441) 238-0222 or e-mailing FBCoord@TheReefs.bm.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012 at 7 p.m.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012 at 7 p.m.

Australia

Hot & Cold Hors d'oeuvres
Greg Norman Sparkling Brut, Australia, Non-Vintage

United States of America

Scallop "Feuillantine" Baby Fennel, Micro Herbs, Lemon Grass Cream Sauce
Rombauer Carneros Chardonnay, Napa Valley, USA, 2010

France

Mussels en Croustade with Leeks and White Wine
Domaine Weinbach "Cuvee Theo" Riesling, Alsace, France, 2008

Lemon and Ginger Sorbet in Limoncello

Italy

Grilled Garlic and Coriander Marinated Lamb Loin
Pea and Mint Puree, Haricots Verts, Sambal Oelek Aioli
Angelo Gaja 'Sito Moresco' Nebbiolo, Piedmont, Italy, 2010

Chile

Orange "Panna Cotta" Honey Roasted Fig
Errazuriz Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc Casablanca Valley, Chile, 2010

Petit Fours

Hennessy V.S.O.P. Cognac
Coffee or Tea

Why exfoliate?

2012-11-01T13:11:00.000-03:00

The benefits of exfoliation are endless and is the key to keeping your skin in tip-top condition.

The outer layer of your skin, the epidermis, is made up of 5 layers. Skin cells are produced in the bottom layer and travel to the top over a period of time to form what we see and feel on the surface. This process is called the skin cell renewal cycle.

At its peak, which is between the ages of 16-20, it takes a mere 14 days for the cells to renew themselves. Each year beyond the age of 20 you can add at least a day on to the cycle: at age 30, 24 days, age 40, 30 days and age 50, 44 days. The longer the cells take to get to the surface, the worse they look when they get there, especially if you don’t take good care of them along their journey!

When their life begins in the bottom layer of your skin the cells are like plump grapes; exposure to toxins internally and externally, UV light and the elements leaves them looking like shriveled raisins once they reach the surface.

This is where exfoliation comes in. By regularly sloughing off the dull, dead cells on the surface you stimulate your skin to produce new fresh cells in the bottom layer to enhance the skin cell renewal cycle. This also removes the barrier between the dead cells and more active cells. Even the best or most expensive products won’t work by simply sitting on top of dead cells.

Benefits of regular exfoliation

Smoother
More hydrated
Less fine lines and wrinkles
Fewer blackheads
Clearer complexion
Simulate collagen production

Ways to exfoliate

There are two main options when it comes to exfoliation: physical exfoliation and peels.

Physical exfoliation utilizes particles to scrub away dead cells. When choosing a scrub it is important to choose the particles that are right for the job. Many exfoliating products contain inexpensive large particles that are too abrasive and can cause micro tears on the surface of your skin. Rather than the glowing complexion you are hoping for, you will have blotchy, irritated skin that is prone to breakouts and more susceptible to pigmentation.

Peels dissolve the surface cells and encourage the production of newer cells in the bottom layer of your skin. Some more effective peels will even open up pathways to the middle layers of the skin that allow post-peel products to penetrate deeper. A well formulated fruit peel is the most effect gentle exfoliation there is.

My advice: If you like to physically exfoliate, trade in your apricot, nut and plastic scrubs for gentle seaweed particles that will buff your skin to perfection with Skin Buff by Elemis. For a peel with acids that really work, try the Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask by Elemis or the ever popular Papaya Enzyme Peel by Elemis.

Happy exfoliating!

The Reefs is Honored by Condé Nast Traveler Readers

2012-10-18T11:01:00.000-03:00

Our most heartfelt gratitude to you, our loyal fans, and the other Condé Nast Traveler readers. In the Condé Nast Traveler 2012 Readers' Choice Awards announced this week, The Reefs was honored as the #1 resort in the Atlantic for the fourth year in a row.

The Reefs earned a total score of 95.1, earning a spot among the Top 100 Hotels & Resorts in the World.

A record 46,746 readers participated in the 25th annual survey, which ranks hotels based on rooms, service, food, location, design and activities.

While it is always nice to be recognized by the travel industry, our biggest joy comes from creating a memorable Bermuda vacation for our guests and welcoming you back to our pink sand beach home.

Thank you for your ongoing support. We hope to see you soon!

La Serena Spa Honored by Travel + Leisure

2012-10-02T09:30:00.000-03:00

La Serena Spa at The Reefs has been recognized by Travel + Leisure magazine as one of the "World's Best Spas" for 2012.

In its debut on the prestigious World's Best Spas list, our intimate Bermuda spa is ranked No. 3 among the top five hotel spas in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas. With a score of 92.60, The Reefs was also the top-ranked Bermuda hotel spa.

For its annual World’s Best Spas award, Travel + Leisure readers evaluated hotel spas based on ambience, treatments, service and value. This is the second award for La Serena Spa this year.

You may view the awards online and in the October 2012 issue of the magazine.

Sports Massage Talent at La Serena Spa

2012-09-10T17:29:00.000-03:00

One of our newest Massage Therapists, Greg Ozarowski, was recently featured in an article in The Bermuda Sun.

Originally from Poland, Greg has completed more than 1,200 hours of training and has 14 years’ experience in massage therapy.

He joined us at La Serena Spa last year when he moved to Bermuda with his family. We are very lucky to have him on our team and to offer sports massage to our guests.

Greg says, "I put my heart into my work. When I work with someone I really want to help them, to make them feel better and to be in less pain."

Read more about Greg in the The Bermuda Sun and be sure to schedule a relaxing massage appointment with him on your next visit!

Passion Fruit Mojito Recipe

2012-08-31T17:10:00.000-03:00

Looking to wind down from the week? Friday nights are Latin Chill nights at The Reefs.

Each week from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., we serve up a variety of Mojitos prepared from scratch with fresh sugar cane on the Ocean Echo Terrace.

One of our favorites is the Passion Fruit Mojito, which includes Bermuda's Gosling's Black Rum. Try one at home for a taste of The Reefs any time!

Ingredients

3/4 oz Gosling’s Black Rum
1/4 oz Simple syrup
6 Lime wedges
5 oz Passion fruit puree
1/2 oz Club soda
8 - 10 Mint Leaves

Directions

Crush lime, simple syrup, mint leaves and ice. Add Goslings Black Seal Rum and passion fruit puree. Mix vigorously, top with soda and garnish with mint.

Cheers!

Save Your Skin with SPF: Healthy Tip from La Serena Spa

2012-07-23T13:49:00.000-03:00

With summer now in full swing, the importance of using SPF could not be greater! Exposure to ultra violet light from sunlight whether it is UVA or UVB accounts for 90% of the symptoms of premature skin aging. Lines, wrinkles, age or brown spots and scarring are some of the most common concerns our guests have when coming for facial treatments.

SPF is your secret weapon!

It takes 15 to 20 years for sun damage to appear and prevention is so much easier than cure for the above mentioned concerns.

How it starts

The sun's UVA rays actually penetrate into the Dermis which is the deepest layer of your skin. They wreak havoc with collagen by breaking it down and causing disorganization of the fibers and cross-linking. Cross-linking of collagen is the result of continuous break down and repair, once the collagen fibers are compromised they heal in crisscross formations which ultimately lead to lines and wrinkles as they simply can’t support the skin.

As if this thought is not scary enough, within minutes of sun exposure, enzymes called Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP) begin to breakdown not only collagen but elastin too, further weakening the skin's support structure. UV radiation is also one of the major creators of free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that only have one electron instead of two. In an effort to complete itself, the free radical will steal an electron from another molecule. That molecule is then left lonely and will scavenge from another, resulting in a never ending cycle These rebellious molecules stimulate the production of MMP, further breaking down collagen. The continuous cycle of molecules behaving in this manner changes the genetic material of the cells which can lead to cancer.

Melanocytes

Misbehaving cells called melanocytes are what are responsible for unwanted discoloration of your skin. When exposed to UV light, melanocytes immediately start to produce more melanin to absorb the UV rays in an effort to protect the skin. Melanin is your body’s natural sunscreen and the substance responsible for giving your skin its color. This is why your skin gets darker when you are more exposed to the sun.

Repetitive sun exposure alone is not responsible for these cells misbehaving; the problem is exaggerated by medication, illness, pregnancy and hormone changes. Misbehaving cells will overproduce melanin and deposit it in clusters resulting in darker patches on the skin mostly referred to as age spots. In the case of damaged or inflamed skin caused by acne, cuts or abrasions, the melanocytes are merely being nice and produce more melanin to protect the skin from the sun. It is not the wounds themselves that cause the problem but rather the exposure to UV light in the sensitive healing process.

Sunscreen tips

All of this being said, now you need to know the plan of defense! Choose your sunscreen wisely.

Only sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or higher can claim to reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging.
The factor of the sunscreen is not the amount of protection that you get in the given moment but is the length of time you can stay in the sun without burning; for example, a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 will delay the onset of sunburn 15 times longer - in a person who would otherwise burn in 10 minutes to burn in 150 minutes.
It takes 20-30 minutes for sunscreen to be absorbed by your skin and thus to be effective.
Sunscreen should always be the last product applied for maximum protection as the water content of your make up or moisturizer can break it down.
The daily use of a low SPF is proven to be more effective then the sporadic use of a higher factor.
Your make up or moisturizer containing SPF is not sufficient alone; for best results, layer your products containing SPF.
When you are out in the sun for extended periods the key to using sunscreen effectively is the reapplication not the SPF itself. An SPF 15 will filter out 93% of UVB rays; SPF 30 filters out 97%; SPF 50 filters out 98%. The percentage is of such a minimal increase that anything higher than an SPF 50 really isn’t necessary.
The key to picking a good sunscreen is to look to the ingredients; SPF measures the amount of UVB filtration and UVA protection comes from ingredients such as avobenzone, titanium or zinc oxide. Combining an SPF 15 with one of the previous mentioned ingredients is the best way forward.
UVB protection primarily protects against burning; UVA protection protects you from the potential damages in the deepest layer of your skin.
The strength of UVB rays is dependent on the time of year and the time of day, UVB does not penetrate glass however does reflect from water and snow.
UVA rays are constantly present and can even penetrate clothes and glass therefore your optimum plan of defense against aging is to wear a well-rounded SPF every day of the year.
Look for added technology of vitamins and antioxidants to also fight free radical damage and at least remember the face neck and decollete and apply SPF every morning.

Look after your skin and your skin will look after you.

Top Resort in the Caribbean

2012-07-06T15:31:00.001-03:00

The Reefs in Bermuda has been named the Top Resort in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas in the Travel + Leisure 2012 World’s Best Awards.

We scored 92.71 in the annual reader’s survey and were also recognized among the Top 100 Hotels worldwide.

This marks our 13th consecutive appearance on the World’s Best list and second time as #1. The Reefs was also the only resort in the Caribbean and Atlantic honored among the Travel + Leisure Hall of Fame, which recognizes hotels worldwide that have been featured on the list for a solid decade.

We are truly honored to receive such a high recognition from the readers, and discerning travelers, of Travel + Leisure magazine. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff who help deliver a memorable Bermuda vacation to our guests.

Travel + Leisure’s 17th annual awards are based upon the results of the World’s Best survey, which asks readers to rate their favorite hotels, cities, islands, cruise lines, airlines, car rental agencies, spas, safari outfitters and tour operators. Hotels are rated based on rooms, facilities, location, service, restaurant, food and value.

The awards are currently online at www.TravelandLeisure.com and will be featured in the August issue of the magazine available on newsstands in mid-July.

Enjoy Bermuda Like a Local

2012-06-28T12:21:00.000-03:00

Assistant Resort Manager Barb Jones was recently interviewed by Authentic Luxury Travel's Elizabeth Hansen for insider tips about our beautiful destination.

Photo credit: ADAMS / HANSEN STOCK PHOTOS.

Barb shared, "If your readers want to enjoy Bermuda like a local, they should visit during one of Bermuda’s public holidays. It’s the best way to feel the culture, eat the local food, and enjoy the people."

For more of Barb's tips about the public holidays and why The Reefs is Elizabeth's favorite place in Bermuda, visit Authentic Luxury Travel.

La Serena and The Reefs receive high ratings

2012-05-21T15:05:00.000-03:00

The Reefs and our wonderful La Serena Spa were just named among the Top 25 resort spas in the Atlantic and Caribbean in the 2012 Condé Nast Traveler Top Spas List.

The Reefs ranked #7 with a score of 94.1, up from last year’s ranking of #8 with a score of 92.4. La Serena Spa is also the top-ranked Bermuda spa on the list.

This is the third year that The Reefs and La Serena Spa have been featured on this prestigious list. The Reefs has been the top-ranked Bermuda resort spa each time it has appeared.

The list is in the June 2012 issue of the magazine which will be on newsstands this week and online at cntraveler.com.

You can view the score and the other resorts on the list by clicking on this link and following the slide show.

Debut of the Cliffside bathroom upgrades

2012-05-14T13:17:00.001-03:00

Last November, we announced that we were to begin the first phase of bathroom renovations for our Cliffside rooms. We finished the first phase this spring and so far have received rave reviews.

We couldn’t tackle the project all at once, but were able to update 21 of the 29 Cliffside rooms. Our Poolside rooms and the remainder of our Cliffside rooms are slated for the upgrade this winter.

We removed the wall between the vanity and bathroom doubling the size of the entire bathroom to approximately 70 square feet. In place of the bathtub we installed a large rain shower with a glass and limestone walls and river pebbles on the floor.

All bathrooms have double sinks in the new vanity and have a ¾-inch solid glass countertop. Two pendant lights hang in front of the mirror and recessed lighting for the rest of the bathroom.

Fired glass tiles adorn the accent wall behind the toilet bringing a bright, beachy feel to the bathroom.

Last but not least, we installed a solid glass ‘barn door’ style bathroom entrance door which slides on rollers on the outside of the wall!

Have you experienced one of the new Cliffside bathrooms? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment.

Guided Snorkel Tours at The Reefs

2012-05-12T10:00:00.000-03:00

Dive Bermuda visits The Reefs’ beach twice a week to take you on a guided tour of the South Shore reefs.

The Dive Bermuda instructors have a wide knowledge of the marine life in Bermuda’s waters and will lead you to the busiest spots directly off the beach. You will also get a fish guide to help you identify the many different species of fish during your snorkel tour.

The Reefs provides complimentary snorkel gear which you can pick up in our beach hut.

Meet on the beach at 2:30 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays to join the complimentary tour. Space is limited to 15 participants; Please sign up at the Beach Hut.

American Airlines' Spring Airfare Sale to Bermuda

2012-03-29T10:55:00.001-03:00

Pack your bags and grab your travel partner. American Airlines is having a great sale through April 10 on airfare from many US cities to Bermuda!

Purchase your tickets on AA.com by April 10, 2012, for travel between April 17, 2012, and June 12, 2012. All travel needs to be complete by June 14, 2012.

The discounted prices below are each way, based on round-trip purchase on AA.com and include taxes.

New York City (JFK) - $150
Tampa Bay (TPA) - $248
Orlando (MCO) - $253
San Fransisco (SFO) - $270
Dallas/Fort. Worth (DFW) - $395

Check out our travel specials through summer including a 5th night free if you arrive on a Sunday!

Call (800) 742-2008 or (441) 238-0222 to check availability or to make your reservations.

See you soon in sunny Bermuda!

A Warm Bermudian Welcome to Chef Karl Blunden

2012-03-20T16:31:00.000-03:00

“I have traveled all over the world and never experienced as warm of a welcome as I did when I arrived in Bermuda,” says our new Executive Chef Karl Blunden.

Everyone here at The Reefs is excited to welcome Chef Karl. This is his first time on Bermuda and he brings a wealth of experience in hotel dining and food and beverage management from around the world.

Originally from England, Chef Karl began his career in London before serving in culinary management roles in Egypt, St. Lucia, Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates. For the past four and a half years, he was the Complex Executive Chef at The Four Points by Sheraton in Dubai where he oversaw 11 dining venues and room service at two hotels.

“It is exciting to be back on an island after living in the desert for the past few years,” he continued. “I’m also thrilled to be part of the team at The Reefs, which has a very strong reputation as a leading resort on Bermuda.”

Chef Karl’s cuisine favors an Asian influence, which he says fits well with local island ingredients and seafood. “My goal is to use as much local produce as possible in our menus.” Look for his creations in daily specials and new menu items (coming soon).

The island life is also ideal for Chef Karl’s hobbies. When he is not cooking in the kitchen, he enjoys scuba diving (he’s a qualified rescue diver), fishing and playing golf (although he admits “very badly”).

“I look forward to enhancing the already excellent dining venues at The Reefs and getting to know the many Reefs repeaters,” adds Chef Karl.

"Pure Bliss" at The Reefs, Bermuda

2012-02-22T15:00:00.000-04:00

Elizabeth Hansen, Authentic Luxury Travel writer and Travel Editor at Ranch & Coast magazine, recently stopped by The Reefs on her second trip to Bermuda.

Photo credit: ADAMS / HANSEN STOCK PHOTOS.

This seasoned traveler called her experience "pure bliss" because of our beach location with coral reefs that are ideal snorkeling, great spa and food, personal service and authentic luxury. We're honored!

Read all about Elizabeth's Bermuda experience and what makes The Reefs "an ideal place to stay."

The Ultimate Bermuda Experience

2012-01-25T10:34:00.001-04:00

The Ultimate Bermuda Experience participants stopped by
The Reefs after their challenges

The Reefs was very fortunate and honored to participate in a great event last week organized and inspired by Phil Keoghan, host of the CBS show The Amazing Race. Dubbed “The Ultimate Bermuda Experience” and sponsored in part by Mr. Keoghan’s energy bar NOW, four lucky couples won a sweepstakes to fly to Bermuda, stay with us here at The Reefs, and compete in an activity filled experience around the island.

In the theme of The Amazing Race, they rode mopeds, kayaked, rode jet skis, had a rum cake eating competition and ended the event at The Commissioner’s House at the Maritime Museum in the Royal Naval Dockyard.

David and Mr. Keoghan overlooking
The Reefs Club's infinity pool

Although it was all in good fun and everyone was a winner, the official winner and big congratulations went to Joy McDaniel from New Mexico. The contestants spent the next few days as our guests and got to spend time relaxing and recovering from their busy day!

In addition, Mr. Keoghan brought his women’s cycling team, NOW and Novartis for MS, with him to Bermuda where they spent many hours training on Bermuda’s windy and hilly roads. His team helps in raising money for multiple sclerosis and while here put on a gala which raised over $24,000 for the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Bermuda.

Additional photos and event details are available in The Bermuda Sun.

New Honors to Ring in the New Year

2012-01-12T17:06:00.007-04:00

The staff members at The Reefs are welcoming in the New Year with even bigger smiles. Our Bermuda resort was named among the best in the world by both Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure magazines.

2012 Gold List

In the January edition of Condé Nast Traveler, The Reefs was honored on the 2012 Gold List as the No. 3 resort in the Caribbean and Atlantic. Our score of 94.9 earned us the top spot in Bermuda.

In addition, The Reefs was named to the Platinum Circle of “Gold List superstars” for being on the Gold List for the past five years in a row. In fact, this makes our 16th consecutive appearance on the Gold List.

T+L 500

Travel + Leisure recently announced the 2012 T+L 500 List. The Reefs was named among the Best in the Caribbean / Atlantic and the only resort in Bermuda to be featured. This is The Reefs’ 9th time on the list.

Thank you for your continued support and to our wonderful staff to delivering a memorable Bermuda vacation experience.

New Bathrooms, Low Club Condo Rates

2011-11-07T15:36:00.004-04:00

We are pleased to announce that we will begin the first phase of bathroom renovations this winter. This project will include several Cliffside rooms and is expected to be completed by early spring.

Renovation details

Here is what you can expect to find in our renovated Cliffside rooms.

Larger, more open bathrooms – The wall between the vanity and bathroom will be knocked down to make for one large room.
Upscale vanity area – A new dark, hard-wood vanity will be installed across from the closet doors, which will still have floor-to-ceiling mirrors.
Walk-in rain showers – Bathtubs will be replaced with large, walk-in rain showers. A neutral stone tile, similar to the Club Condo bathrooms, will be used throughout.
Attention to detail – A mosaic tile accent wall will nicely compliment new countertops and bathroom fixtures.

Changes to winter travel

To allow for these renovations to take place with as minimal disruption to guests as possible, the hotel accommodations and restaurants will be closed from January 3 to March 15. This brief closure will also allow us to make some improvements to our main kitchen that serves Ocean Echo and Royston's.

Club Condo availability

If you want to escape to The Reefs from what is starting to look like a long and cold winter, the Club Condos and La Serena Spa will still be open and are a quick getaway. In fact, this winter 2 guests can stay in a 2-bedroom luxury Club Condo for just $299 a night or 4 guests can stay for just $399 a night. Or, 6 guests can stay in a 3-bedroom Club Condo with 2,500 square feet of living space for $499 a night.

The Club concierge will be here all winter long to ensure you have a relaxing stay and can even handle your pre-arrival grocery shopping.

Halloween Dinner Menu

2011-10-28T17:20:00.000-03:00

If you're not with us this Halloween, you're missing out on a devilishly spooky dinner menu. Order if you dare!

Starter

Shrimp Salad on Black Ink Noodles with Devilish Dressing

Warlock Tart with Mushrooms, Mixed Greens and Tomato Dressing

Soup

Pumpkin Soup with a Grilled Cheese Sand-Witch

Arugula Salad with Pecans, Roast Pumpkin and Feta

Seizure Salad with White Anchovy Crouton and Bacon

Main Course

Cauldron Curry, Green Chicken Curry with Okra, Tofu and Jasmine Rice

Char-Grilled Beef on Spooky Smashed Potato with Slivered Scream Beans, Devil Sauce and Olive Butter

Scared Scallops on Saffron Risotto with Rest in Peas and Lemon Butter

Mahi Mahi Wrapped In Prosciutto, Spooky Cous Cous, Asparagus and Tomato Salsa

Dessert

Candy Corn Parfait

Pumpkin Pie

Halloween Cheesecake

#1 Atlantic Hotel for the 3rd Year in a Row

2011-10-11T13:17:00.004-03:00

There's a reason The Reefs is widely recognized as the best Bermuda hotel — a warm smile greets you upon arrival, and our staff work hard to help you feel perfectly at ease, whether it's your first visit or your 20th.

And now, for the 3rd consecutive year, The Reefs has been named the #1 resort in the Atlantic for in the annual Condé Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards. Our overall score increased this year from 93.8 to 94.9, earning us a spot as #64 in the Top 100 Hotels in the World.

In addition, Bermuda was also named the Top Island in the Caribbean/Atlantic. Read the entire article in the November 2011 issue here.

Thank you to all our wonderful past guests and repeaters who voted for us in this year's Readers' Choice Survey. We truly appreciate the support and the recognition helps to reinforce what a wonderful job our staff does.

Meet our therapists - Alet and Fiona

2011-09-19T11:23:00.002-03:00

Alet

Originally from South Africa, Alet has been a therapist at La Serena Spa for two years. Her passion is facials as she is highly knowledgeable in Skin Analysis.

She has a passion for cooking and is always trying to learn more. She learned to cook Thai food while living in Thailand teaching English for four months in 2008. An avid traveler, Alet has been to 13 countries in the past four years and looks forward to her next trip to the Galápagos Islands.

When she is not in the Spa she loves to be outdoors relaxing on Bermuda's beautiful beaches or on her boyfriend's boat. She often goes swimming with the Tiger Sharks during the summer.

As summer is coming to an end, Alet recommends you try the Tri-Enzyme Facial. It will help to get rid of the skin build up and pigmentation by smoothing out your skin for an amazing healthy glow.

Fiona

Bermudian therapist Fiona joined our spa team in April 2011. She is originally a marine biologist after finishing her Masters degree in Fisheries Ecology in Wales.

While in Wales she took a course in Aromatherapy and Reflexology. She loved it so much she undertook further training in England and France expanding her knowledge base by learning about new treatments such as Reiki, Massage, Nutrition, Emotrance and Hot stones. She knew she had found her calling so she swapped careers — from fish back to people.

With more than 19 years of spa experience, Fiona brings a holistic approach to all her treatments. One treatment she is passionate about is Reflexology — an ancient and powerful treatment which uses massage and applying gentle pressure to reflex points on the feet. Fiona has seen so many great results over the years with reflexology bringing benefits in relieving stress-related disorders as well as hormonal imbalances, infertility, irritable bowl, back pain, headaches and improving energy levels. Reiki is another favorite as it, along with reflexology, can help you change old patterns and find inner balance and vitality.

Fiona also loves raw food cuisine and has worked on several detox retreats. Look for future holistic tips and raw food recipes from Fiona on our Facebook page.

Flights as low as $89? Believe it!

2011-09-14T15:20:00.000-03:00

If you've been waiting for a great price on flights to Bermuda your wait is over. We've taken the guess-work out of airline shopping and found some of the best deals from several east coast cities this fall.Come out for a last minute Bermuda vacation or a relaxing long weekend.

Here is an example of some of the low one-way rates to Bermuda:

BWI – $89 on AirTran
CLT – $119 on AirTran
JFK – $119 on American
BOS and JFK – $119 on JetBlue
PHI – $114 on US Air

$400 airfare credit

Through October 31, The Reefs is offering a $400 credit on stays of 4 nights or more to help offset your airfare costs to travel to Bermuda.

Call (800) 742-2008 or (441) 238-0222 to make your reservations. Or, book your room online.

Hotel Olympians Earn Silver Medals

2011-08-25T11:13:00.000-03:00

As if Harbour Nights in Hamilton isn't exciting enough, last night the entertainment was the "Hotel Olympics."

The Reefs entered Richard Kyaruzi in the Waiter’s race and Winfield Todd in the Bellman’s race.

The Waiter’s race consisted of running down to a series of tables, setting the table for the guests, opening a bottle of wine, pouring two glasses, and then running with the glasses on a tray back to the starting point.

The Bellman’s race consisted of running down to a bellman’s stand, putting on your bellman shirt, packing 8 towels into two suitcases, and then running with the suitcases back to the start.

Winfield placed 2nd out of 8, beating a considerable amount of young guys, not bad for a guy in his 70’s! Richard also placed 2nd in the Waiter’s race.

Plenty of Reefs staff came out to cheer them on for the exciting performance of hotel sports!

Recipe for Chocolate Coconut Truffle with Banana Caramel Custard

2011-08-12T14:00:00.000-03:00

A decadent dessert that is sure to be the hit of any dinner party! Follow three simple recipes below to make a Banana Caramel Custard that is topped with coconut truffels and a sinful caramel rum sauce. Enjoy!

Banana Cream Caramel

Ingredients

500 grams sugar

1 pint water

2 liters milk
30 grams banana puree
1 vanilla pod split
5 whole eggs
5 egg yolks
220 grams sugar

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C)
Bring sugar and water to boil. Cook until it reaches caramel stage.
In a saucepan over medium heat bring milk to boil. Remove from heat.
Add banana puree and vanilla pod. Let sit 10 minutes until infused. Strain.
In a large bowl whisk together eggs, yolks and sugar. Gradually add the hot milk mixture.
Add caramel mixture and strain
Put in 14 dariole moulds and bake in a water bath until set – approx 35 mins.Cool and chill.

Chocolate Coconut Truffle

Ingredients
7 egg yolks
85 grams sugar
180 grams melted chocolate
475 ml heavy cream
Roasted coconut flakes

Directions
In a bowl whisk together yolks and sugar until creamy. Whisk in melted chocolate. Fold in cream. Chill for 4 hours. Scoop out small balls of the truffle mixture and freeze until firm. Roll in coconut and refrigerate until needed.

Caramel Rum Sauce

Ingredients
300 grams sugar
60 ml water
120 ml heavy cream
60 ml dark rum

Directions
Combine sugar and water in a heavy base pan and cook on high heat until golden. Remove from heat and slowly stir in cream until smooth. Let cool.

To assemble
Unmold the caramel cream from the molds. Sandwich with thin sliced banana.
Arrange sliced banana on top, sprinkle with sugar and caramelize with heat torch.
Plate, garnishing with coconut truffles, dried banana and caramel sauce