We just returned from almost a memory-filled week in Bermuda. We were so thankful with the many helpful hints on this board so here are some of our own to pass on in no particular order/priority. We stayed at Elbow Beach with one child. While brushed with tropical storm Franklin in the beginning of the week it didn't ruin the week - the crashing surf was a benefit as otherwise Elbow Beach waters are fairly calm (snorkeling calm).

- Elbow Beach Hotel was an absolute treat! We stayed closer to the beach instead of in the main hotel. Outstanding views from around the property though if situated just above the tennis courts you won't see the ocean. Also keep in mind if choosing a cottage where the main road runs - the traffic if running in front of your room is busy and we could see how other tripadvisor reviewers were annoyed. Very attentive and helpful staff overall. The rude & inconsiderate room guests before us had not checked out in time (they "disappeared" for the day without telling the hotel) so the staff made arrangements for us to use a main hotel room to change in. (I hope the hotel charged them at least a 1/2 day as per policy.) That room seemed fine and certainly not dilapitated as some reviewers would lead you to believe. Concierge needs an update on how to handle bus transfers but overall quite pleased with their prompt service and pointers. We tried Lido (dinner), Mickey's (lunch and dinner), and Veranda lounge (lunch). Lido has NYC restaurant prices so be prepared. They did serve up an off-menu dish for our son so that was nice. The maitre de was a character (that's a good thing!). Mickey's service was a little slow which was surprising since they seemed to have plenty of waiters on hand. Their salads were just right. Wonderful to eat right on the beach (literally). Do make reservations in the morning for any of the restaurants for dinner or even the day prior. Guests at Elbow Beach were a mix of seniors, families of all ages and honeymooners. All were treated with equal respect and attentiveness by the staff. You can keep in touch with the outside world by using their lobby computer terminal - often a 15 min wait as they only have one, they should add another one. Rooms have refrigerators with enough room amidst the hotel provided drinks/snacks to store your own containers of juice & milk and soda cans. Service drops off one bottle of water per person a night so put that in there too. Use the empty/dry bottle to bring back the gorgeous sand as a cheap souvenir - the bottle even says Elbow Beach, Bermuda on it! Grocery store is a 15min walk downhill exiting to the right of the hotel entrance. Paraquet restaurant (5min walk to the right) is more than sufficient for a normal priced breakfast.

- Other restaurants we tried in Hamilton were Lobster Pot (very casual and food was quite good) and Barracuda Grill (more dressy and top notch menu). Again, the restaurant staffs were very attentive to our son which was a nice touch. In other words he wasn't ignored or looked down upon as if what are you doing in our posh restaurant (Barracuda).

- In lieu of not being able to rent a car, the bus system and taxis worked just fine. Taxis can be expensive ($10 + tip just to go into nearby (10mins) Hamilton. Buses go anywhere and everywhere but have limited service on holidays and Sundays. Delightful & friendly locals will chat with you on the bus.

- Sightseeing: If a non-beach day (or just need a break from the sun) do try the Underwater Exploration Institute (on outskirts of Hamilton) for great exhibits on the history of diving and Bermuda Triangle. Also hit the Crystal Caves and the Zoo/ Aquarium. We zipped through Hamilton and figured our time was better served on the beach than shopping. Elbow Beach hotel gift shops have the standard postcards & sundries plus a small clothing store worth a peek.

- Other beaches: Go see Jobson's Cove (great snorkeling especially for youngsters as it's well protected from the surf) and the string of beaches/coves between Jobson's and Horseshoe Beach. The rock formations are worth the side trip alone! Bring your own snorkle gear from home - cheaper than renting plus no one else has stuck the tube in their mouths.

Bermuda's fantastic!!!