See This, Skip That: Bermuda

— -- Easy access is a big reason for Bermuda’s allure – two hours from many East Coast airports. But then there are the friendly locals, the rich history and those pink sand beaches, which help explain why this British Independent Overseas Territory is affectionately known as the Jewel of the Atlantic. These are a few of the many unique experiences Bermuda has to offer.

Skip Summer, Go in WinterEverybody loves Bermuda in the summer; perfect sunny weather lures big crowds from April through September. But don’t rule out a winter visit! Temps are cooler, yes, hovering in the 60s from November to March. But a comfortable, mild climate prevails, the crowds are a lot thinner and the rates can be half off summer’s highs. For the 2014-2015 winter season, an island-wide promotion is giving visitors a free night’s stay for 3- to 5-night bookings. One tip: schedule some activities, like water sports, ahead of time since many companies operate reduced hours, or close, during the winter.

Book Summer, Forget the HurricaneHurricane season in Bermuda is June through November, although a hurricane hitting this island is considered rare. Either way, if you do want to visit in summer, don’t let fears of a storm stop you. Members of the Bermuda Hotel Association – popular properties like the Coco Reef Resort, Grotto Bay Beach Club and both of Fairmont’s AAA 4-Diamond resorts – guarantee stays. You’re allowed cancellations with no penalties if a hurricane is predicted within 200 miles of Bermuda, and within three days. If a property is damaged and closed for repairs, guests are invited back for a complimentary stay within one year of the hotel reopening.

Skip the Boutique, Shop for CraftsLocated in the Cooperage building at the Royal Naval Dockyard, the Bermuda Crafts Market is more than just a place to shop. This is an artistic haven, home to a mix of local artists who have called the market home for years. Hunt through jewelry, sea glass art, cedar-made wares, quilts and ceramics. This is a great spot to shop for Christmas ornaments and pick up a few rum cakes.

Skip the Wine, Sip the RumFine dining reigns supreme in Bermuda, so a glass of fine wine is often a must. But you’ll quickly learn that rum runs rampant here. Ingredients are generally imported and a handful of distilleries, including Bacardi, craft a variety of fine rum. The Dark n’ Stormy is a trademark – a proprietary cocktail by Gosling’s of Bermuda made with Black Seal rum and ginger beer. But rum inspires a bevy of other must-try sippers, too, like the Shrub, made with rum and sour oranges, the Rum Swizzle, which blends rum with apricot brandy and honey, and the Milk Punch, with black rum, milk and lemons. May I have another?