Bermuda observes the British tradition of afternoon tea. Many visitors prefer to have tea at their hotels, which provides a good opportunity to meet fellow guests. Others like to visit a variety of hotels for afternoon tea; all of the big resort hotels (including Elbow Beach, The Fairmont Hamilton Princess, Sonesta Beach Resort, and The Fairmont Southampton Princess) offer tea to guests and nonguests. Our favorites are the traditional spreads at the Hamilton Princess and Elbow Beach.

Tea is usually served daily from 3 to 5pm indoors or out, depending on the weather. Dress is more casual than in London; men can wear Bermuda shorts and a shirt with sleeves, and women can wear a simple cotton dress (swimwear, however, is frowned upon unless tea is served right at the pool). It's always a good idea to call ahead and reserve a table.

Among restaurants and cafes, the one offering the best traditional afternoon tea is Paradiso Cafe.