Bermuda Is Back in Business, Quick Recovery After Hurricane Nicole. #Bermuda #BermudaStrong

EXPLORE STAY PLAN DEALS

BERMUDA IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS  Island Bounces Back from Hurricane Nicole Hotels as well as Airport Open and Operational Within 24 hours, Bermuda bounced back from one of the strongest storms in the island country’s long history. Hurricane Nicole, a dangerous Category 4 storm, hit Bermuda Thursday, October 13 toppling trees, flooding neighborhood streets and knocking out power to 90% of the island. However, strict building codes and a tireless commitment to hurricane preparedness paved the way for a wide-ranging recovery effort immediately following the storm. By this afternoon, power was restored to 22,000 customers with 5,300 remaining. There were no major injuries nor loss of life as a result of Hurricane Nicole. All hotels are open with little to no damage and the airport is now open. “Bermuda bounces back quickly from storms thanks to a community spirit that is evident island-wide. Hospitality is in our blood - we take care of our visitors on-island and are ready to welcome new visitors from our airline and cruise ship partners, said Victoria Isley, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer. “Bermuda is on track this year to welcome the most visitors to the island since 2008 – and to be back online within 24 hours of such a major storm is a testament to Bermuda’s dedication to visitors.” For example, hotels such as the Fairmont Southampton and Grotto Bay entertained guests during the storm with a Hurricane Party and Rum Cake Bingo respectively. The Hamilton Princess was fully operational through the storm, including Marcus restaurant. And planes touched down in Bermuda Thursday, October 14 with new visitors ready to soak up island life in Bermuda.   Here are some updates on where we stand now: The L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA), as well as the causeway, the main road serving the airport, both reopened as of today, Friday, October 14, one day after Hurricane Nicole. All of Bermuda's hotel properties are open and welcoming guests. All followed comprehensive hurricane preparation plans to ensure the safety and security of their guests and colleagues. They have sustained very little damage as a result of the hurricane and clean-up is underway. Buses and ferries will be running on normal routes and schedules tomorrow. Public parks and beaches are open. The majority of visitor attractions are open for business. Work crews from the Ministry of Public Works, Department of Parks, the Royal Bermuda Regiment and Belco continue their clearing and restoration works around Bermuda.  For the most up to date information on the clean-up efforts of Hurricane Nicole, please refer to www.gov.bm.

Travelore Tips: Recommended Deals On Winter Beach Escapes

(photo: Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa)

Winter arrived with a big snowy bang across much of America, which has many folks already pining for an escape to warmer climes. If your family is ready to trade the snow for some sunshine and sand, here are five tremendous deals at kid-friendly beach resorts to get you packing.

Disney's Aulani Resort
Where: Oahu, Hawaii Why: Because you can save 25 percent at Disney's only Hawaiian resort, which brims with family-friendly appeal while also managing to deliver an authentic Hawaiian experience. The Deal: Get your fourth night free plus complimentary breakfast for two adults (or kids ages 10 and up) during your stay. Book by Jan. 15, 2014 for travel Jan. 5-Apr. 7, 2014. Some blackout dates apply.

Fairmont Southampton
Where: Southampton, Bermuda Why: Because beautiful Bermuda is less than a two-hour flight from Northeast gateway cities, and a sweet promo at the plush-yet-family-friendlyFairmont Southampton delivers a terrific way to save all winter. The Deal: Book the Free Nights this Winter promo and every third night of your stay is free. Available for travel through Apr. 30, 2014.

Pacific Terrace Hotel
(photo: Pacific Terrace Hotel)

Where: San Diego, California Why: Because the beachfront Pacific Terrace Hotel is all about relaxed luxury and boasts a super location just two miles from Belmont Park's famous Giant Dipper roller coaster and four miles from SeaWorld. The Deal: Book theWinter Deal Package and you'll get your second night for half-price, plus receive 50-percent off breakfast and complimentary bike rentals and wi-fi. Available for travel through Apr. 30, 2014.

Club Med Ixtapa Pacific

Where: Ixtapa, Mexico Why: Because Club Med is offering the lowest rates of the year at eight of its all-inclusive, family-friendly beach resorts in North America and the Caribbean, including the stunning Club Med Ixtapa Pacific. The Deal: During the Semi-Annual Sale, all-inclusive rates begin at just $119 per person, per night -- and kids 4 and under stay free. Book by Jan. 8, 2014, for travel through June 27, 2014.

(MORE: Find more kid-friendly island getaways.)

Jekyll Island Club Hotel
(photo: Jekyll Island Club Hotel)

Where: Jekyll Island, Georgia Why: Because the elegant, kid-friendly Jekyll Island Club -- a former haunt of Rockefellers, Goodyears, and their millionaire pals -- is celebrating its 127th anniversary by offering an unbeatable rate that's good throughout January. The Deal: Book the January $127 Special and score a luxurious getaway for just $127 a night. Available for stays Jan.1-31, 2014.

Contributed by Suzanne Rowan Kelleher