Vacation Rentals by Owner

Sylvia & Craig

Guest: Sylvia & Craig (Toronto, Ontario CANADA)
Date of Stay: 05/07/12 Review Submitted: 05/24/12

After a 4 day sail from Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, we arrived in Southampton (Pompano Beach) and were greeted by Sabrina, a consummate hostess who proved to be a wealth of information about the island and the people - very welcoming and very accommodating. The flat was absolutely perfect for us. Sparkling clean, and extremely affordable. A quick bus ride to the ferry to Hamilton or St. Georges, a short walk to pick up groceries, great little kitchenette and use of the BBQ and patios. Lots of space and areas to lounge outside and occasionally snuggle with Biscuit – the cute little resident dog. We only visited a short time, and the waters were a tad cold during our stay, but next time we’ll take advantage of the water sports & beaches so close by. Thanks again Sabrina, for making our stay so wonderful. Hope to see you again soon!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great Place, Lovely Island

Guest: Heather (Ottawa, Canada)
Date of Stay: 04/19/12 Review Submitted: 05/08/12

Bermuda, with its turquoise water, pristine beaches, rugged coastlines and pastel-hued homes is one of the world’s true beauty spots and Bermudians are the country’s best ambassadors including our hostess Sabrina. We stayed in one of her modest, quiet, clean, reasonable accommodations with a million dollar hilltop view and Sabrina was most welcoming and helpful throughout our stay. Public transportation is excellent. All of this made for a lovely time on this gorgeous island.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Home away from Home

Guest: Kathy (Canada)
Date of Stay: 04/14/12 Review Submitted: 04/22/12

We stayed a week in the Loquat Garden and found it served us well. 2 adults and an 8 year old and had plenty of room to move around. The king size bed was so comfortable. The kitchen is just the right size to cook up some meals to save a little money rather than eating out all the time. Sabrina kept me informed prior to arriving and greeted us with open arms upon arrival. She is a charming woman who will offer up plenty of ideas of places to see and things to do, and will even call and make necessary arrangements for you. I felt so at home there and loved the pink cottage. Bermuda is paradise and Sabrina and her warmth made it all the more splendid. Thanks .. we will be back.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

What a glorious landscape to wake to by just opening the door!

Guest: Winterboyblues (Winnipeg, MB)
Date of Stay: 02/02/12 Review Submitted: 02/17/12

Even before arriving at the property, Sabrina was always staying in contact with me to be certain that I made it to the Island safely and to be certain that someone would be there to greet me upon my arrival. I found the accommodations very clean and Sabrina does pay attention to detail making certain that my stay was smooth and comfortable. There were no concerns with any items in the suite and if there were, Sabrina always had trades people servicing her property and the problem could have been rectified in a timely manner. In addition to the accommodations, Sabrina was very helpful with tips and advise on Island culture, eateries and places of interest that one must check out while on the Island. Sabrina is well known around the Island so when transportation was necessary, she had referrals to provide and when called upon, the party providing the transportation seemed to give extra care. I would stay with Sabrina again and would have no problem in recommending this property to others. As she has various suites to choose from on her property, a comfortable, clean environment is easy to find no matter the size of your travelling party.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Committed Host

Guest: Franks
Date of Stay: 01/18/12 Review Submitted: 02/21/12

I have known Sabrina for more years than we would care to mention ... it would reveal too much about how old we are!! She is a very warm and open person who is caring and honest. She will go out of her way to ensure her guests' needs are met. Sabrina is extremely well travelled, so she is aware of what travellers want - location, quality accommodations and activities. You will not find a better or more committed host.

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Love Bermuda!

Guest: Dan and Elise (Cincinnati, OH)
Date of Stay: 10/02/11 Review Submitted: 10/11/11

I'm glad I didn't read the previous review before we traveled to Bermuda or I would have likely looked for other accommodations! Maybe our expectations were more reasonable?? but we found this unit to be just fine! The internet worked, shower and A/C was fine...we understand the water situation on the island so we showered when we wanted, but were quick about it. Why would we want to use the A/C when we were away? The A/C cooled the room off just fine in 2-3 minutes. We found Sabrina, the owner to be very very friendly and helpful in all ways. She was there to help when we needed information or directions, but didn't "hover" over us. Friends of our rented one of the upstairs units and they likewise enjoyed it. They had wi-fi in there unit since he had to connect to respond to his work several times last week. The room was comfortable, clean, and very relaxing. The hot tub was closed due to water shortages on the island, but frankly, I stay away from ALL hot tubs.... All appliances worked fine, TV/Cable was fine....so I could watch the MLB playoffs just fine. We found the price/value to be perfect. We had friends who stayed at that Southampton Princess Hotel...and paid about 3-4 times what we did. A five minute walk down the hill is Oleander Moped Rentals. $200 for a week's rental! A great way to see the island. One more thing: Our Delta flight to the island was cancelled so we showed up a day late. Even though we had a contract for 7 nights, Sabrina didn't charge us for that night. She also waived our telephone and internet fees. This kind of hospitality doesn't exist in many places these days! Net, a great place to relax, hear the frogs sing in the evening, the birds in the day, and a great spot to use as a "home base" when seeing the island.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Nice & Peaceful!

Guest: Schwenksville, PA
Date of Stay: 09/10/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

Thank your for letting us stay on short notice. Very nice & peaceful place to stay. Thanks Again!

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Totally Horrible Rental and Owner

Guest: Honest Renter (Boston, Massachusetts)
Date of Stay: 08/20/11 Review Submitted: 09/26/11

We had a reservation for three nights accommodations for our party of 7 in August, 2011. The owner of Bermuda Connections rents three rooms at her private residence. It is far from an "estate" as her listing calls it. We rented all three rooms. The photos in the listing do not accurately reflect the rental's appearance and amenities. The rooms were a bit worn but the price was reasonable and we knew we would only be in the rooms to sleep. We had planned to stay there regardless of their outward appearance. However on closer inspection, they were AWFUL! First, there was a note asking us to restrict our showers to 5 minutes each, per day and to turn the A/C off when we were not in the rooms. The note also stated that we would be charged an additional fee if these procedures were not followed. Bermuda is warm and humid! We needed the use of A/C and the shower as necessary! We were not told when booking rooms that there were restrictions in place. Our internet access, which we paid extra for, did not work. The overall cleanliness of the rooms was poor at best. There was mold on the the walls and in the shower. The mattress on the sleep sofa was so filthy that three adults slept in one bed just so nobody had to sleep on it. We had stained and torn linens and the mattress pad had stains on it that appeared to be blood spots. The exterior yard and building were no better. The advertised hot tub was unfilled and looked like it hadn’t been working in some time. There was overflowing trash, a rusted ladder and dirty mops outside our rooms, and dog droppings on the lawn. The ocean view was visible if you stood on your toes and squinted, you could see some water (miles away). We didn't mind that the furnishings were old, but the filth was unacceptable. We left the next morning and have been trying to get our money back, but the owner won't budge. We tried to be reasonable, asking only for a refund for the two nights we didn't stay there but she refuses. She didn't even refund our internet fee or our security deposit. I only wish I could post the photos we took of this rental so we could save some other vacationer from this rental hell. We filed a complaint with the Bermuda Consumer Affairs Department and we have filed a dispute with our credit card company for the amount of the deposit. This is a perfect example of "if it sounds too good..." The owner is a nightmare to deal with. Our advice is to totally avoid this rental!

Owner response:HONEST OWNER, EXCELLENT VALUE FOR DOLLAR Bermuda Consumer Affairs inspected & didn’t identify any reasonable fault. I am a well respected astute business woman with over 37 years in the service & Hospitality industry who goes beyond the ‘call of duty’ and holds my reputation & business in supreme regard & does not misrepresent myself or our properties. The real reason for their Review; They wanted more ‘on site’ amenities for their 3 teenage sons than what our property offered. Before accepting their non-refundable deposit I informed them that the Resorts ( they relocated to is literally on the ocean,1 minute drive from us) amenities, Hot Tub,Heated Pool,Private Beach,Tennis Court,Spa facilities,transportation to bus & ferry was not available to them as our guests. They may have felt if they patronized their restaurants they could access the amenities. As unregistered guest they would be a liability. Excerpt of their emails: Aug 1 We have a very tentative itinerary. We sat down as a family & decided that the main objective of this vacation was to spend time on Bermuda's lovely beaches & not run about.August 8 As for dinner,we decided to dine at the Resort Saturday. Tuesday we will return to the Resort for breakfast & off to the airport. Attempts to ‘RAPE’ me of my ONLY livelihood,compromise my children’s education,mar my reputation via electronic media & otherwise.Dispute the NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT they authorized me to charge to their Credit Card. My 6 pg reply addressed their concerns, to-date we’ve received no response. Climate caused metal frame rust stains on mattress,NOT blood.Exposed grout,not mold;small area of mildew,behind sofa.Dog droppings not in their area.Bermuda newspaper 6/29 Drought continues. Government & Public Works required conservation of water which costs $80 a load. Evidence proves Internet Usage.Garbage collected Mon & Thur. Arrived Sunday 2 hrs early, greeted,allowed to Check-In. If our property was that unacceptable, why did they spend one night here? Sept 19,‘Honest Renter’emailed me:We have not written any public comment at VRBO nor written any other public statement. At this time, your reputation is between us and those parties Every guest receive Rules, Regulations,Policies & Procedures,WELCOME & BOOKING letter advising what to expect from Island life, subtropical climate & Ecological considerations;humidity,mold,mildew,ants,cockroaches. Electricity expensive & are asked to conserve to enable low rental rates.

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Truly Brilliant Bermuda Welcome!

Guest: Cumbran, Wales, U.K.
Date of Stay: 08/15/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

Family of 3 from England Thank you Sabrina and family for a truly brillient Bermuda Welcome. The 'Loquat Garden" apartment was lovely. Shame about the rain!

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You get what you pay for.

Guest: Amy (West Chester, PA, )
Date of Stay: 08/03/11 Review Submitted: 10/09/11

My husband, 17 year old son and I stayed here. Very good price for accomodations in Bermuda however I wouldn't stay here again. The second night there I saw a 2 1/2 - 3 inch roach in the shower - that was enough for me. I was squeamish the whole time every time I opened a drawer or cabinet however I didn't see another one until the morning we were leaving when I noticed a small, one inch size one on my sons toothbrush. The bed was extremely comfortable however the couch kinda smelled and was very uncomfortable. It was nice being able to cook our own food since restaurants are pricey in Bermuda and the tiny kitchen provided us with everything we needed to do so. If you don't rent mopeds you have to walk down a long lane to catch the bus and then up-hill on the way back at the end of the day - not fun!!!

Owner response:We greatly appreciate the time our guests take to write a Review, including the numerous accolades written in our Guest Book. For future travelers kindly be advised that prior to accepting your deposit & confirming your reservation know that the quality of your stay at our properties & Bermuda our Island home is paramount; Every guest receives information, photographs of our properties, Rules, Regulations, Policies & Procedures. Our WELCOME & BOOKING letter advises you about what to expect whilst here & about ISLAND LIFE. We look forward to sharing our beauty, culture & heritage, therefore when you stay with us in our home you experience local hospitality. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, Bermuda’s subtropical climate,regardless how affluent a property is, it’s not exempt of humidity which creates mold, mildew & musty smells. Lizards & serenading tree frogs are what make us unique. Guest are advised to keep food or items in containers so as not to attract ants or cockroaches, which enter via doors, windows, grocery bags & luggage. Bermuda’s whitewashed stepped roofs designed to channel our most precious resource, rainwater into underground tanks. The main supply of fresh water as there are no rivers or lakes; hence you are asked to conserve water. We want you to enjoy your Bermuda experience & as an Ambassador with 35 years in the service & Hospitality industry who takes pride in maintaining the properties offering personalized service, answers questions, give directions, make recommendations, reservations & organizes tours. We are not a Resort. Nestled on a golf course with unobstructed Ocean Views, our fully furnished, tastefully decorated Studio Suites offer private entrances, patios, en-suite bathrooms, amenities & comforts you would expect in a home away from home. Excellent rates & value. Guest are asked to contact us immediately if you have a problem & afford us an opportunity to rectify it, rather than leave us unhappy, return home & write a Review. We recognize that we cannot please everybody all the time as expectations are individual. "Jewel of the Atlantic," Bermuda is less than 2 hrs away from most eastern US airports. Our incomparable weather, pink sand beaches, breadth of historic sites & warm friendly people. It is a privilege to be ranked so favorably by a popular travel magazine who voted Bermuda "Best Island 16 times since 1994. A testament to the commitment of service that our island offers visitors every season.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers

It was a Great Experience

Guest: Quebec
Date of Stay: 08/02/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

Miss Sabrina is a respetful and kindly person. We appreciate the cleanliness and tranquility of the Studio Suite "Harbour Ocean View". Of course Bermuda is great! We speant 7 nights. Au Revoir!

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We appreciated the hospitality of Sabrina

Guest: Montreal, Quebec
Date of Stay: 08/02/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

Bermuda is picturesque! It is a unique island in the world I see. We appreciate a lot of our vacation and everyday good things happened. Peoplem nature gorgeous flowers and trees, colorfull houses etc. We appreciate the hospitality of Sabrina, a kindly hostess

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Happy to have found you!

Guest: Montreal, Quebec
Date of Stay: 07/29/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

Sabrina, Thank you for sharing your lovely home. Now my friends are leaving to return home, but I know I'll be back! Happy to have found you.

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9 great nights!

Guest: Cincinatti, Ohio
Date of Stay: 07/16/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

Thanks so much for your warmth, flexibility and help during our stay

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A place to call home!

Guest: Branford, CT
Date of Stay: 07/10/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

We had so much fun exploring Bermuda and having a nice, cozy place to come "home" to each night! Thank you Sabrina

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Great Views!

Guest: Raleigh, N.C.
Date of Stay: 07/10/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

Thanks Sabrina for all your hospitiality, the great views and ALL the stary nights.

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Excellent Accommodations

Guest: Port Elizabeth, SOUTH AFRICA
Date of Stay: 07/10/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

Thank you for your hospitality! We had a wonderful 8 days on the Island with EXCELLENT accommodations; We will be back!

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Thanks Sabrina for your many kindnesses!

Guest: St. Johns, Newfoundland, Canada
Date of Stay: 07/04/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

15 nights July 4th to 19th. Your very helpful suggestions of where to go what to see & dining suggestions. Thanks for the Special Sunday, when you invited us to share with your wonderful family the Bermuda Regiment Camp Ceremony which your children participated in. We will NEVER forget you and our wonderful visit to Bermuda. "The Honeymooners".

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You are a friend in Paradise

Guest: Software Developer & Business Analyst
Date of Stay: 06/19/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

Sabrina thank you for a wonderful week. We enjoyed our room and you and your family were very warm and friendly. It's nice to know we have a new friend in this beautiful paradise. We look forward to our next visit.

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Clean and comfy & GREAT VALUE!

Guest: Chicago, Illinoisa
Date of Stay: 06/15/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

Sabrina is such a qarm and thoughtful hostess and our accommodations were clean and comfy... a great calue. See you when we return

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Owner is an Angel among us!

Guest: Lee
Date of Stay: 05/01/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

I found the listing descriptions to be accurate and helpful. All rental units are clean and well maintained. I know this because i have rented on multiple occassions. The photos on this website are REAL images of the ACTUAL properties I've previously rented. Sabrina is an Angel among us! She could not have been more helpful in ALL matters relating to my renting needs. furthermore, she is an honest individual, with a kind heart. I have no hesitation in recommending Ms. Kirby's properties to anyone requiring accommodations.

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Accommodations were AWESOME!

Guest: Oakland, California
Date of Stay: 01/01/11 Review Submitted: 10/15/11

Sabrina your warmth and kindness was greatly appreciated. The many directions you gave, suggestions for sightseeing and accommodations were AWESOME! We definately plan on visiting agian. Thanks for being so amazing!

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