Small though it is, we do divide our island into smaller sections of land, or parishes. Way back in 1616, Richard Norwood's survey first separated our island into eight privately owned pieces of land. These eight parishes reflected the principal shareholders in the original Somers Island Company. The ninth parish, St. George's, takes its name from England's patron saint and Sir George Somers, the admiral of the Sea Venture, which wrecked off Bermuda in 1609.

Our three main towns sprang up long ago as centres for commerce, government and entertainment. They remain thriving examples of the same today.

Each parish and town offers its own charms and attractions; none is far from the beach. And all of them include gracious accommodations for the island visitor.