#bermudatourism

It almost seemed too easy.

The narrative in the months immediately following the announcement of the 35th America’s Cup host nation as Bermuda was convoluted.

The initial apprehension was followed by a very cautious yet infectious excitement garnered primarily by those who had heard of the Cup prior, amidst their attempts to convey the sheer magnitude of this achievement, honor and opportunity.

What followed that however, was what can simply be described as old-fashioned Bermudian cynicism and yet complexly articulated as a proud humility.

It never felt as though the rest of the world did anything but believe in us; holding a firm belief throughout the selection process, the ensuing objections and the year post-announcement, that Bermuda be not only capable, but outstanding as the host nation of an event we’ve previously taken no part in.

The uncertainty came from within. As the size and scope of the America’s Cup began to settle, Bermudians didn’t. We questioned ourselves, our lifestyle, and our resolve out of what arguably can be argued isn’t cynicism, rather a disdain for hubris and a predilection for ignoring the simple fact that our most prevalent and occasionally maddening habits are often exactly what the rest of the world seems desperate to attain.

The general consensus among many ordinary Bermudians was that we wouldn’t be ready for the America’s Cup.

The America’s Cup wasn’t ready for us.

They weren’t ready for the undivided attention we can and do give to anyone who shows a genuine interest in our tiny island.

They weren’t ready for the energy and electricity that Front Street can provide given an opportunity to shine when devoid of cars, filled instead with people and vibrancy.

They weren’t ready for the hordes of watercraft that surrounded the race course. They didn’t know how anxious we are to constantly be on the water, drink in hand, united as a nation in party.

There are few places in the world that can almost immediately and subconsciously put aside any differences at the drop of a hat. We Bermudians have a distinct knack of coming through when needed.

Sure, there will be hiccups and concerns 

We may not agree on reasons, actions, or consequences. However, give our unique people, our peculiar yet vibrant culture and our beautiful island a chance to impress and astound and more often than not we will do just that.

We succeed without even trying or believing we can. We amaze others simply by being ourselves. It really does often seem too easy how adaptable we are and how well we do this; amaze, that is.

As we deal with the inevitable hangover, both figuratively and literally, and look forward to next year and the year after; we’ll forget how quickly we picked up on the nuances of hosting a world class event and we will have designs on being a revelation yet again.

Once again, Bermuda will not only surprise the world.