Keeping up with the Kisalas

After residing in Bermuda for almost 1.5 years, this island of 22 miles has never ceased to amaze me at every turn. Gazing out into the clear blue waters with ribbons of turquoise bliss makes me think every time, “pinch me!” There are still so many little parts to explore, parks to adventure through, rocks to be climbed, cliffs to be jumped off of, and railway trail to be uncovered. This is one of my favourite sights – an unassuming driftwood gate that is yearning for you to walk through and gives you a welcoming invitation that is so enticing.

Railway Trail: Back in time, a train used to transport passengers from one of end of the island (Somerset) to the other (St. Georges). Now, since being abandoned and removed, a scenic and hidden path stretches across the heart of the island. I fell in love with the railway trail the moment I set foot on it. It has become my regular running route, starting in Paget (right by Modern Mart) and heading towards Wickwick/Southhampton, depending on how energetic I feel. No single part of this trail is the same, which makes it that much more special. It is adorned by cyclist, dogs and leisurely walker, joggers training for marathons, and wild chickens. You will find solace and tranquility here while admiring every colour of hibiscus flower, local fruit, sprawling vines, lush vegetation, exposed limestone, friendly lizards, and the natural framework it serves for the paradise that surrounds it. “Afternoon!” you exclaim with a large grin while you greet fellow trail members in passing. 

“End to End” is an island wide event that is held at the beginning of May, where you get to walk from St. George’s all the way to Dockyard. It is a true celebration of the modest beauty that Bermuda possesses, which involves the participation of the whole community. Although some people will complain about blisters and losing toe nails and try to convince you to do “Middle to End” instead – do not succumb to this nonsense, as End to End is the only way to go. Only seven hours of epic journeying! I’m so glad my ace-girl, Heather, has promised to walk with me this year !!

Hey, and who knows, maybe you’ll end up on the front page of the local news.

On a marvelous Sunday, we decided to explore a new section of the railway trail that we’ve never done before. There has been some on going restoration in Flatt’s so we were excited to see the new bridges and where it would guide us. The hike with the Kisala’s started by the aquarium and lead us to Shelly Bay beach, onto the abandoned chimney, through the mini inlets, waved to by some bobbing Portuguese Man-O-War jellies along the North Shore waterfront, pit stop at Crawl station and across the Bailey Bay’s footbridge.

The fact that Bermuda still proves to have novel experiences is very thrilling, however, the Kisala’s and I realize we have to trek back, which we’re less enthusiastic about. Soon, my stomach is rumbling and it’s starting to show I’ve lost my momentum and I’m trailing behind the Kisala’s who are super fit. Mango is a veteran touch rugby player and has swam in triathlons. Mikey is our designated setter and blocker a.k.a. “net specialist” in volleyball and also a decorated sailing crew mate.

We finally make it back and enjoy a picnic lunch whilst being enthralled by the fabulous Flatt’s backdrop.

“Bermuda is another world.”

Hubert Smith

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