June 5, 2013

Dear Sir,

Having been overseas for quite some time, I returned to the Island yesterday (June 4) on the American Airlines flight which landed at approximately 8.30pm and after clearing customs, a friend and I who I brought to visit Bermuda from overseas, decided to get a drink in the City of Hamilton. We went to a restaurant and bar. Having arrived in Bermuda and being happy to be here, a good dark and stormy was what I wanted. That didn't happen as the security officers told me I was not dressed appropriately. As I was told by security that "tonight is smart casual". I can respect the fact that there are rules in regards to dress codes at establishments in Bermuda but what really confused me was, as I was walking away from the establishment, two other individuals greeted the security officers in a friendly manner wearing denim shorts and a T-shirt and the other had on what looked to be a construction T-shirt with paint on his jeans [and] were allowed into the establishment.

After walking back to the bar to enquire, the security officer simply said "I don't make the rules". For argument’s sake I had on denim jeans, a V-neck T-shirt and sneakers. Having been frustrated and offended we decided to go to another bar where we were greeted and served with no problem. The purpose of this letter is to highlight the fact that establishments should hold the same standards to all of their patrons and not be selective, especially since I was bringing a guest to enjoy their first Dark and Stormy at their establishment.

THIRSTY IN BERMUDA