The Fairmont Hamilton is celebrating Heritage Month with a special historical tour.The hotel first opened its doors in 1885 and has since played a pivotal role in Bermuda tourism.It was known affectionately throughout much of its early history as “the pink palace”, because of its pink regal architecture.One of its most celebrated visitors was Mark Twain author of ‘Tom Sawyer’. A bronze statue in his likeness now sits in the hotel lobby.“Many people are aware of the hotel’s connection with Mark Twain and know that the hotel is named after England’s Princess Louise, but they are fascinated to discover the critical role that Bermuda — and this hotel in particular — played as a spy centre during Second World War with more than 1,100 military censors using the hotel to pour through mail, radio and telegraphic traffic intercepted by the Allies,” said Rehanna Palumbo, the hotel’s sales and marketing director.“The hotel is truly a treasure chest filled with stories of the personalities and world events that forever shaped the history of this Country and the world.”The 45-minute tour is free and starts in the hotel lobby at 2pm today.The tour is offered as part of the Bermuda Hospitality Institute’s Hospitality Trail in honour of Heritage Month. This year’s theme is Hospitality Through the Ages. Each week this month, a different part of the Island will be highlighted in special guides put out by BHI.The guides will featuring eco and cultural activities, sites of architectural and historical significance, dining and accommodations and leisure activities and entertainment.“There are so many places that Bermudians and residents alike aren’t familiar with,” said BHI CEO Karla Lacey. “The Hospitality Trail guides were developed to encourage the community at large to get out and experience the Island through new eyes.”The first guide, for May 1 to 7, covers the central area and the City of Hamilton.“In celebration of Heritage Month’s focus on hospitality, there are opportunities to take part in activities that aren’t normally open to the general public,” said Ms Lacey. “For example, being able to enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast at the Royal Palms Hotel and taking part in the Bermudian-style tea at Rosedon Hotel after participating in their respective tours on May 1.”As added incentive, a variety of businesses are offering discounts and specials to those who mention the Hospitality Trail. And for those who complete it each week, there are prizes to be won.The Island’s Eastern areas will be highlighted May 9 to 13; sound and shore May 14 to 20, and Western areas May 21 to 27.Copies of the guides can be found in The Royal Gazette each Monday or at the following locations: Visitor Service Centre, Ferry Terminal; Department of Community and Cultural Affairs; Bermuda Department of Tourism; and Bermuda Hospitality Institute. Copies can also be downloaded from www.BHI.bm.