TXKF, LF Wade International, Bermuda

Morning’s cruise was a tapestry woven from dog snores, the occasional engine cough, and Cropduster’s running commentary about clouds shaped suspiciously like famous politicians. Bermuda did not disappoint. No one properly appreciates the joys of a strong cup of island coffee and ramen eaten at sunrise—except, perhaps, a humorist with jet lag. Lani and Kai conducted themselves at the tarmac like customs inspectors, making me grateful that my only contraband was a withering celebrity autobiography. There, I witnessed the Historic Town of St. George and its fortifications—a UK World Heritage Site whose ramparts have endured everything since 1612 except a decent cable package. True adventure’s measure, I reflected, is not in its distance, but in its ability to shake off the years and win arguments with history.

Coffee survived touchdown and led us in pursuit of nourishment. We stumbled into “Noodle Tide,” a ramen shop cozy enough for two dogs, an aviator, and a scribe. The chef’s Bermuda Sunrise Bowl arrived steaming and fragrant: shoyu broth, yellowtail snapper, island chicken, caramelized Bermuda onions, carrots, peas, scotch bonnet oil, and a garnish of grilled loquat—a meal that could put history itself to shame. The noodles swam the bowl with purpose. Even Kai, who fancies himself above table scraps, insisted on a second sniff. The dogs advocated strongly for cuisine diplomacy—sample local, beg global.Read more