Newstead Belmont Hills is now accepting Bitcoin, launching an app-based payment system at its front desk which allows guests to pay with a scan of a unique barcode using the camera on their smartphone.
Larry Doyle, owner of Newstead Belmont Hills, said, “We see Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies becoming another mainstream way that people will pay for goods and services in the future, as people understand it better and get more comfortable with the concept.”
“With that in mind, we decided that we would be part of the innovation in Bermuda – a small boutique hotel on an island being part of leading the way, if you will.”
Premier and Minister of Finance David Burt stated, “I applaud the initiative undertaken by Newstead Belmont Hills to accept virtual currencies as payment by their customers.
“Bermuda is looking to become a world leader in FinTech so I encourage other organizations in Bermuda to consider adopting this payment method.”
Bushara Bushara, General Manager of the hotel, said, “It’s as easy as using a credit card; guests can pay with a simple scan of a unique barcode using the camera on their own smartphone, then the payment processor takes care of the rest.”
“Expedia, the online travel agency, already has the option to pay with Bitcoin and we know of a number of hotels in other jurisdictions are already accepting it. We are pleased to be at the forefront of this here in Bermuda.”
“Newstead Belmont Hills will be adding the payment option to our website in the very near future so that guests can pay online with it as well.”
