Bermuda

Introduction

Bermuda sits far north of the Caribbean Sea, it rest hundreds of miles north of the Bahamas but this archipelago of 120 islands and islets has a Caribbean soul. Blessed by the Gulf Stream, Bermuda’s translucent waters and pink sand beaches rival those of more tropical climes. Bermuda boasts 75 miles (120km) of dramatic coastline. Bermuda may seem like one continuous landmass to visitors, but is actually made up of 181 islands, islets and rocks. Most of these are uninhabited, but eight of the larger ones are linked by bridges and one causeway that form the subtropical paradise visitors cannot resist.

History

Bermuda had no indigenous residents when a British ship, the Sea Venture, wrecked on treacherous reefs in 1609, forcing its Virginia-bound passengers and crew to eke out an existence. That incident forged an enduring link between Great Britain and Bermuda, which remains a stalwart member of the Commonwealth.

Culture

Bermudians are descendants of slaves from the West Indies and West Africa, English settlers, Irish adventurers, exiled North American Indian prisoners and Portuguese immigrants. The typical Bermudian accent can still be traced to Elizabethan English. Bermudians honour old world manners: "Good morning" and "Good afternoon" are an absolute must for them.

Map

To See

Recreational opportunities abound in Bermuda.  It’s a mecca for scuba divers who flock here to explore more than 300 shipwrecks that dot the nearby reefs.  Bermuda boasts eight golf courses; while many are private, visitors can often arrange to play them or take advantage of the public courses.  Visit Bermuda’s wealth of historic sights, especially the atmospheric town of St. George’s and the Royal Naval Dockyard, a 19th century fortress featuring the Maritime Museum, the Commissioner’s House and the Bermuda Arts Centre. Other island highlights are the Botanical Gardens, the Underwater Exploration Institute and the Crystal Caves.

Useful information

Airports: L.F. Wade International Airport.

Area: 54 km2 (21 square miles).

Business: Most stores and shops on the island are opened Monday through Saturday, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., though some shopping centres do offer extended hours. Banks are usually open from Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Capital: Hamilton.

Climate: The hottest part of the year is May through mid-October, when temperatures hover between 23°C 29°C.  During the winter months, temperatures average a balmy 21°C while summer months are somewhat drier, but rainfall is spread relatively equally throughout the year.

Clothing: Smart casual. The atmosphere of the island is still imbued with British reserve and modesty is the prevailing rule. Bathing suits, abbreviated tops and short shorts may be worn at our beaches and pools. The beaches are relaxed, but there are no nude or semi-nude beaches on the island. Casual sportswear may be worn at lunchtime in restaurants, but many dining establishments and nightclubs ask gentlemen to wear a jacket in the evenings.

Currency: Bermuda dollar ($), which trades at the same rate as the US dollar and carries the same symbol, but change is almost always given in Bermudian currency.

Customs: Every passenger (regardless of age) may import duty free accompanied alcoholic beverages not exceeding one litre of spirits and one litre of wine; and accompanied tobacco not exceeding 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars and 0.5 kilograms of tobacco. Please note that duty must be paid on beer (25% of the value).

Economy: Its economy is primarily based on providing financial services for international business and luxury facilities for tourists. Bermuda's tourism industry continues to struggle but remains the island's number two industry. Bermuda's industrial sector is largely focused on construction and agriculture is limited, with only 20% of the land being arable.

Electricity: 110 volts, 60Hz AC.

Entry & Departure requirements: Please refer to the official tourist office website link below or contact us.

Health: Hospitals frequently require up-front payment from tourists to prevent them from leaving the country without paying for medical care. Traveller’s insurance is relatively inexpensive and usually provides thorough coverage and assistance.

Holidays: New Year’s Day (01JAN), Good Friday (MAR-APR), Bermuda Day (24 MAY), National Heroes’ Day (JUN), Emancipation Day ( AUG), Somers’ Day (AUG), Labour Day (SEP), Remembrance Day (NOV), Christmas (25-26DEC).

Language: English (official), Portuguese.

Political status: Overseas territory of the UK.

Population: 69,080.

Religion: Protestant, Anglican, African Methodist, Episcopal, other Protestant, Roman Catholic.

Security: Certain types of crime are common here, as it is a popular tourist destination. Petty theft is the most common type of crime experienced by vacationers in Bermuda. Reports of purse-snatching and baggage theft are not unusual during the heavy tourism of the peak season. Valuables left unattended or in hotel rooms also occasionally disappear.

Shopping: There are some cases in which Bermuda sells items at a lower cost than visitors will find in the elsewhere due to a trade deal that Great Britain has with the island.  Be on the lookout for jewellery, watches, perfume, fine china, cashmere, tweed, crystal, and silverware.  Not only do they carry a slightly lower price, but they are often impeccably made.  It is also possible to save between 30 and 50% on certain liquors in Bermuda. 

Taxes & Service charges: Most hotels and restaurants in Bermuda add a service charge to the bill. When no service charge has been added, there are some general guidelines that you can follow: 15% is the standard for tipping your server in a restaurant or attendants who bring you drinks or food to your room.

Telecommunications: The international dialling code for Bermuda is + 441.

Time: Standard Time Zone: GMT – 4 hrs. Bermuda does operate Daylight-Saving Time.

Transportation: Driving is on the left hand side of the road. Car Rentals are not allowed. A truly Bermudian way to get around: motor scooters and pedal bikes are ideal for exploring the Island's winding streets and to stop as often as you wish in order to take in the ocean views. And ride without fear because our speed limit is never set above 20mph/32kph.

MORE INFORMATION: http://www.gotobermuda.com

West Whale Bay
Shopping
Beach
Mid Ocean Golf Course
Warwick
Walking in Bermuda
Tuckers Point
Dinner overlooking Hamilton
Catamaran
Water Street
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From: 2695 CHF/2625 €
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St Maarten & St Barthelemy : Islands Combination !!!!
From: 4195 CHF/3395 €
St Maarten & St Barthelemy : Islands Combination !!!!
From: 4195 CHF/3395 €

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