About Bermuda
History:
Bermuda was discovered by Spanish explorer Juan de Bermudez in 1511; however Bermuda's real history began in 1609. Admiral Sir George Somers and a fleet of nine ships set sail from Plymouth England on route to Jamestown Virginia. During a serve storm the Sea Venture flagship was separated from the fleet and wrecked on Bermuda's reefs. The crew made it to land and began to explore and map the island. Bermuda became a British Colony.
Location:
Bermuda is a 21 square mile island located in the North Atlantic Ocean. The closest point is 640 miles away, Cape Hatteras, North Carolina.
Parishes:
Bermuda is made up of nine parishes, similar to districts or counties in other countries. The parishes were formed in the early 1600's during the British settlement. Each parish was named after a British sponsor of the parish. Within the parishes you will find, nature reserves, beaches, churches, historic buildings, restaurants, local attractions and brightly colored homes with white roof tops. The three main parishes visitors are encouraged to see St. George's, Pembroke and Sandy's.
Climate:
Bermuda's climate is sub-tropical. Temperatures vary between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit during the months of April to November. December through March is cool, with temperatures between 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit.
Population:
Bermuda's population is 61,586.
Language:
English is the official language and Portuguese is also spoken. Bermudians are known to be friendly people. It is common to hear greetings of “Good Morning” and “Good Afternoon” when passing people on the street.
Local Food:
Bermuda has several exquisite restaurants however traditional local cuisine includes the following: Sunday codfish & potato breakfast, fish cakes, fish sandwiches, fish chowder & Outerbridge's Sherry peppers, conch chowder, mussel pie, cassava pie, hoppin' John (peas & rice), Portuguese red bean soup, Bermuda rum cake, Bermuda honey, Bermuda ginger beer, dark & stormy drink, rum swizzle and Christmas pudding.
Culture:
Bermuda's culture is a rich fusion of British, American, African, American Indian and Portuguese heritage. Music and dance have played an important role in the life of Bermudians. The colorful and rhythmic Gombey Dance, was influenced by American Indians and African slaves who were brought into the island during the 1600s. Bermuda's national sport is Cricket and is played during the two day public holiday known as Cup Match.
Dress Code:
There are no nude or semi-nude beaches in Bermuda. Please visit Bermuda Dress Code
Transportation:
Public transportation includes the bus, ferry and taxi. Scooters are also available for rent.
Electricity:
The electrical current in Bermuda is 110 v, 60 H2 AC (same as in the US and Canada). European visitors will need to purchase an adapter for the usage.
Currency:
The local currency used is Bermuda Dollars and US Dollars. The Bermuda dollar is equivalent to the US dollar.
ATM Machines:
Are located throughout the island at various stores as well as at the major banks HSBC, Butterfield Bank and Clarien Bank.
Government:
Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory with a high degree of internal self-government. The head of state is the Queen who appoints a Governor to represent her in Bermuda. There are two legislative chambers – House of Assembly and Senate.
Immigration Laws:
- A Valid passport confirming proof of citizenship and identification are required to visit Bermuda
- A round-trip ticket or other proof of onward travel to a county of origin is required
- The maximum time allowed to visit the island is 90 days (three months). Extensions are granted by the Department of Immigration
Airlines serving our Island
There are daily nonstop flights from major US cities, Canada and the United Kingdom:
Air Canada
AirTrans Airways
American Airlines
British Airways
Continental Airlines
Delta Airlines
Jet Blue Airlines
US Airways