Bermuda
About Bermuda
Currency | Bermudian dollar ((BMD)) |
Language | English |
Capital | Hamilton |
Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory in the North Atlantic Ocean off the coast of the eastern United States. The population is about 69,000 people. The government is a parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy. Bermuda recognises the Queen of England as chief of state but with authority exercised by the governor as head of state. Bermuda has been self-governing since 1968.
In 1690, shipwrecked colonists from a British ship of the Virginia Company decided to settle on this island, and the country retains strong ties to England. Bermuda is one of the world’s most prosperous economies as a centre for international business and offshore finance.
Bermuda is a popular tourist destination and receives about a half million visitors annually. Tourists are attracted to the mild climate, beautiful hilly scenery, beaches, and golf courses.
Recommended Vaccinations For Bermuda
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Because there is a moderate risk of exposure to the hepatitis B virus, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
Although the risk of exposure to hepatitis A is low, the vaccination is recommended for most routine travel.
For Some Travellers
Rabies Vaccine
Rabies may be present in bats. Vaccination may be considered for travellers who might come in contact with bats.
Typhoid Fever Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Recommended Medications For Bermuda
There are no recommendations for Bermuda at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Bermuda
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A
There is a low risk of exposure to hepatitis A in Bermuda.
Dengue Fever
There is a risk of dengue in this country.
Hepatitis B
Since up to 2 percent of the population of Bermuda is a carrier of the hepatitis B virus, there is a moderate risk of exposure to this virus.
For Some Travellers
Rabies
Rabies may be present in bats.
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in this country, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages or rural areas where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Safety & Security in Bermuda
Personal Safety
Bermuda has a low to moderate crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and the most common offenses are petty crime such as burglary, theft from unattended items, baggage, tourist accommodations, or from rental scooters. Exercise normal precautions by remaining aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables out of sight.
Travellers should stay in well-lit areas and avoid darker, isolated areas. There have been some reports of sexual assault.
Tourists are not allowed to drive cars in Bermuda. Public transportation is generally safe. Scooters are, however, available for rent to tourists. Exercise caution as traffic accidents involving scooters are common. Drive on the left.
Bermuda is a conservative society. Beachwear or revealing clothing should only be worn at the beach or pool areas.
Bermuda has recently faced many legal dispute about same-sex marriage. Although same-sex sexual relations were legalized in 1994, a government ruling in 2017 reversed this. Presently, the government of Bermuda does not recognise same-sex marriages but rights of LGBT+ have been safeguarded under Domestic Partnerships Act. All travellers should note that due to the conservative nature of the country, there could be intolerance toward public displays of affection.
Hurricane season is generally June to November. Flooding, landslides, major damage to infrastructure and disruption to travel plans may result. Monitor local weather reports closely.