Insurance matters. It gives you the confidence to live life as you should knowing you’re protected. From building and contents protection for homeowners to contents-only insurance for renters, BF&M offers a flexible policy to fit your needs. We’re the only local insurer offering true quote, buy and pay capability online. And we give you the flexibility to pay in instalments. That’s insurance made easy—so you can keep on living life. Visit us online at bfm.bm or call +1 441 295 5566
We’re glad you’re here
This publication has been compiled to assist people who are weighing up the pros and cons of accepting a job in Bermuda as well as those who have just arrived here and need a crash course in how the island works. Whichever category you fall into, we suspect you have some concerns — and perhaps even a few fears. If so, relax!
Bermuda is warm, welcoming and one of the least stressful places in which to live and work.
It is sophisticated, with far more amenities than would be found in many similar sized communities in North America or Europe. It is also clean, efficiently run, comparatively crime free, and you are unlikely to encounter a better range of sporting and recreational activities in any other place on earth. In most
respects, life in Bermuda has much in common with that of an affluent town elsewhere but with distinct and appealing differences due to its geographical, cultural and social make-up. And Bermuda has its odd quirks, too. Some, like the two days a year when the island closes down for a cricket match and a party, you will love. Others, such as the 35 kph speed limit, you will learn to appreciate. Workwise, the island moves at the same pace as London and New York. Otherwise it would not have become one of the world’s most important offshore financial centers. There is one major difference though. You’ll have one of the shortest and most beautiful commutes in the world.
While most of us here have to work hard, we also know how to enjoy ourselves. You will find that
Bermudians are happy to embrace you in their social circles. They are generally well educated, welltravelled and very entertaining company.
Although it is true that “ex-pats” are a recurring political issue, the debate is rarely about individuals, but rather about the general immigration policy. To set your mind at rest, the current Government appreciates that we need talent and skills from overseas; but balances this against the need to ensure Bermudians have a fair chance in the job market. Hardly unreasonable is it?
You’ll find most in the local community genuinely understand that ‘guest workers’ are very much a part of what keeps our economy moving forward.
Bermudians are proud of the success they have achieved on this obscure outcrop in the Atlantic. However, they also appreciate that without help from overseas, we would not be where we are today –or where we want to be tomorrow.
The Phoenix Centre
3 Reid Street, Hamilton HM 11
Tel: 295-0698
Fax: 295-2636
Woodbourne Chemist
1 Gorham Road, Pembroke HM 08
Tel: 295-1073 Fax: 292-0230
Clarendon Pharmacy
31 Victoria Street, Hamilton HM 10
Tel: 295-9137 Fax: 292-2265
King Street Pharmacy
38 King Street, Hamilton HM 11
Tel: 279-5101 Fax: 279-5102
Collector’s Hill Apothecary
2 South Road, Smith’s FL 08
Tel: 279-5512 Fax: 236-9054
Paget Pharmacy
Rural Hill Plaza, 130 South Road, Paget PG 06
Tel: 279-5510 Fax: 236-9057
Warwick Pharmacy
49 Middle Road, Warwick WK 05
Tel: 279-5556 Fax: 236-8625
Dockyard Pharmacy
Royal Naval Dockyard Sandys MA 01
Tel: 279-5515 Fax: 279-5528
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Bermuda, settled by the British in 1609, has maintained a unique relationship with the UK for more than 400 years. In this article, former Governor Rena Lalgie shares her insights and advice during her time in office. Andrew Murdoch is set to take up the role of Governor of Bermuda in January 2025, succeeding Rena Lalgie, who recently completed her term.
Before arriving, you should already have heard that Bermuda is a beautiful, warm and friendly place to visit and to do business. You might also be surprised by the extent to which Bermudian people have strong connections around the world. The wealth of intellectual and cultural
capital crammed on this small archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic can be a real surprise. As a British Overseas Territory, Bermuda and the UK share history, a constitutional relationship, and cultural norms. The legal frameworks and the political systems are not the same but
they have common roots and the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council is Bermuda’s highest Court of Appeal. Bermuda’s regulatory framework is clear, robust, and compliance with international standards and obligations is strong. The Bermuda Monetary Authority’s global reputation is key. Businesses in Bermuda have strong ties (historical and current) to businesses in the UK but also in North America. This is particularly the case in relation to the insurance markets, where many will attest to the symbiotic relationship between London and Bermuda. Bermudians are British Nationals and have extensive familial and cultural links to the UK. Bermudians attend British schools and Universities (where they are eligible for ‘home fees’) but there are also close ties to Canada, the United States and the Caribbean. There are so many opportunities outside of work, you will be spoilt for choice. Bermuda is a perfect place to balance business and pleasure. You are never too far away from a golf course but more generally if you enjoy sport, you name it and there will more than likely be a group enjoying it. If you are here during one of the many international sporting events, such as the PGA Tour’s Butterfield Bermuda Championship, or SailGP, it is worth making the time to attend. If you enjoy art, there are a surprising number of galleries and some impressive collections in Bermuda. Go for a walk at Clearwater Beach or along the beaches on the South Shore to or from Horseshoe Bay. If you get a chance to experience Bermuda from the water, do not turn it down.
One piece of advice I would like to share. From the moment you begin boarding your flight to Bermuda, work on the basis the person next to you, the people sitting behind you, the taxi driver etc. is related to or at least knows the person that you are talking about.
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Former US Consul General to Bermuda Karen Grissette lived in Bermuda from 2021 to 2024. Here are her reflections on island life.
Bermudians are so welcoming and friendly, and our family transitioned very easily to life here. There are certainly cultural differences, but Bermudians are very well acquainted with America. There are hardly any Bermudians that have never travelled to the U.S., and there are more U.S. connections and a deeper understanding of the United States than any other place I’ve lived—and I’ve lived in a lot of different places. So that may make the island an easy place for Americans to adjust to. However, Bermuda is also uniquely Bermudian with its own culture and its own unique attributes.
One of the things newcomers will quickly come to realise is that you encounter the same people in several different places and settings—at your children’s school, in line at the coffee shop, at a tennis class—and this can help develop close friendships and business relationships. I saw someone on the beach with whom I had recently had a meeting, so we just continued our conversation there on the beach. Everybody is connected in one way or another to everybody else, so it’s kind of like one big family. I love that about Bermuda.
At the U.S. Consulate, customer service is the first priority. We have very quick turnaround time for information. We respond very promptly to all enquiries made through our dedicated email address, hamiltonconsulate@state.gov
For Americans, we’re here for emergency situations, which unfortunately are sometimes sad events, such as a sudden death, an arrest, or destitution, and then of course routine services such as passport renewals, reports of birth abroad, notarising a power of attorney or a legal document, things like that. For non-Americans, most issues relate to travel, that means either visiting visas or immigrant
visas.
We estimate there to be about 8,000 Americans resident on the island, among a total population of 64,000, which is a significant percentage. We encourage and ask U.S. citizens to register with us here at the Consulate at https://step. state.gov. One of the many benefits of registering is that we can send official messages directly to you.
Part of my mission is to deepen the strong economic ties between the United States and Bermuda. There are a number of investment and business opportunities here, and I work with my colleagues in the U.S. Commercial Service to highlight those opportunities for U.S.
companies and U.S. investors. It goes without saying that the international business sector on the island is of global significance and the U.S. insurance companies based in Bermuda are very important for us. We meet regularly with the companies and various industry and trade groups to discuss concerns; share information with the appropriate entities in London, Washington D.C., and beyond; and help wherever we can.
More information on the US Consulate in Bermuda is available at: https://bm.usconsulate.gov
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width 2 miles
Highest point 259 feet
Islands in archipelago 138
Farmland: 735 acres
Capital: Hamilton
Climate: sub-tropical, frost free
Nearest mainland: Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, US. 651 miles
Until recently, the only form of gambling allowed in Bermuda was at Crown and Anchor stalls at major cricket matches. However, in 2014, legislation was passed which allows for the development of casino gaming in hotels. Where and when the first casino will open is still uncertain.
Registered Road Vehicles: 49,668
Reported Accidents: 1,285
Road Casualties: 668
Road Fatalities: 11
Source: Bermuda Digest of Statistics, 2023 by Government of Bermuda
Bermuda remains a British colony but is self-governing in almost all significant respects, with a Parliamentary system modeled after that of the UK. Although we are nominally under the responsibility of a Governor who is appointed by the Queen, the House of Assembly is where the big decisions are made.
The house has 36 elected members representing all areas of the island. At the moment the majority belong to the Progressive Labour Party (PLP), who won a snap election in October 2020. The PLP has 30 seats with the opposition One Bermuda Alliance (OBA) now represented with 6.
The October 2020 election was also contested by the Free Democratic Movement, led by
former PLP leader Marc Bean. Its 5% of the popular vote was not enough to secure any parliamentary seats.
The Premier is chosen by the majority party from its elected members to lead the Government and therefore the country.
As ‘guest work’, one is not entitled to vote or stand for election.
Bermuda has its own very colourful currency
The island has its own currency, the Bermuda dollar, which is ‘pegged’ to the US dollar — one Bermuda dollar equals one US dollar. American money is accepted everywhere. Nearly all ATM’s dispense Bermuda dollars but there are a few that provide US dollars – including several in the departure lounge at the airport. Major credit and debit cards are accepted island-wide. Unlike some of the islands to our south, we don’t have hundreds of banks registered here. There are only a few, with names probably unfamiliar to you (with the notable exception of HSBC). All of them offer the range of services you might expect, such as loans, investment services and online banking. With money laundering of major concern worldwide, don’t be surprised if you’re asked for a great deal of personal information when opening an account.
Of all the world’s capital cities, Hamilton must rank among the smallest and the most prosperous. It’s also an unusually pleasant city with a tasteful blend of traditional and contemporary architecture and hardly a window that doesn’t overlook blue sea or luxuriant greenery.
But Hamilton is far from the toy town that it seems at first sight. Behind the attractively unassuming facades that line the main streets beats the heart of big-time international business. Hamilton is one of the world’s leading insurance centers, ranking behind only London and New York, and is the undisputed number one in captive insurance.
One of the things you’ll like about our capital is that everything is within walking distance. It’s so easy to get around that there’s no other office more than 10 minutes walk from your own, and within a 5-minute walk there’s every chance of more than 10 restaurants or take-outs from which to choose for lunch.
You won’t find the Bermudian justice system much different from most other sophisticated countries. It is based on English common law.
Firearms and ammunitions and indeed all weaponry are completely unwelcome and carry heavy penalties. Importing even a small amount of any illegal drug for your own use is a serious imprisonable offense. Drink-driving penalties are also very firm.
The Police wouldn’t want to meet you on business
And be warned, working outside the bounds of your work-permit could lead to big trouble, both for you and your employer.
Despite the island’s tiny dimensions, there are still some significant stretches of open space here, and lots of (non-threatening) wildlife inhabiting it. The island is sprinkled with small, but interesting national parks and nature reserves.
There are also miles of South Shore beachfront that are mercifully clear of development. They are public and therefore free to roam and swim.
The railway trail is another treat. It stretches from St. George’s to Somerset, cutting through parts of the island you would otherwise never see. Great for walking, jogging or cycling. Offshore, our abundant reefs and wrecks make a paradise for divers.
Bermuda is a small place with limited diversions, which is why Bermudians are so well travelled. They’re always taking short trips to ‘get off the rock’. With careful planning of your budget, you can too, because despite our relative isolation, we’re remarkably well connected by air to the US, Canada, and the UK. We’re enjoy regular (mostly daily) non-stop flights right up and down the East Coast, to Miami, Atlanta, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Washington, New Jersey, New York, Boston and Toronto. British Airways has a dedicated service between Bermuda and Heathrow, London. For an up to date listing of all flights to and from Bermuda visit www. bermudaairport.com/flights/.
Of course we do speak English, but with an attractively different accent that may be a little confusing at first.
One particular feature is the transposing of the letters w and v – as in “Velcome to our island” and “gold is a waluable commodity” – which can be traced back to old English. Ask any Bermudian you meet to explain the intricacies of islandspeak and you’re in for a hilarious conversation.
Our weather is mostly marvelous
Although it is close to the US northeast, Bermuda’s climate is semitropical, kept warm and humid by the Gulf Stream. It is hottest in the months of July, August and September when temperatures are usually in the 80s with equally high humidity counts.
Summer is considered to begin officially in May – a public holiday observed on the last Friday of May signifies the first day of ocean swimming for Bermudians – and end in November. But temperatures from November to May can vary enormously, from the pleasant mid-70s to the all-time low of 41, recorded in 1955. January, February and March can be rainy and cool, although once again in this temperate climate, it is unusual to experience more than a few days of unpleasant weather at a time.
It is generally referred to as “the island”, but Bermuda is in fact a chain of about 150 islands, many of which are really just rocky outcrops.
The land area, all 22 square miles of it, represents the summit of an undersea mountain. Although the highest point in Bermuda is a mere 259 feet above sea level, the ocean plunges to 15,000 feet within a few miles of land.
Do not be alarmed that the mountain we mentioned was volcanic – it is extinct. And you will also be happy to learn that although we do get the occasional hurricane, Bermuda is spared other natural disasters of any magnitude.
When you landed at L.F. Wade International Airport, you experienced our new passenger terminal, opened in December 2020. It was built north of the old terminal, which had been constructed in the 1950’s, with several subsequent additions and renovations.
The new terminal cost around $250 million and has been designed in such a way that it can easily accommodate the addition of extra aircraft gates at either end of the terminal.
A partnership between the governments of Bermuda and Canada underpins the project.
One benefit Bermuda residents enjoy is having US Customs and Immigration preclearance. Only about a dozen locations around the world have this US preclearance programme, which enables you to ‘preclear’ here if you’re travelling to the US, so wherever you land, onward travel is seamless. No further US customs, immigration or security checks required, unlike passengers arriving in the US from almost all other countries.
We went shopping on your behalf to provide a rough idea of what you might expect to pay for life’s necessities. You will discover that, for most items, Bermuda isn’t inexpensive. But, unlike other out-of-the-way islands, our shops stock just about everything you could possibly want, and the quality is generally good
Window cleaner (12oz, Windex)
$5.50
Mildew remover (32oz, Tilex) $9.30
Lavatory bowl cleaner (24oz, Pinesol) $5.15
Dishwashing liquid (10oz, Dawn)
$7.35
Laundry detergent (46oz, Tide liquid) $16.35
Lavatory paper (4 rolls) $6.85
Tissues (Kleenex)
$4.10
Paper towel (large single roll) $4.71
Cat food (156g can, Friskies) $1.75
Dog food (625g can, Pedigree) $3.10
Toothbrush (Oral B) $8.40
Toothpaste (Colgate, 6oz) $9.45
Soap (three-pack, Dial) $4.10
Shampoo (Pantene, 12oz) $9.75
Shaving foam (Gillette, 11oz) $5.85
Razors (Gillette five-pack) $18.45
Deodorant (Degree gel) $7.85
Small electric ................................ $21,000
Large electric .............................. $50,000
Sub-compact ............................... $18,450
Family Crossover ...................... $40,000 Luxury convertible
Basic 125cc
$2,595
High-performance ..................... $8,000
Electric scooter from $2,995
Annual licence fee
$62 to $149
MacBook Air 15” ...............................
iPad Air
$2,159
$849
Dell Latitude 5340 $1,675
iPhone 16 $1,439
Washer/dryer (each) $995
Electric cooker
$1,425
Gas cooker $1,255
Refrigerator........................................ $1,575
Dishwasher ....................................... $1,450
Television (LG 55” flat screen) $1,155
Annual licence fee (based on size of car) $304 to $1,678
Leather loafers (Sebago) $149.95
Tights (Hanes ultra sheer) $8 Work dress $125–$275
It’s certainly a lovely place, but even with a good job Bermuda can seem expensive. Here’s a guide to help you budget.
Living on an island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean means things inevitably will be more expensive than you might be used to. But the lifestyle you’ll enjoy here, more than makes up for the high prices.
It is a great place to bring up small children but there is a price to pay for kids.
You have the choice here of putting him or her through the free Government education system, from which many Bermudians and others have gone on to great careers. But the truth is that, given the choice, most parents here would opt for private education. Private school fees for the 2024-2025 academic year are from $21,000 to $26,000. Add another $2,000 to $4,000 for uniform, books, after-school care and other school-related expenses.
There are lots of daycare, nurseries and pre-schools. Costs vary between $800 and $1,400 month. There are also free public nurseries that are worth investigating.
Bermuda's home rental market is currently experiencing high demand and limited housing stock, resulting in a sharp rise in rental prices. Over
the past couple of years, rental rates have surged, with quality properties being snapped up quickly. The shortage is especially notable for apartments. For example, a onebedroom apartment in the City of Hamilton may cost around $5,000 per month — less if you’re open to commuting from either end of the island. Luxury houses, on the other hand, can easily rent for upwards of $15,000 a month. Despite these challenges, don’t lose hope. Local real estate agents are highly knowledgeable, and with some persistence — searching online, networking at your new workplace, or seeking advice from locals — you’re likely to find a home that fits your needs and budget.
Grocery prices can be a bit of a shock at first. See our shopping list on page 15 for a clearer picture of particular items. Per month, you may need up to $600 per person to cover individual and household needs, so $2,400 a month for a
As for utilities, that same family might pay $600 a month on electricity in the winter and double that in the summer if they use air-
A modest used car that will get you around safely and reliably for three years could be as little as $15,000 while fuel, maintenance, insurance and fees might amount to $200 a month.
HSBC Premier members and their families experience what other banks don’t provide - a global network of unique partnerships, privileges and benefits that add value to every part of your life.
You don’t live an ordinary life, so why settle for an ordinary bank. HSBC Premier offers both local and global benefits designed for clients like you. Open a premium account today with one of the world’s leading International banks.
HSBC Premier is the perfect choice for clients needing priority services, flexibility and 24/7 worldwide support. Premier clients enjoy reduced fees and preferential rates on a variety of products and services, including foreign exchange and loans as well as access to a range of global benefits for themselves and their family. Benefits such as fee-free cash withdrawals from all HSBC ATM’s worldwide and emergency cash of up to $10,000 in local currency at HSBC Premier Centres and HSBC branches.
With HSBC Premier it's easy to manage your home and overseas accounts together. With HSBC’s Global View you can view all your eligible accounts from other countries in one place and with Global Transfers you can instantly move money across borders between your personal eligible accounts with no wire fees.
Get tailored advice from someone who knows you. A dedicated Premier Relationship Manager will get to know you and your needs, providing financial planning services.
Your family is Premier too, as your exclusive Premier benefits and privileges can be extended to your spouse and children (up to age 28), including rewards, offers and partnerships.
Premier customers are offered Bermuda’s only annual fee-free credit cards—the HSBC Premier Bermudacard for local use or the
HSBC Premier Mastercard for worldwide use, and earn 1.5x reward points on local, overseas and online spending. Ditch the restrictions of typical airline reward cards. Using your reward points choose from any airline, any hotel—anytime with no blackout dates. The HSBC Premier Mastercard Black offers complimentary access to over a thousand airport lounges, free Wi-Fi access, as well as discounts on hotel bookings and accommodations— and no international transaction fees. It earns the highest reward points at double value (2x) for every dollar that you spend on purchases, enabling you to earn rewards faster.
The HSBC Premier Visa Platinum debit card offers additional benefits such as Visa Concierge, Visa Luxury Hotel Collection, as well as price and purchase protection. All HSBC debit and credit card users are given automatic access to the new Home & Away discounts, with Premier customers gaining exclusive privileges. Discounts are offered on purchases related to the following six categories: travel, shopping, dining, wellbeing, education, and experiences.
Growing your wealth and meeting future goals takes more than just hard work. It also takes planning. HSBC provides a dedicated Relationship Manager to customise a financial plan for you and your family that leverage our global network of investment expertise.
You may also wish to try our HSBC savings calculators - Grow Your Wealth | Education Planning | Retirement Planning to see how you can take steps to reach your goals. They are simple to use and under¬stand no matter where you may be on your investment journey.
For more experienced investors, we also feature our full range of funds. Have a look at our Investor Resources.
For more information about how you and your family can experience the ultimate in Premier banking, contact 299-5252 or visit www.hsbc.bm/premier
Issued by HSBC Bank Bermuda Limited, of 37 Front Street, Hamilton Bermuda, which is licensed to conduct Banking and Investment Business by the Bermuda MonetaryAuthority.
At BELCO, we have the tools you need to monitor and control your energy consumption to help reduce your bill. By creating a profile on our customer portal, you will gain 24/7 access to your account details and the following helpful tools:
• View your Smart Meter consumption data
• View and pay your bills online
• Review your transaction and payment history
• Analyse and download the data on your electricity usage
• Add multiple accounts to your online profile
• Report and view power outages
Registration requires your account number and meter number, which can both be found on your bill.
If you’re new to this beautiful island, you’ll need to register for an account with BELCO (Bermuda Electric Light Company Limited) — Bermuda’s dedicated electricity provider, proudly powering the island since 1904. BELCO serves approximately 36,000 homes and businesses across Bermuda, ensuring reliable service every day.
Getting started with your electricity service is straightforward. To set up your account, you’ll need to provide your rental or property address, proof of residence, valid identification, and contact information. You can do this by calling BELCO’s friendly customer care team at 295-5111, visiting their headquarters at 27 Serpentine Road in Pembroke, or starting the process online at belco.bm
Once your account is set up, creating an online profile will provide
easy access to energy management. With your first BELCO bill — which includes your account and meter numbers — you can sign up for an online account. BELCO’s online portal allows you to:
• View your SmartMeter consumption data in real-time
• Analyse and download your electricity usage
• Pay bills and track payment history
• Report power outages
• Manage multiple accounts if needed
BELCO offers flexible billing options to suit your preferences. Choose between traditional printed monthly bills delivered to your address or post office box, or opt for BELCO’s paperless e-billing system. Going digital is easy and environmentally friendly — you can sign up for e-billing when you register for an account, visit belco.
bm/belco-paperless-billing, or email info@belco.bm to make the switch.
BELCO’s website is more than just a utility portal — it’s a comprehensive resource for understanding energy in Bermuda. Here, you’ll find practical energy efficiency tips tailored to the island’s unique climate, detailed explanations of electricity rates, a breakdown of bill components, and insights into BELCO’s sustainability commitments. BELCO believes in transparency and aims to help you not only understand your bill but also gain insights into how energy works in your new home.
BELCO is committed to making your transition to island life as smooth as possible. Whether you need to connect your service, understand your billing, or get tips on energy efficiency, their team is here to help. You can reach them online at belco.bm, by phone at 2955111, or by visiting their headquarters in Pembroke.
Welcome to Bermuda, and welcome to BELCO!
Bermuda continues to maintain the delicate balance between encouraging new residents who can create new jobs and ensuring Bermudians have fair employment opportunities.
With sub-tropical temperatures, beautiful pink beaches and one of the highest standards of living in the world, it is no surprise that Bermuda needs immigration controls to ensure that it is not overrun by people looking for the good life.
Still, immigration tends to be one of the least understood areas of moving to Bermuda – and the one which may lead to frustration.
The basic means of controlling immigration is a work permit. If you come to Bermuda with the intention of working and you are neither a Bermudian nor a spouse of a Bermudian, you must have a work permit.
To qualify for a work permit, you must have an employer who has carried out the necessary due diligence and advertising to satisfy the Department of Immigration that there is no qualified Bermudian available to do your job. And you must fill out a number of forms and get the necessary documentation. Certain other restrictions can also apply. There are limits on the number of children you can bring to the Island due to concerns about overburdening local schools and
your ability to support them.
All work permit holders must sign a declaration that they have no right to remain in Bermuda, or to gain residency rights, once their work permit has expired, regardless of how long they have been on the island. Only marrying a Bermudian, qualifying for rights under other legislation such as the “Job Makers Act” and certain other processes will override that declaration.
The standard work permit is for one year, but there are also two-, three- and five-year work permits.
The work permit is not held by you, but by your employer, and there are restrictions on what you can do under the work permit. For example, you generally will not be able to work in a second job and you usually will not be able to change jobs until you have been in Bermuda for two years.
Many people who are intending to work in Bermuda have a spouse or partner. This can be complicated. You might be an insurance executive or actuary but if your spouse is a retail store manager or a nuclear physicist, finding a job in Bermuda may be more difficult. Sometimes the jobs will simply not exist or they may be closed to non-Bermudians because
it is believed there are enough Bermudians available to carry out the role. As a rule of thumb, the spouse would be wise to seek employment before coming to Bermuda. Once here, the spouse must get a letter from Immigration giving permission to seek employment before looking for work. In any event, if the spouse wishes to come to work in Bermuda, this must be stated in the work permit application. Individual permits are also required for children.
If your spouse, partner or children do not intend to work, they must still be included in the application form and you need to show you earn enough to support them financially. Anyone coming to Bermuda also needs to be aware that certain jobs are “closed” or “restricted”. Closed categories, which include jobs like general labourer, office receptionist and taxi drivers, cannot be held by non-Bermudians unless they have a Bermudian spouse.
Some other jobs, where there is a lack of qualified Bermudians, are easier to get with an in principle application. These run the gamut from actuaries to nurses to butchers.
There are a number of measures in place aimed at encouraging businesses to come to Bermuda or
to stay in Bermuda. For example, a new business coming to Bermuda can get permission not to advertise the jobs of up to six senior staff members before getting work permits for them, and these jobs would not have to be advertised for two years. Non-Bermudian owned companies operating locally –known as section 114b companies –can also get some concessions on work permit requirements.
A second policy enables a company to be granted a global work permit, by which a senior employee of a global company can come to Bermuda without the need to advertise the work permit. The only condition is that the employee should not be filling an existing position in the Bermuda office.
An Entrepreneur’s work permit has also been created to enable people to live and work on the Island for up to a year while developing their business plans and raising capital for new international companies.
“Job Makers” legislation enables executives who are responsible for at least ten jobs held by Bermudians to be eligible for permanent residence.
For companies in the financial technology (fintech) space, new companies can get automatic work permits for up to five nonBermudian employees provided they apply for them within six months of the first permit being granted. There are similar processes for new companies that are not in the fintech space.
As you settle into island life, you might be pleasantly surprised to learn that Bermuda doesn't impose a direct income tax. Unlike many countries where a portion of your earnings is deducted, Bermuda's government funds its operations through alternative revenue streams. Here’s how this system works.
Government Revenue Sources
Without income tax, Bermuda relies on several key revenue sources:
1Customs Duties: Taxes on imported goods are a significant revenue stream, accounting for approximately 20% of government income. Given that Bermuda imports nearly all its goods—from food to fuel—customs duties play a crucial role.
2Payroll Taxes: Employers are required to pay taxes based on their employees' wages, contributing about 44% to government revenue. This system indirectly affects employees, as employers may adjust wages or employment structures to accommodate tax expenses.
3Property Taxes: Owners of real estate pay taxes based
on property value, making up around 8% of government income. This includes both residential and commercial properties.
4
Other Fees and Taxes: Various other sources, such as company fees, fees for your Work Permit, licenses, and stamp duties, collectively contribute the remaining 28% of revenue.
Bermuda's small landmass and limited natural resources mean that almost everything consumed on the island is imported. This dependency makes customs duties a vital component of government revenue but also exposes the economy to global market fluctuations, affecting local prices and the cost of living.
The government allocates its revenue across several key areas:
• Healthcare: Funding public health services and facilities to ensure residents have access to medical care.
• Education: Supporting public schools, educational programs, and related infrastructure.
• Public Services: Maintaining
services such as law enforcement, fire departments, waste management, and transportation.
• Social Programs: Providing assistance and services to support the well-being of residents, including social insurance and welfare programs.
Balancing expenditures with available revenue is an ongoing challenge for the government as it works to meet public needs without exceeding its financial limits. For instance, the deteriorating state of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure highlights the lack of sufficient investment in these critical assets.
Over time, Bermuda's government spending has exceeded its revenue, leading to borrowing and the accumulation of national debt. As of recent reports, Bermuda's national debt stands at approximately $3.35 billion. This debt requires annual interest payments of $130 million, which constitutes 12% of Government expenditure, a significant portion of the budget. Managing and reducing this debt is crucial to ensure longterm economic stability.
Several industries are pivotal to Bermuda's economy:
• International Business: Bermuda is a global hub for insurance and reinsurance companies, contributing significantly to GDP and employment.
• Tourism: Attracting visitors, tourism supports local businesses and employment, though it has faced challenges in recent years. 75% of visitors come from the USA, 10% from Canada, 10% from the UK.
• Construction: Driven by both residential and commercial projects, the construction industry plays a vital role in economic development.
• Retail: While essential, the retail sector has experienced a decline, influenced by global competition and changing consumer behaviors such as online shopping.
Hundreds of people from all over the world have bought homes in Bermuda — some because they chose to retire here, some due to work commitments on the Island, still more for vacation purposes and others for any combination of the above.
Over the decades, property has grown steadily in value while remaining secure due to Bermuda’s history of political and social stability. There are opportunities for people from abroad to buy grand local houses from about $4 million up to $25 million. There are also some condominiums available to overseas buyers, and these range from roughly $1 million to upwards of $3 million.
Buying here involves a bit of red tape but nothing too onerous. And there is a one-off Government fee for foreign acquisition of a local property of 8% for houses and 6% for condos. The purpose is an honourable one — to negate the risk of international speculation in the local property market. These figures are likely to rise in the near future, so now is the time to buy.
If a year-round home is more than you need, there are several first-class fractional ownership properties to contemplate.
Whichever option you eventually choose, the current buyer’s market will make the apparently hefty initial investment seem positively shrewd in a few years time.
However, it is the lifestyle rather than the investment opportunity that motivates most buyers of luxury Bermuda homes. And that — the Bermudian way of life — is truly priceless.
Consider improving your quality of life, and view, by applying for a Work From Bermuda Certificate.
The certificate is designed for professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, digital nomads and post-secondary students who are working or learning remotely. You must be over the age of 18 with no criminal record and possess valid health insurance. In the case of a remote worker you must be able to prove employment with a legitimate firm or your own company registered and operating outside of Bermuda; in the case of a student you must provide evidence of enrolment in a research, undergraduate, graduate or doctorate programme.
It couldn’t be easier. Fill out the form online at forms.gov.bm/ work-from-bermuda/apply. You will need proof of employment or school enrolment and a colour scan of your passport photo page including, where relevant, your visa information. If you have all the documentation ready, it should only take 15 minutes. Pay the $263 application fee. Wait no more than five business days for an answer. Once issued, the certificate is valid for one year, and if you don’t want to leave, you can renew it.
Bring the whole family
Bermuda’s climate makes it an ideal place to base the whole family. If your children aren’t enjoying remote learning, they can attend any of the many private or public schools on the island and can enjoy numerous sports programmes, outdoor activities and other extra-curricular activities with their new friends.
A separate application is needed for each family member and adult dependent family members cannot seek paid work, but they are allowed to volunteer their time to support the island’s many not-forprofit organisations and registered charities.
Whether you prefer a sophisticated hotel in the heart of the City of Hamilton or a traditional, whiteroofed home somewhere more peaceful, many of Bermuda’s hotels and vacation rental homes are offering long-stay incentives. If you want your own home for a year, contact any one of Bermuda’s real estate agents and they will help you find whatever you need.
If you don’t want to work from your
Bermuda home or just miss the camaraderie of being in an office, there are a number of serviced and flexible office space options available in Bermuda such as Suite Solutions, Connectech, Nineteen and The Waterfront Properties.
If you hold a Work From Bermuda certificate, you are a resident not a visitor. This allows you to buy a car. Unfortunately, international drivers licences are not valid in Bermuda, but a local theory test and practical exam will rectify that.
If you don’t want to take the driving test or buy your own car, you can rent mini-cars or scooters. There is also a public bus and ferry service.
Even though the certificate application process is easy, relocation to a country might seem a daunting prospect, especially if you are bringing your family. Bermuda’s Business Development Agency (BDA) – www.bda.bm –can help, as can the Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) – www. gotobermuda.com
For that extra special personal touch contact Corporate Concierge www.corporateconcierge.bm. Or Global Consultants, email: Global Consultantsbermuda@gmail.com
The Broxup family moved to Bermuda in 2022 and say they want to be here forever
Not so long ago, Paul Broxup’s daily routine involved the grind of the London Underground, precious little time to spend with his young family and typically miserable British weather.
Things have certainly changed for the better since he moved to Bermuda with wife Delilah Moinian and young daughter Deia.
Broxup, 42, who arrived on the island to work as a portfolio manager for Nephila Capital in March 2022, already feels at home – as do his family.
“Just the fact that the job is in Bermuda has been a very happy positive,” he says.
“The one benefit from a personal perspective is that my commute has gone from an hour to several minutes. The ability to be efficient and have a decent work-life balance has been very nice.”
After experiencing lockdown in London, the family jumped at the chance to move to a warmer location, where three-year-old Deia can enjoy a safe, outdoorsy lifestyle that would have been impossible in a big city.
They have settled into their new community. Somersfield Academy pupil Deia is learning ballet with In Motion School of Dance, Broxup plays cricket at Shelly Bay for The Associates, and Moinian volunteers at the Bermuda Diabetes Centre, while they all love to relax at Jobson’s Cove and Elbow Beach. Moinian has even joined forces with a Bermudian friend to create a new business promoting events and workshops, after noticing it was difficult to find out what’s going on in the
community.
The new job has also gone well for Broxup.
“It’s a super professional office but equally it’s very friendly,” he says.
“There’s a difference between the UK, where I spent most of my career, and here. There’s a lot more interaction with your colleagues outside the office.
“Firstly, you are going to bump into people outside the office anyway whether you want to or not. Secondly, there’s a relatively large proportion of expats, so people are more willing and open to being friendly in a way that perhaps they’re not in the UK.
“I feel like I know my colleagues here far better after nine months than I did at my previous job for nine years.”
The time zone is handy because it enables smooth communication with both the UK and the US, and then there’s the perk of riding to the office on a motorbike.
“Coming and going out on the scooter, I love it,” he says.
“I always loved bikes, being on two wheels, that feeling. It’s the best medium of getting into a flow state, just enjoying moving.”
Moinian, 36, who has a background in finance, retrained as a psychologist while in London but her qualifications do not allow her to practise on the island.
As one door closed, however, Moinian opened another with her Bermudian business partner Sabrina Heyns.
“When we first came here, I wanted to do things with Deia, but I would Google what’s going on, what classes are there, and I didn’t really find much,” she says.
“Every time I’d come across something, it had already happened. Then I realised it was either word of mouth, or you had to be signed up to a million different newsletters to know what’s going on and who’s doing what.
“I thought it would be such a great idea if there was a platform for fun activities so you could just go on there and book it and do the whole process on that platform.”
The platform, named “Wopnin” after the Bermudian slang for “What’s Happening”, will also encourage skilled members of the community to offer workshops for children and adults.
It was due to launch a website officially early in 2023 and has already used Instagram to connect
people with classes such as cookiemaking, exercise training, yoga, and cocktail-making.
“The idea is that anyone who thinks they have something to offer, they can just go in and sign up as a teacher and put their idea forward,” she says.
Bermuda has been a perfect location for Moinian.
“Paul and I say to each other, ‘It’s the world’s best kept secret.’ We really couldn’t believe that somewhere like this existed,” she says.
“It was and still is absolutely magical. You don’t have to go very far to come across the most beautiful scenery, and the people are so lovely and friendly and warm, which coming from London was
quite a change. We really loved everything about it immediately.”
Making friends has been one of the highlights so far.
“I was at the paediatrician’s office with my daughter, and there was this other mother with her kid and we just started talking,” Moinian says.
“We went into the doctor. When we came back, she had left a note on my daughter’s pram saying, ‘It was lovely talking to you, here’s my number, I would love to go for a coffee and get to know you more.’
“This is the kind of interaction I’ve had everywhere. It’s just such a lovely vibe.”
All of this is good news for gregarious toddler Deia.
“She absolutely loves it. She loves
talking to people. Literally, in the street, cafés, people will start talking to her. We went back in the summer to the UK, and she was in the same frame of mind, and she would walk up to people and start talking –people would sort of look at her and walk past!”
The journey has not been without the occasional bump in the road.
Seeking rental accommodation was a challenge, although Broxup says they were fortunate to be provided housing by his employer before finally finding a suitable property in Paget.
Broxup also noted the cost of living, citing the example of a Waitrose pizza worth £1.50 in the UK being sold for $14 in Bermuda.
“As I think anyone would testify, it’s clearly a bit of a shock,” he says.
“Before I came here, I remember reading that the cost of living in Bermuda is three times that of London and I scoffed at that. But I’ve come to realise that it’s probably not far off. From a grocery perspective I’d say that’s pretty much accurate.”
High prices have also left the family regretting not bringing their old furniture with them, when they could have taken advantage of their one-time tax-free allowance.
“You can get everything you need on the island, but you are going to pay triple and you are not going to have much choice about what you are getting,” Broxup says.
And while Bermuda has been their ideal location, that doesn’t mean it will suit everyone.
“I would say it would depend on the individual,” Broxup says.
“For me and my wife and my daughter, and the stage of life we’re at, it’s a very appealing proposition. For someone in their 20s who is looking to go out and meet lots of people and have a good time, that’s possible here but obviously it’s a relatively smaller group of people that you’re going to be interacting with potentially.”
For this family, though, there’s no plan to relocate any time soon.
“We fell in love with Bermuda,” Moinian says. “It’s made us want to be here forever.”
Moving house combined with moving to another country can be stressful. Here’s a few tips to ease the pain
Renting a home when you first come to live in Bermuda is not only wise, it is also the only option for most new residents. Many houses here have separate rental units, which can range from studio apartments to garden cottages. Condominiums come in all shapes and sizes, and there is always a wide range of executive homes available at any given time.
The best way to start looking for a rental property—and you should see quite a few before making your final choice—is with the help of a local real estate agent. It is also well worth searching online. Alternatively you or your future employer could hire a relocation service. This is almost a necessity if you’re trying to secure housing before arriving on the island. Some employers may pay for you to stay at a hotel or guesthouse for a few weeks, to give you time to look for accommodation.
Your housing needs will be dictated by your family requirements as well
as your interests and work schedule. If, for example, you have the kind of job which requires shift work or the need to be called in at odd hours, you will want to live relatively near to your place of employment.
If you have children, schools will be a consideration in your choice of location. Places at government primary and middle schools are allocated on the basis of zoning, which you may want to bear in mind when selecting your new home.
Rental units in the central parishes of Devonshire, Paget, Warwick, Pembroke and Smith’s tend to be pricier. However, as you will quickly learn, nowhere in Bermuda is very far from anywhere else and Hamilton can be reached by road from either end of the island in not much more than 30 minutes. There’s also a good ferry service for commuters from the west end. There is lower demand in east and west ends of the island, which means you will find lower
rents, or get more square foot for the dollar.
The best time of year to look for housing is in the late summer, as students prepare to leave Bermuda for college and seasonal tourist workers leave the island.
Monthly rental for a studio apartment starts at no less than $1,000. One-bedroom apartments are priced from just under $2,000 to $3,000, with those in the City of Hamilton commanding the highest rent. For a two-bedroom apartment or condominium you’re looking at $3,000 to $4,000 a month. Twobedroom units are the most broadly in demand and are therefore the hardest to find. Waterviews, rural settings, proximity to golf courses and other desirable features such as a swimming pool and tennis court, can push the price to the top of the range, with some wellappointed units going for more than $7,000.
For an executive three or four bedroom family home with nanny quarters, a pool and ocean views, the sky is the limit. Properties in this range usually start at $10,000 and it would not be unusual to see a luxury property at the very top end of the market being advertised for $20,000 a month.
The most sought-after properties are stand-alone cottages either on the water or with water views. They are also the most expensive per square foot. If you have your heart set on something like this, consider renting a lesser property to give you time to search for your ‘dream home’, and until something becomes available.
When it comes to the ‘added extras’ for your rental home, be careful to check the lease carefully. The maintenance of the garden or pool is not always included in the rent, so be sure to ask. Similarly, establish whether you or the landlord will be responsible for the payment of annual property taxes. As a general rule, if the lease is for less than three years, the landlord pays. If you are renting a condominium, establish whether you will be responsible for the condo association maintenance fees. Generally speaking, the landlord takes care of the exterior of the property and the tenant the interior.
Renting furnished accommodation
is often the simplest solution. But if you do choose to bring your furniture with you, remember that you will pay import duty to land it in Bermuda. Most unfurnished properties include major appliances. There is also a vibrant secondhand market for furniture and household furnishings, in which you may choose to participate as a buyer at the start of your stay in Bermuda or as a seller at the end.
The majority of properties are leased on a monthly basis with rent payable one month in advance,
and with usually a month deposit at the start of the lease against breakages. Such a deposit is not always repayable. You may also be responsible for repainting the walls and ceiling of your rental property before you vacate. Be sure to ask. Finally, two important points. You need a work permit before a formal lease can be signed. And only one car per household is allowed in Bermuda. So if you plan to buy a car, make sure your rental unit has what is known as an ‘assessment number’ for that property.
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Bermudians love a holiday — and who doesn’t. Here are details of all ten that you will celebrate with us.
GOOD FRIDAY
April 18 2025
An important day in the Christian calendar. In Bermuda this is also a day for kite flying and eating codfish cakes and hot cross buns.
BERMUDA DAY
May 23 2025
The official start of the Bermudian summer. There is also a halfmarathon running race, fitted dinghy racing and a carnival–like parade.
NATIONAL HEROES
DAY June 16 2025
Celebrating local heroes and heroines.
CUP MATCH July 31 and August 1 2025
The gombeys are a folklife tradition full of colourful masquerade, dance and drumming, who perform on some holidays and other occasions
The island stops for a two-day cricket match. Thousands gather to watch the game, eat, drink, socialise and try their luck at Crown and Anchor gaming tables.
LABOUR DAY September 1 2025
There’s a morning march from Union Square in Hamilton to Bernard Park. After speeches by union and political representatives, there is musical entertainment and refreshments.
REMEMBRANCE DAY November 11 2025
A special service takes place at the Cenotaph on Front Street in the morning.
CHRISTMAS DAY December 25 2025
Bermudians celebrate Christmas in a big way with a family feast of turkey.
BOXING DAY December 26 2025
Many families throw their homes open to family and friends for a ‘stop by’ and of course food and refreshments. The gombeys will also be out, so listen for the beat of that drum.
NEW YEARS DAY January 1 2026
In Bermuda this may mean anything from a quiet day with family to further revelry.
This candid guide may save you from embarrassment and a surprise or two
DO try to appreciate that, while Bermudians are generally welcoming folk who understand they need help to run the island’s sophisticated economy, they get somewhat ticklish when they suspect someone is being brought in to change the proverbial lightbulb (even if the truth is more complicated), or suspect that your job could easily be done by a Bermudian. Be straightforward, low-key and ready to laugh at your own expense and you’ll have no problem.
DON’T burst a blood vessel if that package that you’re used to getting from Amazon overnight, takes four or five days to reach you in Bermuda. Some things just take a little longer living on an island.
DO be prepared for some ‘gossipy’ dinner table talk here. A local politician’s insignificant blunder is likely to get half an hour of animated banter, while the latest
global disaster is dismissed with a distracted “Sad…”
DON’T gossip about one local to another. Invariably, the subject turns out to be your interlocutor’s cousin/ neighbour/ex-spouse — you get the idea. The key concept to remember: everyone you meet is probably related and slated to talk soon.
DO be patient if you make a social arrangement with a Bermudian and he or she shows up 20 minutes late. It’s a kind of custom here — infuriating to outsiders until they wise up to ‘Bermuda time’. You should, of course, always show up to business meetings on time.
DO expect waiters or shop assistants to provide friendly and helpful service. But don’t expect them to over-indulge you with formal respect. Things are a little more relaxed here.
DO say “Good Morning”, “Good
Afternoon” or whatever is appropriate when you greet a Bermudian. Failure to do so will severely impede your chances of ever getting anything to eat, purchasing products, or making a cab move in a forward direction. In short, being nice is a necessity here. Sorry.
DON’T be shocked to hear the mild-mannered local banker or lawyer you know as, say, Fred Smith, being referred to by colleagues as perhaps “Big Meat” or “Flea” or even “Sledgehammer.” Nicknames are a Bermudian thing; just look in the Obituaries column of the Royal Gazette each day to see some wonderful examples.
DO plan to eat out before 10pm unless you want fry-shaped solidified grease from some late, late take-out. Bermudians generally eat around 7:30pm to 8:30pm and there’s precious few eating establishments open late.
There isn’t much watersportswise that you can’t do here — except ice fishing. The waters could hardly be clearer or warmer, and the winds could not be more favourable for sailing, which is why Bermuda was chosen to host the 35th America’s Cup, held in 2017.
Thanks to this event, the Island is now synonymous with one of the world’s greatest sporting events and the most prestigious trophy in all of sailing.
America’s Cup teams from France, Britain, Sweden, Japan, New Zealand the USA moved to Bermuda a year or more in advance of the racing. Hundreds of team members and their families became “locals” and fully integrated into our small community. During the monthlong racing, 30,000 spectators came from all over the world and dozens of super yachts with billionaire owners and well-heeled guest on board converged on the island to watch the racing in ultimate luxury. Today, Bermuda is one of the international locations chosen to host the international SailGP global sailing league, where the world’s
greatest sailors race wing-sailed foiling catamarans at speeds of more than 50mph.
There are many intangibles to the legacy the America’s Cup left behind, but others, such as new marinas and other boating facilities, are very real.
Bermuda is a boater’s paradise and there’s no reason to spend the weekends stuck on dry land when there are so many options for having fun on the water.
There are thousands of reasons to go boating, and when you’re in Bermuda, you’ll find the possibility well within your grasp.
Boating brings the family together and creates memories. There are few experiences that create as much fun as boating, whether you’re just out for a leisurely cocktail cruise, drop anchor for a day’s swimming and lounging in the sun, or perhaps something more active, such as fishing, water skiing, wake surfing, wake boarding or tubing. It’s a great way to get exercise out in the sunshine and fresh air.
And while Bermuda’s land mass may be only a few square miles,
cruising the coastal waters provides virtually unlimited recreation space and brings an entirely different perspective to how you see and think about your island home.
First, decide what will you use a boat for: family pleasure, water skiing, fishing or do you prefer sailing? Next ask yourself what style of boat and size would you like and, of course, your budget.
There are several reputable boat dealers on the island, including Marine Locker (www.marinelocker. com) and A&P Marine (www.apmarine.bm) who can help you with the process of choosing the boat that’s right for you. Boats may not be trouble-free, but when you buy from a local dealer, you have the added reassurance of a warranty on new boats, and a trusted advisor for service and maintenance.
If you want to meet like-minded boaters, consider joining a club. The clubs listed below organise regular sailing regattas and also welcome motor boaters.
The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club. www.rbyc.bm
The Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club. www.rhadc.bm Spanish Point Boat Club. www.spanishpointboatclub.bm St. George’s Dinghy and Sports Club. www.stgdsc.com Sandys Boat Club.
www.sandysboatclub.com
Keen fishermen will want to join the Bermuda Anglers Club www. bermudaanglersclub.com. Its members come from all sectors of the community, with a focus on junior anglers and their families.
The Bermuda Government Department of Marine and Ports is responsible for monitoring commercial and recreational boat traffic and manages boat and mooring registrations. Current fees and other information can be found on its website: www.gov.bm/ department/marine-and-ports
The hurricane season in Bermuda is from June 1st to November 30th. You will want to have a plan to take care of your boat during these months, in the event a tropical storm or hurricane hits the island. Owners of small boats will usually haul them out of the water. There are several precautions you can take for larger boats and we suggest you seek advice from your insurance firm, boat dealer or boat club.
Of course, maintaining a boat does come with some responsibilities. The highly skilled experts at Offshore Yachting and Maintenance (www.oymbermuda.com) will help you maintain your vessel in tip top condition.
One final word. When you are on the water, please help us protect and preserve our environment. Never throw anything overboard, particularly plastics, and fishing lines. They can entangle and kill marine life, especially turtles. Please try to reduce your use of plastics, recycle where possible; and take your garbage home with you, or make use of trash cans ashore.
Our coral reefs are a national treasure and an essential part of our fragile ecosystem. The reefs can be easily damaged by boat anchors, hulls and propellers, so please be cautious when boating near the reefs.
Since 1888, Saltus Grammar School has been a leader in private education in Bermuda, offering a vibrant, inclusive learning environment. Today we are a fully co-educational school for students from ages 4-18. With two stunning campuses, students enjoy an enhanced learning environment that is full of life, energy, and discovery.
Recognised for our unwavering commitment to academic excellence and innovation, Saltus is accredited with the Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS), the New England Accredited Schools and Colleges (NEASC), and as a British Columbia Offshore School.
From our youngest learners to our graduating students, we place students at the centre of their learning. We are adaptable, innovative, and responsive in our
approach to teaching and learning. Our educators come from Bermuda and around the world. Every day they guide our students with their wealth of knowledge, skills, experience, and passion.
At Saltus, belonging, respect, integrity, courage, and empathy define our community. Our engaging, authentic learning experiences prepare students for a rapidly evolving world, nurturing future-ready skills and global citizenship. From our Reggio-inspired programme for our youngest learners to the robust offerings in our Secondary School, Saltus is where tradition meets innovation in education.
As a BC Offshore School, we follow the internationally recognised BC
Curriculum. Each year, graduates receiving BC’s Dogwood Diploma are accepted to top universities around the world.
Academic rigour combined with a personalised approach to learning that is responsive to individual learning styles ensures that our students have the future-ready skills to succeed in the world beyond our doors.
For almost 50 years, Saltus has been recognised as a leader in Bermuda in offering Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Our students have the opportunity to extend their learning with our AP course offerings, to complement their Dogwood Diploma, if they choose.
Equipped with the transferable skills, knowledge, and mindsets, Saltus students can go anywhere and do anything they choose.
As the island's only all-girls school, we look beyond the classroom, ensuring that our students learn and develop a selfconfidence that will benefit them throughout their educational journey and beyond. We stand firm by our mission to produce empowered students who develop their potential and step into the world boldly, responsibly and joyfully.
Courageous thinking and confidence building begin during the first year of school. At BHS, our students are encouraged to share their confidence and courage with their peers through curiosity and celebration. They are not afraid to ask questions; instead, they are encouraged to be risk-takers inside the classroom and out, embracing the perseverance that they learn along the way. In the same manner that they persevere, BHS students are quick to celebrate each other's achievements, always championing one another through their milestones.
In conjunction with championing achievement, we teach our students to stay true to their strengths and interests, standing out and embracing their individuality. We offer a broad-based curriculum that provides something for everyone. This personalised approach to learning allows girls to thrive as individuals, pursuing their interests.
A diverse network of academic resource teachers makes this possible, ensuring that our girls have the support that they need so that they can learn in the best way possible.
Girls who study at BHS grasp the value of leadership skills. During their time on campus, they learn how to hold themselves accountable, be outspoken, and be bold in their beliefs and convictions. BHS offers girls an opportunity to lead in every way, serving as head students, leading
assemblies, running enrichment courses, and providing exposure to internship opportunities locally and internationally. All of these opportunities allow our students to start a professional network to carry them outside the boundaries of our campus.
Beyond their academic learning, we take great pride in teaching our students to become global citizens. As Bermuda’s only Round Square School, we introduce this framework at age 4 with the Round Square Discovery Heroes. From Year 7 onwards, our students have the opportunity to put their learning into practice, with multiple exchanges, service and conference trips available around the world. This approach has proven successful, with many of our alumnae defying the norms and pursuing careers in engineering, law, actuarial science, and pilotry (airline and armed forces). We believe in focusing on the process rather than the product. It is our duty to ensure that while our students are learning in the classroom, they are also learning skills that will stay with them throughout their lifetimes.
Learn more about our programmes at BHS.bm or book a tour to view our campus by emailing admissions@bhs.bm
Established in 1991 under the guidance of the Montessori Trust, Somersfield Academy has undergone transformative growth, becoming a beacon of educational innovation and progressive thinking. The core philosophy at Somersfield goes beyond traditional academics, aiming to build a generation of students who are not just welleducated but socially aware, compassionate, and independent in thought.
Its commitment to providing a holistic education extends beyond the confines of conventional learning. With an inclusive approach, Somersfield caters to students aged 3 to 18, organized into Montessori, Primary, and Secondary divisions. The Montessori levels, designed for ages 3 to 9, boast an intimate 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio, contributing to an environment conducive to personalized learning and independent thinking.
Somersfield Academy is an internationally accredited school with 530 students and 89 staff. It is validated with the Canadian Accredited Independent Schools authority and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Organisation, with a strong association with the American Montessori Society. Its community of 40+ nationalities emphasises its dedication to diversity, equity, and the cultivation of independent thought.
Central to Somersfield Academy's mission is the development of socially conscious individuals. It embraces this responsibility by instilling a global perspective in its students. The inclusion of the Middle Years Programme (MYP) within the IB framework exemplifies this commitment. The MYP serves as a bridge, emphasizing interdisciplinary studies and critical thinking skills, preparing students
not just academically but socially for the challenges of the future.
Somersfield Academy's IB and Montessori complementary continuum is recognized in over 200 countries, which positions it as a global hub for education, fostering independent thinkers who are not just aware of global issues but equipped to address them.
Somersfield Academy employs a
rolling admission policy, welcoming new students throughout the academic year. This approach ensures that families, both local and expatriate, can join a dynamic community committed to nurturing socially conscious individuals who think independently and contribute meaningfully to society. For more information, interested parties can contact admissions@somersfield.bm
Warwick Academy is currently going through a re-accreditation process with the Council of International Schools or CIS (WA was first accredited in 2019); and to do this we have chosen four different wellbeing projects to focus on. Supporting students by better using our physical spaces and growing their sense of
At Warwick Academy, student wellbeing is woven into every aspect of school life. From the calming refuge of the Secondary School’s “Zen Den” to the Primary School’s Circle Time, we create an environment where students feel safe, supported, and connected. Our holistic approach nurtures not only academic excellence but also emotional resilience and a strong sense of belonging. As a result we see our students grow into confident, compassionate individuals. We are, after all, so much more than a place to learn.
Visit the school and find out about our unique environment. Contact Mrs. Rochelle Lee, our Director of Admissions, at rlee@warwick.bm and book an appointment.
belonging is the overarching theme for our student wellbeing project.
In the Secondary School we have created a new Student Support Lounge. We renovated a room next to the library into a place that students can visit if they are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, in need of a quiet space or simply not feeling well. It is in an ideal position in the center of the school and is staffed by one of our counsellors who are available to help the students throughout the day. Sometimes, a student may just need 10 minutes of calm or time-out. A student is offered further support if we feel they are not able to head back to class. This term we launched a competition to name the space and it is now aptly known as“The Zen Den”.
We believe that strong positive relationships are key to a successful school. The role of the Homeroom Teacher (in the Primary School) and Tutor (in the Secondary School) is integral in helping to grow their sense of belonging. The building of this relationship helps to support student engagement in both their learning and social development.
The Primary School embraces the Jenny Mosley’s Golden Model, which promotes self-esteem, emotional wellbeing, and positive relationships. Each week, students from the Reception Year to Year 6 participate in Circle Time, where they share ideas, solve problems, and support their peers in creating a safe, nurturing school environment. To reinforce these values, students follow the Golden Rules: “We are Gentle,” “We are Kind and Helpful,” “We Listen,” “We are Honest,” “We Work Hard,” and “We Take Care of Property.” Those who uphold these principles enjoy Golden Time on Friday afternoons, participating in fun, rewarding activities with their Homeroom Teacher.
These two holistic approaches not only foster academic growth but also ensures students thrive emotionally and socially in a supportive community they belong to. We believe that our student centered approach which prioritises wellbeing helps every student to thrive.
If you’re planning a move to Bermuda, chances are you’re already excited about island life—from pristine beaches to the warm, welcoming community. For pet owners, however, relocating to a new place often means finding a trustworthy, top-quality veterinary clinic where your furry family members can receive the very best care. That’s where Bermuda Veterinary Services comes in—a premier veterinary hospital on the island dedicated to keeping your pets healthy, happy, and safe.
Our clinic offers a full range of services, including routine consultations, vaccinations, and preventive care to ensure your pet stays healthy. We also provide advanced imaging services, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, and MRI scans, enabling quick and accurate diagnoses when needed.
Our skilled team performs a variety of surgical procedures, ranging from spaying and neutering to dental cleanings and advanced orthopedic surgeries, such as fracture repairs and knee operations. With a focus on safety and comfort, we ensure your pet is in excellent hands for any procedure, with full support provided during recovery.
Our boarding facilities offer a cozy, secure environment for your pets while you’re away. Dogs enjoy supervised playtime, and our doggy daycare is ideal for pets needing extra socialization and exercise. Additionally, with our on-site veterinary team, any health concerns can be addressed immediately, giving you complete peace of mind.
Caring, Professional Team
At Bermuda Veterinary Services, we treat every pet like family. From our veterinarians to our technicians, our team is passionate about your
pet’s health and well-being. We strive to make every visit pleasant and stress-free, providing friendly, compassionate care you and your pet can trust.
Convenient, Pet-Friendly Location on the Island
Centrally located, our clinic offers easy access to essential care and specialized services. Whether you’re moving to Bermuda or just visiting,
Bermuda Veterinary Services is here to support your pet’s needs every step of the way.
Join the Bermuda Veterinary Services Family!
From routine checkups to advanced surgeries, we’re ready to help your pet thrive on the island. Contact us today to schedule a visit—we’re excited to welcome you and your pet to our Bermuda family!
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Travelling to Bermuda with your canine or feline companion requires a bit of planning, but the process is straightforward if you start early enough.
Bermuda is proud to maintain its rabies-free status. As such, the import regulations for companion animals are designed to protect this status, and obtaining an import permit from the Bermuda Government's Department of Environment and Natural Resources is mandatory.
Your pet must be implanted with a microchip that can be read by any standard microchip reader. This is typically done at a young age but can be performed by your vet at any time. An ID chip is a prerequisite for entry.
If you are arriving directly from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, or Jamaica, your pet can enter without a rabies vaccination.
However, for those travelling from the United States, Canada, or other countries where rabies is present, your pet must have received rabies vaccinations.
To qualify for entry into Bermuda, your pet must have had two rabies vaccinations, with a minimum sixmonth interval between them. The most recent vaccination must have been administered at least 30 days before arrival. If your pet has never been vaccinated for rabies, you will need at least seven months to meet these requirements. If your pet has been receiving annual rabies vaccinations, confirm with your vet that there has been no lapse in coverage and that two vaccinations have been administered.
Once your pet meets the rabies requirements, your local vet can address the other entry criteria during a single visit.
You will need a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of your arrival in Bermuda. This
certificate must state that your pet is free from communicable diseases and external parasites. It should also include your pet’s name, date of birth, breed, description, and microchip number, along with your name and address. Additionally, your vet must apply a tick preventative to your pet and specify the medication used on the certificate.
With your rabies vaccination records, health certificate, and a completed import application form (available on the Bermuda Department of Environment website), you can email the documents to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. They will issue the import permit via email, typically within 24 to 48 hours.
For more information and to download the required forms, visit the Bermuda Government Ministry of the Environment website at www. gov.bm/online-services/importdog-or-cat
For local veterinary services, visit www.endsmeet.bm or call 236-3292.
We’ve been serving Bermuda’s pet population since 1971. We provide preventative medicine, routine and advanced surgeries, and 24-hour emergency services in a compassionate and competent manner.
We would love for you to come and join our family at Ettrick and experience our service including:
• Fully equipped modern hospital with a wide, spacious, inviting reception •
• Bermuda’s most experienced nurse and veterinarian team
• Mobile home service available
• Experience in relocating pets to/from most international locations
• Boarding facilities for dogs and cats • Monday – Saturday 8am – 6pm 24 hour emergency service operating 365 days a year Join our family Ettrick Animal Hospital, 75 Middle Road, Bermuda F Ettrick Animal Hospital | I @ettrickhospital | info@ettrick.bm | 441-236-0007 ettrick.bm
Ettrick Animal Hospital was founded in 1974 as a family run practice and has retained that family feeling despite continual updating of equipment and facility including a multimillion-dollar renovation and addition project completed in 2021. The ‘new’ Ettrick is now a 7,000+ sq. ft. modern hospital and boarding facility designed with your pet in mind. The design and engineering incorporate the latest recommendations for comfort, safety, health and efficiency. The animal centric design provides a less stressful environment for you and your pets.
While it is fantastic to have a modern veterinary facility, it is the staff that make a hospital successful, and Ettrick has the most experienced team of vets and nurses on the Island, providing full service 24 hours a day. All Ettrick’s vets can deal with your routine and emergency needs. After hours, an on-call vet answers the phone so you have medical expertise available immediately to talk you through whatever your pet is experiencing and determine if you need to come in for an emergency visit, surgery or hospitalisation of your pet. Ettrick is experienced in the relocation of animals to and from the Island and routinely assist owners navigating through the paperwork and requirements needed to travel with animals. A warm welcome awaits at Ettrick.
Sago Palm
We don’t have snakes or coyotes in Bermuda, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have critters that could harm your pet.
You are allowed to walk your dog on a leash on public beaches in the winter months; if you do, watch out for Portuguese Man-O-War, a jellyfish-like ocean creature that floats on the surface of the water and often washes ashore. The long tentacles pack a mighty sting and pose a serious threat to people and pets. If stung, adults often have to make a hospital visit, and your pet may require immediate attention from a vet.
Another small animal to look out for is the Bermuda toad. These can grow quite large and are toxic to dogs. Don’t let your dog pick up a toad with its mouth. Plus, certain toads also secrete a deadly toxin through their skin, so just licking or touching a toad could require emergency attention. Symptoms may include severe drooling, head shaking, pawing at the mouth or eyes, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and, in severe cases, seizures and collapse.
Not quite so dangerous, but still to be avoided, are lizards, tree frogs, and snails. Sometimes pets can get Liver Fluke from chasing or eating these small creatures. The severity of symptoms depends on the severity of infection.
We have very few flying insects in Bermuda, but mosquitoes can be a problem in the summer months. If your dog is bitten, it may lead to
heartworm. We suggest you consult with your veterinarian on the best mosquito repellents and heartworm treatments for your pet.
Dogs are sometimes tempted to chew on or eat plants. Be especially vigilante that your pet doesn’t chew on Sago palms, which have toxic properties. Severe liver damage and death can occur. Also, you’ll see Oleander hedges along the roadside and in gardens throughout the island. They may look pretty, but Oleander is poisonous to many species, including cats and dogs. There have even been cases on the Island where cows have died from ingesting Oleander.
Finally, our tropical, humid climate can cause ear infections in floppyeared dogs and those with excessive hair growth in the ear. Get your groomer to trim hair in the outerear canal or ask your veterinarian for the proper technique to do this yourself. Also ask your vet for recommendations on keeping your dog’s ears dry and on how often you should clean them.
SCAN
Residential pest control is about more than simply eliminating unwanted pests—it's about creating a tailored defense strategy designed specifically for your home. At Bermuda Pest Control, we understand that every home presents unique challenges, which is why we take a customised approach to protect your living space effectively.
Our services target the most common household invaders:
rodents, ants, spiders, cockroaches, and termites. These pests can cause not only discomfort but also significant health risks and potential structural damage to your property. Our highly trained technicians begin by conducting a thorough home inspection, identifying potential entry points, nesting areas, and environmental factors that may be attracting pests.
For rodent control, we employ a multi-faceted approach, including
For seven decades, Bermuda Pest Control has delivered targeted, scientifically-backed solutions to residential and commercial clients across the island. Our highly trained professionals leverage industry-approved techniques and the most comprehensive fleet in Bermuda to resolve your most challenging pest management needs with unmatched efficiency and reliability. Want to learn more? Give us a call today!
(441) 232-7378
bermudapestcontrol.com
strategic baiting, exclusion techniques, and preventative measures to address current populations and prevent future infestations. For insects, we use targeted treatments that tackle both visible pests and their hidden colonies. Termite fumigation is one of our most critical services, safeguarding your home's structural integrity. Our advanced fumigation techniques penetrate deep into wood structures, eliminating entire termite colonies and preventing long-term damage that could compromise your property.
After the inspection, we develop a customised treatment plan tailored to your home’s needs. While our most popular treatments are scheduled monthly, we also offer flexible options, including bi-monthly, quarterly, or even annual services—whatever works best for you.
Protect your home and your family. Contact us today to schedule your free inspection and take the first step toward a pest-free living space. www.bermudapestcontrol.com. Call:
Packing and unpacking or finding a new home may not be your main concern about moving to
Bermuda. For many, it’s trying to find the best person to style your hair. Because it’s often the case that if you
don’t feel good about your hair, you don’t feel good, period.
Worry no more. The experts at Headway Salon and Day Spa will keep you looking good and feeling great. Friendly and inviting, Headway is right in the center of the city — just a few minutes walk from all of Hamilton’s major offices. Headway is for ladies, gentlemen and children. Its stylists can ensure your existing style is maintained to perfection, or suggest something new for your island lifestyle.
The day spa offers a world of relaxation, rejuvenation and beauty — massage, facials, manicures and pedicures. As well as waxing, tinting, brow tattooing, spray tan and other expert treatments.
A visit to Headway is the perfect way to feel good about your move to Bermuda. www.headway.bm
No matter where you are, early cancer detection can save your life.
Don’t let your regular cancer screenings be forgotten in the move. Once you’ve found your main physician, talk to your doctor about your referral options for recommended cancer screenings.
For more information about Bermuda’s cancer screening guidelines and available diagnostic services, visit chc.bm
chc.bm | info@chc.bm | 441-236-1001
Bermuda Registered Charity #070
Cancer Prevention, Mammography, Ultrasound, Breast Biopsies, Cancer Navigation, Radiation Therapy
Early cancer detection leads to the best outcomes, and this remains true even if you are new to Bermuda. Here is what you need to know about cancer prevention, screening and care on the island.
Bermuda currently follows the American Cancer Society’s screening recommendations. Once you’ve secured a general physician, discuss these recommended vaccines and screenings with your doctor:
• HPV vaccine: Recommended for boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 12.
• Cervical cancer screening: Regular pap screenings and annual pelvic exams are recommended for women ages 25+
• Breast cancer screening: Annual mammogram recommended for women ages 40+
• Prostate cancer screening: annual DREs and PSA tests (if indicated) recommended for men ages 50+ (or 40+ if Black or with family history).
• Endometrial cancer: Information about risks and symptoms provided to women at the time of menopause.
• Lung cancer screening: Yearly
screening with low-dose CT scan is recommended for people between 50 and 80 years old who smoke or used to smoke AND have at least a 20-pack-year history of smoking.
Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre, one of the Island’s oldest non-profits, has been at the forefront of cancer care for decades. It was the first to provide mammography services locally, with accreditation from the Canadian Association of Radiologists. Additional services include breast ultrasounds, breast biopsies, and bone densitometry.
In 2017, the Centre established Bermuda’s only radiation therapy unit, achieving international accreditation from the ACR. Through its alliance with Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, patients access world-class treatment protocols and expertise while remaining on Island, preserving their routines and support systems during care.
Navigating a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but our Cancer Navigation Service provides patients and healthcare providers with expert guidance every step of the way. Managed by a team of dedicated oncology professionals, the programme is designed to
overcome barriers in a fragmented healthcare system and ensure timely, coordinated care.
From assisting physicians with resource challenges to providing patients with education and support, our navigators play a vital role in facilitating Multi-Disciplinary Team meetings, monitoring progress, and connecting individuals to the right specialists at the right time. By integrating communication across healthcare teams and focusing on personalised care, our Cancer Navigation Service helps achieve the best possible outcomes for every patient.
As a registered charity, Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre subsidises its services through community donations. The Equal Access Fund ensures that all patients, regardless of their insurance status, can receive screening and diagnostic imaging services and radiation therapy without a co-pay.
For more information about Bermuda’s cancer screening guidelines, cancer prevention programmes, available diagnostic imaging services, radiation therapy and referral requirements, please visit chc.bm
New residents to Bermuda typically have two primary concerns: “What is the quality of health care on the island and what does it cost?”
The good news is that the standard of health care here is high. All doctors and dentists must become board certified before they can practice.
We only have one hospital, the King Edward Memorial Hospital (KEMH). A new state-of-the art wing opened here in 2014 at a cost of $247 million. This wing has most of the features and services you would expect in a first-world hospital.
You can sleep easily knowing that your medical needs can be very well taken care of on the island. Most medical conditions and emergencies are treated here, but patients requiring highly specialised treatment, such as heart surgery and cancer treatment, are flown to top hospitals in the United States and Canada.
Formal overseas partners include some of the very best hospitals in
the United States such as Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, and, in the Boston area, the Lahey Clinic, Massachusetts General Hospital, Dana Farber Institute, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, and the Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. In order to receive specialised treatment at any overseas hospital, a patient has to be referred by his
or her doctor. Hopefully, you will never have to be flown overseas for treatment, but if you do, you will be in the care of some of the top medical practitioners in North America.
What you will find, however,
is that health care in Bermuda is one of the most expensive in the world. A Bermuda Health Council report shows that among OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) countries, only the United States has
a higher cost per capita for health insurance than Bermuda.
Even though Bermuda is a British Overseas Dependent Territory, it has no equivalent to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service. Instead, every employee must have health insurance. Employers usually pay 50% of the employee’s health insurance, but some pay more as part of the benefits package.
It would be difficult to put a cost on how much a single employee could expect to pay, as health insurance plans vary from company to company. But a new employee could expect the cost to be around $1,500 or more per month. However, this is typically (but not always) shared 50/50 with your employer. If you have a spouse and/or children, they can be added to your health plan, at additional cost of course.
Health plans often include medical, dental, and optical.
You are not free to shop around for your health insurance — you have to enroll with the plan offered by your company. But you are allowed to choose which general practitioner (GP) to see for your health concerns.
The health insurance companies are a good resource in helping choose the right doctor for you.
A doctor’s visit can run anywhere from $100 to $200, depending upon the physician. If your plan does not cover the total cost of a doctor’s visit, and you are being cost-conscious, the insurer can help you choose one with a lower cost. It is perfectly acceptable to “shop around” to find one that is affordable. New employees can ask their company’s human resource director what their policy does and does not cover or to contact your insurer for that information.
Prescriptions are another add-on cost. Many plans cover up to 80% of the expense for prescriptions, but you can expect to pay something when you see the pharmacist.
Opticians and optometrists operate privately, and there are resident eye surgeons on the island.
Dental care is of a high standard— from orthodontic treatment to routine maintenance and cleaning.
Much of what you’ve heard about Bermuda, the bad as well as the too-good-to-be-true, is probably wrong. New Resident attempts to redress the balance
Myth #1
BERMUDA’S A BAD MOVE FOR YOUR CAREER
Incongruously, Hamilton (daytime population: 14,000 or so) ranks right up there with New York and London in the insurance industry and its other financial services sectors are gaining strength, too.
There is hardly a global big name that doesn’t have a Bermudian presence in one form or another. In short, therefore, it is possible that the island could be a very positive step in your career.
Myth #2 EVERYTHING IS GROSSLY EXPENSIVE HERE
Because everything has to be flown in, you’ll find some items, such as groceries and fresh produce, more expensive than you’re used to. Other items, clothing and jewellery for example, are arguably less expensive.
It can also be argued that your household budget will be very different compared with living elsewhere. For instance, you’ll probably spend far less on gas/ petrol and car insurance.
And living in Bermuda means some of life’s richest pleasures will be literally on your doorstep and free of charge.
Myth #3
IT’S SOLITARY CONFINEMENT FOR SINGLES
If you are lonely in London or
Toronto or wherever, yes, you will be miserable here too. However, if you are reasonably outgoing and tolerably pleasant, you’ll get on very well. There’s a lively social scene here if you look for it. We suggest you join a club or organisation — there’s everything from sports, to theatre and arts — where you’ll meet lots of like-minded people.
Myth #4
IT’S A TAX HAVEN, ISN’T IT?
Interesting one, this. Bermuda considers itself an “international business and financial centre” rather than a tax haven. Big foreign firms bring their money here for a variety of reasons, sometimes to do with our geographical location, sometimes to do with light regulation, sometimes to do with low taxation — as opposed to no taxation. If this pricks your conscience, don’t worry because you as an individual will be paying your fair share of taxes. Not a lot but enough to be noticed.
Myth #5
TRANSPORT IS A NIGHTMARE HERE
Yes, you will be allowed only one car per household, and a small car at that. But you will soon adapt to riding a scooter or motorbike when necessary. And our ferry is a wonderful way to commute to work.
Myth #6
IT’S A CULTURAL DESERT
Of course, on an island of only
65,000 souls you don’t expect to have ballet and opera and theatre going on all the time. But within its limitations, there is actually quite a lot happening in amateur drama and dance (often excellent), music of all kinds, painting and even poetry. And there are fine film, music, arts and even culinary festivals throughout the year.
Myth #7
HURRICANE SEASON IS HELL
No, it isn’t. For one thing, for centuries we have built our houses and offices as if they were under constant cannonball attack. For another, we aren’t prone to serious flooding. And we have a well-oiled plan to deal with such crises.
Myth #8
BERMUDA IS TOO AMERICAN/ENGLISH
Americans think it is either wonderfully or awfully English, the English believe it is far too affected by American ways. In fact, you will discover that the place is distinctively Bermudian, having purloined bits and pieces from diverse cultures.
Myth #9 IT IS FAR TOO SMALL AND CLAUSTROPHOBIC
Truth is, this small island feels far larger when you live here. We may not have forests or mountains, but we do have one of the largest playgrounds and open spaces in the world — it’s called the Atlantic Ocean.
Anyway, if you do get ‘rock fever’, for a few hundred dollars you can fly to New York or Boston and be there in less than two hours. How great is that!
Myth #10
IT’S POLITICALLY UNSTABLE, TOO
You must be thinking about some other islands to our south? Bermuda has a long history and tradition of stable Government and seamless transitions between different administrations following elections. The most recent Parliamentary election of October 2020 being an example of the island’s mature and open democracy.
Bermuda seems to be a magnet for some of the world’s most fascinating individuals, while also producing a few stars of its own. Don’t be surprised if you bump into one of our notable “locals” while enjoying the island.
Michael Bloomberg
Billionaire Michael Bloomberg has long admired Bermuda, owning a home in Tucker’s Town that he visits regularly. He is often spotted playing golf at the exclusive Mid Ocean Club, just a short iron from his property. The former Mayor of New York and 2020 US Presidential candidate is the founder of Bloomberg LP, the world’s leading source of financial data. With a fortune estimated at over $100 billion, Bloomberg is also a philanthropist, donating millions of dollars to cultural, educational, and medical causes.
Michael Douglas
Who is the most famous Bermudian? Without a doubt, it’s Oscar-winning actor Michael Douglas, whose mother, Diana Dill, hailed from Bermuda and whose family roots here trace back to 1630. Douglas and his wife, Catherine
Zeta-Jones, lived full-time on the island for several years, raising their young children (now teenagers) away from the spotlight of New York and Los Angeles. They continue to visit often to reconnect with family and friends.
Douglas and his family recently announced an $85 million redevelopment of their Ariel Sands property, a hotel that has been in the family since the 1840s.
The Greens
Like many wealthy families who reside in Bermuda, the Greens generally keep a low profile. However, their name has been in the spotlight in recent years due to their major investments, including a $100 million renovation of the Hamilton Princess Hotel, the development of the prestigious Waterloo House office building, and the redevelopment of the former HSBC Bermuda headquarters building— one of the most prominent locations in Hamilton.
Shaun Goater
Shaun Goater is a Bermudian football legend who made his mark
in the Premier League, playing for Manchester City from 1998 to 2003. During his time there, he scored more than 100 goals, including a memorable hat-trick against his first professional club, Manchester United. As Manchester City’s top scorer for four consecutive seasons, Goater became a fan favorite, inspiring the chant: “Feed the Goat and He Will Score.”
Flora Duffy
Flora Duffy is Bermuda’s first and only Olympic gold medallist. Her name proudly adorns The National Stadium, and a road has been named in her honor. Duffy achieved her historic victory in the triathlon at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. She has also represented Bermuda in the Beijing, London, and Rio de Janeiro Olympics.
In addition to her Olympic success, Duffy is a two-time ITU World Triathlon Series World Champion (2016 and 2017), a twotime ITU Cross Triathlon World Champion (2015 and 2016), and a six-time XTERRA World Champion (2014–2017, 2019, 2021). Currently, she is competing in the newly created T100 series of triathlons held around the globe.
Scooter Mart provides a hasslefree, one-stop shop service to buy a bike, get it licensed and insured, and to obtain your Bermuda driver’s license
Many new residents wonder about the best way to get around the island — bus, taxi, car, bike or ferry. Quite quickly, they conclude that a scooter or motorbike is the most cost effective and convenient way to travel — which is why you see so many of them on our roads. Getting on Bermuda's roads may at first seem daunting for newcomers, but Scooter Mart
A brand new bike will cost less than 10% of the cost of a car
simplifies the process from start to finish. Its comprehensive services transform the hassle of acquiring and licensing a scooter and obtaining your local driver’s license, into a seamless experience. Scooter Mart is your dedicated guide through the intricacies of paperwork, tests, and appointments—it’s like having your own personal concierge for your transport needs.
A brand new bike will cost less than 10% of the cost of a car; license fees are from $99 to $158 depending on the size of the bike, compared with $304 to $1,678 for a car; insurance is less expensive; and of course, you’ll spend far less on gas. There’s plenty of free bike parking everywhere in Hamilton, whereas it can cost up to $20 a day to park a car. And to license a car, there’s the added complication of needing a house ‘assessment’ number, because only one car per household is allowed in Bermuda, and your landlord may or may not be able to provide you
with an appropriate assessment number, which is how the policy of restricting car ownership is controlled.
For a couple and families who do choose a car, they often find that they need two vehicles. And without the possibility of being able to own two cars, a bike becomes the only other option.
Get on the road now
You will need a Bermuda driver’s license to ride a private bike on the island — international driver’s licenses are not accepted in Bermuda. However, there is some good news. Scooter Mart will rent a bike to you for as little as $13 a day, based on a 28 day rental, provide a helmet, road safety instructions, riding practice and advice free of charge, and get you on the road on your first day on the island. All you need is ID, be over 18 years of age and have a driver’s license from another country. Having a rental scooter immediately will change your life and make it possible to get around to all those errands and appointments you must deal with as you settle in to island life. What’s more, when the time comes to purchase your own bike, Scooter Mart will provide you with a credit of 15% of the cost of your rental bike towards a new bike — and that’s unlimited, whether you rent a bike for a day, a week, a month or more.
Now you have temporary transportation, you can take your time in choosing the right motorcycle or scooter to purchase. Visit www.scootermart.bm, stop by Scooter Mart showrooms on Church Street in the centre of Hamilton or on Lover’s Lane in Paget. Browse through the inventory, see what you feel comfortable on. Sit on the wide range you’ll find, kick the tires, and take some for a test drive. You may need something small and light, or a larger, more spacious bike. Something sporty and cool, or something practical. Scooter Mart offers financing and can also help provide all the necessary accessories — helmet, rain suit, remote locks, anti-theft devices, a top box for storage — literally everything you need, with package discounts available.
Select your bike, and put down a $500 deposit, and then be assured that your bike is reserved just for you and will be waiting for you once you have your Bermuda driver’s license. Important note: You don’t need to have obtained your Bermuda driver’s license to reserve your scooter. It is recommended that you reserve the bike and colour you want as early as possible as inventory can often be unpredictable on this small island.
Easy steps to obtain your license
Now that you have chosen your bike, Scooter Mart will guide you
Renting a bike at Scooter Mart or Elbow Beach Cycles gets you on the road on day 1
• ⚫Choose your new bike at Scooter Mart and put down a $500 deposit
• Scooter Mart will set up appointments to obtain your driver’s license
Step 1: Brief medical exam
Step 2: Quick computer-based test at TCD
Step 3: Practical riding test at TCD
• Ride off on your new bike from Scooter Mart
and be with you every step of the way to help you obtain your Bermuda driver’s license.
STEP 1: Brief medical examination. Firstly, you’ll need to take a very short medical at any local doctor’s office. Several doctor’s offices, such as Hamilton Medical Centre (www.hmc.bm) offer this as a walk-in service. Alternatively, Scooter Mart will make an appointment for you somewhere close to your workplace.
STEP 2: Quick computer-based multiple-choice test at TCD. Next, you’ll take your (1) medical certificate, (2) passport, and (3) work permit copy, to TCD (Transport Control Department) www.etcd.gov. bm where you’ll be asked to take a quick computer-based multiple choice test.
TCD do take “walk-ins” for this test, but it’s usually a good idea to call ahead and schedule an appointment. The test only takes 10-15 minutes, and could be done in your lunchtime. Again, Scooter
Mart will make that appointment on your behalf. Once you’ve passed this test, TCD will take your photograph and issue you with a learner’s permit.
STEP 3: Practical riding test at TCD. Now you’re able to schedule the final step of the process, the practical riding test, to prove that you’re proficient in riding a motorcycle. The friendly Scooter
Bike parking in Hamilton is free. It can cost up to $20 to park a car
Mart team is always happy to help provide some clarity on the test, safe riding tips and explain what the test examiners will be looking for. If you would prefer to have one or two riding lessons prior to the test, Scooter Mart can recommend some professional instructors to help you practice and gain confidence before your test. Unfortunately, you cannot take
the practical test on a rental scooter, nor can you ride another bike to TCD (because you don’t have a driver’s license yet). The good news is that Scooter Mart will deliver a bike to TCD (for free!) on which you can take this test. Scooter Mart will even bring a helmet for you to wear.
That’s it!
Once you’ve passed this test, you’re done! TCD will now issue you with your Bermuda driver’s license which will be valid for 10 years. Now you’re ready to take delivery of your brand-new bike from Scooter Mart. Scooter Mart is an agent for all the local insurance firms and can arrange all other matters for you in-house. With Scooter Mart’s Best Price Guarantee policy, you can shop with ease knowing you’re getting the best deal available in Bermuda. And you’re off! Go explore and immerse yourself in this beautiful island paradise the Bermudian way — on a scooter.
From English pub grub to French gourmet cuisine — and (almost) everything in between — you can eat very well in Bermuda. And drink well, too — the better restaurants all have truly outstanding wine cellars. As for local delicacies, you must try Bermuda lobster (available only in months in which there is an “R”), or at least our world famous fish chowder.
$ less than $40
$$ $40 to $50
$$$ $50 to $60
$$$$ $60 to $80
$$$$$ $90 plus
Café 4. Windsor Place, 18 Queen Street, Hamilton. 295-8444. $. www.cafe4.bm. Stylish and sophisticated take out of organic, local, fresh dishes. Offers homemade bread, healthy soups and a make-your-own pasta bar with Keto diet options. Best of Bermuda’s winner of Best Salad Bar. Enjoy the indoor/outdoor dining facility. Harbourfront. At the BUEI, 40 Crow Lane, Pembroke. 295-4207. $$$$ www.harbourfront.bm. Reservations recommended. Smart casual. Offers a varied menu featuring a selection of the freshest fish and seafood in addition to outstanding meats, fusion dishes created by management and award-winning sushi. Enjoy perfect harbour views and the beautifully renovated Coral Lounge.
La Trattoria. 23 Washington Lane, Hamilton. 295-1877. $$ www.latrattoria.bm. One of Bermuda’s longest standing restaurants and a favourite of locals and visitors alike. Perfectly placed in the heart of Hamilton, makes it the ideal restaurant for a romantic dinner for two or a gathering with friends. This festive trattoria has the island’s first and authentic woodburning pizza oven as a centrepiece and is recognized as best in Bermuda for their hearty Italian food,
and warm, kid-friendly environment, all at an extraordinary value.
Little Venice. 32 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton. 295-3503. www.littlevenice. bm. $$$ Reservations recommended.
Smart casual. Bermuda’s first and most famous Italian restaurant, celebrating over fifty years of fabulous service, fine food and meticulously prepared classic and contemporary regional Italian specialties. Enjoy fabulous wine and tasty bites with the in-crowd at the adjacent Wine Bar.
L’Oriental. 32 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton (above Little Venice). 296-4477. www.loriental.bm $$ Reservations recommended.
Smart casual. The only place to get the best Oriental Fusion cuisine, featuring a welcoming Sushi Bar and Bermuda’s only Teppanyaki table. Seating available inside under the exquisite Pagoda or outside under the stars.
L’Oriental Express. We’ve got you covered! L’Oriental Express is in the heartbeat of the urban community, on the corner of Church Street and Par-La-Ville Road. 296-7475. $ Offering everything from soup and sushi, to wraps and sandwiches, to amazing salads and daily hot food specials. We have a pasta Bar plus specialty coffees, teas and smoothies – the selection is unbeatable.
Achilles. 33 Sea Venture Landing, St. Georges. 297-1717 www.achilles.bm
$$$ This modern tavern on the sea located close to the historic town of St. Georges serves authentic dishes from the “MediterrAsian” worlds. The stunning location is opposite
Fort St Catherine’s, overlooking the picturesque Achilles Bay. The restaurant has outstanding sea views with a menu showcasing classic preparations focused on simplicity, high quality ingredients, colours and spices from two continents.
Aurora. 27 Harbour Road, Paget (at Newstead hotel) T 441-2328686. www. aurora.bm $$$ Winner of ‘Best Seafood Restaurant in Bermuda’ 3 times, Aurora’s seasonal menu features fresh local seafood and produce from Bermuda’s best fishermen and farmers. We are committed to sourcing sustainable ingredients from local suppliers, ocean to table.
Bella Vista Bar & Grill. Port Royal Golf Course, Southampton, 2320100. $$ Join us for lunch, dinner, and drinks and find out for yourself why Bella Vista Bar & Grill is the #1 ranked among all of Bermuda’s West End restaurants.
Blû Bar & Grill. 25 Belmont Hills Drive, Warwick. 232-2323. www. blu.bm $$$$. Reservations recommended. Smart casual. Bold American cuisine with generous Italian and Asian influences that will satisfy any palette. Overlooks picturesque Hamilton Harbour and the Great Sound.
Bone Fish Bar & Grill. 2 Dockyard Terrace, Dockyard. 234-5151. $$
Reasonable-priced menu filled with seafood, top-grade meat (the only smoker in the west end) homemade pastas, great wine list, draft beer, and desserts to die for. Open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week. 11:30am to 10:30pm.
Café Amici. Clock Tower Mall, Dockyard, 234-5009, $$ Italian family-style restaurant in the heart of historic Dockyard offering a friendly, intimate atmosphere and simple, uncomplicated and affordable Italian cuisine. Open 7 days a week.
Café Lido. Elbow Beach Hotel, Paget. 236-9884. www.lido.bm $$$. The backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and Bermuda's pink sand at Elbow Beach set the perfect tone for a light lunch or an evening out at this award-winning Italian and seafood restaurant. Adjacent to Café Lido restaurant is the elegant Deep nightclub available for private parties and events.
Fourways Inn. 1 Middle Road, Paget. 236-6517. www.fourways.bm $$$$. Reservations recommended. Smart. The Grande Dame of Bermuda’s restaurants, famous for its celebrity guest list, renowned menus, signature dishes and Bermuda’s most lavish Sunday brunch. Live
piano music in the evenings and the most extensive wine cellar on the island.
Mickey’s Beach Bar. Elbow Beach Hotel, Paget. 236-9884. www. lido.bm. $. Mickey’s Beach Bar, located directly on the beach, offers handcrafted cocktails and the perfect ambiance. Loved by visitors and locals alike. Open seasonally.
Sea Breeze Terrace. Elbow Beach Hotel, Paget. 236-9884. www.lido. bm. $. Delicious ocean views await you at this oceanfront terrace. Sea Breeze offers the perfect Bermuda experience to enjoy refreshing local and classic cocktails along with seasonal live entertainment.
Sul Verde. Rosewood Bermuda, Hamilton Parish. 298-6983. www. rosewoodhotels.com $$$ Reservations recommended. Sul Verde brings the spirit of Southern Italy to the fairways, celebrating the simple, authentic flavors of Campania in a convivial setting. Delectable cheeses, pasta, bread, and sausages are prepared in-house using the finest ingredients. Next door, the Bar at Sul Verde offers a selection of fine Italian wines, as well as refreshing classics from an Aperol spritz to the signature Negronina, a riff on the classic negroni.
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