17 Things About Bermuda That (Almost) Nobody Knows

Before I ever set foot in Bermuda, I have to confess the only thing I knew was the story of the famous Bermuda Triangle. Vanished ships? Mysteries? Yes. Exact location? No idea. And it turns out this little territory in the middle of the Atlantic is not only one of the most beautiful places I've ever visited, but also one of the most fascinating.

If you're planning a trip to Bermuda or simply want to get to know this destination that's as little-known as it is spectacular, here are 17 facts and curiosities about Bermuda and its people you probably didn't know.

Where is Bermuda actually located?

• It's not a single island. Although it's called “Bermuda” in the singular, it's actually made up of more than 150 islands, linked by bridges and roads.
• Bermuda was discovered by a Spaniard. Juan Bermúdez reached these islands in 1505, and for a time they belonged to the Spanish Crown, until they passed into British hands in the 17th century.
• They're not in the Caribbean. Although many people think so, Bermuda sits right in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,000 km east of North Carolina, USA.
• A British Overseas Territory. Bermuda is officially part of the United Kingdom, but it has its own government and laws.
• It's just 53.2 km². It's smaller than many cities, yet it's packed with history, culture and unforgettable scenery.

Its people, culture and way of life

• The people are extremely friendly. Don't be surprised if locals greet you in the street with a smile — it's part of the island charm.
• 54% of its population is Black. A blend of African, British and Caribbean roots that shows in its music, dance and cuisine.
• The capital is Hamilton. Small but vibrant, it's the commercial and social heart of the island.
• Its currency is the Bermudian dollar (BMD). It's worth the same as the US dollar, and both are accepted without any problem.
• It has one of the highest per-capita incomes in the world. Many expats work here in finance and insurance, which makes the cost of living high.
• Fashion with a local stamp. Yes, Bermudians wear Bermuda shorts with long socks and a jacket, even to the office.

Curiosities that will surprise you when you visit Bermuda

• The buses are… pink! And they have a blue stripe that runs across the island. They work really well for travellers without a car.
• You can't rent a car. Only residents can drive private cars. Visitors usually rent scooters or get around by bus, taxi or ferry.
• The houses look straight out of a storybook. They're painted in pastel shades, with pink the favourite colour among locals.
• Every house collects rainwater through its roof, which is also designed to filter and store the water.

Beaches, drinks and other charms

• The speed limit is just 35 km/h. So if you were thinking of racing around the island, forget it. Here everything goes at a calm pace… and that's part of its charm.
• The national drink is the Rum Swizzle. A tropical cocktail made with rum, orange juice, pineapple, lime and a dash of Falernum (a liqueur typical of the islands). Order one at any bar and toast like a local.
• Pink-sand beaches. Yes, literally. The colour comes from eroded coral mixed into the white sand. Horseshoe Bay is one of the most famous and photographed.

Fancy discovering Bermuda?

Bermuda is much more than the Bermuda Triangle. It's a hidden gem in the Atlantic, with dreamy beaches, fascinating history and a quality of life that wins you over. I hope these curiosities have surprised you as much as they did me the first time I set foot on the island.

And if you're planning your trip, don't miss my other posts: what to do in Bermuda and where to stay in Bermuda. I promise you'll want to go back again and again!