10 things I wish I knew before going to Bermuda

Bermuda is a must-visit place, at least once in a lifetime. However, most people are still not clear about where is Bermuda, things to do in Bermuda, places to visit in Bermuda, who owns Bermuda, and tips to know while going to Bermuda. There have been many misconceptions about the place, due to the mystery that lurks behind the Bermuda triangle; although both aren't connected! Unlike most popular destinations, many interesting facts of the Bermuda Islands have not been popularized. This article gives insight into the many things that you may not be aware of in the Bermuda Islands. It also gives you details on the Bermuda weather, Bermuda hotels, and other things you need to know while going to Bermuda. Here are the 10 things that you wish you knew before going to Bermuda.

1. You can't rent cars on the Bermuda island

As interesting (or confusing) as it may sound, tourists cannot rent cars in Bermuda. Local families are also allowed to own only one car per household. The regional government rolled out this decision to limit the number of vehicles on the road. Why? Being only 21 square miles in geography, it is the fifth smallest country in the world. Nonetheless, it is also the third most densely populated region. So, limiting the number of cars on the road is a wise decision as this will minimize accidents, overcrowding, and pollution, but don't worry. Having a Bermuda map in hand, a motorized scooter/ motorbike will help you find all the places to visit in Bermuda.

2. Bermuda is not in the Caribbean

One of the most popular misconceptions of where is Bermuda is that it is located in the Caribbean. However, the truth is that though it resembles a Caribbean island in many ways, Bermuda island is located in the North Atlantic. It means that Bermuda is much closer than you might think. There are several flights to Bermuda from cities like New York and Boston. It takes only over two hours to reach Bermuda. If you aren't looking for flights to Bermuda, you can also enjoy going to Bermuda on a cruise from New England. 

3. Grottos are great for swimming

It is one of the coolest things to do in Bermuda. Grottos, or the cave systems located on the coast of Bermuda, serves to be some of the best places to visit in Bermuda. But what is even better is that you can swim in them! Some companies arrange swimming tours of the bigger cave systems. It is one of the best ways to know more about these natural systems as you get a more enriching and safe experience with expert guidance. When thinking of the things to do in Bermuda, don't forget to get a grotto swimming experience! 

4. Bermuda is expensive

It might not come by as a surprise but, Bermuda is expensive! It applies not only to eat at a fancy restaurant but to daily groceries too. The locals themselves don't swear by home cooking as it is just as expensive as eating out! It is good to plan your expenses as almost everything on the island is costlier than it is at home. It is because Bermuda island is pretty remote and small in size, making shipping costs high. Bermuda hotels may seem costly at first glance. Nonetheless, if you are on a budget, you can also find cheap places to stay in Bermuda.

5. The best time to visit is in March or April

The Bermuda weather varies from cool to hot throughout the year. However, it largely remains warm through all seasons though it becomes quite cold from December to February. Nevertheless, if you are looking for some beach bathing, then the best time would be in March and April when the Bermuda weather is most pleasant. Also, the prices aren't as high as in the busiest season from May to October. During the cool winters, there are relatively fewer tourists visiting. Hence, you could find some of the best Bermuda hotels turning out as cheap places to stay in Bermuda. 

6. The locals are very helpful

The local's great hosts are not only to the place, but they are also very helpful when dealing with tourists. For instance, if you need help figuring out the places on the Bermuda map, feel free to ask any of the locals nearby. They are sure to guide you to the right place. Also, communicating with them would not be an issue as the locals speak English. Wondering who owns Bermuda? Bermuda is a self-governing British overseas territory, and so, the national language is Bermudian English, a mix of American, British, and West Indian English.

7. Watch out for the jellyfish

Located in the North Atlantic Ocean north of the Bermuda Triangle, Bermuda island is home to several interesting marine life. Well, some could turn out to be dangerous too. The poisonous jellyfish, commonly known as the Portuguese man o'war is occasionally sighted in the Bermuda island's waters. When going for a swim on the beaches, it is always good to watch out for the warning signs or ask the locals or the hotels for any recent sightings of the stinging jellyfish.

8. New Bermuda Airport

LF Wade International Airport, the new state-of-the-art Bermuda airport, was opened on December 9, 2020. It makes it easier to access the Bermuda Islands. This is the only Bermuda airport with several direct flights to Bermuda from four different countries. The route to Bermuda is in the vicinity of the Bermuda triangle. Nonetheless, it is perfectly safe to travel to the island, with several flights flying routinely over it.

9. Don't drink the tap water

Unless you want to have bellyache through your Bermuda vacation (which you don't want for sure!), it is best if you avoid drinking water. There is no public drinking water system. As a result, all residents and hotels collect their water from the rainwater collected on the roof. This water is stored in the water tanks for future use. So, to be on the safer side, always ask for bottled drinking water or boiled water if available.

10. Don't miss the pink sand beaches

Pink sand beaches are a must-see when you come to Bermuda island. They serve as perfect backdrops for photos, especially at sunset. These breathtaking pink beaches are largely owed to the fact where is Bermuda located. The Pink sand gets its hue from thousands of shells and corals left behind by the invertebrates that live in the coral reefs surrounding the beach. Bermuda Islands has some of the beautiful pink islands in the world, and hence, it is a must-watch if you are planning to travel to Bermuda.  Since there lie many misconceptions about Bermuda island (maybe because it shares its name with the Bermuda triangle, probably), it would be worth answering some interesting questions about the island.  1. Is Bermuda a poor country? A look at who owns Bermuda would justify why the island is the sixth wealthiest country globally, despite the lack of natural resources and major industry. This British-owned territory acquires wealth from international businesses like insurance and financial service companies operating in the country. 2. Is Bermuda dangerous? Bermuda Islands are considered a safe destination for tourists when compared to Caribbean countries like Jamaica. Nonetheless, like any other country in the world, some petty crimes are happening there. 3. Are there sharks on the Bermuda beaches? There are mainly two types of sharks that visit the Bermuda waters. The Galapagos and the Dusky sharks. However, they are calm species and harmless by nature. 4. Is it legal to drink alcohol in Bermuda Islands? It is legal to enjoy alcoholic beverages at designated pubs and restaurants. However, the legal drinking age is 18. 

Final words

Bermuda Islands are a great place to visit if you are an ardent beach lover, a fan of the underwater world, or simply a casual holiday seeker. There are many exciting things to explore while here. So, grab the local Bermuda map and start making plans to visit the amazing places you would like to visit. Also, one last tip: don't forget to search for cheap places to stay in Bermuda well in advance to avoid any regrets!