Tips for traveling in Bermuda
Any vacation is better when you have some inside knowledge about where you are going, and Bermuda travel is no exception. To help make your vacation the best it possibly can, we have compiled some Bermuda travel tips so that you can be in the know.
Banking
Banks in Bermuda generally open at 9AM and close between 4 and 6PM. There are several banks around the island, mostly locally run organizations.
Clothing
The clothing in Bermuda, as a rule, is as conservative as much as it is casual. Beachwear should be saved for the beach and not for walking around town. The evenings cool off enough that you may want to bring a sweater to keep warm. Some of the nicer restaurants have a dress code, so pack accordingly in case you find yourself in one of these establishments.
Electricity
The electricity in Bermuda is the same as in the U.S.; 110V with the same type of plugs.
Medical Facilities
Bermuda has one hospital that is well-equipped and up to date. Traveling medical insurance is highly recommended as care is very expensive here.
Money
The official currency of Bermuda is the Bermuda Dollar (BD) but US currency is commonly used. The exchange rate from one to the other is equal (B$1=US$1), so there is no need to exchange money or figure out how much you are actually spending. Major credit cards are widely accepted.
Passports & Immigration
For entry to Bermuda you will need to present a valid passport, a photo ID, proof of citizenship if coming from the U.S., and a return or ongoing ticket. You may also be asked to show proof of lodging during your stay, so be sure to have your hotel confirmation handy.
Personal Safety
Bermuda enjoys very little crime, though you should use common sense just as you would anywhere and don’t leave valuables unattended and lock your doors. In the summer, beware the Portuguese man-or-war that comes close to shore – nothing could put a damper on your vacation quite like one of those poisonous animals!
Taxes
Since Bermuda has no sales tax, you can enjoy shopping til you drop all over the island. There is, however, a 7.25% hotel tax on any lodging.
Telephones
Telephone calls between Bermuda and the U.S. work the same as state-to-state calls, though they are charged as international calls. A phone card is easy to come by and may offer the best rates. To dial in or out of Bermuda, dial 1, then the area code (Bermuda’s is 441), then the 7-digit number.
Tipping / Gratuities
When in Bermuda tip as you would in the U.S. Some restaurants will automatically add gratuity on to a bill, so double check before you leave more than you intend to. Fifteen percent is usually good, but feel free to add to that if the service was exceptional.
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