Bermuda: A Mid-Atlantic Turquoise Treasure

"Where is Bermuda?" is a question often asked by potential visitors who mistakenly (but understandably) think we're in the Caribbean. In fact, the island of Bermuda is located approximately 600 miles from North Carolina's east coast, but enjoys Caribbean climate benefits due to the warmth provided by Gulf Stream. An isolated turquoise gem in the Atlantic Ocean, Bermuda offers an appealing balance of Afro-Caribbean, Portuguese, British and North American cultures and is dazzlingly picturesque no matter the time of year. Tourists who vacation in Bermuda enjoy world-class hospitality and accommodations, whilst locals are envied for being able to call such a safe and beautiful place their home. Here's a quick breakdown of some of the things you need to know:

Climate & Weather

The temperature in Bermuda varies from around 15-30° Celcius (59-85° Farenheit) depending on time of year, with February and August being the coldest and hottest months, respectively. Bermuda weather can come with extreme humidity in the summer months, making it feel much hotter than it actually is, while the winters tend to be damp and windy. All things considered, the Bermuda climate is most comfortable in May and October, as these months represent seasonal turning points temperature-wise. As a long-standing island tradition, locals don't set foot in the water until May 24th, when they'll eagerly run to their favorite Bermuda beach and take the ceremonial plunge, welcoming swimming season for the summer.

Origin

Early Bermuda history is uniquely compelling compared to most islands due to the accidental circumstances surrounding our origins. Landed upon by mistake when the British ship 'Sea Venture' crashed into our surrounding reef in 1609, the first Bermuda beach (St. George's' Gates Bay) became a temporary home for those who'd survived the shipwreck. Because they'd been en route to Jamestown, Virginia and were presumed dead with no resources, it was a rough time in Bermuda for our reluctant first settlers. A quick view of a Bermuda map shows Fort St. Catharine next to Gates Bay on the Northeasternmost tip, which was used as our first defense post upon the island being officially established as a British colony in 1612.

Economy

The island's economy is supported primarily by international business and tourism, the former being the biggest contributor of capital. In fact, Bermuda companies are outnumbered by their offshore counterparts, with 10,000+ foreign-owned businesses set up on the island for tax reasons or otherwise. International business provides many jobs in Bermuda for locals and expats alike, but has been reduced in recent years due to the Great Recession of 2008. One of the more interesting Bermuda facts is that we have one of the highest incomes per capita in the world, with a salary range of roughly $60,000-$115,000 per year for those with a Bachelor degree. We also have a robust civil service, employment under which provides competitive pay and formidable benefits.

Housing

Accommodation in Bermuda is notably high-priced whether leasing or buying. When it comes to houses and apartments, Bermuda rental costs come at an average of $2,400 per month per one-bedroom dwelling. With a population of over 3,000 people per square mile, real estate is at a premium, making the average property in Bermuda priced at almost $1,000,000 to buy. Due to the high costs, many Bermudians cannot afford to own property unless it's passed down generationally. For this reason, there exists a local entity called the Bermuda Housing Corporation whose stated mission is to to focus on the issue of affordable housing.

These are just a few tidbits about our island, but there's so much more to discover. Once here, the warm Bermuda sun, striking physical beauty and accommodating atmosphere will make you see why it's a truly remarkable place. Why not hop on one of the many daily flights to Bermuda and see for yourself? You won't regret it.