Bermuda is more than just pink sand beaches and turquoise waters. It’s a place rich in culture, tradition, and etiquette. Whether you’re there for a short getaway or a longer stay, understanding local customs can make your trip much smoother and show your respect for the island’s citizens.
Greetings and Common Courtesies
First impressions are important in Bermuda, and greetings should be friendly and polite. People generally greet each other with a “Good morning,” “Good afternoon,” or “Good evening.” You won’t often hear just a simple “Hello” or “Hi.” Locals appreciate the extra politeness.
Shaking hands is an appropriate way to greet someone, especially in formal settings. If you’re introduced to someone new, a handshake is expected. In informal settings, Bermudians tend to be open and friendly, so don’t be surprised if a conversation flows naturally after a greeting.
Additionally, addressing people by titles like “Mr.,” “Mrs.,” or “Ms.” followed by their last name is customary until you’re invited to use their first name. It’s seen as a sign of respect.
Dress Codes in Bermuda
Casual Wear
Though casual dress is acceptable in many situations, Bermuda has a more conservative style when it comes to public appearance. You won’t often find Bermudians walking around town in beachwear, even though it’s an island famous for its beaches.
While visiting restaurants, shops, or any public place, make sure to cover your swimwear with a t-shirt or cover-up. Walking into a shop in just a swimsuit is considered disrespectful. Casual wear usually means a sundress for women or a polo shirt and shorts for men.
Formal and Business Wear
In business settings, Bermuda’s dress code is a bit on the traditional side. Men often wear what is famously known as “Bermuda shorts” paired with knee-high socks, a collared shirt, and a tie. This is considered proper attire for both work and formal events.
Women typically wear dresses, skirts, or tailored pantsuits. Keeping shoulders covered in more formal settings is a good idea as well.
Public Behavior and Conversation
Social Interaction
Bermudians are known for being friendly and polite. People may strike up conversations with you on the street or while waiting in line. It’s perfectly fine and polite to engage in small talk. Asking questions about Bermuda, their lifestyles, and the island’s history is welcome. However, it’s advised to steer away from personal or controversial topics early in the conversation.
Public Conduct
Keeping your voice at a moderate level in public places is preferred. Loud conversations or arguments in public are frowned upon. If you have a disagreement, handling it calmly and privately is essential for maintaining proper decorum.
Queuing
Waiting your turn in lines (known as queuing) is taken seriously in Bermuda. Skipping the line (cutting in line) is considered very rude. Always let others take their turn, and be patient. Mercifully, lines are usually not long, except at popular tourist spots.
Table Manners
If you get the chance to dine with locals, remember that table manners in Bermuda are similar to those in the UK or North America. Wait until your host begins before starting the meal. Saying “thank you” after the meal, even multiple times, is appreciated by your host.
It’s also polite to offer to contribute something, even if it’s a small gesture like bringing a bottle of wine or a dessert. At the dinner table, avoid discussing sensitive topics and enjoy the casual conversation and food.
Tipping
Tipping is customary in Bermuda, with 15-20% being standard for good service. Many restaurants automatically add a service charge to the bill. It’s a good idea to check before tipping extra. For cab drivers, round up to the nearest dollar or add 10-15% as a tip.
Religion and Religious Customs
Most Bermudians identify as Christian, so you may notice that Sundays are often observed as a relatively quiet day. Many shops and businesses are closed or have reduced hours, and going to church on Sundays is common for families.
If you attend a religious service, dress modestly. It’s also polite to follow along with the service, even if you don’t participate in prayers or communion. Avoid photographing religious ceremonies unless you’ve received permission.
Respecting Local Traditions
Public Holidays and Festivals
Bermuda hosts several unique holidays and festivals, with one of the most notable being Christmas. Bermudians maintain many British traditions around this time, including decorations, family gatherings, and exchanging gifts.
If you visit in May, you can also enjoy Bermuda Day, which is a celebration of island culture. There’s a huge parade with music and dancing. If you’re in town during the event, participating is encouraged! Just be sure to stay respectful during any traditional or ceremonial aspects of these celebrations.
Gombey Tradition
Gombey is an important and vibrant cultural tradition in Bermuda. It features dancers in colorful costumes and is often performed at festivals. It represents a combination of African, Caribbean, and British influences.
If you’re lucky enough to witness a Gombey performance, feel free to take photos but remain respectful of the dancers and the crowd. This isn’t a street show, but rather an important cultural event.
Punctuality and Time Perception
Like many island nations, Bermudians operate on “island time.” Though Bermudians value punctuality in formal settings, life tends to move at a relaxed pace. Don’t expect everything to be done in a rush.
If you have a meeting or appointment, arriving on time is still important. However, outside of work, don’t be too surprised if things start a little late. Just go with the flow!
Taking Photos
While tourists are welcome to take photos in most public places, always ask permission before photographing someone, especially in private settings. This is especially true if you’re at an event or gathering with locals. In religious or formal settings, it’s best to avoid taking pictures entirely unless explicitly allowed.
Environmental Respect
Environmental responsibility is taken seriously in Bermuda. Littering is a major offense, and you’ll find that the public spaces are kept very clean. Don’t leave trash on beaches or in public parks, and always dispose of waste properly. If you’re smoking, be sure to use designated areas and dispose of cigarette butts properly.
Driving and Transport Etiquette
Bermuda doesn’t allow tourists to rent cars, but you can rent scooters or mopeds. Helmets are mandatory, and it’s essential to drive carefully on the left side of the road. Bermudian roads are narrow and winding, so make sure to drive slowly.
Taxis are commonly used by visitors and are relatively easy to find. Be polite to drivers and give some form of a tip after your ride. Public buses are another great option and are efficient on the island. Be sure to have the correct change ready as many buses only accept exact fare in coins.
Respecting Private Property
Remember that not all beaches in Bermuda are public. Some are privately owned by resorts or locals. If a beach is private, be sure to get permission before entering, and never assume that all spaces are open for tourists to use.
Signs or fences usually indicate private property. If in doubt, ask a local before venturing onto a beach that might be restricted. Always practice respect by leaving the areas as you found them and avoiding any damage to the environment.
Final Thoughts
Respecting Bermuda’s local customs and traditions goes a long way. The island thrives on respectful interactions, politeness, and a slower pace of life. By following these guidelines, you’ll not only enjoy a better travel experience but also create positive connections with the locals.
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