Bermuda Country Report

Bermuda, an overseas territory of the United Kingdom, is a highly-developed archipelagic nation in the Atlantic Ocean. It differs from other island nations in the greater region both in terms of its geographic location - far north of the Caribbean - and its high socioeconomic status even by North American and European standards. The island's insurance, offshore finance, and tourism industries form the pillars of the economy, as most material goods are imported from the US or the UK.

The main threats for those visiting the island will be petty theft and tropical systems, though even the former is considered a low risk in Bermuda. Because of the island's stability and low-risk environment, it has traditionally been a highly popular destination for US, Canadian. and British tourists. However, its prominence among travelers has been more recently threatened by its high cost of living as compared to emerging Caribbean destinations further south.

There is no notable conflict threat to Bermuda, nor is one expected to develop. Transnational terrorism is not considered a threat within Bermuda, though there is a minor abiding risk due to the island’s relationship with the UK. There are also concerns that the island’s financial services industry could be used for money laundering. Crime is considered to be a low risk for those visiting the country, with petty crime as the most prevalent type. Unrest occasionally occurs on the island, typically in Hamilton. Issues are primarily domestic in nature.

International carriers are considered safe for travel to Bermuda. Because of the island’s small size, its road network is comprehensive and in generally excellent shape. Basic services such as water, electricity, and fuel availability are all highly reliable throughout Bermuda. Bermuda is not known to be a sponsor of cyberattacks, nor is it known to particularly suffer from them.

Bermuda experiences a warm subtropical climate, with somewhat cooler temperatures only during the winter months (November-February). Bermuda typically experiences some impacts from tropical systems every year during the Atlantic hurricane season June-November. Bermuda lies within a mildly active seismic zone and has the potential to experience mild-to-moderate earthquakes. Bermuda is not considered to be a major pollutant due to its small size and generally puts environmental concerns high due to their potential effects on the island’s vital tourism industry.

Bermuda has no notable outbreaks of disease, and only routine vaccinations are advised. Healthcare facilities in Bermuda are adequate for the majority of medical needs. Serious or complex medical emergencies will likely require medical evacuation to the United States. All major medications can be obtained in some form on the island, but more specialized medications may not be sold there. Tap water is considered safe for drinking unless otherwise specified.

Bermuda’s system of governance is thoroughly stable, nor does the island show any notable signs of wishing to alter its relationship with the United Kingdom. Corruption in Bermuda is considered low by standards in the neighboring Caribbean as well as by global standards. Rule of law in Bermuda is strong with no notable problems. Sanctions are not an issue, nor have they ever been a serious concern.