Crime

 

Bermuda has a moderate crime rate driven in part by the drugs scene. Serious incidents, including use of weapons, do occur. Take precautions to safeguard yourself and your possessions. Common crimes include burglary, mugging, theft of unattended baggage and belongings, and theft of items from rental scooters.

 

The Bermuda Police Service website provides Tourist Safety Tips. Take particular care after dark.

 

Stick to well-lit parts of the island and avoid quieter, darker streets. There have been incidents of sexual assault. If you need help, contact the Bermuda Police Service in the first instance. 

 

Road Travel

 

Tourists are not allowed to drive cars in Bermuda.

 

Buses, ferries and taxis are generally safe, frequent and efficient. You can’t hire a car in Bermuda, but 50cc scooters are readily available for public hire. Driving is on the left, as in the UK. Roads are narrow, winding and undulating, and traffic may be heavy. Road accidents involving scooters are relatively common, and have resulted in serious injury or even death. You should take care. The national speed limit is 35kmh (22mph) but is lower in some urban areas.

 

Outside the major urban areas there are few footpaths or street lighting. Take care when out walking, especially at night

 

 

Contact your doctor around 8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive medocto

 

Bermuda has good modern medical facilities with a fully equipped general hospital and numerous doctors and dentists. King Edward Memorial Hospital has a good accident and emergency department.

 

Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation by air ambulance as cases that can’t be dealt with in Bermuda are usually referred to either Baltimore or Boston in the USA. Make sure your insurance covers any additional medical expenses incurred in the USA

 

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 911 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

 

Local laws and customs

 

Don’t become involved with drugs of any kind. Possession or importation of even small quantities attracts severe penalties.

 

The possession or importation of weapons (including air pistols and catapults) or ammunition (including empty magazines) is illegal. Those caught will be subject to severe penalties.

 

Bermuda, while welcoming, is a conservative place and you should dress modestly. Bathing suits, revealing tops and short shorts should only be worn at the beach or pools. There are no nude or topless beaches and it is an offence to appear in public topless or wearing a bathing suit top. Drinking alcohol in public outside of licensed premises is not allowed.