A 21-square-mile island, Bermuda enduringly entices tourists with its crystalline waters while simultaneously alluring international businesspersons with its reputation as a thriving insurance hub. “Bermuda has a mix of thriving industries that not only put the island on the map but also make it a fun place to do business and explore,” shared Jamari Douglas, vice president, Marketing, Public Relations and Communication, Bermuda Tourism Authority.

PHOTO: © BERMUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY

Over the years the island reinvented itself, appealing to the constantly evolving traveler, most recently attracting small-group itineraries looking for a cultural escape close by. “In 2024 Bermuda experienced a surge in group booking,” said Douglas, adding the momentum continues in 2025 as first-quarter hotel bookings positively pace 25 percent ahead year over year.

Group travel to the island isn’t surprising, as Bermuda offers a range of natural, cultural and sustainable experiences — all burgeoning subcategories within the modern travel landscape. Though the island climate is subtropical, meaning temperatures do drop to an average 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter months, Douglas assures Bermuda offers “year-round adventure for every type of traveler.”

CHECKING IN WITH JAMARI DOUGLAS
Vice President, Marketing, Public Relations and Communication; Bermuda Tourism Authority

What’s new in terms of development and business opportunities?
Rising visitor arrivals are boosting demand for accommodations, tourism services and hospitality across the island. A key highlight is the redevelopment of Fairmont Southampton hotel, described as Bermuda’s largest hotel project to date. This redevelopment is expected to significantly boost the tourism industry by creating jobs and opportunities for Bermudians. Additionally, the government announced plans to amend the Tourism Investment Act 2017 to include health and medical tourism among the categories eligible for development incentives.

BTA launched the Experience Investment Programme to support local entrepreneurs in creating innovative tourism experiences. This initiative aims to enrich Bermuda’s visitor offerings and has successfully nurtured ventures that showcase the island’s rich culture and diverse attractions.

Bermuda is a global hub for international business. The Bermuda Business Development Agency facilitates connections between industry professionals and regulatory officials, promoting the island as a premier destination for business operations and events including the Bermuda Risk Summit, Bermuda Climate Summit, Bermuda Tech Summit and more.

How will these new developments affect business and investment opportunities?
New developments in the tourism and hospitality sectors will not only enhance Bermuda’s appeal as a global destination but also foster a dynamic environment for entrepreneurs and investors. As we innovate and diversify our tourism offerings, we’re creating a wealth of opportunities for those looking to engage with our thriving economy, all while maintaining the unique charm and spirit that makes Bermuda an exceptional place to live and work.

What’s happening politically and economically? 
Bermuda remains stable, with continued efforts focused on diversifying its economy and enhancing transparency in government operations. It is a safe and welcoming island for all visitors — especially solo travelers. We encourage anyone looking for a new place to explore by themselves to come visit us!

What are the strongest businesses and industries?
Bermuda is best known as a global hub in insurance and reinsurance. Major companies operate here to provide underwriting, catastrophe reinsurance and innovative risk management solutions. Additional financial services available on the island include asset management and investment funds as well as banking.

PHOTO: © BERMUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY

DIVERSIONS
As an island, its ocean locale is perhaps Bermuda’s most broadly appealing facet for both beach bums and thrill seekers. The former can sprawl out on pink-speckled sand beaches and while away a lazy afternoon while the latter can take to the water on a jet ski, sailboat or kayak or dive below the surface to explore the coral reefs and 300 shipwrecks surrounding the archipelago. Visitors also find ways to appreciate Bermuda’s natural beauty on land, from hiking railway trails or enjoying a picnic in Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve to meandering through the ruins of 17th-century forts and the UNESCO World Heritage town of St. George’s.

© ANDRE PLACE | DREAMSTIME.COM

Group travelers will especially enjoy Bermuda’s social scene with annual sporting events like the World Rugby Classic and Butterfield Bermuda Championship at Port Royal Golf Course as well as cultural staples that showcase the island’s vibrant national pride. “One thing you should know about Bermudians is that they love to celebrate; there’s truly nothing like a Bermudian party,” said Bermuda Tourism Authority’s Douglas. While any summer weekend provides an inviting backdrop for a celebration, he highlighted Carnival; International Gombey Festival; and Cup Match, a two-day cricket match, complete with island-wide beach and boat parties (or “raft-ups,” as the islanders say).

Many people don’t realize, however, that Bermuda offers a selection of eco-friendly experiences. “Sustainability has long been a part of the island’s heritage, dating back to 1620 when Bermuda passed what is believed to be the New World’s first-ever written conservation legislation,” explained Douglas. “Today, projects like the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) Seagrass Initiative protect the island’s marine ecosystems, while the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS) leads research on climate change and its impact on our oceans.”

PHOTO: © ANDREW KAZMIERSKI | DREAMSTIME.COM

A more recent tourism offering for Bermuda, but one aligned with its tranquil island locale, is an emerging wellness scene with salt yoga, foraging tours and spa treatments under the stalactites of the island’s cave systems. Despite its seemingly stereotypical island locale, “Bermuda is a dynamic destination,” emphasized Douglas.

LODGING
ROSEWOOD BERMUDA
An 88-key hotel on the island’s east end, Rosewood Bermuda delights with its Sense Spa, 200-acre golf course and private beach club.
60 Tucker’s Point Drive, Hamilton Parish, Bermuda
$$$$$

THE ST. REGIS BERMUDA RESORT
Balcony views overlook Gates Bay and the 120- room resort’s secluded beachfront, accented by two infinity pools. The island’s newest hotel lies within walking distance of Bermuda’s most historic town of St. George’s.
34 Coot Pond Road, St. George’s, Bermuda
$$$$$

THE LOREN AT PINK BEACH
Positioned in the middle of the island, The Loren exclusively offers oceanfront suites with spacious terraces. The hotel hosts an impressive culinary scene with locals’ favorite weekend brunches and an international guest chef series.
116 South Road, Tucker’s Town, Bermuda
$$$$$

DINING
BLU BAR & GRILL
Perched on one of the few elevated areas of the island, the terrace at Blu offers an unparalleled spot for sundowners that transition into multicourse dinners. The extensive menu, covering homemade pasta, grilled steaks and sushi, will satiate a range of palates.
25 Belmont Hills Drive, Middle Road, Warwick, Bermuda
$$$$$

PEARL
This second-floor sushi venue overlooks Front Street and Hamilton Harbour. Be sure to reserve a table outside for the best view, and order the fresh- catch rolls, which can range from tuna to rockfish.
87 Front St., Hamilton, Bermuda
$$$$

THE SWIZZLE INN PUB
Rum swizzle is Bermuda’s version of a rum punch. Named after the ubiquitous boozy beverage, there’s no better place to indulge in a pitcher than this institution. Pair it with a fish sandwich on raisin bread, and don’t let the size of the pitchers fool you … seemingly petite, they pack a mighty punch.
3 Blue Hole Hill, Hamilton, Bermuda
$$$

JUST THE FACTS                                                                                                                                      Time zone: GMT -4
Phone code: Country code: 441
Currency: Bermuda dollar (used interchangeably with the U.S. dollar at the same exchange rate)
Key industries: Tourism, insurance and reinsurance

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
English

COMING AND GOING
U.S. citizens do not need a visa, just a passport that’s valid for six months.

INFO TO GO
Bermuda L.F. Wade International Airport lies on the east side of the island in St. George’s, about 9 miles from the capital city of Hamilton. Increased tourism demand has witnessed expanded year-round, non-stop routes from major eastern U.S. cities such as Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Miami and New York on airlines including JetBlue, United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, BermudAir and Air Canada. The average flight duration from the Eastern Seaboard is less than two hours. Its three ports make cruising a popular way to travel to Bermuda. There is a local ride share option called Hitch; otherwise, prepare to have cash for taxis, accessible via traditional taxi stands. Tourists cannot rent a car but can rent a moped or Twizy (electric microcar).