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Bermuda
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Capital Hamilton

Area 53.74 sq km (20.75 sq miles)

Population 66,536 (official estimate 2008)

Language English is the official language. There is a small Portuguese population. Other languages are spoken by Bermuda's residents originating from around the world.

Time GMT ‑4 (GMT ‑3 from first Sunday in April to last Sunday in October)

Electricity 110 volts AC, 60Hz. American (flat) two‑pin plugs are standard.

Description

Juan de Bermudez, a Spanish sailor first discovered Bermuda, in 1505. It was claimed in England's name by Sir George Somers, in July 1609. After colonization, the island prospered and has continued to do so almost continuously ever since. The tourist industry, catering particularly for the American market, began in Victorian times. Today, there are still elements of British culture and customs in almost every aspect of life on the islands. In 1968, the island was granted internal self‑government ‑ formally a British Dependent Territory ‑ while Britain retained control of defense and foreign policy. The issue of independence currently dominates in Bermuda, with the current pro‑independence Government. In December 2004, the Premier W Alex Scott announced the formation of the Bermuda Independence Commission to explore the subject of independence for Bermuda. A referendum on independence was last held in 1995 but a low turnout produced a majority against independence. In June 2005, opinion polls showed 20.1% supported self‑governance, with 65% opposed.

Climate

Sub‑tropical, with no wet season. The Gulf Stream which flows between Bermuda and the North American continent keeps the climate temperate. Change of seasons comes during mid‑November to mid‑December and from late March through to April when spring or summer weather may occur and visitors should be prepared for both. Showers may be heavy at times but the skies usually clear quickly. Summer temperatures prevail from May to mid‑November with the warmest weather in July, August and September – this period is occasionally followed by high winds. Visitors should note that such high winds between June 1 and November 30 can (albeit rarely) turn into hurricanes and tropical storms. Since Bermuda is a small target, most storms brush by and only bring elevated surf.

Geography

Bermuda consists of a chain of some 180 coral islands and islets lying 1,046 km/650 miles off the coast of Cape Hatteras. The seven largest of the islands are linked by bridges and one causeway to form the principal mainland. There are no rivers or streams and the islands are entirely dependent on rainfall for fresh water. Coastlines are characterized by a succession of small bays with beaches of fine pale pink coral sand. The surrounding waters are a vivid blue‑green. Inland there is an abundance of subtropical plants and flowers.

Money

Currency

Bermuda Dollar (BMD; symbol BD$)

Credit Cards

American Express, MasterCard and VISA are accepted at most large hotels, shops and restaurants.

Travelers Checks

US Dollar checks are widely accepted. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveler's checks in US Dollars.

Banking Hours

This ranges between Mon‑Fri 9AM‑4:30PM, with one bank having additional hours of Sat 10AM‑3PM.