It is always a good thing to know something about the culture of the country of your destination. Whether you are staying for a few weeks or a few days, knowing a little bit of the local customs and traditions will go a long way when it comes to dealing with the locals. More than potentially helping you out on your vacation, knowing more about other people’s culture actually benefits you as your understanding of the diversity of human culture is broadened. Here are some things that you may want to know about Bermuda before embarking on your trip.
Lucky you (if you come from an English-speaking country that is), they speak English in Bermuda. There is really no problem with communicating with locals over there. Some of the residents still speak the Queen’s English. However, you will be exposed to a wide variety of accents and dialects which have evolved through years.
As for religion, there exists a variety of religions in Bermuda but the main religions over there are Christianity and Animism (or Voodoo). Bermuda is very much influenced by British culture. As such, you will have no problems finding a church if you wish to do so.
Bermuda has assimilated the British culture so much that Anglophiles will feel as if they were at home. Due to this influence, Bermudian culture is quite reserved and polite. As such, you would not see any nude or even semi-nude beaches in Bermuda. Furthermore, it is not acceptable to wear your swimwear in public places other than the beach. Going out to dinner, though it may be a “casual” one, will require a certain degree of formality with regards to attire. Do not be surprised when you see a “bobby” directing the traffic on a Bermudian road. More so, you will probably find delight in seeing that their judges still wear the white powdered wigs worn by barristers in England.
Underneath the strong influence of the British is the African influence. The main manifestation of this influence is the music and dance of Bermuda. One interesting fact about the African traditions is that they have blended quite well with the Christian traditions. As such, the result is a unique fusion of two very different customs and traditions. The traditional form of music and dance in Bermuda is called the Gombey, which is firmly rooted in African tradition. However, as mentioned earlier, Christian components have been incorporated into the dance and music.
Bermuda does have a large supply of seafood but by and large, their food is imported from other countries, mainly the United States. Some say that Bermudian cuisine does not exist per se, but many beg to disagree. The fact is that there are certain ways that the Bermudians prepare their food that is unique to their culture. However, if you are not very adventurous when it comes to eating, you will not be like a fish out of water in Bermuda. You will probably find exactly the same things that you have at home. From American food to French cuisine and Italian food, Bermuda can cater to your tastes.