A 21-square-mile island, Bermuda continues to attract visitors with its crystal-clear waters and charm while also serving as a prominent international business center, particularly in insurance and reinsurance. “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,” said Jamari Douglas, vice president of Marketing, Public Relations and Communications at the Bermuda Tourism Authority.
PHOTO: © BERMUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY
Over time, the island has reinvented itself to meet the needs of changing travelers, and recently it has seen growth in small-group itineraries seeking a nearby cultural escape. “In 2024 Bermuda experienced a surge in group booking,” Douglas noted, adding that momentum has continued into 2025 with first-quarter hotel bookings pacing about 25 percent ahead year over year.
Group travel to Bermuda makes sense: the island offers a variety of natural, cultural and sustainable experiences that align with current travel trends. Although Bermuda’s subtropical climate means winter temperatures can average around 60°F, Douglas emphasizes that the island 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 increasing demand for accommodations, tourism services and hospitality across the island. One major project is the redevelopment of the Fairmont Southampton, which is described as the largest hotel project in Bermuda to date. This redevelopment is expected to create jobs and broaden opportunities for Bermudians. The government has also proposed amendments to the Tourism Investment Act 2017 to include health and medical tourism among categories eligible for development incentives.
The Bermuda Tourism Authority launched an Experience Investment Programme to support local entrepreneurs creating innovative tourism offerings. The program aims to expand the island’s visitor experiences by nurturing ventures that highlight Bermuda’s culture and attractions.
Bermuda is also a global business hub. The Bermuda Business Development Agency connects industry professionals and regulators and promotes the island as a destination for business operations and events, including prominent conferences like the Bermuda Risk Summit, Bermuda Climate Summit and Bermuda Tech Summit.
How will these new developments affect business and investment opportunities?
Expansion in tourism and hospitality will strengthen Bermuda’s global appeal and create a dynamic environment for entrepreneurs and investors. As the island diversifies its tourism products, it opens avenues for collaboration and growth while preserving the character that makes Bermuda a special place to live and work.
What’s happening politically and economically?
Bermuda remains politically stable and continues efforts to diversify its economy and improve transparency in governance. The island is welcoming and safe for visitors, including solo travelers, and the tourism authority encourages anyone seeking a fresh destination to consider Bermuda.
What are the strongest businesses and industries?
Bermuda is best known for its role in insurance and reinsurance, with major firms providing underwriting, catastrophe reinsurance and risk management solutions. The financial sector also includes asset management, investment funds and banking services.
PHOTO: © BERMUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY
DIVERSIONS
Bermuda’s ocean setting is a major draw for both relaxation and adventure. Visitors can relax on pink-hued beaches or pursue active water sports like jet skiing, sailing and kayaking. The island’s coral reefs and roughly 300 shipwrecks also make it a rich destination for diving. On land, visitors can hike former railway trails, picnic at Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve, or explore historic 17th-century forts and the UNESCO World Heritage town of St. George’s.
© ANDRE PLACE | DREAMSTIME.COM
Group travelers will enjoy Bermuda’s lively social calendar, which includes sporting events such as the World Rugby Classic and the Butterfield Bermuda Championship at Port Royal Golf Course, alongside cultural celebrations that highlight local pride. “One thing you should know about Bermudians is that they love to celebrate; there’s truly nothing like a Bermudian party,” Douglas said. Annual highlights include Carnival, the International Gombey Festival and Cup Match, a two-day cricket contest accompanied by island-wide beach and boat parties, known locally as “raft-ups.”
Bermuda also offers 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 written conservation legislation,” Douglas explained. Today, initiatives such as the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute’s seagrass projects help protect marine ecosystems, while the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences conducts research on climate change and ocean health.
PHOTO: © ANDREW KAZMIERSKI | DREAMSTIME.COM
Wellness tourism is also emerging, with offerings such as salt-yoga sessions, guided foraging tours and spa treatments set within the island’s cave systems. Despite common island stereotypes, Bermuda is a varied and evolving destination that blends natural beauty, cultural depth and modern amenities.
LODGING
ROSEWOOD BERMUDA
An 88-key resort on the island’s east end, Rosewood Bermuda features a Sense spa, a 200-acre golf course and a private beach club.
60 Tucker’s Point Drive, Hamilton Parish, Bermuda
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THE ST. REGIS BERMUDA RESORT
This 120-room resort overlooks Gates Bay and offers private beachfront access and two infinity pools. The property is within walking distance of the historic town of St. George’s.
34 Coot Pond Road, St. George’s, Bermuda
$$$$$
THE LOREN AT PINK BEACH
Located mid-island, The Loren offers oceanfront suites with large terraces and a strong culinary program that includes popular weekend brunches and an international guest chef series.
116 South Road, Tucker’s Town, Bermuda
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DINING
BLU BAR & GRILL
Perched on one of the island’s higher points, Blu’s terrace is ideal for sunset drinks that lead into multicourse dinners. The menu ranges from homemade pasta and grilled steaks to sushi.
25 Belmont Hills Drive, Middle Road, Warwick, Bermuda
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PEARL
This second-floor sushi restaurant overlooks Front Street and Hamilton Harbour. Outdoor seating offers the best views; try the fresh-catch rolls, featuring seasonal local fish.
87 Front St., Hamilton, Bermuda
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THE SWIZZLE INN PUB
Known for its rum swizzle, Bermuda’s signature rum punch, The Swizzle Inn is the classic spot for a pitcher paired with a fish sandwich on raisin bread. The pitchers may seem modest in size but are potent in flavor.
3 Blue Hole Hill, Hamilton, Bermuda
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JUST THE FACTS
Time zone: GMT -4
Phone code: Country code 441
Currency: Bermuda dollar (commonly used interchangeably with the U.S. dollar at parity)
Key industries: Tourism, insurance and reinsurance
OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
English
COMING AND GOING
U.S. citizens do not need a visa; a passport valid for at least six months is required.
INFO TO GO
Bermuda L.F. Wade International Airport is on the island’s east side in St. George’s, about 9 miles from the capital, Hamilton. Growing tourism demand has led to expanded year-round nonstop routes from major eastern U.S. cities on carriers such as JetBlue, United, American, Delta, BermudAir and Air Canada, with average flight times from the U.S. East Coast under two hours. Bermuda’s three ports also make cruising a popular arrival option. Local ground transport includes a rideshare service called Hitch and traditional taxis; visitors should have cash available for some fares. Tourists are not permitted to rent standard cars but can rent mopeds or electric microcars such as the Twizy.