Bermuda’s Culture

Shipwrecks. African drum beats. And those famous shorts. Our island’s culture is a rich fusion of British colonial history and African heritage that has developed into something unlike anywhere else in the world.

As Britain's oldest colony, its influence continues to dominate our government, educational and legal institutions. You may spot one of our judges walking through Hamilton in a powdered wig, see a bobby directing traffic or overhear a passionate conversation about a local cricket match.

African influences, while subtler, can be found in our dance and music, especially reggae, calypso and the rhythm of the Gombeys—our magnificent dancing and drumming troupes that often take to the streets.

• So-called Bermuda shorts were originally borrowed in the early 20th century from the British military's uniform for hot climes. Although often colourful - pink is a favourite - do not mistake our shorts as informal. We take our shorts so seriously, in fact, we passed a law: no shorts shorter than six inches above the knee.
• Island cuisine is a reflection of our blended heritage and coastal access to premier local seafood such as wahoo and the ubiquitous rockfish. Our traditional dishes include Peas and Plenty (black-eyed peas with onions, salt pork and sometimes rice), Hoppin' John (peas and rice), Pawpaw Casserole and, of course, Bermuda Fish Chowder.
• Bermuda’s architecture features whitewashed stepped roofs designed to channel rainwater into underground tanks. This is the main supply of fresh water as there are no rivers or lakes here.
• Bermuda is also famous for two signature drinks: the “Dark ‘N Stormy”® (featuring our own Gosling’s Black Seal Rum mixed with Ginger Beer) and the Bermuda Rum Swizzle
• The Bermuda Triangle is a myth! The tales of the waters off Bermuda being responsible for the ship and aircraft disappearances was debunked in the 1970’s. However, once you get here, you might have a desire to “disappear” to permanent Paradise yourself!