What Should I Know About Bermuda?

The Bermuda Islands, better known simply as Bermuda, consist of 138 islands, many of which are uninhabited, covering little more than 20 square miles (52 sq. kilometers) in total. The territory is located off the Eastern US coast but belongs to the United Kingdom. It's an important international business center and the base point for many investors and offshore trade accounts, and 29% of the population residing there at any time is made up of foreigners. Bermuda has the highest GDP in the world, with a median of $76,403 US Dollars (USD) per capita.

The territory has a long history of strange happenings. When it was first discovered by Spanish explorers in 1503, Bermuda was dubbed "Isle of Devils" because of strange animal noises that could be heard on the island but were never pinned to any specific species. Stormy weather also caused the wreck of many ships approaching the area, which led to the legend of sea creatures and evil spirits living in the vicinity of the islands. Despite its name, the infamous Bermuda Triangle is not exactly situated off the island. In fact, most of the accidents and disappearances have occurred close to the Bahamas, an island group to the south-west.

Bermuda is famous around the world for its pink beaches and its year-round warm weather. The territory depends mainly on tourism to support itself, and it is covered in hotels and companies taking advantage of the natural beauty of the place. One of the most popular attractions for tourists visiting the islands is the water. Because of its geographical location and water cleanliness, it is a preferred spot for scuba diving and snorkeling.

The islands are also the base point for a series of ocean-related scientific centers, such as the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute and the Royal Navy Dockyard and Museum. Lighthouses are spread around the islands, many of which are open to the public and are popular tourist attractions. The territory is visited primarily by Americans, who make up 80% of the tourists arriving in the islands each year, and many own property in there.