Legal tender is the Bermuda dollar (BD$), which is divided into 100 cents. It's pegged through gold to the U.S. dollar on an equal basis -- BD$1 equals US$1.
U.S. currency is generally accepted in shops, restaurants, and hotels. Currency from the United Kingdom and other foreign countries is usually not accepted, but can be easily exchanged for Bermuda dollars at banks and hotels. You should exchange enough petty cash to cover airport incidentals, tipping, and transportation to your hotel before you leave home, or withdraw money upon arrival at an airport ATM. For up-to-the-minute currency conversions, visit www.xe.com/ucc.
ATMs -- The easiest and best way to get cash away from home is from an ATM. These machines are plentiful in Bermuda. The Cirrus (tel. 800/424-7787; www.cirrus.com) and PLUS (www.visa.com) networks span the globe; look at the back of your bank card to see which network you're on, and then call or check online for ATM locations at your destination. Be sure you know your personal identification number (PIN) and daily withdrawal limit before you depart. Note: Remember that many banks impose a fee every time you use a card at another bank's ATM, and that fee can be higher for international transactions (up to $5 or more) than for domestic ones (where they're rarely more than $2). In addition, the bank from which you withdraw cash may charge its own fee. For international withdrawal fees, ask your bank.
Credit Cards -- Credit cards are another safe way to carry money. They also provide a convenient record of all your expenses, and they generally offer relatively good exchange rates. But note that many banks now assess a 1% to 3% "transaction fee" on all charges you incur abroad (whether you're using the local currency or your native currency).
There is almost no difference in the acceptance of a debit or a standard credit card.
Note: The Discover Card (popular in the U.S.) is not accepted in Bermuda. MasterCard and Visa, however, are generally accepted.
What Things Cost in Bermuda (BD$/US$)
Average 15-minute taxi ride $40.00
Bus from the City of Hamilton to Ireland Island $4.50
Double room at an expensive hotel $445.00-$715.00
Double room at a moderate hotel $125.00-$320.00
Dinner for one at an expensive restaurant $55.00
Dinner for one at at a moderate restaurant $30.00
Dinner for at an inexpensive restaurant $24.00
Bottle of beer in a bar $6.00
Cup of coffee in a cafe $4.75
Admission to Bermuda museum $10.00
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
