Bardgett Robyn - FodorsTravel Bermuda

is still very British. Bermudas British traditions are obvious, from driving on the left side of the road to afternoon tea, to wig-wearing lawyers strolling to court. The national sports are cricket and football, there are bobbies on the beat (policemen on foot), and red letterboxes on street corners. Bermuda is one of the oldest British Overseas Territories, but that said, its completely self-governing, with its own laws. Everyone, including Britons, is treated as a foreigner, as only Bermudians can own property, land, or vote.

is not cheap. The World Bank rates Bermuda as one of the most affluent countries in the world, and it wont take long to understand why. Start saving your dollars for Bermudas high cost of living. Hotel accommodations are expensive, a bag of groceries costs more than $50, and gasoline is three times more expensive than in the U.S. That being said, budget travelers should note that free walking tours are offered in Hamilton and St. Georges, the Botanical Gardens have free entry, and the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is a bargain at just $2.50.

is crammed full of people. Bermuda is the third most densely populated place on earth. Theres an average of more than 3,000 people per mile, which means there are more than enough happy faces to welcome you. For a bit of breathing space, head to Tuckers Town in St. Georges Parish, the least populated spot on the island.

is strict about cars. Bermuda has several laws governing the size and quantity of vehicles on the road. Only Bermudians or full-time residents are allowed drivers licenses, and even then they can only have one car per household. Licensing fees are determined by the length of the vehicle.

relies on the weather. Bermudians rely on rain to fill up their water tanks, as there is no public water system. As soon as it starts to rain, Bermudians talk at length about whether its a passing shower or tank rain. And when they arent talking about the weather, they are hooked to the islands very own weather TV channel.

is crazy about golf. Bermuda has golf courses everywhere you look, so its no surprise that its a popular pastime for many locals. Theres a wide selection of government and privately owned golf courses across the island, making it a golfers paradise. The PGA Grand Slam of Golf is held here in October, but there are also several annual tournaments, such as team knockouts, couples classics, and par 3 championships.

is proud of its traditions. Bermudas history is rich and varied because of its Portuguese immigrants, English settlers, and African slaves. The traditions Bermudians are most proud of include Gombey dancers in colorful costumes, tucking into a codfish and potatoes breakfast, and greeting everyone with a Good Morning or Good Afternoon. But its the Cup Match holiday that really brings islanders together, with the east taking on the west for a traditional two-day cricket match.

Enjoy Salt Cod Fish and Potatoes

Bermudians love to eat, and on Sunday they never miss this traditional brunch dish. The custom dates back to the 18th century, when Bermuda sloops traded with Newfoundland and brought cheap and plentiful salt cod back to Bermuda to feed the slaves. The fish is served with hardboiled eggs, bananas, avocado, and boiled potatoes with a tomato-and-onion-based sauce on the side.