|
Bermuda, «buhr MYOO duh,» a British dependency, is a group of coral islands and islets in the Atlantic Ocean. It is a popular resort center. Location, size, and description. Bermuda consists of more than 300 islands and tiny islets, only 20 of which are inhabited. The islands form the most northerly group of coral islands in the world. They lie midway between Nova Scotia and the West Indies, about 670 miles (1,080 kilometers) from New York City. The largest islands are Bermuda, St. George's, St. David's, and Somerset. These islands and several smaller islands are linked by bridges. Bermuda's total area is about 21 square miles (53 square kilometers). The four largest islands extend in a chain that is about 22 miles (35 kilometers) long. The island of Bermuda occupies about two-thirds of the total area. Hamilton, the capital, is on this island.
Bermuda has hills and ridges that rise as high as 260 feet (80 meters) above sea level. The hills add to the beauty of Bermuda, which is noted for winding roads, palm trees, colorful flowers, and shining beaches.
Bermuda has few sources of fresh water. Rain water is caught on the roofs of buildings and stored in tanks under the buildings. Roofs are kept clean and whitewashed to help keep the water supply pure.
Bermuda's annual rainfall averages 58 inches (147 centimeters). The average yearly temperature is 70 °F (21 °C). Fall hurricanes may strike the islands.
Education. Bermuda provides free primary and secondary education. Children aged 5 through 16 are required to attend school. Bermuda's Warwick Academy, founded in 1626, is believed to be the oldest secondary school in the Western Hemisphere. Bermuda College provides higher education.
The people and their work. The 20 inhabited islands have a population of about 63,000, not including about 15,000 British and United States military personnel. Blacks make up about 60 percent of the population, and whites about 40 percent. Tourism is the major source of income. Bermuda's mild climate and excellent hotels, beaches, and recreational resources attract about 500,000 tourists every year. Bermuda has long been a favorite honeymoon spot. Golf, bicycling, fishing, sailing, and tennis are popular sports. About 300 species of fish can be found in nearby waters. Devil's Hole is a natural fish pond. Other attractions include caves, and old forts and other historic buildings. St. Peter's Church in St. George, on St. George's Island, dates from 1619. Tourists can buy British goods, such as fine china and woolen fabrics, at low prices.
|
