The Bermuda Tourism Authority says they are plenty of experiences to be discovered this winter to attract visitors and locals, alike
Looking for ways to ignite your weekends this winter? Zina Edwards, the Director of Corporate Communications at the Bermuda Tourism Authority said a number of campaigns, and activities such as Restaurant Weeks 2025 and Spa Month being hosted this February.
She said it’s all about bringing attention to ways to make the most of the shoulder-season (between November- March) to help support the local economy and grow Bermuda’s tourism product into a year-round vacation experience.
Kendal Trott sat down with her to discuss what’s on offer.
“This election is a choice between who will work for the many and who will work for the few.”
The Choice Before Us: A Government for the Many or the Few
By E. David Burt, JP, MP, Premier of Bermuda via press release:
On January 31, Bermuda took another step forward in its democratic journey as candidates were officially nominated to contest the upcoming General Election.
I’m proud to say the Progressive Labour Party is fielding a record number of female candidates for any political party in history.
I’m also proud of the next-generation leaders we have on our team.
Candidates under 40, like Alexa Lightbourne, Shomari Talbot-Woolridge, Iesha Musson, and Mischa Fubler who are ready to bring fresh ideas and new energy to a team of seasoned veterans who bring experience and wisdom.
Friday was a moment that marked the beginning of an important national conversation about our island’s direction and the leadership best equipped to take us forward.
For me, this election holds special significance as it will be my last as Leader of the Progressive Labour Party.
The last seven years have been trying times globally.
We dealt with the worst global pandemic in 100 years and the outbreak of major wars in Europe and the Middle East that contributed to the highest global inflation in 40 years.
These are difficult times for people here in Bermuda, and the PLP understands the pain Bermudians are feeling.
In the face of adversity, we have made steady progress to stabilise our economy, balance the budget, rebuild tourism, create jobs, and reduce taxes.
As a result, Bermuda is on a path toward a fairer and more prosperous future.
In spite of the challenges, we have made progress – introducing a living wage, cutting taxes for working families, increasing access to affordable housing, and investing in education and healthcare.
But we know that too many Bermudians still feel left behind. That is why our focus in the next term will be on achievable results for our people.
Our vision will introduce a senior daycare centre, add a free primary care visit under HIP & specialist visit under FutureCare, expand affordable housing, reduce more taxes and fees for Bermudians, and support community-owned markets to reduce household expenses.
This election is a choice between those who will make steady progress and those who would take us back. The Progressive Labour Party is the only party presenting a detailed and achievable vision for the future—one that will ensure that every Bermudian has the opportunity to build a life here.
Meanwhile, the opposition and other candidates offer no real plans to grow our economy, lower the cost of living, or create opportunities for Bermudians.
The OBA has offered a minor 8-page pamphlet, and their candidate in C36, Carl Neblett, said he had “no idea” how the OBA would reduce the cost of living. We cannot afford to gamble with our future.
This election is a choice between who will work for the many and who will work for the few – who will work for a fairer Bermuda.
The PLP has presented a team that blends experience with new energy, including a record number of women stepping up to serve.
They are business owners, educators, and community leaders—people who know the challenges Bermudians face and are ready to tackle them head-on.
With this strong team, we are prepared to build on the work we have done and take Bermuda into the future.
The choice before us is clear. The OBA, the FDM, and independents have offered no achievable plan to improve the lives of working Bermudians.
Their approach would take us backwards, undoing the progress we have made.
Only the PLP has the experience, vision, and team ready to lead Bermuda into the future.
This election is a choice between who will work for the many and who will work for the few – who will work for a fairer Bermuda.
The PLP has presented a team that blends experience with new energy, including a record number of women stepping up to serve.
They are business owners, educators, and community leaders—people who know the challenges Bermudians face and are ready to tackle them head-on.
With this strong team, we are prepared to build on the work we have done and take Bermuda into the future.
This election is about fairness, stability, and progress.
It is about building a Bermuda where everyone—no matter their background—can afford to live, raise a family, and retire with dignity.
It is about ensuring that economic success benefits all, not just a few.
It is about a government that is transparent, accountable, and always working for the people.
On February 6, I encourage every Bermudian to pay attention, ask questions, and engage in this important conversation about our future.
The PLP’s platform launch will be a moment to look ahead—to see the kind of Bermuda we can create together.
Together, we have overcome many challenges. Together, we must build a fairer Bermuda for all of us.
E. David Burt, JP, MP Premier of Bermuda Leader, Progressive Labour Party
Public health measures enacted to prevent potential outbreak
Update via The Bermuda Government: The Ministry of Health’s Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit is currently investigating a suspected case of measles.
Public health measures are being implemented including the identification and notification of persons who may have had a potential measles exposure and would be considered close contacts.
Public health measures are initiated based on suspect cases as a timely response is critical to preventing potential outbreaks.
Given the highly contagious nature of measles, timely response, case investigation, contact tracing, and immunization efforts help to prevent potential spread while confirmatory testing is underway.
Measles is highly contagious and can lead to serious health complications.
The Ministry strongly emphasizes the importance of measles awareness and prevention. Vaccination is crucial in reducing the risk of catching and spreading measles.
Anyone who has not received both doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine—particularly children and young adults—should follow the below guidance to protect themselves and others.
Minister of Health Kim Wilson stated, “Vaccination remains the most effective protection against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases. If you haven’t yet received both doses of the MMR vaccine, now is the time to act. Protect yourself and those around you from this highly contagious and potentially serious disease.”
“We must work together to prevent the potential spread of measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases. We encourage parents to ensure their children are immunized according to the recommended schedule. Vaccination is a simple yet powerful way to stay safe and safeguard our community.”
For more details on measles prevention and the MMR vaccine, please visit https://www.gov.bm/measles or contact your healthcare provider.
Key Guidance:
Check Vaccination Status: Ensure you and your family are up-to-date with immunizations. Children should have one dose at each of the following ages: 12 through 15 months and 4 through 6 years. Anyone born during or after 1957 and who has never had measles infection or measles vaccination should see their doctor to make sure that they have had two doses of measles containing vaccine at least four weeks apart.
Recognize Symptoms: The first symptoms are fever, tiredness, cough, runny nose, sore red eyes and feeling unwell. A few days later a rash appears. The rash starts on the face, spreads down to the body, and lasts for 4-7 days. If you suspect that you have measles, call your healthcare provider. If you may have had a measles exposure, talk to your doctor or nurse right away for further guidance.
Consult Healthcare Providers: For any concerns or questions about measles or the MMR vaccine, contact your physician or the Hamilton Health Centre at 278-6460.
Racing event coincides with organisation’s 20th anniversary
Raleigh is in in need of volunteers on February 22, 2025 to help Marshall the Bermuda Backyard Run Ultra. If you can volunteer or get friends to help volunteer, we would really appreciate you!!
The Bermuda Backyard Ultra is an exciting race format and the 3rd Backyard run to be held in Bermuda in accordance with the Rules established by the original Big’s Backyard event.
Run Bermuda’s Backyard 2025 takes place in Southside, St. David’s starting and finishing on Clearwater Beach field on Saturday 22nd February 2025.
Participants run a 4.167 mile/6.706km each hour on the hour.
The event is Raleigh’s 2025 National Backyard Championships with the “last person standing” / running being crowned this year’s Bermuda National Backyard Champion.
Volunteers are encouraged to show support for the runners, but under Backyard Rules are not permitted to assist in any form; providing drink, food, or pacing (other than in an emergency).
Runner assistance is permitted between the athlete ending one loop and leaving the corral for the next loop.
Refreshments will be provided to all volunteers.
This year’s event is in support of Raleigh Bermuda and celebrating our 20th year anniversary!
There is no minimum or maximum, it’s totally up to the individual participant. Run for fun, run for charity, or run to win – all approaches are encouraged.
2,500 to 2,700 people were expected to have flown out since Monday
People board a ferry to Piraeus, following an increase in seismic activity on the island of Santorini, Greece, February 4, 2025. REUTERS/Alkis Konstantinidis
International news via Reuters – SANTORINI, Greece: Hundreds of people left Santorini on ferries and planes on Tuesday to reach safety in Athens as a series of quakes kept shaking the famous Greek tourist island.
Hundreds of quakes have been registered every few minutes in the sea between the volcanic islands of Santorini and Amorgos, in the Aegean Sea, in recent days, prompting authorities to shut schools in Santorini and the small nearby islands of Ios, Amorgos and Anafi until Friday.
A tremor with a magnitude of 4.9 was recorded by the Athens Geodynamic Institute at 0246 GMT on the island, most of whose popular white and blue villages cling to steep cliffs over the sea.
Hundreds of permanent residents and workers rushed to a port early on Tuesday to embark for the Greek capital.
Cars line up as people wait to board a ferry to Piraeus, following an increase in seismic activity on the island of Santorini, Greece, February 4, 2025. REUTERS/Alkis KonstantinidisPeople board a ferry to Piraeus, following an increase in seismic activity on the island of Santorini, Greece, February 4, 2025. REUTERS/Alkis KonstantinidisPeople board a ferry to Piraeus, following an increase in seismic activity on the island of Santorini, Greece, February 4, 2025. REUTERS/Alkis KonstantinidisA woman carries her daughter as people board a ferry to Piraeus, following an increase in seismic activity on the island of Santorini, Greece, February 4, 2025. REUTERS/Alkis KonstantinidisPeople and cars board a ferry to Piraeus, following an increase in seismic activity on the island of Santorini, Greece, February 4, 2025. REUTERS/Alkis Konstantinidis
Flights out of Santorini to Athens were full, Greek air carrier Aegean Airlines said on Tuesday. A total of 2,500 to 2,700 people were expected to have flown out since Monday by the end of the day, it added.
“We are going to leave because I am afraid, there are constantly earthquakes, we have to leave for the kids, so the kids can calm down,” said Beni Ouklala, 38, who has temporary work on the island.
Others were unfazed. “We will stay here, why should we leave? If something happens it happens,” said Eftichis Diamantopouulos, 63, a tourist boat captain.
Santorini throngs with hundreds of thousands of tourists in the summer. It is much quieter at this time of the year, but with seismologists estimating that the intense seismic activity could take days or weeks to abate, local authorities have drafted an emergency accommodation plan.
“We have (planned for) places for shelters for the population without structures and on level surfaces, there are eight places that can accommodate people,” said Santorini Mayor Nikos Zorzos.
Emergency rescue crews were also on the ground, while people were advised to stay out of coastal areas due to the risk of landslides and avoid indoor gatherings.
Some hotels started emptying their pools as they were told that the water load made buildings vulnerable and construction activities have ceased.
Greece is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in Europe as it sits at the boundary of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates whose constant interaction prompts frequent quakes.
Santorini took its current shape following one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history, around 1600 BC. The last eruption in the area occurred in 1950.
(Writing by Angeliki Koutantou; Editing by Michael Perry and Alex Richardson)
Uncertainty remains about the Bank of England’s suggestions about future rate cuts
FILE PHOTO: One Euro and British pound coins are seen in this illustration taken, November 9, 2021. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File photo
International news via Reuters: The pound edged lower against the euro on Tuesday after recording its biggest daily rise in three months a day earlier as investors expect U.S. tariffs to hurt the economy more in Europe than in the UK.
It dropped against a strengthening dollar as tariffs against China took effect. It was down 0.15% at $1.2433.
Market participants also awaited the Bank of England’s policy meeting later this week.
The pound “seems to be retaining some solid footing after an American trade war was averted,” said Francesco Pesole, forex strategist at ING.
“The reason is simple: the UK has little to lose from U.S. tariffs. UK exports to the U.S. are less than 2% of GDP and those to China less than 1%,” he added.
The pound fell 0.1% to 83.18 pence per euro after being up 0.55% the day before in its biggest rise since early November. On Monday, it hit highest since Jan. 8 at 82.88 pence.
The BoE, which is widely expected to cut rates by 25 basis points (bps) on Thursday, could nudge investors to expect faster rate reductions.
“Looking ahead, we see room for deeper cuts than what financial markets expect. Trade uncertainty is rising, labour demand is falling, fiscal policy is tight, and the policy rate is well above our neutral estimate of 2-3%,” said Peder Beck-Friis, economist at PIMCO.
However, there is still uncertainty about BoE’s possible suggestions about future rate cuts.
“The economy is vibing ‘stagflation’. We think the bank will lean dovish to these risks, as it has done throughout this cycle,” said Shaan Raithatha, senior economist at Vanguard, adding Vanguard base case is for a 25-basis-point cut on Thursday to be followed by one cut every quarter thereafter.
BofA said February was too early for a decisive dovish shift because inflation will likely pick up in the coming months.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer told European Union leaders on Monday that he wanted to work together to expand the continent’s defences, including greater cooperation on missions and the cost of rearmament.
“Markets may be double reading an intent by Starmer to gradually reconnect with the EU politically,” said ING’s Pesole, adding that would be positive for sterling, which remains highly sensitive to developments that can affect the growth outlook.
(Reporting by Stefano Rebaudo; Editing by Bernadette Baum)
Fake ‘Prime Aurora’ article circulates with images of Gov’t minister & BBC reporter
Image of a hoax article that tries to get Bermudians to sign up to a crypto trading platform. Scroll down for more images.
A fraudulent article is circulating which attempts to get people to sign up to a crypto trading platform.
The scam uses photos and a fake transcript of an interview between Government Minister Jason Hayward (misspelled ‘Heyward’) and Bermuda Broadcasting reporter Gary Foster Skelton.
In the fake interview, Mr Hayward and Mr Foster Skelton are discussing the Prime Aurora crypto platform, and how much money they have supposedly made.
The hoax is designed to look like a Royal Gazette web article, although all the links lead to a sign-up page for the crypto platform.
The sign-up page also features fake testimonials from Bermudian public figures such as Terry Lister, Daren Herbert, and Bermuda Broadcasting’s Jasmine Patterson.
The page also has a ‘spots remaining’ ticker which slowly counts down, urging site visitors to sign-up quickly. However, the countdown resets if the page is refreshed.
Our reporter Gary Foster Skelton has been contacted several times by members of the public trying to find out if the scheme is valid.
“This is a scam”, he said. “No such interview ever took place between Minister Jason Hayward and myself. The photos used are from a discussion we had last year concerning local employment.”
“This is a disgusting attempt to use images of public figures to exploit the trust of Bermudians and residents.”
“If you receive or have received this link, do not sign up, and make sure all your friends are aware that the article is fake.”
“The benefit of being in Bermuda is that it is relatively easy to check the validity of anything that claims to have the backing of a local person. In my case, you can contact the Bermuda Broadcasting newsroom on 295-2828 ext.238, or email news@bbc.bm.”
It’s one of four public docks targeted for repairs under the Public Works Ministry
A popular community dock on North Shore Road is undergoing much-needed repairs.
The Minister of Public Works, Lt Col David Burch, has identified several public docks in need of refurbishment, with Sandy’s Dock in Devonshire next on the list.
“As part of the mid-year budget, we, the Ministry, received about 3.8 million to carry out various projects in the community,” said Minister Burch. “400,000 of that was allocated for dock works across the country. We have completed work on Mangrove Bay, and Sandy’s Bay is close to completion. There are two other docks in line – White’s Island and one at the prison farm.
“This project is under budget – each was estimated at 100,000, and this one is costing about 60,000.”
Jason Smith of Smith Hailing and Excavating has been engaged to carry out the project, which will improve the dock’s accessibility and usability after years of gradual deterioration.
Austin Kenny, Principal Structural Engineer at the Ministry of Public Works, said the North Shore dock is particularly vulnerable to the elements.
“The dock that you see behind us was fairly beaten up,” Mr Kenny said. “It’s quite exposed here on the North Shore. Over the years, the concrete deck surface had cracked and broken, and it was becoming unsafe.
“The work behind us is to pull up all loose material and pour a new concrete surface. It will be much safer and better use for the community. We are also repairing the steps, as well as access in and out, and installing new handrails and life rings.
“Since we’re here as well, there was a wall that came down in the last hurricane back in September—that work is already complete.”
To ensure the repairs stand the test of time, high-quality materials such as stainless steel hand railings and fibre-reinforced cement are being used.
Owen Darrell, the Progressive Labour Party’s candidate for Constituency 15, Pembroke East, said the condition of the dock has been a concern for area residents. He looks forward to restoring community pride in the historic site.
“Though I seek to be the representative for Pembroke East, this is a dock where many in the area grew up—learning to swim and having barbecues,” said Mr Darrell.
“There will be members of this community who remember when there was a springboard here. But, because of hurricanes and general wear and tear over the years, it became inaccessible and it became unsafe for residents.”
“So, it’s great to see that tangible work is being done. I’ve had conversations with the Minister and his team. On top of the dock, they are going to put topsoil here on the park, they are going to redo the barriers, redo the trees that are here, so we’re going to bring this back to an area of prominence that residents of Pembroke East can be proud of.”
“I look forward to maybe a new generation of young people learning to swim by being thrown off of the North Shore Dock.”
Questioned on the timing of the works, which come just two weeks ahead of the General Election, Mr Darrell stated:
“It’s good fiscal responsibility by this government.
“We were able to manage the funds effectively and, as the Premier said a few months ago, we decided it was imperative to reinvest these funds into the community and infrastructure.”
While the schedule of the work depends on the tides, it is estimated that the project will take about a month longer, with a full transformation in time for the first swim of the season on May 24th.
Says opposition’s approach promotes ‘a race to the bottom’
Alaska Hall, PLP Headquarters: Premier David Burt was joined by Minister and Economy and Labour Jason Hayward and C8 Candidate for Smith’s South Lauren Hayward Bell to discuss their stance on immigration.
They say that they’re fighting for a Bermuda where Bermudians are first in line for opportunties they’ve earned, and where no worker is exploited.
Premier Burt says that the government has worked tirelessly to keep Bermudians at the front for jobs, education, and advancement. He points to an increase in scholarships and training opportunities for Bermudians.
Regarding the opposition One Bermuda Alliance, Premier Burt believes they are out of touch. “OBA’s policy would redefine what it means to be Bermudian with Pathways to Status.
The ‘protests, betrayal, and silence’ the PLP remembers.”
The three reminding the media of the OBA’s controversial ‘Pathways to Status’, calling it a policy that sidelines locals in favour of others.
“Immigration has been weaponised by the forefathers of the One Bermuda Alliance”, according to Burt.
He also points to sister British Overseas Territory the Cayman Islands, stating that a similar policy implemented there led to an increase in crime, skyrocketing housing costs, and native-born Caymanians becoming minorities in their own country.
“There are ways to grow our economy while keeping Bermudians at the heart of our success… Unlike the One Bermuda Alliance, the PLP listens.”
Minister of Economy and Labour Jason Hayward says that the PLP prioritises a “fair, measured, Bermudian-first approach to immigration” and seeks for maintaining a country where “opportunities for Bermudians are not diminished.”
We’ll have more on this topic in subsequent updates.
Bermuda Broadcasting’s Gary Foster Skelton was in attendance, and posed a number of questions to the trio. Watch the full presser—including the media Q&A—above.
Parents of Bermuda-based students encouraged to register for series
Stock photo (Pexels, 2019)
The Mirrors Programme has an upcoming webinar series ‘Finding Funds for College’, which is a free initiative designed to support parents and guardians of all ages in planning for their young people’s education.
The series will provide essential guidance on scholarships, financing options, and funding opportunities for both college and vocational training. It will take place every Tuesday in February and the first Tuesday in March 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM via Zoom.
A Mirrors spokesperson says that “the goal is to ensure families across Bermuda have the tools and resources they need to navigate the often-challenging process of funding higher education.”
You can view Bermuda Broadcasting’s interview with Mirrors Programme Manager, Kimberley Jackson, below.
Latest Retail Sales Index figures show growth in overseas declarations
Update via Ministry of Economy and Labour
September’s volume of retail sales index decreased 0.9 per cent compared to last year. In value terms, retail sales increased to an estimated $100.7 million.
Four of the seven sectors recorded a year-over-year volume index increase in September 2024:
The Service Station’s sales volume increased 1.1 per cent.
In the All Other Store Types sector (comprising stores selling household items, furniture, appliances, electronics, pharmaceuticals and tourist-related goods), there was a 0.2 per cent growth in sales volume.
The following sectors had a decrease in sales volume compared to the previous year:
The Liquor Stores’ sales volume fell 10.3 per cent.
The sales volume for Building Material Stores decreased 12.0 per cent.
The sales volume at Apparel Stores decreased 3.8 per cent.
Selected overseas declarations increased by 38.3 per cent compared to September 2023.
Parents have penned a letter to the Department of Education to express their “deep concern and disappointment” with plans to close the school
Demonstrators hold placards on South Road, Paget Monday morning Photo: Bermuda Broadcasting
Parents, students and politicians calling for the government to halt plans to close Gilbert Institute held a demonstration this morning in Paget. Commuters honked their horns in support of the demonstrators who carried placards reading, “Please keep Gilbert open”. Just under 60 parents penned a letter to the Education Ministry expressing deep concern about the plans because they feel, their voices and concerns have not been adequately heard or addressed throughout the consultation process.
They wrote, “First and foremost, we want to state unequivocally that we reject the closure of Gilbert Institute, as well as the transition plan and the lack of clear and transparent information regarding how and why Gilbert Institute was selected for closure.
“This decision has left us feeling unheard and dismissed as stakeholders in our children’s education and as tax paying citizens.”
Scott Pearman, the OBA incumbent for constituency 22 Paget East, Jarion Richardson, leader of the opposition OBA and Rayki Bascome Emery, the independent candidate contesting the seat were also present in support the parents this morning.
We understand around 50 students currently attend Gilbert Institute.
Parents have taken issue with the state of the current designated parish school, Paget Primary School, which was selected as the sole facility to serve students in the area as part of education reform.
“No information has been provided about what steps, if any, have been taken to improve these conditions. If no other suitable placements are made available, we will be forced to send our children to a school where we have serious reservations about their safety and well-being, ” they said. Jennifer Ward, a parent of two children attending Gilbert Institute told Bermuda Broadcasting this morning, “The parents have all had to pick where we want to transfer our kids in September and pickings are slim.
“We don’t feel that the government have really fixed the issued at other schools and are prepared to accept all of our kids and also Prospect [Primary School] kids and we feel that Gilbert is such a valuable asset to this community. I mean, you can tell. The honking is crazy – I can’t believe it. “
Mr. Pearman pledged for an immediate pause to the school’s closure plans for reevaluation, if elected in the upcoming General Election.
Mr. Bascome Emery has made a similar pledge and claimed the announcement of plans to replace the school with a seniors day care facility as a ‘vote grab’ by the Progressive Labour Party government.
A Ministry of Education spokesperson confirmed, “The Minister of Education, Diallo Rabain, has received the letter and acknowledges the concerns raised. This week marks the Minister’s first week in office after his medical leave.
“He has confirmed his intention to meet with the Principal and the PTA. The Ministry is coordinating with the school leadership to finalise a meeting date and secure questions from the PTA executive to ensure a productive meeting.”
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