Despite the repeal of same-sex marriage, Bermuda is relatively safe for LGBT+ travellers.
Firstly, we have to point out that in Bermuda it is legal to gay and lesbian. However, LGBT+ residents and visitors may still find that the people and its governance are still quite conservative.
It is illegal to discriminate on the basis of sexuality in Bermuda, but not on the basis of gender identity.
Up until February 2018, Bermudan same-sex couples had the right to marry. A law was passed in December 2017 effectively replaced same-sex marriage with domestic partnerships. It was given Royal Assent on the 7th February.
When Bermudan people were given a referendum on the issue of same-sex marriage, it was overwhelmingly voted against.
So is it safe for LGBT+ people to travel and visit Bermuda? By and large yes, although due to its conservative nature, LGBT+ people might find it uncomfortable to show public displays of affection.
Crime rates against LGBT+ people seem to be low.
Please note, there is not an equal age of consent – and the law is different to the UK for gay and bisexual males. Gay and bisexual men must be older than 18-years-old.
The UK Government’s travel advice for LGBT+ people says, “Homosexuality became legal under Bermuda law in 1994, and in 2017 the Supreme Court of Bermuda ruled that same-sex couples have a legal right to marry (now out of date). Attitudes to homosexuality are tolerant but conservative, and some people may not approve of public displays of affection between same-sex couples. See our information and advice page for the LGBT community before you travel.”
In our opinion, yes it is safe to travel to Bermuda if you’re lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.
