# What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know About the Latest Bermuda Travel Advisory
Planning a pink-sand beach escape to Bermuda this spring or summer? If you’re among the many Ottawa travellers eyeing this British island territory as your next getaway, there’s important safety information you should review before booking your flight.
The Government of Canada updated its travel advisory for Bermuda on March 17, 2026, maintaining the destination at **Level 1 — Take Normal Security Precautions**. This is the lowest advisory level, meaning Bermuda remains a relatively safe destination for Canadian visitors. The update was editorial in nature, but it’s still wise to understand what risks exist and how to prepare properly for your trip.
## Understanding the Real Risks in Bermuda
While Bermuda’s risk rating is reassuring, travellers shouldn’t let their guard down completely. Petty crime is the most frequent concern, particularly theft targeting tourists. Motorcyclists riding rental scooters—a popular way to explore the island—are especially vulnerable to bag snatchers on motorbikes. Items left unattended at beaches, in hotel rooms, or on rental bikes regularly disappear.
More concerning is the occasional violent crime, including muggings, burglaries, and gang-related gun violence. While tourists aren’t typically targeted in gang incidents, being in the wrong place at the wrong time is a real possibility. The advisory recommends avoiding isolated beaches and back streets after dark and staying alert to your surroundings.
Water safety deserves special attention. Bermuda’s beautiful coastal waters hide dangerous rip currents and powerful ocean forces that claim lives annually, even among strong swimmers. Only swim at beaches with lifeguard supervision and heed all posted warnings.
## Smart Preparation for Ottawa Travellers
Beyond reviewing safety protocols, proper health preparation is essential for any international trip. Even destinations as close and developed as Bermuda require medical planning. A pre-travel health consultation ensures you’re up to date on routine vaccinations and helps identify any destination-specific health concerns you might face.
Consider what happens if you get injured during water activities, suffer a motorcycle accident, or need medical attention after a violent encounter. Having appropriate vaccinations, a well-stocked medical kit, and knowing where to access healthcare in Bermuda can make the difference between a minor disruption and a trip-ending crisis.
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is non-negotiable. Verify your policy covers motorcycle rentals if you plan to explore on two wheels, and ensure evacuation coverage is included.
Don’t wait until the week before departure to think about health preparation. Schedule your travel health consultation well in advance, as some vaccines require multiple doses over several weeks.
Travelling to Bermuda? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.