The Consummate Bermudian

There are not many things that categorically identify as Bermudian. One of them is the Bermuda kite. While stringing together pine sticks and tissue paper is hardly unique to our shores, there is a craftsmanship, aesthetic and measure of success that distinguishes a Bermuda kite. Put one in a line-up and it is instantly recognisable. Why? Because it is a carefully crafted cultural icon whose traditions are slightly esoteric and passed down through generations via oral history. Successful kitemakers did…

April 1, 2023

Written by: Peter Backeberg

The Bermuda Longtail: Life in Flight

"Dance like nobody's watching; love like you've never been hurt; sing like nobody's listening; live like it's heaven on earth." This sage advice is usually attributed to Mark Twain, the writer and humorist with a deep affection and connection to…

March 14, 2023

Written by: Peter Backeberg

The Consummate Bermudian

The History of the Dark ‘n Stormy

The Dark ’n Stormy is the inexorable concoction of Bermuda’s British history, a literal fusion of our merchant and naval traditions. That it is today one of only four internationally trademarked cocktails further reflects Bermudians’ entrepreneurial spirit and legacy of…

January 27, 2023

Written by: Peter Backeberg

The Consummate Bermudian

Loquats: The Good Fruit

There is a monument on the grounds of the Cabinet Office dedicated to the man who introduced the Loquat tree to Bermuda. Governor William Reid (1839-1846) left behind a number of significant achievements from his time here, including encouraging the…

January 6, 2023

Written by: Peter Backeberg

The Consummate Bermudian

Lobster Tales from Bermuda’s Outback

As remote as Bermuda is, our onshore environment is essentially suburban, with the wildlife consisting of birds, lizards and a bunch of feral cats and chickens. Almost nothing dangerous or exciting. Offshore is another story entirely, with our extensive coral…

December 31, 2022

Written by: Peter Backeberg

The Consummate Bermudian

Christmas Cassava: A Time-Honoured Tradition

When people talk cassava pie, you know Christmas is coming. We all have our special recipes (adapted over generations) of the sweet and savoury dish and in old Bermuda, making the pie was a Christmas ritual in the same way…

December 17, 2022

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