Traveling with an Amex - will I be able to use it widely in Bermudaor should I carry a backup Visa/Mastercard?
Don’t rely only on Amex in Bermuda. It worked at my resort but failed at local restaurants, bars, and ATMs. Visa worked everywhere, from Hamilton markets to ferry stations. Meals were $30-50, and my daily spending was around $140. Amex is okay as a backup for hotels but not for everyday life in Bermuda. Visa is essential.
Bermuda is beautiful but expensive, and Amex isn’t widely used. Some resorts accepted it, but I had trouble at restaurants and shops. ATMs didn’t recognize Amex either. I budgeted $130-150 daily covering meals, ferries, and taxis. Visa was the best option, accepted everywhere. Mastercard was also fine. Amex will work occasionally, but don’t depend on it.
I stayed in Hamilton and found Amex useful only at my hotel. Restaurants in town and ferry ticket counters all wanted Visa/Mastercard. ATMs also rejected my Amex. Meals were expensive, around $25-50 per person, so I averaged $140 per day. Visa worked without issues, even for small purchases. Amex was limited to resorts and high-end shops. Carry a Visa for sure if you travel to Bermuda.
Bermuda is more friendly to Amex than many places, but it’s still not universal. Resorts and some restaurants accepted it, but smaller shops and taxis preferred Visa or Mastercard. ATMs from Butterfield Bank didn’t process Amex. Meals were pricey, $20-40 per person, and I budgeted $120-150 daily. Visa worked smoothly everywhere, so it’s better for everyday spending. Amex is fine for resorts but not reliable across the island.