As residents enjoyed Bermuda Day, the island was celebrated by the Daily Express as “a small, beautiful island that's also among the wealthiest places on Earth”.

The article, picked up by online publications such as MSN, cited the World Population Review as saying Bermuda has one of the highest gross domestic product per capita in the world, reaching up to $116,746 (£86,000).

The article insisted: “It's been ranked as the fourth-wealthiest country globally by the [United Nations] and the richest among British ‘Caribbean’ territories.

“Much of Bermuda's wealth comes from offshore finance and insurance. The island is also popular with tourists, attracting over 500,000 visitors a year, many from North America, the UK Overseas Territories Association says.”

The article placed Bermuda 3,455 miles from London and more than 700 miles north of the Caribbean, although it “often gets mistaken for a Caribbean island”.

The Daily Express said it was one of a number of remaining British overseas territories “that have not gained independence and remain under UK sovereignty, though most govern themselves.”

It cited travel experts at Tropical Sky that Bermuda has a mix of British, American and Caribbean influences, with English-style pubs, red Royal Mail post boxes and even the late Queen Elizabeth's face on local currency.

It says that among many things, tourists are drawn to Bermuda's laid-back lifestyle and stunning landscapes.

“Visitors can also see the Crystal Caves, which have underground lakes and floating walkways, or climb Gibbs Hill Lighthouse for views over the entire island.“

The article also cited the UK Overseas Territories Association as their source that the shipwreck of the Sea Venture in 1609 was said to have inspired Shakespeare's play The Tempest.