paradise would be a dream come true.

But choosing to do just that in Bermuda was not quite the "dream'' that a couple from New Jersey had anticipated.

The pair -- who both wished to remain anonymous -- arrived in Bermuda on September 19 anxious to begin their one-week getaway.

Four days into their stay, the couple decided to visit one of the "beautiful'' South Shore beaches.

They left their belongings in the seat of their rented Suzuki cycle before enjoying the sand, sun, and surf at Warwick Long Bay.

However, this arrangement turned out to be a "huge mistake''.

When they returned to the parking lot around 1.30 p.m. they realised that their cycle -- licence plate number L049 -- and "all of its expensive contents'' had been stolen.

"My $400 prescription glasses, my medication, my husband's wallet with his licence, cash and credit cards inside, a Canon camera and some clothes were all in the compartment (under the seat),'' the distraught woman told The Royal Gazette .

Although, their day had taken a unexpected turn for the worse, the stranded couple were able to restore their faith in Bermuda thanks to a "kindhearted'' taxi driver.

The driver, known only to the couple as "Reggie'', offered to take them back to their Pembroke guest house free of charge.

"All I know is that his name was Reggie,'' the wife added. "We wanted to pay him, but he said no. We were very grateful to him. He was a really decent guy.'' Upon returning to their apartment, the visitors somewhat hesitantly called Oleander Cycles from whom they had rented the cycle.

"They were surprisingly nice,'' the woman said. "They did not charge us any extra for the stolen bike and they let us have a new bike for free.'' When asked by The Royal Gazette if their vacation had been ruined by the incident, the woman said: "Yes, but we will try to enjoy ourselves until we leave.'' The couple returned home on Saturday.

TOURISM TOU