February 5, 2005

Dear Sir,

After reading the Letter to the Editor regarding the cab driver who charged his three passengers three full fares, I had to comment about a practice that I feel is adversely affecting tourism in Bermuda.

Older visitors are forced to use taxis to move about the Island when driving conditions and distances prevent the use of scooters, which has always been our preferred method for our past 11 trips there.

During our last visit, the ten-minute ride from Stonington Beach to The Reefs cost us $25, not including the tip. Double that for the ride back, and a dinner out became unaffordable. Can you imagine if we were each charged for this excursion?

Once again my wife and I have made arrangements for our spring/summer vacation to the lovely island of Aruba. Sea temperatures there are always in the low to mid 80's, with similar outdoor temperatures, but without the humidity you experience.

When you factor in the ability to rent a new Toyota station wagon for $250/week, and prices for quality dinners ranging in the high teens, you can afford to stay an extra week and pay less than a one week's stay in Bermuda.

In fact, the airfares from Boston are practically the same or less. You somehow need to curtail your rising prices, or you will find fewer and fewer tourists able to enjoy the beauty and charm of your island and its people.

THOMAS H. BENOIT

Mystic, Connecticut