Bermuda Taxi Ambassadors: Secrets of Bermuda's Celebrity Visitors

The driver smiled as he began with one of the most famous names linked to Bermuda. “Mark Twain, the legendary author and humorist, absolutely adored Bermuda. He first visited in the late 19th century and continued to return into the early 20th century, each visit deepening his love for the island. He often joked, ‘You can cover the whole island in a day, but you’ll want to take a lifetime to appreciate it.’ That line has stayed with us, perfectly capturing the charm of Bermuda’s small size and endless allure.”

Twain wasn’t just a casual visitor; he embraced Bermuda like a second home. During his stays, he was a familiar figure on the streets of Hamilton, often seen strolling leisurely in his trademark white suit, cigar in hand, and a twinkle in his eye. He mingled with locals, sharing humorous anecdotes and tales from his many travels, and quickly became one of the island’s favorite personalities. His charismatic presence left an indelible mark on Bermuda’s cultural fabric.

Twain often stayed at the luxurious Princess Hotel (now known as the Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club), He praised the island’s serene landscapes and the warm hospitality of its people, calling Bermuda his ‘second home.’ His writings and

public endorsements drew the attention of many Americans, putting Bermuda on the map as a premier travel destination.

The driver added, “Some people say it was Twain’s enthusiastic promotion of Bermuda that helped spark the influx of American tourists during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He wasn’t just a visitor; he was our unofficial spokesperson.”