Taxi with a Queen: Meet Mrs. Queenie Ferguson
Taxi rides can be unpredictable— you never quite know what experience awaits. But when you slide into Ms. Queenie’s smooth silver Chevy Suburban, rest assured, you’ll step out not just smiling, but calmer, wiser, and just a bit more in love with Exuma.
With her signature grace, Queenie greets guests right outside the George Town airport. Her beautiful grey hair pulled back into a neat ponytail, the 73-year-old strikes the perfect balance — relaxed enough to welcome a boisterous bachelorette group, yet polished enough to chauffeur a visiting dignitary. No matter who’s riding in her leather-trimmed SUV, Queenie offers the same quiet warmth and easy island pride, as she shares tales of her “one little dot” of a home.
A retired primary school teacher, Queenie found herself behind the wheel eight years ago when family circumstances led her to take up taxi driving in retirement. What began as a necessity has blossomed into a joyful second act.
“My favorite part of the job is meeting new people, telling them all about Exuma and learning from them,” she said with a smile, her eyes fixed on the road ahead. “You read about places like Israel, Macedonia, and Turkey in the Bible and geography books, but then you meet people from these places in real life, and it’s awesome.”
At an age where many slow down, Queenie is living proof that life can still be full of discovery. Her gentle presence, depth of knowledge, and impeccable driving shine brighter than the Exuma sun.
So if you happen to catch a ride with Ms. Queenie, consider yourself lucky. You’re not just getting a taxi—you’re getting a moving masterclass in grace, curiosity, and Bahamian hospitality.
00 Comment
Leave a comment