on an even keel.

Operators fear that a small number of criminals who target tourist accommodations are ruining attempts overseas to lure more visitors to the Island. They say each night-time break-in or theft from a guest has untold affects back in the US or Canada -- potentially negating the millions spent on marketing.

The crimes come in spates -- often when known felons are released from prison -- leaving proprietors feeling powerless to stop them unless they are caught.

Certain properties have been able to send registered letters to individuals prior to release, telling them not to trespass on their hotels. But they often feel they are at the mercy of crooks who specifically target tourists.

Shadow Tourism Minister David Dodwell said he believed one solution could be the level of tolerance within society for such crimes. And a separate tariff for crimes against the visitor could be established, he said.

"Bermuda has got to get tougher, we don't recognise the damage it does,'' said Mr. Dodwell.

Mini-crime waves hurt Tourism "We don't see the knock-on effect and the damage done -- because it is business down the road.

"Crimes against the visitor are crimes against the economy. They should attract a greater punishment because it hurts more people -- particularly with repeat offenders because as soon as they get out, we know what they are going to do.'' The owner of the Reefs said he believed a tourism/hotels/Police task force could be set up to try and address some of the issues. But he said until the community decided they were not going to tolerate the crimes, then little may change.

One South Shore cottage colony boss said he believed the penalty needed to be so severe that it acts as a deterrent, possibly a system whereby the second offence automatically triggers a hefty sentence.

He said: "It should be for crimes against anybody. I would rather have my own house robbed than any of my guests.

"It is a problem because if it happens once to one guest, that is a problem.

Society has got to say this is wrong -- that is what has to happen.'' Reefs general manager Neal Stephens said the emotional effect on a guest whose room has been entered is devastating.

And he said what is more devastating for Bermuda, when those visitors return home, they and possibly others who have been staying at the property, immediately start to talk about their experiences.

Mr. Dodwell added: "When 150 people go back and say their hotel got robbed, it sends such a strong negative message about the Reefs, and worse about Bermuda.

Hotels face a difficult balancing act when informing guests about security -- trying not to alarm them whilst ensuring that they do not take the warning lightly.

Mr. Stephens said each of their guests is handed a letter on arrival, which informs them in clear terms that there is a danger of break-ins and gives advice.

"We talk to them about locking doors, but we have guests who have been on 20 visits and consider Bermuda safe. But these guys will go around until they find an open door. You have really got to hit guests over the head with it when it comes to security.''