United States this month.

Most significant is the cover of the Hotel and Travel Index which features the Elbow Beach Hotel.

The Island's "value for money'' image also receives praise in Travel Agent, the "national newsweekly magazine of the travel industry''.

Both magazines are read by tens of thousands of Americans involved in the industry.

Elbow Beach Hotel is believed to have spent $75,000 on its high profile in Hotel and Travel Index.

Along with the colour cover picture, a caption reads: "If you haven't stayed at Elbow Beach you haven't seen the best of Bermuda. And the best has undergone a $20 million renovation.'' Inside is a full page advertisement with a picture of guests on a horse and carriage outside the hotel.

The Travel Agent article is entitled "Value's the Word'' and is written by Mr. Peter Malbin.

Mr. Malbin wrote: "This year the magic word in Bermuda is `value'. While the Island has long been perceived as a quality destination, it has also developed a reputation as an expensive place to visit. Now Bermuda wants to be known for offering clients value for their money.'' Mr. Malbin quoted Alicia Moran, marketing manager at New York's Globetrotters Travel Agents, as saying that Bermuda had become a "harder sell''.

He continued: "Prices in Bermuda are relatively expensive because nearly everything is imported and labour costs are high.

"But notwithstanding its tony image, Bermuda is not just for the wealthy.'' The article points out the Island's major market, the East Coast of the United States, is recovering from recession and travellers are looking for good deals.

Mr. Malbin said: "So this summer, hotels, wholesalers and tour operators are offering packages with more "value added'' inclusive features to appeal to deal-hungry clients.'' Hotels offering deals include Marriott's Castle Harbour Resort, Grotto Bay Beach, Pink Beach, Sonesta Beach, Southampton Princess and Elbow Beach, by appealing to families or enhancing children's programmes.

Tourism Minister the Hon. C.V. (Jim) Woolridge and Tourism Director Mr. Gary Phillips were both interviewed by the writer.