is expected to converge on the Island beginning next week.

The Department of Tourism yesterday announced that some 625 travel agents were expected to tour the Island on October 19 to 23, November 2 to 6, November 16 to 20 and November 30 to December 4 for the annual Bermuda Briefing.

Each week, five groups of agents will tour sightseeing attractions and small properties as well as major hotels in the hope that it will better equip them to better sell Bermuda.

Tourism Minister the Hon. David Dodwell said: "There is no doubt about it.

The Bermuda Briefing is our major sales tool, as it gives the agents an in-depth look at what they are selling.'' The Briefing will be backed by airlines serving the Island, major hotels, small properties as well as a host of tourism-related entities.

At the end of each week, the agents will be invited to receptions at private homes.

That "is the highlight of their visit'', said Mr. Dodwell. "They get a unique opportunity to meet the people of Bermuda in a private home setting''.

Tourism Director Mr. Gary Phillips added: "The importance of these on-Island site visits cannot be overemphasised and I want to thank all those in the community who have assisted the Department of Tourism in ensuring their success, particularly those who each year have agreed to open their homes to the travel agents.'' CONFERENCE, CON