Bermuda, long considered a destination for the discerning traveller, is now being singled out as one of the top deals of the summer by Time magazine.

A number of promotions to celebrate the Island's 400th anniversary, as well as seat sales and reduced cruise prices, led to Time's recommendation. However the fact that the Island is "close, warm and suddenly cheap" were also listed as reasons for coming here on the magazine's website.

The article recommended tourists take advantage of the Island's natural beauty as well as its "welcoming people who combine British reserve with considerable island warmth".

It noted that while Bermuda has never been top pick for the penny-pinching visitor, this summer people could take advantage of the Department of Tourism's offer of $400 off at 15 hotels for people who stay for more than four days.

The magazine also recommended the "sumptuous" Fairmont Southampton and its seven-night package for $1450 per person which includes airfare from New York City. Stays at 9 Beaches and Grape Bay Beach Hotel which is offering a week's stay including breakfast and airfare from New York City for $893 were also endorsed.

Hotels are not the only thing the magazine highlighted as deals. It recommended the Norwegian Cruise Line which is offering a seven-day cruise from Baltimore for as little as $579 as well as other cruise specials.

It also recommended visitors take advantage of the diving and golfing on the Island and try Dennis' Hideaway and Jamaican Grill for good, inexpensive meals.