Every year for 13 years, Reg Lanciani has led of a group of golfers to Bermuda to enjoy the Island's courses.

This year the group of friends and business associates from Massachusetts and New Jersey will spend five days in Bermuda to play golf at Fairmont Southhampton, Belmont Hills, Tucker's Point and Riddell's Bay.

The golfing vacation started as a 'guys only' trip and has evolved into a family affair where some of the golfers bring their wives and children.

Mr. Lanciani has visited Bermuda countless times since he came here for the first time in the 1970's and honeymooned here in 1980.

He said: "Every time we come it's a little better than the last time. The people here are so wonderful. We have already booked for next year.

"Bermuda is a hidden gem this time of year for golf. Back home the temperature is in the 40s and 50s. We come here and it's in the 70s.

The group was joined at Tucker's Point by Premier and Tourism Minister Dr. Ewart Brown, who said: "These visitors are obviously dedicated golfers, but they are also dedicated to Bermuda so it was important for me to spend a few minutes with them and voice my appreciation."

The Premier continued: "In an economic downturn repeated visitors become an increasingly critical part of our business. I want to make sure we do everything we can to cultivate our relationship with that kind of visitor."