Bermuda?s tourism industry is in recovery says president of the Bermuda Hotel Association Michael Winfield.

He was speaking at a scholarship presentation at the Bermuda Alliance for Tourism office in Hamilton on Friday.

The scholarships were given to four young Bermudians pursuing studies in hospitality related courses: Simone Barton, on behalf of her daughter Sionna Barton, ($5,500), Jeremy Shrubb ($5,500), Eloisa Mayers ($2,000) and Denae DeShields ($2,200). They were presented jointly by TeleBermuda International Limited CEO James Fitzgerald and Mr. Winfield, general manager of Cambridge Beaches.

?Despite some of the negative things said about this industry, I am very convinced that tourism is in recovery. I hope young people look at hospitality as a career they want to get in and we wish all of the recipients much success in their studies and look forward to working with you soon,? Mr. Winfield said.

Mr. Fitzgerald said: ?The tourism industry is a great asset to Bermuda and with the support of business it will grow. With its charm and its people, its beaches and water, Bermuda is the number one tourist destination.?

?It behoves all Bermudians to help the industry to attract and fund people who are pursuing academic studies in this field. We need a better tourism product and hope to attract well educated and trained people who have a true calling for the industry.?