I recently returned from a most enjoyable vacation in Bermuda. Although it is truly a beautiful island, what I found remarkable were the people of Bermuda.

I have travelled in many parts of the world, but have never encountered such friendliness and warmth by those who are not paid to be friendly.

From the service attendant at the Somerset Bridge gas station, to residents we met at the grocery store, we were made to feel welcome. Wherever we went we were warmly greeted. One cold and rainy afternoon we ran into Casey's Lounge in Hamilton to have a drink and dry off. We could immediately tell that Casey's was a "local'' pub and not frequented by tourists. The patrons made us feel right at home as we played backgammon.

Our main reason for visiting Bermuda was to scuba dive. The weather made diving a challenge. However, the people at Blue Water Divers Co. went far above and beyond the call to make sure we enjoyed ourselves and had a good time. They were a joy to work with, and fully lived up to their reputation as a first-rate dive operation.

To the people of Bermuda -- thanks for a wonderful vacation! R.E. MYERS, CLU, Chfc Grand Rapids, Michigan