Director of Tourism Richard Calderon yesterday expressed optimism for a turn around in Bermuda's seemingly sluggish tourism industry.

Mr. Calderon was responding to interviews conducted by The Royal Gazette with visitors on the Island, many who said they were satisfied with most aspects of Bermuda as a vacation destination.

He agreed that Bermuda was on a higher level than some Caribbean islands and said he was pleased that visitors' favourable impressions of the Island were reflecting that fact.

"Anything positive about Bermuda's tourism industry is always welcome news,'' Mr. Calderon said.

" Yes, there are beaches to the south of us that are equally as good, but Bermuda's are definitely on par.

"I think that Bermuda is an upscale destination,'' he continued, "and we are investing a lot of money in the industry and we're starting to see results.

"The amount of money hoteliers are spending on improving training and guest interaction is beginning to pay off. The guest's positive hotel experience bodes well for Bermuda, because guests are walking into a higher level of service.'' Mr. Calderon added: "There is a lot of negativity surrounding Bermuda's tourism industry and it may be broken in certain areas, but if we all give a collective effort, I think we can fix it.''