latest figures.

These show that January occupancy levels rose from 20.7 percent in 1994 to 21.4.

The average length of stay, meanwhile, went up from 5.5 days to 6.2.

Bermuda Hotel Association president Mr. Stephen Barker said forecasts for the coming months were "encouraging'' when compared to 1994. The predicted occupancy levels for March and April were 46.7 and 51 percent respectively.

"Improved numbers in the group segment account for the anticipated turnaround in these two months,'' said Mr. Barker.

The projection for this month, however, is 26.9 percent -- compared to 28 percent in 1994.