expensive then many other destinations, the American Society of Travel Agents said on Friday.

The eastern region of ASTA was holding its annual conference on the Island for the first time in 12 years, providing Bermuda an ideal opportunity to showcase its charms to its most important market.

A total of 651 delegates came to the conference at the Fairmont Southampton Princess -- 76 more than anticipated.

ASTA organisers put the increase down to the location, which has resulted in the extra delegates being accommodated in the nearby Sonesta Beach Hotel.

An area which hosts an ASTA conference typically sees a ten to 20 percent increase in tourism.

On Friday night the delegates were given a special taste of Bermudian hospitality when 20 of the Island's families opened up their houses to hold cocktail parties for 25 to 30 guests each.

Joseph Galloway, ASTA's president and chief executive officer, said: "Bermuda is a great destination and the people are particularly hospitable. Hopefully we'll be sending lots and lots of people back.

"You get what you pay for and Bermuda is great value. It's a clean, safe upscale kind of place.

"The economy is doing well in the US and people are willing to spend more on travel, and I don't think the cost of Bermuda is limiting us in any way.'' Jerry Lepping, the chair of ASTA's eastern region said: "Bermuda is one of the finest destinations any travel agent can sell.

"Local complaints out of Bermuda are almost nothing. Repeat business is extremely high, and that's why I always consider Bermuda, as an agent, to be special.'' Richard Eve, of the Department of Tourism, added: "People say they don't mind paying so long as they get value for money and our existing services show we give value for money.'' One Midwestern delegate at the conference said she was excited about the new twice-weekly St. Louis to Bermuda flight which begins on May 1.

The Mayor of St. Louis has declared the previous day `Bermuda Day'and a delegation from the Island will be there to highlight the new service.

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