a positive sign. We think the concern can only result in improvements to Bermuda's product.

This newspaper shares the concern because tourism is the basis of Bermuda's economy and the economy will not get back to its peak until tourism revives.

We know the problems and a great many people are searching for solutions, not the least of them the very hard working Minister of Tourism, David Dodwell.

But officials seeking solutions is not enough.

We can only revitalise tourism if Bermudians agree that it is in the best interests of everyone to come together and make visitors welcome to Bermuda, if Bermudians agree to help visitors to have a good visit. That is what members of the public can do.

Bermuda is the best of the islands. Bermuda once provided the best island vacation at good value. Bermuda can do that again if Bermudians are willing.

We have to take pride in the fact that visitors like us and like Bermuda. We should be proud that they want to come here and enjoy with us these beautiful islands. Sharing is important to enjoyment and Bermudians should be happy to share what they enjoy every day with visitors who only know Bermuda briefly.

In truth there is a great deal to share and a great deal for us to be proud of. The God-given attributes are all around us every day but there are also plenty of human achievements to share ... our enviable way of life, our friendly welcome, our high education, our rich history, our unique architecture, our economic success ... and the pride which we all have in our Bermuda. Yes, we squabble, but we remain proud and we should demonstrate that pride by taking care that visitors enjoy the Bermuda we are proud of.

Bermudians must do their best to make the visitor experience enjoyable. Some things we cannot control but sharing our pride and our Bermuda is something we can control. We can start making visitors comfortable by keeping our squabbles among ourselves and not letting our family disputes disrupt our visitors who feed us so well.

Some things will happen to us no matter what and among the things we cannot control is the likelihood that Cuba will be opened to United States visitors as soon as President Bill Clinton is re-elected. Cuba will be in direct competition with Bermuda in Bermuda's major market, the US northeast.

Cuba will be a fresh and exotic destination for Americans with good weather, glorious beaches, new hotels and a population which is eager to welcome visitors. Cuba will be severe competition for all the island resorts.

Bermudians must be prepared to compete.