Offshore is not a dirty word according to investment advisor Paul Michael Jenkins although he said it may be seen that way in some sectors.

To counter that perception or "to demystify offshore investing " Mr. Jenkins - who works at investment firm Lines Overseas Management (LOM) - is holding once-a-week early morning information sessions for guests at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess.

Mr. Jenkins said the negative overtones associated with offshore may be magnified - especially in the US - after a surge in patriotism following the the September 11 terrorist attacks.

He said: "After September 11 some people are waving the patriotic flag."

And although Mr. Jenkins said that investing offshore is legal, there are groups who may have allowed a misconception that it it illegal to prevail.

Mr. Jenkins countered: "Going offshore is legal, ethical and quite wise.

It allows for asset protection, privacy and security and flexibility in investments with access to other markets," he said.

Mr. Jenkins added that at least three-quarters of Fortune 100 companies have an offshore presence.

And Mr. Jenkins - who hails from Canada and has been working on the Island over the past four months - said Bermuda is one of the best "offshore" places to be.

He said: "Bermuda is the best of the best. It is the blue chip sector of the world for financial services, mutual funds and insurance."

Mr. Jenkins said Bermuda had done well because its Government and the Bermuda Monetary Authority had done a "great job" in putting in place strict regulatory policies that uphold the Island's reputation as a top-notch offshore jurisdiction.

He cited the Island as possessing integrity and a reputation for flexibility.

He said that while other jurisdictions may have been plagued with "a fraudulent reputation," Bermuda has retained a clean reputation.

Speaking of the Wednesday morning sessions, Mr. Jenkins said they are casual and informal chats over breakfast for the hotels guests.

During breakfast, Mr. Jenkins gives the guests an "offshore tool box" designed to answer frequently asked questions and demystify the rumours surrounding offshore investing.

Mr. Jenkins said the sessions are not sales-oriented, but designed to "do something for Bermuda".

The LOM office in the Grand Caymans has been holding similar sessions for guests at the Hyatt Hotel there.

Although the sessions are designed as a value-added service for the hotel's guests, locals wishing to attend the session should contact Mr. Jenkins at LOM.