Local and overseas film crews are shooting a television ad this week promoting Bermuda as just ?putting distance? from the US East Coast.

Other islands may also have beaches, spas and golf courses, but Bermuda has one very clear advantage to boast of: its proximity to the US.

The Department of Tourism is taking full advantage of that, announcing yesterday that film crews will be in various spots around the Island this week shooting the ad, reinforcing Tourism Minister Ewart Brown?s pledge to do away with the so-called ?off-season? and have Bermuda open year-round.

A spokesperson said the spot, which should run for around 30 seconds, will focus on golf courses and spas for the November-March season. Once completed, the commercial ? complete with voiceovers by the Voice of Bermuda ? will be seen by millions in the US.

The commercials are to be shot and edited with the Voice of Bermuda, who will be named soon, dubbed in after the shooting is complete.

The Ministry is still in the process of choosing the Voice from the 100-plus Bermudian applicants.

The ads feature all-Bermudian talent including golfers and extras, the spokesperson said. Shooting ? which wraps up on Thursday ? is taking place throughout the Island, including at the Port Royal and Mid-Ocean golf courses and various beaches.

Once completed, the spot will appear on targeted television stations throughout North America.

Whether or not similar ads will be shown in Europe also was unclear, the spokesman said, adding: ?More than likely that will be another aspect of the campaign?.

Tourism Minister Ewart Brown has pledged to expand Tourism?s focus to markets in Europe this year, Germany and Italy in particular.

The Minister also promised during the Throne Speech debate that North American sales reps will be coming to the net more, bypassing travel agents and getting into direct contact with consumers.

?We are responsible and we will aggressively pursue business without the bizarre approach that relies on travel agents? good graces.?