revitalisation when he addressed Canadian travel executives.

Mr. Burgess spoke of the BIU's support of the hospitality industry when he appeared at this week's Canadian tourism roadshow.

He said union members, the majority of whom work in the hotel and associated businesses, were fully behind the move to improve the Island's visitor experience.

"We recognise the importance of tourism to our country, and we pledged many years ago to service our guests with the best possible courtesy,'' he said.

"It is our belief that it is our people that encourage visitors to come back again and again.'' The union leader attended all three presentations to travel agents, in Toronto and Ottawa.

The roadshow concluded on Thursday evening, with a multi-media event at the Chateau Laurier in the nation's capital.

Bermuda Regiment, Gombeys and the Bermuda Strollers entertained more than 300 travel professionals.

Bermuda Hotel Association president Muriel Richardson stressed that the industry wanted to ensure that the visitors got value for money, especially with the declining Canadian dollar.

Next month, Bermuda Tourism heads to Strasbourg, France for what is billed as its biggest extravaganza ever at the World Travel Congress.

It is understood that a historic castle is being used to host a spectacular event for the American Society of Travel Agents -- and the top 200 of producers for Bermuda.

The Bermuda Regiment and other Island entertainment will be laid on during the show, which is expected to cost well over $100,000.