Tourism expectations in the wake of the re-birth of the PLP's ambitious US promotions may not be realised this year, one professional has warned.

Although officials are predicting a 35,000 increase in the number of air visitors this summer, one travel writer has warned against over-optimism.

The warning came as the Bermuda roadshow rolled into New York, for what was its grandest and most lavish show yet. Over 350 travel agents packed the Westin Hotel in Boston but more converged on the Waldorf Astoria for last night's spectacular presentation.

They heard Premier Jennifer Smith and Tourism Minister David Allen preach the message that Bermuda was back in business as a destination.

Gombey Dancers, The Bermuda Strollers, part of the Bermuda Regiment Band and a flash sound and light show entertained the packed ballroom. But Mark Chapman, travel editor of the Boston Herald, believes it will take a lot longer and more substance to win over savvy Americans who are looking for a unique vacation experience.

He believes the new ideas with focus on explorer, escaper and adventurer holidays will lure the US market -- who want something new and exciting to try -- to Bermuda once again.

And there is a new generation of "baby boomers'', whose parents visited Bermuda in its heyday and who now want to see the Island for themselves.

Mr. Chapman said he was astounded at the sheer numbers that had made the Boston show such a hit -- adding that he had never before seen so many streetwise agents at an industry event.

"Ms Smith has made a statement that Bermuda is serious and prepared to do whatever is necessary. But that amount of new business seems optimistic, you may get some people who would have gone to the Mediterranean but may cancel because of the Kosovo situation.

"Up until now Bermuda has been upscale hotels and beaches but now you are opening it up to tourists who do a lot of other things.'' Referring to the re-packaging of Bermuda with escaper, explorer and adventurer packages, he said that would bring success if the promises made in the promotions came true during the vacation.

"US tourists are very much into niche markets, they want to do something else and not just be a tourist.'' Earlier, Premier Jennifer Smith ascended the stage at the Waldorf Astoria to the trumpets of the Bermuda Regiment. She told the assembled agents that their advice could sway customers in favour of Bermuda. Tourism Minister David Allen highlighted new developments, including Daniels Head, Camberley, Belmont and Elbow Beach. The roadshow moves to Philadelphia today.

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