Bermuda is making a push to reintroduce College Weeks with a focus on cultural and sporting activities instead of the drunken parties of the 1960s and 1970s.

During Friday's marathon tourism debate, Tourism Minister David Allen tabled a package of promotional material which included a 32-page booklet on Activities and Sightseeing, and three smaller foldout brochures.

One of the brochures was dedicated to tours of the nature reserve on Nonsuch Island and two were geared toward the revitalisation of Spring Break.

One pushed "Special Interests: "A programme encompassing the creative arts, visual arts, ecology and traditions of Bermuda.'' Mr. Allen told The Royal Gazette the material was distributed at the end of last year and the beginning of this year to US colleges and travel agents.

The former Government also attempted to reintroduce College Weeks in 1995 with many similar activities, but Mr. Allen said the new scheme included several new activities such as the Nonsuch eco-tours.

He said they had received a good response and that there was currently a group of ballroom dancers enjoying the Island.

When asked about the challenge of high prices to university students, Mr.

Allen said: "Bermuda's prices will never be as low as Cancun's,'' but he said, the new activities provided the opportunity to have a holiday with an educational spin that would be enjoyable in a "hang loose'' sort of way.

And Mr. Allen said he was keen to promote sporting and cultural activities rather than partying, and was hoping to attract more "level headed'' visitors.

He said he was determined to stick with the plan which he described as "all good incremental business.'' Special Interest programmes include: "Eyebrows, gutters and lips, the important details of Bermudian architecture. Paints, pictures and prints, artists at work. Moods, moments and memories, the principles of a sketch book.

From William Shakespeare to Eugene O'Neill, creative writing and musical instruments. And, Wrapped wired and stuck, the craft of papier mache.'' The third brochure is dedicated to "Spring Break Sports'' in Bermuda, which is an area that has thrived in the past, and an area that Mr. Allen is keen to build on once again.

Included are promotions for lacrosse, tennis, track and field, soccer, field hockey, golf and rugby.

And earlier this month, several lacrosse teams from schools such as Holy Cross, St. Bonaventure and Monmouth enjoyed the temperate climate and facilities at Bermuda College.

The brochure says: "Spring Break or any time of year...we have lots to offer! Basketball, football, squash, softball, volleyball, swimming and more!'' It continues: "Coaches, teams and athletes are invited to participate in the Bermuda Department of Tourism's special Spring Break Sports Programme developed and designed to meet your team's individual needs. "You supply the athletes, we supply the playing fields, itinerary and programmes. We'll also kick in free t-shirts, lunch, competition prizes, even free golf and tennis balls. We'll organise matches and tournaments between local and visiting teams, or supply the perfect practice and training facilities.'' The brochure also promises: "Players may also enjoy all the Spring Break discounts, complimentary lunches, free parties, beach games, events, tours and nighttime activities, all compliments of the Department of Tourism.'' The brochure says the Department of Tourism hosts a welcome reception every Sunday evening when athletes receive a welcome package and loads of information to make their stay in Bermuda a memorable one.