travel-hungry Americans.

For the Island has been given a flattering write-up in a prestigious US travel magazine.

This week's edition of Travel Agent Magazine heaps praise on Bermuda's environmental controls.

The article starts: "A rarity among nations in the modern world, Bermuda is free of neon signs and billboards.

"To restrict traffic and cut down on pollution on the Island, visitors cannot rent cars.'' It adds: "Today, an array of laws restricting traffic, pollution, hotel development and cruise lines keep the island pristine and enhance the visitor experience.'' The piece by Mr. Peter Malbin highlights environmental prizes scooped by Bermuda.

It mentions the ASTA/Smithsonian Magazine Environmental Award picked up in St.

Louis this year.

And it quotes Tourism Minister the Hon. C.V. (Jim) Woolridge as saying sacrifices had been made through the years -- but had been worth it.

"We certainly intend to keep living up to the standards we've set for ourselves,'' Mr. Woolridge says in the article. Former president of the Bermuda National Trust Mr. Andrew Trimingham is quoted as well.

"We are a very environmentally conscious people. We are limited to a tiny island and we want to enjoy it.'' The article goes on to spotlight Bermuda's 79 national parks and nature reserves stretching to 700 acres.

"Most are very small. A vacation in Bermuda should include visits to several accessible national parks and other scenic attractions.'' Mr. Malbin draws attention to the 36-acre Botanical Gardens, and the gardens surrounding the Bermuda Perfumery.

He also underlines the amount of wildlife to be found, mentioning, in particular, Spittal Pond.

The Bermuda Aquarium in Flatts is named as well as a venue for wildlife enthusiasts.

"Another natural wonder worth seeing on the Island is the Crystal Caves, where a guide leads visitors down a path and interprets the fascinating stalagmites and stalactites.'' The article finishes by listing environmental tours on offer to visitors, complete with times, prices, and locations.