The Islands Of The Bahamas released some good and surprising economic news today in these uncertain travel and economic times: holiday bookings remain strong, some resorts are sold out and reservations are rebounding.

The Atlantis, Paradise Island 2,300-room resort remains sold out during Thanksgiving. Paradise Island Vacations, one of the destination's major travel suppliers, is reporting that reservations are now at 80 percent of last year's levels, indicative that Americans are exercising their desire and right to travel. Non-stop flights, such as Delta #1623 out of Atlanta that only a few weeks ago had as few as 12 passengers are now flying with 146 passengers. Similar news is coming out of New York where Delta flight #471 from LaGuardia Airport to Nassau increased from seven to 112 passengers over the past month.

Vacationers traveling to The Bahamas this Fall can get an additional $270 off vacation packages if they book via the American Express Bahamas Getaway value program.

"There are still plenty of rooms at our hotels and resorts," said Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace, Director General, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism. "But our proximity to the U.S. -- only 55 miles off of the Florida coast --, value driven vacation program and numerous flights as well as ferry service seem to be providing Americans with the options to pursue one of the greatest freedom's in any society: travel."

For information call 1-800-4-BAHAMAS or access www.bahamas.com

Editor's Note: Phone or e-mail interviews with the Director General of The Bahamas, The Nassau/Paradise Island Promotion Board or Atlantis, Paradise Island resort are available upon request.