Publishers and readers of Scuba Diving Magazine have once again voted the Bahamas the number-one destination for diving with “big animals.” This award honors a dive destination worldwide that’s rated as one of top locations for scuba divers to see big animals underwater. “As the official dive association for the Bahamas, we are honored to receive this award by such a prestigious dive magazine. Our 36 members take this award very seriously and appreciate the fact that the Bahamas is one of the few places in the world where divers can get close to, and experience big animals underwater,” said Neal Watson, President of the Bahamas Diving Association.

Costa Rica, with more than 1.6 million foreign tourists a year, has created a police force specifically dedicated to protecting visitors. The first class of the Tourism Police graduated from the academy in late December, with 122 new officers receiving diplomas.

Since December 20, the Aruba Airport Authority NV (AAA) introduced a new Central Security System at the Queen Beatriz International Airport, a move that will render in higher efficiency and a much better flow in the screening of passengers and hand luggage.

Visiting the Riviera Maya just got easier in 2006 with a new booking service at the official destination website, bringing guests the most up-to-date destination information and available rooms in the region.

Green fields, not white slopes, have greeted visitors to some of Europe’s most popular ski resorts as December began with remarkably little snow.

Travel agents who book five nights or more at Cayo Espanto in Belize for stays during December 12 thru 26 will receive a 10 percent commission as well as a personalized $100 American Express Gift Card for each booking.