A St. Vincent opposition politician this week called for Glen Beache, chief executive officer of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority to resign, saying his involvement in a company marketing St. Vincent tourism “is a conflict of interest that will only lead to corruption.”

The Nicaraguan Tourism Board announced the selection of Partner Concepts as their U.S. representative for the travel industry. The selection of Partner Concepts for marketing to the travel industry follows INTUR’s earlier selection of Murphy O’Brien as their Public Relations agency in the U.S.

Brazil is increasingly becoming an attractive destination for both meeting and incentive travel buyers. Portugal based DMC opened its Brazilian operation in April and interest from across the industry has been “above expectations”, according to managing director for Brazil, Miguel Assis.

ASTA has joined other members of the travel industry in asking federal lawmakers to look elsewhere for money to close the budget deficit, saying that increasing aviation taxes would only serve to hurt the U.S. transportation industry and the consumers who rely on it.

The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) has given Spain 603 Blue Flag awards for the 2011 season. The eco-label granted certifications for 511 beaches and 92 marinas, recognizing Spain’s dedication to environmentally friendly and safe development of its coastline.

Riviera Nayarit is now offering a special dine-around “Gourmet Experience” that provides visitors the opportunity to enjoy a six-course meal in three gourmet restaurants with wine pairings from Casa Madero Winery for $110 per person. The Gourmet Experience is available every other Friday from July 29 to Dec. 16, 2011.