Citing an opportunity to advance our national security, economic competitiveness and public diplomacy, the U.S. Travel Association has urged President Obama to discuss prospects for including Brazil and Chile in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) when he visits South America this month.

Results of the last three quarters of the Puerto Rico Convention Bureau’s Meeting Planners Feedback Program, which surveys planners’ perceptions and experiences on the Island before and after a meeting program, indicate high marks for the destination.

Norwegian Cruise Line said it has cancelled Eastern Mediterranean and Holy Land cruises aboard Norwegian Jade between Nov. 26, 2011 and April 11, 2012. Norwegian said the move was made in part because of safety concerns in the ports being visited. Jade’s itineraries include stops in Egypt and Turkey, as well as Holy Land cruises to Cyprus and Israel.

A new Virgin Atlantic service to Grenada will boost up tourism on the Caribbean Island. Although the Monday and Thursday direct flight service doesn’t start until Oct. 31, home customers can start booking now if they wish. The new flights will create  five UK departures from London Gatwick to Grenada each week with BA flights on Sunday and Tuesday and Monarch Airlines on Wednesday.

The Puerto Rico Convention Bureau announced the resignation of Ana Maria Viscallas as president and CEO. Viscallas will remain as a consultant for six months to support strategic projects launched in the past several months, including a new website for meeting planners at MeetSanJuan.com.

Sol Melia Hotels & Resorts, S.A. and ezRez Software, Inc., today announced the launch of Flight + Hotel package deals available for US travelers on www.solmelia.com and through dedicated Sol Melia reservation agents.  As part of the new functionality, travelers can also book car transfers and destination activities with their flight and hotel package.