A proposal to protect whales has been made to the Dominican Republic’s senate, it has been reported. According to Dominican Today, the Executive Branch is seeking ratification of an agreement to promote protection, stating that the Caribbean country is one of the few places in the world used by whales as a mating area.

The Travel Industry Association is weighing a name change to U.S. Travel Association. Board members have recommended adoption of the move, suggested by a steering committee, and the leadership is now seeking comment from members about the proposed new identity.

The Dominican Republic’s Senate will not approve the contract to build the Canoa Hot Springs project in Barahona, said the members of that chamber Charlie Mariotti and Noe Sterling Vasquez.

The Tourism Sector Development Project in Anguilla (TSDP) has been officially launched following several months of preparations by the project coordinator, Tourism Planning and Development Specialist Jasmin A. Garraway, according to Minister of Tourism Hon. Victor F. Banks.

Longtime Italy specialist Perillo Tours is expanding into Israel. Starting in 2009, Woodcliff Lake, N.J.-based Perillo will offer 26 Israel departures between Mar. 2 and Dec. 7.

African Travel, Inc. is offering free roundtrip air fare to Africa worth more than $1,500, on a pair of safari itineraries from October through December. Travelers can choose from a 12-day South Africa and Victoria Falls trip or 13 days in Northern Tanzania, both offering top-flight accommodations and services.