The Belize Gold Book | 2021-2022

Grab Life, in belize.

Resetting on Island Time

Regenerative Artisanal Experiences DIVING BELIZE’S ATOLLS

A Beacon of Biodiversity

caribbeanlifestyle.com CA R IBBEA NLIF ES T Y L E . C OM

Meander into the Maya Underworld

Capturing Barton Creek Cave 1

Seagrape Drive, San Pedro, Belize Phone +501.226.3100 • info@alaiabelize.com 2 AlaiaBelize.com

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Looking for your next

ESCAPE?

2 Miles North, San Pedro Ambergris Caye, Belize www.grandcaribebelize.com | www.sunsetcaribebelize.com webres@grandcaribebelize.com | reservations@sunsetcaribe.com

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Meander into the Maya Underworld Capturing the cover at Barton Creek Cave WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA PHOTOS CREDIT: FULL MEMORY PHOTOGRAPHY

EVxsexxNAfe,9EdaseEsasd f »ce e : 5e9,adse9a,9efV,,,5e , 9a9d achievement, all balled up in one notion to push past the boundaries of a comfort zone. And once you’re enveloped by darkness and the unknown, that spells out spelunking. Frankly, going caving is cool to begin with, but when it’s into a ceremonial cave to capture a magazine cover? That cool acEs f 9e9xexN Ve9Vs9 Eff Be a& E9E Be xe5^a·ed sEad 9 GeEse·,,e, e be9 Be &^ca, Ba,fda& »cV e sxE9N TBe BasE9 CseeE AscBeE,Eca, Reserve is about 45 minutes outside of San Ignacio Town, found past a sadE9a, Me99E9e cE55V9& 9 Be U^^es BasE9 CseeE asea a9d BsEVB a9 EV,e Ef Be BasE9 CseeE xe,fN Fsa9cxcE—EVs Vde fsE5 Be,˜e Fa5,& Ad·e9Vsex—a9d Bx ,a9d csVxes ase V9^Baxed b& Be gentle rush, rippling over river rocks and his tires.

In a country with more than 100 navigable caves, including the nearly ¨,¨¨¨xgVaseEE f CBgVbV, Ca·e &xe S 5—Be ,asex 9 Be,˜e a9d ,E9ex 9 Ce9sa, A5esca—BasE9 CseeE Ca·e x nep xVbessa9ea9 x^e,V9E9, E9,& »^,Ese e d b& ca9EeN OVed B EVs Bead,a5^x, ,fe ·exx, a9d ^add,ex 9 Be ^esxE9 ca9Ee, e Bead Easdx Be 5a9 event: draped mounds of stalactites and stalagmites that has taken 5,,e9aEe5esefsE5Be,5exE9escBCa&EDxscN Be99xdae ca·exaEse f 9E9dEfgVNe WBe9E9,& Be xEV9dxBa of your own breath and wavelets made by your paddle, you’re prompted to notice what you are (brave), and what you are not (fearless). At a pace of maybe a mile an hour, our canoes suddenly became time machines; bee9¨¨ANDNE?¨ANDN,Ma&axe9esedca·exb&EscB,,B9Be ca·ea,·exB EEa,, f ,cE9a5exNIqx5^Exxb,eExee9se Be & of the chamber that we’re in all at once: we’re limited to the undulating a,,x,#adsE^^99aVsa,Eddex,x^asE,&EBesEs,d,&ce,9x,9aVsa, bsdex,a9dBe59esa,scBaesBaEVsBead,a5^x,,V59aeN Fsa9cxcE »^,a9x e Ba sE&a,&, B ^sexx, a9d Be BV5a9 xacscex eseE9,& Be a,,EeB9d Bexecese5E9a,ca·exEs f xacseEff d es9x to the many gods of the Maya. Proof of this endured in the form of ceramic ^Ees&Es f se BeasBx Efcese5E9a,cE^a,9ce9xe, EE,x a9dea^E9x, a9d·ee 9ca,cexEe d ,ea,se5a9xNTBEVca·e Be, xx,,na,·epEda&, actively creating new formations as water drips through its caverns. For a 5E5e9 Ef xE,e59 x,e9ce, e acB Vs9ed EVs ,Bx Eff E seec E9 4

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the lives lost within, and no amount of patience allows our eyes to adjust in the sheer stygian void of darkness that is Xibalba, validating why the Mayas believed it to be the portal to the underworld. These caves are the last living witnesses to Be,˜erxscBMa&aBxEs&N Dee^bseaBxEee^c,aV Be xsE^BEbaaba&a9 B E^e99 no wider than an MRI machine, the cave ceiling is but a few inches from my face. My brain races forward to etch all the grooves and curves of these chambers into remembrance.

Those same cavern walls act as a calming reference as we e5ese 9E xV9,BN BasE9 CseeEqx Ees9 sa9,e Ef a9 e9sa9ceaBesexed ,fEVx—a^Esa,bacE9E^se Be xe9— and we savored each new gulp of sunlight like some vital but forgotten thing. All the same, but changed.

“Explored only by canoe, meander a mile into the past for geological marvels of Xibalba, the Maya underworld, inside Barton Creek Archeological Reserve.”

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How Slowing Down Leads To Experiencing More WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA PHOTO CREDIT: TOM HINES

Rising through the ranks of a mental rolodex of destinations, Belize is here to fulfill the solemn promise (or rather, epiphany) of last year: meaningful experiences and authentic escapes will weave through all future travels.

The inevitability of change has transformed the way we think of—and plan—our future holidays, our dream destinations, and our escapes. The common thread? Ethical, “slow” travel.

Choosing a new ‘business as usual’ means practical and personal shifts to travel better—and to travel with an impact. Emphasizing a connection to local people, cultures, food, and music, slow travel relies on the idea that a trip is meant to educate and have an emotional impact. Not only in the present moment but also for the future, while remaining sustainable for local communities and the environment.

By embracing the growing ethos of slow travel in a destination that supports the preservation of its incredible biodiversity—in both natural and cultural landscape—Belize is here to make your escape all the more enriching. That by supporting community-based tourism, you’re unmistakably being more respectful. By supporting smallscale, you’re leaving cash in local pockets while being treated to authentic, soul-lifting encounters that promise the longest-lasting memories. And instead of racing to do it all, investing your time in quality experiences over quantity pays off tenfold in the end. I can’t explain the physics involved, but time is altered: the minutes becomes more valuable, and how we spend our days is an investment itself.

Paths less traveled may ask the extra mile, like getting to the Snake Cayes off the coast of Toledo, but each soft ripple of the Caribbean Sea will pacify your every woe. Learning how to make shuut during your Maya home-stay is a priceless keepsake from Belize's indigenous knowledge, directly from the generations themselves. And 6

how conquering jungle cascades on a hike within a wildlife sanctuary is not only rewarding in itself, but it’s an investment in their very own conservation.

It’s both calming and exhilarating that our wanderlust for a change of scenery and opportunities to experience something new— standing as the essence of travel—has not been extinguished by a global pandemic. Even more so now, it is underscored that travel is a luxury and an investment in the communities and ecosystems—an economic boost, a tonic against small-mindedness, and even an antidote to the mundane. Even environmentally, we as travelers hold an individual power to provide demand for regenerative solutions—not just to ensure the sustainability of our current travel model, but to restore and improve our footprint on a destination long after we’ve left. And after our collective time in place gave prominence to the notion that travel is not a commodity to use and overuse.

One of Belize’s most important selling points for a nation that's more than 40% reliant on tourism is the integrity of its natural resources and the authenticity of its product. There are no cookiecutter resorts, few multinational businesses, and—most crucially for the sake of COVID—the lowest population density in Central America at 45 persons per square mile. But after the pandemic shuttered businesses across Belize, it was those community efforts that buoyed hope during the height of the storms of uncertainty. It doesn’t get much more real than that.

That’s why it’s never just a trip to Belize — a peaceful gallery of jungle panoramas and patches of coral reefs — but it’s also the immersive cultural experience that comes with the journey.

Slow down and savor it.

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From the Publisher Like many, we struggled with feeling as though we missed a whole lot these past two years when it comes to travel. Yet, it’s provided us with an V9^secede9ed E^^EsV9& E seec E9 BE e sV,&ase a9dBesea9 e E be—bV,d9 EVs,x Ef dsea5 dex9aE9x, 5VxdE »^e e se9cex, a9d Vsef 5e5EsexN E,,e C c·e,&, e ese se59ded 9E E ^V ,fe—Es saBes, ,·9—E9 BE,dN I9xead, e 5Vx xe˜e ·ee s& E^^EsV9& e ca9 Es f Barx important, like enjoying our family and friends. And what better way to do so than through travel?

Intimate & Luxurious Accommodations

A Casbbea9 Lfex&,e, e B9E a9des,Vx x a healthy thing.

As travel arouses and safe vacations take root across the globe, rising vaccination rates and reopened borders herald a time for exploration. Things will look dffese9, ,Ee Be »sa e ace f 5axEx a9d xa9˜es 9 EVs cass&E9 bax, bV Be be9ex Ef sa·e, se5a9 the same: expand your perspective, reduce stress, boost happiness, and bring forth the most rewarding, memorable experiences.

Traveling transports you outside your daily routine, directly into new surroundings and experiences for a sexe ,Ee 9E EBes—59d, bEd& a9d x^sN E·e9 #Vx ^,a999 a s^ ca9 Ba·e a a9axc f effc E9 &EV! After all, the excitement of exploring never gets old.

Premier Beach Resort on Ambergris Caye

A9d xE ax e ^Vb,xB Be 9d EdE9 Ef Be Be,˜e GE,d EEE, B I 9·e &EV E Be,˜e E 5ee 5& fe,,E Be,˜ea9x, 5a9& Ef dffese9 cV,Vsex B d·esxe traditions and distinctive lifestyles, and immerse &EVsxe,f 9 Be,˜erx V9^asa,,e,ed »^e e se9cexN YEVq,, 9d Ba &EV ,, e as f 5Ese Ba9 #Vx a ·acaE9, but also a renewed energy and healthy dose of Va59 Sea! Be,˜e x Be dea, dex9aE9 Ba9Ex to its proximity to the United States and convenient options in direct air travel, which means your next ·acaE9 ca9 be effEs,exxN FsE5 seef E sa9fEsex, your #bestBelize xsead&Be9&EVase!

BOOK NOW! info@victoria-house.com U.S. 713-344-2340 • Belize +501-226-2067 www.victoria-house.com

Tanya McNab Creative Director Caribbean Culture + Lifestyle CA R IB B E A N L IFE STYLE. COM

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Using Belize to UNPLUG WRITTEN BY: GISSELLE HERNANDEZ

Belize is no stranger to being a steadfast advocate for regenerative, slow travel. Throughout the past few years, the destination has strived towards a greener future with “walking the walk” behind eco-first initiatives, too. In 2019, the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System was removed from the UNESCO ‘Sites In Danger’ list after actionable preservation efforts were recognized. In 2018, the government pledged to phase out single-use plastic. And in 2020, Belize was one of the first countries to earn the Safe Travels stamp from the World Travel & Tourism Council.

This saturated list of accolades is but a blip in the efforts Belize has been championing for years. The country continues to encourage travel-hungry wanderlusters to enjoy all the natural gems we've worked so hard to protect. Here, the thirst for adventure, autonomy and authenticity will be easily quenched.

Off-Grid WHERE TO GO? Those looking to spend their days gazing at lush mountaintops and thick, jungle foliage will be happy to learn you can sleep in the heart of the rainforests of Belize.

Again, the priority of staying at an eco-lodge has less to do with connecting online and more with connecting with nature.

Looking for convenience?

PHOTO CREDIT: ROEMING BELIZE

WHAT TO DO?

solitude

without

sacrificing

Gaïa Riverlodge is tucked within the rainforests of the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve, ready to be experienced. The journey there alone will grant you a newfound appreciation for new species of birds, trees and wildlife. There is even a gorgeous waterfall right on the property.

How about partaking in some breathwork but on land instead? Try out forest bathing—a mindfulness practice first coined in Japan as shinrinyoku. This concept is all about connecting with the nature around you, a form of outdoor therapy aimed to heighten all your senses.

The only alarms ringing out here are the quaint bird chirpings. To try out this restorative activity, venture to the one and only forest bathing trail in San Ignacio Town established by Dr. Rosita Arvigo. A certified forest therapy guide, Dr. Arvigo highlights the importance of the healing powers of total forest immersion. By actively giving your mind the space it needs to breathe, you’ll be restoring your bonds with nature in no time.

PHOTO CREDIT: FRANCIS CANTO JR.

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PHOTO CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

Off-Shore WHERE TO GO? For the island-lifers, anchoring at a private island would cover all your bases for a regenerative trip. Take Ray Caye, for instance — an island resort completely powered by solar energy. Eighteen miles off the coast of Placencia, this private island will strip you away from all the disquiet experienced in the outside world with its on-site spa services, lack of crowds, and affinity for mindfulness.

For a more rustic feel, spend your tropical days at Thatch Caye, a Muy'Ono Resort. A private island that is fully sustainable, here, connection with yourself and nature come first, as can be proven by the lack of Wi-Fi in most rooms. If that makes you hesitate, their overwater bungalows will more than make-up for it. In fact, any private island in Belize is bound to give you the soulsearching experience you are seeking, for there are no worldly distractions to pull you away from what matters the most: (re)connection.

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PHOTO CREDIT: JOSHUA DANIEL NUNEZ

WHAT TO DO? Marine activities are not scarce in Belize. The Belize Barrier Reef continues to be a major draw for travelers, and for good reason. If you’re looking to decompress, what better way to do so than some meditative diving in the Caribbean Sea? Down here, it’s just you, your oxygen tank and the schools of tropical fish swimming by. With every inhale and exhale, you’ll be grounding yourself while simultaneously drifting towards vibrantly colored corals.

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WRITTEN BY: THE BELIZE TOURISM BOARD

Bs9 a9 E^e9 59d, a9d q,, e 5ee B de open outdoor spaces ready to be the setting for spectacular experiences. Here, you can dive into Be Es,dqx xecE9d,asex seef, »^,Ese e Ma&a artifacts, paddle through underground caves, or simply lay on the beach.

We ,·e 9 Be V,5ae EVdEEs ^,a&sEV9d a9d have worked hard to make it the adventurous ^asadxe &EV xeeE—a,,&EV 9eed E dE x ,e E Ef your inhibitions and trust your instincts. Forget the stresses of your life. Leave your worries behind. Live in the moment and seize it like qxBeE9,&B9Ba5aesxR9sea,&,xNTBaqxBa5ea9xEGsabLfe—Bx x9dedB^sE5xeEfBe,˜eN WBe9 OVC IDN? dxsV^ed Be sa·e,9dVxs&, ,edE a ^e9V^ dexse 9 5,,E9x Ef ^eE^,e E e EV a9d »^,Ese e E9ce aa9N TBaqx Bese e cE5e 9: Be,˜e x the perfect landing pad where travelers can breathe easy in the ultimate outdoors, taking on every adventure they’d put on the backburner before.

NaVse ,E·esx ca9 e9#E&9aVsea,Ex BsEVB 5edc9a,sa,x,·x bVes&as5x, f horseback ride, canoe, zip line, cave tube underground, rappel down a waterfall or explore the mysteries of ancient cities once occupied by a highly intellectual and complex Maya civilization.

Sea lovers will enjoy the charming sandy beaches on our cayes, snorkeling along Be,˜eqx basses seef—B ,E9ex 9 Be Wxes9 He5x^Bese—Es a Be ,Ve HE,e Natural Monument. Meanwhile, couples and newlyweds can relish magical sunset csVxex E9 Be cEaxN AsVab,& BEVB, e,˜eqx 5Ex V9gVe faVse x EVs cV,Vse: EVsE,E,Ese f ,sadE9x,»ce e ,,e9cVx9ea9dEVsas5Be,˜ea9BEx^a,&N B,e9d9 seef a9d sa9fEsex, E Gsab Lfe 9 Be,˜e x E V,5ae,& »^e e se9ce Be d·esx& a9d beaV& Ef Be,˜e fsE5 x ,a9d, 5as9e a9d cV,Vsa, ad·e9VsexN TBa includes breathtaking assets and entrancing sceneries, like the Maya Temple nXV9a9V9cBp BcB x des·ed fsE5 Be YVcaec Ma&a ,a9Vae, 5ea99 nSE9e E5a9, W pa9dbEax99csedb,e¨·exN

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E55e C 9c9 B a xBEs sde ·a a x5a,, Ba9dcsa9Eed fess& over the Mopan River, a short hike to the site and a climb of the ,asex xsVcVse E, Cax,,E, BcB sxex N¨ fe fsE5 Be P,a˜a EEs, ^sE·dex a9 9csedb,e ^a9Esa5a Ef Be Maca,, ME^a9 a9d Be,˜e·eR sa,,e V &N Gsabb9&EVseasxEs f ˜^,99xa5Vx,Bes,,Efbe9E9e B9aVseax&EV&E·esBesa9fEsexE9Be,E9ex˜^,9e9 Be,˜ex9dexcsbab,eN EacBEfBe8^,afEs5xaBeMa&Ees Eca9a B NaE9a, PasE x BsEVB Be seE^x e Ef Be #V9,e, where you are almost touching the leaves and branches as you zip by. Ziplining is undoubtedly an exhilarating experience to Vasa9ee x^ecacV,as ·ex a9d a sVe a^^secaE9 Ef Be,˜eqx subtropical jungles. aeW sfa,,sa^^e,,9a9dca·eVb9asea,xEa9exxe9a,^asE Gsab Lfe 9 Be,˜e, ex^eca,,& Es f BExe dexsEVx Ef»^e e se9c9 a sVxB Ef adse9a,9e, a9d a9 E^^EsV9& E »^,Ese e Be V9gVe BxEs&Efca·9 Be x&xe5NaeW sfa,,sa^^e,,99Be,˜ex5Ese than just a hike: it’s a climb and bird’s eye view of our mountain ridges, river valleys, and crystal clear streams. Meanwhile, cave Vb9xa,exVse,&Ea9a9as,,edVbe,,d9gV,& e dE9 a s·es xsea5 a9d BsEVB ,5exE9e ca·ex ax E9e Ef Be,˜eqx 5Exsa9gV,a9d5a#exc»^e e se9cexN Thereafter, the culture and ·bsa9c& Ef Be,˜e se5a9 Ese f ·es cBe ed 9 &EVs 5e5Es&N Da9c9 E Be sB&B5 Ef Be GasfV9a drums on the beach under the xasx Ef Be,˜e ax &EV 9dV,e 9 the warm hospitality of its people is the perfect way to unwind after a full day of adventure.

SE dVx Eff Ba ^axx^Es, x 5e E e9#E& xE5e ace f Eface adventures with your loved ones and friends as adventures are de9e,&a9aBeadN

Are you ready to make this year everything last year wasn't?

PHOTOS CREDIT: THE BELIZE TOURISM BOARD

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Then it's time to grab life in 13

PHOTO CREDIT: DYLAN HETELLE

MEANDER INTO THE MAYA UNDERWORLD 04

HOW SLOWING DOWN LEADS TO EXPERIENCING MORE 06

PHOTO CREDIT: DYLAN HETELLE

USING BELIZE TO UNPLUG 10

CONT FROM THE PUBLISHER -08SAN PEDRO & CAYE CAULKER

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DIVE INTO BELIZE'S ATOLLS: A BEACON ON BIODIVERSITY -18-

ORANGE WALK -324 LESSER-KNOWN OUTDOOR TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN BELIZE

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WHY RETIRING TO BELIZE CAN ACTUALLY MAKE YOU HEALTHIER -36-

PRIVATE ISLANDS -22-

GETTING TO BELIZE FLIGHTS TO BELIZE -37-

THE SWEETEST 'MOONS

RESORT BUYOUTS: AS THE NEWEST TRAVEL TREND

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RESETTING ON ISLAND TIME Translating the pace of every island in Belize

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SPEAK UP: THE CARIBBEAN VOICE ON CLIMATE CHANGE

-28-

BRAVING THE DEEP BLUE Recounting Treasures of Half Moon Caye Natural Monument -30-

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COROZAL -32-

POWERED BY CORN

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THE BELIZE DISTRICT -40REAL ESTATE: ARE YOU LOOKING TO INVEST?

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A “GUD MAANING” WAKING UP TO A BELIZEAN BREAKFAST -44-

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PHOTO CREDIT: BELIZE TOURISM BOARD

GRAB LIFE IN BELIZE 12

PHOTO CREDIT: KEVIN QUISCHAN

IN YOUR ELEMENT A PLACE TO ENGAGE THE SENSES 58

THE SACRED GEOMETRY OF MOPAN MAYA EMBROIDERY 80

ENTS THE CAYO DISTRICT -46-

DANGRIGA -66HOPKINS -67-

BIRDING SOARS IN BELIZE FOR A REGENERATIVE FUTURE

-48-

10 PRISTINE WATERFALL ADVENTURES

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EMBRACING ECO-TRAVELS AS A FAMILY

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PLACENCIA -70THE WINDING ROAD TO CARACOL Belize’s Largest Ancient Maya City

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THE MUNDO MAYA Maya Temples and Mystic Caves

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POCKETS OF PEACE: EMBRACING SILENCE

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THE STANN CREEK DISTRICT

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ACCESS POINT TO SELF -72SUMMITS OF SOUTHERN BELIZE

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TOLEDO DISTRICT -76REGENERATIVE ARTISINAL EXPERIENCES

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CHASING SPIRITS -82WEIGHING INVESTMENT FROM NORTH TO SOUTH -62-

A MONTH-TO-MONTH 2022 ITINERARY

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OUR PHOTOGRAPHERS -87-

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San Pedro & Caye Caulker Easily accessible from the mainland, Belize’s northern islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye make island hopping a bona fide activity. As the most populated and visited, San Pedro is within a ½ mile of the reef, regardless if you’re staying in a private villa, budget-friendly boarding, or boutique resort.

Dashing adventure beckons by day, while infectious entertainment comes alive at night. Meanwhile, Caye Caulker’s unmistakable magnetism lies within its colorful wooden homes, sandy streets, and verified ‘go slow’ schedule. Daily sights include curious sting rays and shorelines seemingly melting into Belize’s crystalline waters.

PHOTO CREDIT: JOHN ROMERO

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What to do?

Where to Stay?

O Cast your bet with San Pedro’s uniquely Belizean Chicken Drop game O Bask in admiration of the Great Blue Hole from above with a Maya Island Air aerial tour O Enjoy fresh shrimp ceviche at Lily's Treasure Chest O Spot the Red-Footed Booby with a day trip to Half Moon Caye Natural Monument O Try your hand at Deep Sea Fishing for “catchof-the-day” bragging rights O Swim with nurse sharks at Shark Ray Alley in Hol Chan Marine Reserve O Dive the Great Blue Hole O Try the signature Chocochino and artisan chocolates at the Belize Chocolate Company, with locations on both islands O Visit Secret Beach on the west side of Ambergris Caye O Enjoy live music over-the-water or floating in inner tubes at Palapa Bar & Grill in San Pedro O Spend the day at The Split in Caye Caulker O Feed the tarpon on the west side of Caye Caulker O Walk through the Caye Caulker craft market on main street

ALAIA BELIZE info@alaiabelize.com www.alaiabelize.com GRAND CARIBE BELIZE webres@grandcaribebelize.com www.grandcaribebelize.com LA PERLA DEL CARIBE info@laperladelcaribe.com www.laperladelcaribe.com MATACHICA RESORT info@matachica.com www.matachica.com SUNBREEZE HOTEL sunbreeze@btl.net www.sunbreeze.net SUNBREEZE SUITES reservations@sunbreezesuites.com www.sunbreezesuites.com SUNSET CARIBE reservations@sunsetcaribe.com www.sunsetcaribebelize.com VICTORIA HOUSE info@victoria-house.com www.victoria-house.com

Where to Eat? PALAPA BAR palapabar@yahoo.com @PalapaBarBelize

Ph. 501-226-3111 • 501-610-4322 Ambergris Caye, Belize @palapabarbelize

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LILY’S TREASURE CHEST

lilystreasurechestbelize@yahoo.com

@lilystreasurechest

RESERVATIONS PH. +501-605-8570 +501-226-2650 @lilystreasurechest

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Dive Into Belize's Atolls: A Beacon of Biodiversity WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA PHOTO CREDIT: JOHN ROMERO

They say good things come in small packages. As tempting as x e59, Be,˜eqx V9desaesE9desx ase baBed 9 9eas &eassEV9d xV9xB9e B ^,e9& E bEax: UNESOae C xed, Be ,˜e Basses Ref xes·e &xe S 5 cVd,ex Be cEax Es f N85,exax,ase Be xsecE5^,e ef »9A,a9cC Be asbbea9 seE9N WB9, Be xe·e9 ^sEeced aseax cE9xV9 Be BRS cE5^sxex Nb Ef Be e9se Ref E5^,e C »N FEs BExe Ba xeeE a x,ce Ef xV9Ee9 5a9ex5—dxcE·esed E9 a9 E»&e9 a9E—B9E Beas^V5^9 dsf xex, 59db,E9 5acsE cses acE9, ca·ex a9d ca·es9, a xEE9Ebe ^,a99ed wreck dive, and you’ve barely scratched the surface of diving Be,˜erxaE,,xN

In Belize, divers find a place just big enough,

sublime enough, and close enough to call home.

PHOTO CREDIT:DUARTE DELLAROLE

SgV˜ee d bee9 Be Casbbea9 Sea, Me»cE a9d GVae5a,a, Be,˜e cE·esx a9 asea Ef E9,& 8, xgVase 5,ex—abEV Be x˜e Efa,e W x—a9d bEd·esx& x Be ce9sa, acN f OVs Be,˜e Basses Ref ca9 be xad E be the great, bright, wonderful heart of the place: the brilliant beacon for underwater enthusiasts. Even at a recreational diving limit of 130 feet below, this scuba diving mecca attracts dreamers, romantics, free spirits, the wayward, and the wandering with one of the richest underwater worlds on the planet.

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E9dEed B Bsee Ef Be Wxes9 He5x^Beseqx EV f s Ea, aE,,x, Be,˜eqx seef x a ^,,as Ef 5as9e Esa a9d fauna for the region. As the largest and most biologically diverse atoll in the Americas, the necklace of coral within Turneffe Reef Atoll (TRA) Effesx NN,?¨ ‘^sEecedM hectares bursting with brilliantly giant coral sponges and 9aVsa,9VsxesexEf»Ec e sE^ca,xBEs f E9eEfBe,˜eqx most lucrative dive spots. If you’re looking for a wreck d·e, Vs9e T ffe Effesx TBe a&E9asa— S a ^axxe9es a9d casE xB^ de,besae,&xV9E 9 N?8—a9d xEE9,TBeW E9cse C eNTBeNcBa5besxEfEE fBe WcE9csee Vexxe, B9 Be SE,des Ca&e E9xe C s·aE9 ZE9e ,, 9E E9,&ac ax Be,˜eqx 9eex d·e xe bV a,xE x sx asca,seNef Further east, Lighthouse Reef Atoll (LHRA) is likely Be,˜eqx5Ex·xeBa9Ex d, Ea,,V Be seEf,eBe e9das& Gsea B,Ve HE,e a9d x ‘xee59,&M bEE5,exx ab&xxN Bexdex abV9da9 csesx a9d 9gVx·e Ref BasEx, S LHRArxxee^d·ea,,x—adEs9eBsEEV d x,&cE,EsfV, seasd ef e9x—aseacE9xxe9a·Ese f EfbEB,E95e divers and complete novices. One such favorite is The AgVasV5N O9 Be 9EsBes9 xde Ef LE9 Ca&e, TBe AgVasV5 x a^,& 9a5ed afes Be cE,E9ex Ef ^a9ed V9caex, xas59 xcBEE,x Ef sE^ca, seef xB, a9d large pelagic marine fauna.

PHOTO CREDIT: LEONARDO MELENDEZ PHOTOGRAPHY

Lying like a string of pearls in a blue sea, the southernmost Glover’s Reef Atoll (GRA) »ee 5^,ex ^sx9e d·9 9xde Be,˜eqx bexfEs5ed aE,, a N5,ex ,E9 a9d 5,ex deN F9d 5Ese Ba9 ¨¨ ^sx9e ^acB seefx brimming with the richest variety of marine life in the Casbbea9—fsE5Bed,caea9 f cEsa,a9dx^9&VscB9 E Be cE,EsfV, xE^,B ^assExB a9d e,ea9 x^Eed ea,ex9sa&b&BexcEseNOffa,,, WTBe axe#Vxeax Ef SEVexB Ca&e, x a,, d·e B a9 5^sexx·e,& xee^ dsE^ 9E Be as,e TsEVB—e d^ex ^E9 9 Be Casbbea9 SeaNTBa9Ex E Be as,e Dee^, N¨¨ foot visibility and feeding marine life bring incredible biodiversity to the area, including the occasional giant manta rays.

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The Sweetest

' MOONS WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA

From intimate beach escapes, picturesque private islands to breathtakingly beautiful hotels in the jungle, the only thing missing from the mix is newlyweds! Bring the love, and Belize will match with romance.

FEs &EVs debV 9E Be Es,d ax a 5assed cEV^,e, 9dV,e 9 Be V95acBed beaV& Ef Be,˜e ax a9 e9a5Esed Bdeaa&, Bes xasa˜9 fsE5 &EVs x,a9d caba9a E·es Be Casbbea9 Sea E cE5^,5e9as&aEeV^ca,,xb&BE,es5E9Ee&x9#VBe 9,eNA9das5B Be Ef&EVsxVssEV9d9x x9qBesesE5a9cx5e9dx—exca^adexx^e,,EV95ac&,BeseeacBad·e9Vsedsax&EVc,Exes EEB Be esNHEe,xeEV,d&EVE9Ea^s·aeBe,cE^esEVsE·escE9c Be B,VHE,e e a9d,V9cBE9 a9V99Bbed^a,5xVdex,a9dEV,dbeBeda&daeEf&EVsdsea5xiCsafBebexbe999 E&EVsEse f ·esaB BE9e&5EE9»^e e se9ceBaqxV9gVe,&&EVsx,Ba9ExEBexe5acB,exxo5EE9xN

Have a magical time as you take in the sights, scents, and flavors of Belize – an idyllic blend for happily ever after.

PHOTO CREDIT: TURTLE INN

Vino moon

WINE TASTING FeB9xEBa9d9Ba9d9eB a9d , sE5a9cexcesa9,& E9eNWB,e&EVca9ae sea,axxEfseEs Be, d sExea9&BesexE5e , ^,acex#Vx^Vax^eca,e5^Baxx E9·9ENa·Es S xee^9xea·exEfP,ace9caa9d9dV,e9a,V»Vs&9eEVsaVs,e T I99,aFa5,&E^^E,a C Hdeaa&N A a,,Ea,, ,axxe9caxed 9e ce,,as E9E9 ax Be n9e agVasV5p x a cBas59 ax9 sEE5 E9xe, BE,d9 5Ese Ba9 N¨¨ bE,ex Ef aasd999 xe,ecE9x fsE5 Fsa9cx FEsd E^^E,aqx C E 9esex 9 SE9E5a EV C 9s&, Bx I9,e9EEE exae 9 Na^a EV C 9&, ^,Vx·9aex fsE5 CB,e,Ase99a, Ia,&, a9dFsa9ceNS^e9d&EVs5eax9e,&edxe9#E&9Be9esB9x9,fe,,EeBebex·9aexE·esa,Eca, cBexe cBascVese bEasd B a ,axx Ef 9e fsE5 Fsa9cx FEsd E^^E,a C W9es&qx Da5E9d E,,e C cE9 9 one hand and the warm grip of your partner’s palm in the other. Have a magical time as you take in the sights, xce9x,a9da·EsxEfBe,˜e–a9&,,c d b,e9dEs f Ba^^,&·ee safesN

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A9ce9 Ma&a ex,S Be Basses Ref, a9d Be ,E9exca·ex&xe59Ce9sa,A5escaasea,,E^ Ef59dBe9cE9#Vs9V^a95aeEfBe,˜ebV, in fact, it is a multifaceted destination brimming with sweet locations to steal a kiss, reignite a a5e, Es ce,ebsae 9e cE99ecE9x—,Ee a honeymoon. And if letting the good times roll is your idea of romance, of course, there’s plenty of that for you and your other half too. After all, we’re just getting started on the sweet charm and cozy cE5fEsxEs f cEV^,exBexeo5EE9xN

Adventure moon

PHOTO CREDIT: SAN IGNACIO RESORT HOTEL

HORSEBACK RIDING Just the same as carving out a future together, though not to the ends of the earth, turn up the dial on an adventure by venturing horseback BsEVB Be #V9,ex Ef Be,˜eN E»BaVx·e ·xax and valley views, majestic waterfalls, and sacred Maya sites: as you ride through Mountain Pine Ridge, the oldest forest reserve in the country with over 100,000 acres, seclusion is guaranteed.

Enveloped by nature, appreciate the gorgeous scenery of pine forest and indulge in a romantic ^c9cEs f EaEEB Bef ,,xEfEcE BR Fa,,xN

Beach moon

PHOTO CREDIT: ROEMING BELIZE

CATAMARAN SAIL PE^ Be CBa5^a9e a9d xe xa,! Lea·9 fsE5 Placencia, spend your day on a luxury catamaran x,a9d BE^^9 bee9 SEVBes9 Be,˜eqx bex V9x^E,ed, xec,Vde x,a9dxN Ha9d9Ba9d, x9E 9E Be ^Edes&Be xa9dx Ef MEBE Ca&e beEse f be9 ,a^^ed b& x as5 xBa,,ExN VE&e B d by wedded bliss, spend the day underwater by x9EsEe,9 LaVB9 Bsd Ca&eqx NaE9a, PasEqx vibrant patch coral gardens. And with a sundowner 9 Ba9d a9d xa,x BExed E·esBead, see B xEV, as59 xV9xe xBEV,desExBEV,des B a9EBes day of marriage under your belt.

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Private Islands Though geographically small, Belize is blessed with an incredibly diverse landscape, including numerous offshore cayes, or islands, within the protection of the Belize Barrier Reef. Whether you go all-inclusive or on your own, private islands in Belize fit the bill.

After all, there’s over 400 islands called cayes (pronounced keys) and 3 of the 4 Western Hemisphere coral atolls dotting the Belizean coastline, boasting marine beauty parallel to none. With mangrove islets to seagrass beds and coastal lagoons, discover what makes Belize’s offshore world so curious from your own slice of exclusive paradise, thanks to secluded private islands..

PHOTO CREDIT: MUY'ONO RESORTS - THATCH CAYE

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Where to Stay?

CORAL CAYE info@coppolaresorts.com www.thefamilycoppolahideaways.com RANGUANA CAYE info@ranguanacaye.com www.muyono.com/ranguana-caye RAY CAYE ISLAND RESORT reservations@raycaye.com www.raycaye.com ROYAL BELIZE reservations@royalbelize.com www.muyono.com/royal-belize THATCH CAYE info@thatchcayebelize.com www.muyono.com/thatch-caye

Imagine the Caribbean before it got crowded

Individual Villas and Cabañas or Full Island Rentals Available 18 Miles E, Offshore Placencia, Belize

Find us!

12 M EAST OF PLACENCIA, STANN CREEK DISTRICT

CA R IBBEA NLIF ES T Y L E . C OM

www.raycaye.com reservations@raycaye.com Toll Free: 1-855-RAY-CAYE 23

Resort Buyouts: The Newest Travel Trend

WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA PHOTO CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

The art of escapology?

Big ticket and hugely memorable,

At the absolute Western end of the Caribbean, Central America's second-smallest country has been ready for its hotel buyout close-up—taking sun, sea and seclusion to a whole other level.

One way to guarantee total seclusion?

Book the entire hotel.

Be,˜e#Vx,&9dxxe,fE95a9&sa·e,esxrbVcEe,xxB its tropical solitude and straightforward relaxation. And amid the new realities of travel, having them all to yourself may not be the extreme luxury it once was.

Savvy resort buyouts are the ultimate private experience, ^sacca,,&a,Es5adEs f e axEca,,&dxa9ceexca^e d B your own controlled travel companions or vaccinated pod, Es f a cEe Easdx caVEVx, Ess&fsee sa·e,N &EV VB x a,xE Effes Be ,V»Vs& Ef abV9da9 x^ace Es f »ee 9ded a5,e f x E cE5e EeBesN TBe sa9e Ef BeseE ^Exxb,ex9Be,˜exE^e de 9:se9a,ase·,,a,bV&EV a small private island resort, or do a total hotel takeover.

SAVVY SECLUSION WITH PRIVATE ISLAND RESORT BUYOUTS For those looking for the view to end all views, rent a ^s·ae x,a9d sexEs b& Be x,a9d—Es b& Be Ba,fEs —f a fe, Ef Be Casbbea9 beEse f xe csEded, ,Ee a& R Ca&e Ix,a9d RexEsN A N8 5,ex fsE5 P,ace9caN a& R Ca&e x,ee^x a 5a»5V5 Ef 8 9 x ^ExB ·,,ax x^sead E·es a Ea,Efacsex,c,e B a9,9e Be x,Casbbea9b,Vs5, e a9d cE9xa9 Ecea9fsE9 ·exN TBeserx a,xE Vs,e T I99qx xxes ^sE^es&, Esa, C Ca&e a9d Bes E cEaex, #Vx 8 5,ex EffxBEse Ef P,ace9ca Es f a 5a»5V5 Ef N¨ VexxN E&a, R Be,˜eNacse ,Be ^s·aex,a9d#Vx¨59Vexb& x^eedbEa fsE5 Da9sa TE9, a,xE V9gVe,& caesx E one party at a time in 5 luxury suites.

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PHOTO CREDIT: SIRENIAN BAY

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VILLA LOVE

PHOTO CREDIT: KA'ANA RESORT

TOTAL TAKEOVERS, HOTEL-STYLE Hotels, typically existing as urban hearts within a place, ase a,, a5,as f B Ea, aEeE·esx: a eE,E9 a5,& f seV9E9, Bseeda& bVx9exx cE9fese9cex, a9d Vexx Ef the same wedding party. That’s why pioneers in hospitality, like San Ignacio Resort Hotel, embrace the takeover V^x9N I 5ea9, Bese e,xe ca9 &EV 9d a ,V»Vs& BEe, B N acsex Ef Be,˜ea9 sa9fEsex, sEE5x, ,V»Vs& xVex a9d a9 E9xe Gsee9 IVa9a cE9xes·aE9 ^sE#ec Baqx ,exx Ba9 a N¨59Vea,E fsE5 a9 S I9acETE9i A9dE9P,ace Be 9caPe99xV,a,aE9E·esseS 9a9Ba&— Effesed à ,a case Es a,,9c,Vx·e—5ea9x ·acaE99 E9 your own terms.

Meanwhile, staying in a villa feels more like a hotel in a home, for travelers in pursuit of togetherness. Solvei, the ,V»VsEVx ·ebedsEE5 BsexEs& e beacB BEVxe a Naa RexEs & S^a Effesx V9EbxsVced ¨desee ·ex Ef Be Casbbea9 SeaN F9 Es f Bx P,ace9cabaxed ·,,a 5ea99 n^aB Ef Be xV9,p sBi FVsBes dE9 Be Pe99xV,a, CBab, Mas x P,ace9carx E9,& Vex »c,V e x·e beachfront resort. Elegant, discreet and hidden within x sE^ca, asde9x, CBab, Mas x Be ·,,aE9,& sexEs Ef buyout dreams. And because reconnecting with loved E9exxbees9xVBe 9,·acaE9 Be se9a,EfCaxaA,Mas E9 NS GeEseqx Ca&e Vx #Vx ? 5,ex b& bEa fsE5 Be,˜e &N C Hese,BxgVcEs9e e sbEaxxa,a&EVa,5Exe9se,& of vacation homes.

Iqx xe,fcE9a9ed 59 ·,,ae #Vx EVxde Se9e B V,,ae x egV^^ed B beacBfsE9 ·,,ax, bV9a,Ex, a spa, miniature golf course, pool, and poolside bar. Perfect for coastal distancing.

If you rather the tropical gardens of a green oasis instead, Kaqa9a RexEsqx N Bace9dax&,e caxax a9d ·,,ax ase #Vx BaN Neas Be Wexes9 bEsdes Ef GVae5a,a 9 Be Ma&a MEV9a9x Ef Be,˜e, Kaqa9a ^ascV,as,& EcV f xex E9 wellness, for a retreat that’s as rejuvenating as it is restful.

PHOTO CREDIT: SAN IGNACIO RESORT HOTEL

What are you waiting for?

Private Beach Homes for Rent/Sale Ambergris Caye, Belize

CA R IBBEA NLIF ES T Y L E . C OM

RESERVATIONS 25 info@laperladelcaribe.com

resetting on ISLAND TIME

e dz ni al ye sbrcifegovnheitpa a l s n a r t

WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA | PHOTOS CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

Be,˜ea9x #EEe Ba 5E9e&x9q Be E9,&B9 NEsBA5esca9x Ba·e E ,eas9 E cE9·esBe9 & Be ·x, bV Be Be,˜ea9A5esca9 5e cE9·esxE9 EEN TBe 5E9e& x eax&: $N USD x egV·a,e9 E $ ZDN B TBe 5e conversion is the opposite, though, and you multiply the minutes by two. People take their time to do things, BcB cEV,d be xad Es f Be e9se& Ef Be,˜e, bV rx a cE5^,ee,& dffese9 5e˜E9e Be9 &EVrse 5,ex Eff Be 5a9,a9dN YEV xee, Beseqx a cesa9 ^ace E ·ee s& ca&e 9 Be,˜e, a9d q·e e E E·es ¨ Ef Bexe 9d·dVa,x,a9dxNA9dBa&EV5xxb&9EsVxB9,&EV5EseBa95aEeV^Es f V9BB Vsse5ed a,x,»sa e ,E9xBxee9»cV e sxE9x,a9d,9es9E9eE9E9ecE9·esxaE9xNABBa, a5as·e,xEbeCasbbea9N A9x,a9d9esas&Es f 5Ex9Be,˜ex5Edex:a,EasEV9dse, a9axe9xeEfdsecE9,a9ds&Edx^sE·eBe sa·e,esqxadaeEf9e bEseE9 d a9x,a9dNAfesa,,,BeseqxsV5,9exa9dbeacBex,a9da9a,5Ex9ascEc a5Ex^Bese Ef baseEEe f d 9E9cBa,a9ceN VB Ba f &EVqse ,EEE9 Es f BVx,e a9d bVx,e E9 cEbb,exE9e xsex,e ,·e5VxcBax^,,xEVE9EBebeacBfsE9,a9dBes5csabsacexiWe,,,BeseqxBe,˜ex,a9dxB that too.

KICK IT UP A NOTCH ON THE NORTHERN CAYES PcE9 V^ Be ^ace, x,a9dx B fV,,E9 cE9xVe9cex ,Ee Ca&e CaV,Ees a9d A5bessx Ca&e 5ea9x a9 a,5ExE·esBe,59sExesEfE^E9xEfBaEdE9Beda&—a9d9BN& TBe bEBBa·eBesE9asxs^, are chock full of resort and restaurant options, plus plenty of watery adventures to keep you entertained EffxBEseNTBe,˜eBassesace fRe xbEBx,a9dxB9&e e xB,bVBaqxabEVEs f cE55E9a,exN Vxc R basx ,9e Ca&e CaV,Eesqx xa9d& xsexe a9d beas Be 5a9sa, n9E xBs, 9E xBEex, 9E ^sEb,e5,p B,e x 95ae, a5,&sV f 9 accE55EdaE9x »Ve de Oe,cE5e BE5eNOA ·e 5,ex ,E9 a9d a 5,e acsExx a x dex^E9,^eBe bVe ^esfec,&fEs5ex,a9d d EfCa&eCaV,Eesx^esfecEsEa5asEV9db&SUP,Ea&aE, bc&c,e, E,f cas, Es baseEE f B a ·esed OE x,EO xcBedV,eN Ha9dfed a9 &e a5e as^E9, ·x Be SeaBEsxeRexes·eaxV9xeEs f xee^9xeaxca^exaa9xa9cBEsexa,bEax, d a9dxEca,˜eE9x,a9d Be rx most popular spot at The Split.

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ou’re feeling fancy, rush hour starting

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PHOTO CREDIT: ALAIA BELIZE

PHOTO CREDIT: BLUE MARLIN BEACH LODGE

No matter what chills you out, a Belize island has the prescription.

a speed to savor on the southern cayes PV,,9 EV fsE5 Be s·es5EVB Ef Da9sa, Be cV,Vsa,,& scB xB9 E9 E9 Be,˜eqx SEVBes9 cEax, Be ca^a9^V,,xBe99eNTBe5ea,,c^escVxxE9Ef^V9asEcEfsE5adEcExdebasa9dxBEVxEfxBes5e9 c,ea99BescacB·ea&EacEE9&x,e9ceaxYa5aB Be aEV f sxsEEeEVbEasde99eBV5xBeadE9 9E Be cBa99e,N Da9saqx V9^a9ed ce5e9 bV,d9x a9d beacBxde ^a,a^ax x,E,&5e, 9E Be cEax, ^V9N5,exbee9a9dSEVaeW B sCa&eN9S dsec,&aE^seBe 9ef cEV Be 9s&qx,asex5as9e sexes·ex,a9d Be , Eax9E·eax , cEsa,x f Badsxe9dsec,&fsE5de^N B Tsa,eb& d xa,x^sa&,qxafeax for the eyes meant to be savored on island time: slowly.

O9 x,a9dx ,Ee SEVaeBW s Ca&e Bese &EV ca9 cBEExe E xa&B sexEsx ,Ee B,Ve Mas,9 BeacB LEde, x^e9dBeda&x,EV999xdecE,EsfV,Ba55EcEx,BsE9aBa9d,9eEffBedEcE,Es#VxcE˜&9V^B aEEdbEEEE9&EVsa·Ese f ,EV9ecBasN,E S xasxE&EVsda&5a&5ea9e9,&Ea9abE·ecEsa,,sa&x a9d xasxBNYEV ds&Eff 9 Be xV9, a9d Bead bacEE Be LEde Es f ^Vff&fs&#acEx a9d a seca,bsa9 cV^ Ef fsexB,&xgV˜ee dEsa9e#VceNTBeae9daEs f BesexEfBeda&i9EB eS 9N CA R IBBEA NLIF ES T Y L E . C OM

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It’s Time to “Speak-Up” The Caribbean voice on Climate Change WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA

Despite our individualities as Caribbean nations, climate change affects us all. As a combination of island states and coastal territories, the Caribbean is a region most vulnerable to climate change — especially with our collective reliance on tourism and nature-based economies. Regionally, the negative impacts felt are disproportionate: the Caribbean is responsible for less than one percent of global emissions.

Yet, extreme weather events like hurricanes, droughts, and flash floods are more destructive; livelihoods, including those in fisheries and agriculture, are threatened by unpredictable weather patterns; fragile ecosystems like coral reefs struggle to survive continuous bleaching events and disease outbreaks; while shoreline communities are forced out of their homes and ways of life due to sea-level rise.

But hope is on the horizon, and it’s up to us to carry us to it.

It’s not a solo endeavour. Rather, it’s a new narrative of resilience — and of innovation, opportunity, collaboration, and commitment. Collectively, the Caribbean counts for nearly 45 million voices and together, we can go further than before. The climate crisis demands us to race to resilience, with no time to waste in speaking up for the Caribbean.

That’s why when the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC) launched an art competition for all ages under its project, “Enhancing Climate Resilience in CARIFORUM Countries,” artists took to multiple art forms to add their voice on how climate change has affected them. As an initiative of the ACP Group of States, this project is funded by the European Union.

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA, BAHAMAS, BARBADOS, BELIZE, DOMINICA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, GRENADA, GUYANA, HAITI, JAMAICA, ST. LUCIA, ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES, ST. KITT AND NEVIS, SURINAME, AND TRINIDAD & TOBAGO Enhancing climate resilience in CARIFORUM countries is in the best interest of all residents and citizens within, and receiving 90 entries was a resounding confirmation of that. Art and messaging in the form of drawings, signs, banners, paintings, and even stop-motion videos represented each individual’s stance on how they felt about the effects of climate change in the Caribbean. And, a call to action.

In total, entries from 14 of the 16 CARIFORUM countries covered 3 different languages with a total of 4 grand prize winners, 4 finalists, and 9 finalists. The Best Overall Winner, Jada-Marie Lum of Trinidad and Tobago with her digital art piece, reiterates that our ocean (and its resources within) is not for sale. Niyon Waldron, hailing from Barbados, showed the first-hand effects on food security from extreme climates with her Best in Fine Art painting: more droughts, nothing sprouts. Daniel Dixon, whose sister also entered from Jamaica, gave his Best Call to Action on solutions against climate change that we, the Caribbean community, can do. Jahvis Wood, also of Jamaica, offered the Most Impactful Visual that the future is in our hands — but we must not let it wither away.

WITH THE CLIMATE CRISIS ON THE CUSP OF URGENCY, THE TIME FOR WORDS HAS NOW MOVED TO THE TIME FOR ACTION. AND TOGETHER, WE ARE STRONGER. 28

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NIYON WALDRON-BARBADOS

WALTER LEIVA - BELIZE

MACY-ANN ROE - BELIZE

ODELIA FRANCE-GUYANA

JADA-MARIE LUM - TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

CHARLOTTE TOM - TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

ROSE TEJADA - DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

DANIEL DIXON - JAMAICA

WOOD - JAMAICA CAJAVIS R IBBEA NLIF ES T Y L E . C OM

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Braving The Deep Blue: Recounting The Treasures of Half Moon Caye Natural Monument

WRITTEN BY: DAREECE CHUC PHOTO CREDIT: BELIZE AUDUBON SOCIETY

I9ded, dfficV, sEadx ,ead E beaVfV, ^,acexN I can tell you, this long boat ride over navy blue seas, crisscrossing through atolls, is proof of such treasures.

GeEsa^Bca,,&, Be #EVs9e& E Be,˜eqx eaxes95Ex x,a9d Ef Ha,f MEE9 Ca&e—Be xEVBeax cEs9es Ef LBBEVxeAE,, Ref ‘LHRAM—x9Eeax&axENAxE9e EfsVBef ecEsa,aE,,x9BeCasbbea9,LHRAx ae5fsegVe9e5Ex,& d b&xBesfE,E,xcVbad·esx, island adventurers and sailing enthusiasts.

Ha,f MEE9 Ca&e x a acse ^sEeced asea, secE9˜ed x9ce Be eas,& N?¨¨x a9d ,ex,aed 9 N?8axsx Be ^sEecease d a9Be,˜eN9eTBe x9 cE,E9& Ef EEe fRed d EEbe B x ‘SV,a xV,aM dsE·e Baba ^sEecE9 effEsx a LHRA, bV Ba 9E includes all of the cayes and a large portion of the surrounding fringing reef and lagoon.

9ce S x ^sEeced xaVx, Ha,f MEE9 Ca&e xx 9 Be ,Eba, x^E,B Es f x V9gVe a9d EVxa9d9 universal value, worthy of braving the deep blue sea EsN f SE 5VcB xE, ax e9sa·ed 9 N??8 ax E9e Ef Be ^sEeced aseax 5aE9 V^ Be Be,˜e Basses Rexef s·e&xe S 5—Be,˜eqxEs,d W HesaeeS b&UNESON C Sea tales of history paint a picture of the island’s importance, dating all the way back to the island’s Es9a, bscEbaxed ,BBEVxe 9 9a·a9 xa,Esx Exaf& e x9ceN8¨NTEda&,,ex9xBa5b,exE9Be xBEse Ef Ha,f MEE9 Ca&eR ,a9VxBed se5a9xa9e under the pull and push of every new tide.

Da9 bacE E Be N¨¨x, Be eaxes9 xde Ef Be Ca&e x dEed B se59a9x Ef x ^ax: a E9ce cEcE9V ^,a9aE9N C,Vxesed B a,,, 9d battered coconut trees, the area thrives today to set the backdrop for Treasure Island daydreams.

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Iqx a x5a,,x,a9d, bV qx a a9 bEax9 Ef V9gVe aVf 9aN VseS , Be EEe fRed d EEb& B bsdx se9 supreme, but its nesting sea turtles and endemic Ix,a9d LeafTEed GecEE Bde9 a5E9 x LEsa, forest on the western side of the island are not to be discounted either.

IT ALL STARTED WITH THE BOOBIES! These charismatic seabirds have an overall white plumage, wing coverts elegantly lined in black, and a face only a painter could create: a baby soft blue beaER xB55es9 VsgVExe b,Ve &e e x s9ed B a daxB Ef ^9ER a9d E E^ Eff, & Be xa9d sea,,& ^esVx9 Bes dE5a9 E9 Be 5Ex asac·e sed orange feet.

The nesting booby colony can be viewed from the popular bird observation deck overlooking the Littoral forest. Visit in March, during the nesting xeaxE9, E ·e Be Be Vff&, fV˜˜ba,, cBcEx settled in their nests which are scattered throughout Bebsa9cBexEfEsa9eEesedZscEeseexN SUN, SEA, AND SANDY BEACHES O9 Ha,f MEE9 Ca&e, &EVq,, 9d E9,& x5a,, xa9d& niches of seclusion; where sandy toes rest in the warm sand and salty air lulls your inner voices; where you can dress in the sunshine and then later be cE·esedb&xas,BRBeseBecsexedVsgVExe waves bring inner peace and you can become a part of nature’s enduring treasure.

I5a9e &EVsxe,f—#Vx beEse f da9—x9 E9 Be beach with your knees pulled tightly to your chest, looking out across tempestuous blues while waiting for a spectacular sunrise to start your day. After all, Be9 Be xV9 sxex 9 Be,˜e, xB9ex sx E9 Ha,f MEE9Ca&eN CA R IB B E A N L IFE STYLE. COM

MARINE LIFE ABOUNDS Snorkelers and divers alike can appreciate the seefx asEV9d Ha,f MEE9 Ca&e Es f Bes bEd·esx&, structure and beauty; teeming with marine life, its surrounding waters abound with sharks, turtles, manta rays and large schools of snappers. The LBBEVxe Ref x BE5e E Be ,ee9das& Gsea B,Ve HE,e xVde b& JacgVex EV C xeaVN TBx underwater cave, formed during periods of lower xea ,e·e,, x a EasxesEded x9EBE,e Bese de^Bx exceed 400 feet.

EXPLORE ITS SISTER SITE, THE GREAT BLUE HOLE A Ba,,5asE Es f Be,˜e, &EVs ·x E Ha,f MEE9 Ca&e ,, a,xE 9c,Vde a xE^ a Be B,Ve HE,e NaVsa, Monument. Formed in the Pleistocene Era as ex5aed N,¨¨¨&easx aE, Be Gsea B,Ve HE,e x a,ase9e, as^esfeccscV,asx9EBE,exE5eN,¨¨¨f in diameter, and 412 ft in depth. As a hallmark image EfBe,˜e, x9EsEe,esx ca9 e9#E&Be 99ess9, ,aced BasdcEsa,,B,ed·esxdxcE·esx·esca,c,ffx and overhanging shelves supporting stalactites.

PHOTO CREDIT: JORDANA WRIGHT

BELIZE'S FIRST PROTECTED AREA YEVs·xEHa,fMEE9Ca&ea9dGse Be aB,VHE,e e , a,E9 B 9a9ca, cE9sbVE9 Es 5e5besxB^, goes directly towards the ongoing conservation Ef Bexe xex, ,ed b& cE5a9aes Be,˜e AVdVbE9 SEce&—a ,Eca,NGO axEedB e ^sEecE9 Ef natural resources.

PHOTO CREDIT: JORDANA WRIGHT

PHOTO CREDIT: LEONARDO MELENDEZ PHOTOGRAPHY

CA R IBBEA NLIF ES T Y L E . C OM

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Corozal District Hub: Corozal Town

Just 9 miles south of Mexico, the northernmost district of Corozal sits charmingly on the milkyturquoise and calm waters of Corozal Bay. With a vibe differing from any other town in Belize and its obvious Mestizo influence, agriculture is also a historically and important driver. Not surprisingly, there's been an emphasis on ecotourism in its seemingly stress-free fishing villages of Consejo and Sarteneja - perfect for those seeking an "authentic" Belizean experience. With a growing population of expats and retirees, the delightful border town of Corozal blends its resident East Indian, Mestizo, Creole essence beautifully.

Orange Walk District Hub: Orange Walk Town

Nicknamed "Shuga City" as Belize's sugar cane processing hub, the northwest district of Orange Walk is a mere one-hour drive from Belize City. Home to the majority of Belize's Mestizo population.

Orange Walk Town is known as many things: an agricultural town, economic hub, street-food capital, and Mennonite rest stop. However, do as the Orange Walkeños and take advantage of its wonderfully-wild landscapes and fun loving spirit, including impressive ancient Maya sites, Belize's largest fresh water body of the New River lagoon, and boisterous wildlife.

PHOTO CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE-CERROS MAYA SITE

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PHOTO CREDIT: BELIZE TOURISM BOARD - LAMANAI MAYA SITE

PHOTO CREDIT: FLAVORS OF BELIZE

PHOTO CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

PHOTO CREDIT: FLAVORS OF BELIZE

What to do?

O Visit the vibrant Corozal Town Hall and Corozal House of Culture in the center of town

O Take a dip in Corozal Bay

O Venture into the outskirts of town for the Maya Site of Santa Rita

O Admire hand-painted wooden sailboats, and Chuy Arts in Sarteneja Village

O Visit the Corozal Museum

O Stop by the East Indian Museum

O Savor a uniquely Belizean plate of Black Relleno

O Cross a hand-cranked ferry to the villages of Sarteneja, Chunox, or Copper Bank

O Visit Banquitas House of Culture

O Try the famous Orange Walk tacos for

breakfast – ask for cabbage and onions!

O Cruise the New River Lagoon on a Boat Tour safari

O Explore the Archaeological Sites of La Milpa and Lamanai

O Sample the northern signature salpicón, the locally-loved grilled pork ceviche

O Swim and have a picnic at Honey Camp Lagoon

O Visit the traditionally conservative Mennonite community of Shipyard

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4 LESSER-KNOWN OUTDOOR TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN BELIZE WRITTEN BY: GISSELLE HERNANDEZ

sa·e T ,esxaB sadaeV sE5 f be9a,˜ee B 9ebeEanse^ea·xEspa·e B ^sEbab,&E9e d ?¨ ^esce9EfnE^ e B 9x B EE d 9,˜ee B NpxB T ,V 5ae,˜ee B bVcEe,xxaseEf^axxaeEs f anyone traveling to the small but mighty country, but the needs of globetrotters have changed in ^ax e B &e e f asxNNE,5a9&cE5exeE9 e Effsad e B as»^e e se9cexaB a·e e B saeEVsx 5a&9EE9EabEVNsa·e e B T ,esaB x9qax,& e xaaeBcEEEe d cVse 9esasexxBEV,d Ee^e xee B EV f s,exxesE9E9EVEEs d ac·xe E^Ef59d9e B 9,˜ee B N

PHOTO CREDIT: AUSTIN-SCHMITT

PHOTO CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

BLACK HOLE DROP xB T ¨¨EE f ^e d ca·es99e B #V9,exEf,˜e xB e Ef9e xeV ax d ax^EEs f sa^^e,,9b&5a9&s,,B seekers. The Actun Loch Tunich xV9Ee9ca·ex,Eca9d ,e ˜qx Be a&E C Dxsc, a9d E9,& ,c9xe e d tour operators can safely get you in a9dEVNxE R axEesxase,Esee d into the dark cave that sits 300 feet above the jungle canopy below, with only a headlamp and some rope harnessed to their bodies. ca·e e B T xe5x e 9E&b,acEasx becaV9ce e B xexB Efe B e B 9a5e bVe asE9e B d xxadf xe away at the bottom.

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BIOLUMINESCENCE TOUR Imagine being under the blanket of stars in the middle of a lagoon, bobbing slowly to the waves, until you see the water beneath your boat glow bright iridescent. The phenomenon is unlike anything you’ve seen before, and certainly, one you didn’t know existed in E,V ,˜xeB NxBe T B 59exce9ceTEVs found at the Sittee River Marina near Hopkins. It is often advised that the best 5eEE d xB ac& · xsV 9d ,˜e qx Be dry season, ideally from January to May. »^e e B T s9ce e ,axxsE5 f ^5E? ^5,a9d&EVq,, E9ee xxsxa9d B the magical glow of living organisms lighting up the calming waters from below. The bright, blue hue is hard to capture with mere photographs, so you xBEV9exx ,d xBsxa9d B N

PHOTO CREDIT: STEPHANIE LEBLANC

NIGHT HIKE Ma9&cE e ,Edxe 9a,B˜ea·ee B the privilege of being tucked away 9·ee sdB a9#V9,exEffse ·asEVx types of Night Hikes or walking tours a few steps away from their property.

On these special night safari tours, &EVqsebEV9dEcE5eace f Eace f ,˜ee qx B B »E e c9Ecs9a, V Ne,d,f Often armed with a bright headlamp Es axB, B ,·xEsx 5a& x^E a 5E,edE,,&e eae d dE9Ea#EV, Esc,axx e B css& V f asa9,aN V WacB your step, as you would not want to disrupt the busy sanpopo ants carrying their portion of leaves from nest to nest.

CA R IB B E A N L IFE STYLE. COM

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR BELIZE TRIP Valid Passport

COVID-19

VACCINATION CARD LAST NAME DATE

Sunglasses

PHOTO CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

WATERFALL RAPPELLING De^e 9B Ma&Ese Eca B 9a NaE9a, PasE x,e a 5axx·e N¨¨¨ foot high waterfall. Antelope Falls is Eca B 9aqx 5Ex aVd 99 ae sef V , yet extremely captivating. Adrenaline junkies make the arduous trek up to the cascades to rappel down the mammoth.

Many consider the activity a worthwhile endeavor, especially when the reward is a nice, refreshing swim at the base of the waterfall. The national park is located 9,˜e qx B e a99 S seEC e DE xBse sc,B adventurous activities available such as ˜^,99a9dEEdE,daxB f E9eE9N Bd

Tried and true itineraries are popular for a reason, bV9,˜ee B see B , qx5Esebe&E9dbee B acBxN e B E9e W EE f 9asbbe e CB a9 a9d a9EBse 9 9sa, e C A5esca,^EcEe e B x˜e9aE9 d bs9x to the table an eclectic mix of experiences.

GE9easea&x d eB EfnI9xasa55ab,ex^Exrrax conscious travelers seek a deeper connection with their vacation destination. Perhaps unsurprisingly, many such deep connections are often found in the great outdoors. And with N¨ ^sEeced aseax, E·es ¨b Ese f xed asea, rainforests hiding caves, waterfalls and wildlife, ,˜ee B ,acExabxE,V,& e 9EB9N

CA R IBBEA NLIF ES T Y L E . C OM

FIRST NAME VACCINE

HOSPITAL

Vaccination Record Card

Comfortable Clothing & Shoes Camera, GoPro or Waterproof case for phones

Cash and Credit Cards

Smartphone Swimwear and Sunscreen

Reusable Water Bottle

Day Backpack A good Book Medication and Insect Repellants

BELIZE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS & COVID-19 TRAVEL ADVISORY

35

Why Retiring To Belize Can

Actually Make You Healthier WRITTEN BY: AZAIN MEDINA

“Where’s that?” Not too long ago, that practically scripted response to the word ‘Belize’ was expected. Unfamiliar to most, the relatively small country was unintentionally dwarfed by its larger, more popular neighbors in Central America and the Caribbean. Many could argue this fact stunted development and opportunity for the country, but fail to realize how it actually worked in our favor. After all, operating largely under the radar has been pivotal as to why Belize is one of the most sought-after destinations today.

Offering a much simpler lifestyle, Belize has been able to maintain our “sense of fresh air” to the lives of locals and those relocating or retiring here. Natural playgrounds spread across every corner of the country, whether it be fishing for pelagic wahoos in the deep blue or taking a leisurely hike in a jaguar preserve. For those keen to shrug off the stresses of modern life and reconnect with nature, they’re trading in their suits and ties for t-shirts and flip-flops instead. And even if you aren’t into outdoor activities, one’s daily life is easygoing regardless of town, city and island — each has a proud sense of community, and there’s no trouble fitting in.

With a cultural diversity to match our landscape, nature’s bounty is always within reach. Foodies can bask and indulge in the flavors of Belize: besides being heavyhandedly flavored by the Caribbean and Central America, locally producing more than 50% of our food means offering a healthier selection than what most are used to. Small-scale farming startups like Blue Hill Farm have integrated farm-to-table practices by bringing highquality products to the everyday household. Coupled with an active environment, there’s an easy transition into a healthier lifestyle—for both mental and physical wellbeing.

Ultimately, while you match what's offered against what you’re seeking, Belize awaits as that breath of fresh air—to exhale, escape, and evade corporate life.

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As we collectively adjust to a new way of life, future goals are altered, granted, but why not change the narrative ourselves? You can, by choosing a location whose environment effortlessly offers wellness in more ways than one. And why Belize? Besides the above, we are the only English-speaking country in Central America, while being 2-hours or less by flight from the United States.

There’s no need to fully give up your former life and ties by moving here, which amounts to a plus for many. And if you haven’t quite committed to moving just yet, then it’s time for a familiarization visit. The worst-case scenario?

Vacationing in a cultural, natural, tropical, and genuinely characteristic wonderland as one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

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GETTING TO BELIZE

Find an updated flight schedule of all major airlines with service to Belize here! All international flights land at the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE:PGIA) in Belize City. Learn about all the ways to get here by scanning the QR code to our website.

CANADA Westjet • Calgary • Toronto

CALGARY

TORONTO

MINNEAPOLIS

American Airlines • Charlotte • Dallas • Los Angeles • Miami

CHICAGO NEWARK

DENVER

CHARLOTE LOS ANGELES

ATLANTA

DALLAS

Delta Airlines • Atlanta • Minneapolis Southwest • Denver • Houston (HOU) Sun Country • Minneapolis

ORLANDO

HOUSTON

MIAMI

BELIZE GUATEMALA

United • Chicago • Denver • Houston (IAH) • Los Angeles • Newark Frontier • Denver • Orlando

CANCUN

ROATAN

EL SALVADOR

PANAMA

CA R IBBEA NLIF ES T Y L E . C OM

USA Alaska Airlines • Los Angeles • Seattle

SEATTLE

MEXICO & CENTRAL AMERICA Copa • Panama City TAG • Guatemala City • Flores, Petén Tropic Air • Cancun • Roatan • San Salvador

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Powered by Corn WRITTEN BY: LYRA SPANG

Native to southern Mexico and domesticated over 9,000 years ago, corn-like wheat in Europe a9dsce9Axa—sa^d,&beca5eBexaffEf,fe Es f 5,,E9xEf^eE^,eacsExxA5e Be scaxN

PHOTO CREDIT: NAIA RESORT & SPA/KEIRON LENNAN

Today, it remains a culturally and spiritually ^EesfV, xa^,e 9 Be de Ef 5a9& seE9a, cultures, including the Kekchi, Mopan, and YVcaecMa&aEfBe,˜eN

I9as99e9dEsxe5e9Ef^Ee Be sEfcEs9,Ke Be EcBMa&acseaE95&BPE^E, —Be VB—xaex Bacse Be aEsEdx,afesa,9 f EB B es5aesa,x,ese9a,,&xVccexxfV,a5aE9BV5a9xB fV,,&fV9cE99Beasxa9d59dxE9,&Be9& Be 5E,dedB5EVEfcEs9dEVBN Ed T a&, Be ^E^V,as& Ef cEs9 Bax x^sead be&E9d x 9de9EVx sEEx E be e9#E&ed b& a,, cV,Vsa, sEV^xNTBe s5 ncEs9EEd f xp sefesxE Be 5a9&dffese9 dxBex ^se^asedB cEs9 9 BeEs5 f Ef cEs9 5axa‘NMN Es9 C 5axa x a e dEVB 5ade b& bE,9 5aVse Basd sa9x Ef cEs9 9 aes, B ca,cV5casbE9ae,9BeEs5 f EfaBe^Edesca,,edca,,addeEBe^ENI9Be,˜e,ca,x5ade 9EEdsed EVdEEsE,9x 9 BeEEB f ,,x EfBe Ma&a MEV9a9x a,E9 Be HV559bsd HBa&N CBV9Ex Ef ,5exE9e gVassed EV Ef Be ad#ace9 x,E^ex ase Beaed V9, & Be bseaE dE9 9E a ^EdesN E,9 B cEs9 B ca,cV5 casbE9ae caVxex Be xBe,, Ef eacB sa9 E xEfe9 xE ca9 be axBEff ed NTBx^sEcexxxca,,e9»a5a,N d xEf TBe xBde e,,eEed s9e,xasesEV9d9E5axadEVB, VxeE d 5aEecEs9Es,,ax,a5a,exa9ddE˜e9xEfEBesdxBexN SE5eEfBe5Ex^E^V,asBe,˜ea9EEd f x5adefsE5cEs95axaase: Tamales aa5EV f xcEs9baxede,cac&aB 5,,e99a,BxEs&9Be,˜ease , 5ade acsExx Ce9sa,A5esca b&aE9 cEs9 5axa a9d x^sead9 E9 a ba9a9a ,eaf Es a,V59V5E,N f TBece9esx,,eBxE5e d ·ase&EfcEEEed5eaEs·eab,e e a9dBe9E,d f ed9Ea^acEae B a9dxea5ed9bE,9aesV9,s5N Be,˜ea9a5a,exase9Eab,eEs f EB9x: NN & TBe ase VxVa,,& ,,ed B bE9e9 5ea, 5aE9 e9se,& ^Exxb,e Ba &EV may encounter a whole chicken leg inside your tamale NBe,˜ea9a5a,exasesa^^e9d ,eBe afEfasa9fEsex^,a9ca,,eaBd a,EsBaf x9Ea·a,ab,e9, aba9a9a,eafNa5a,e T xase^,e9fV,acsExxBe,˜ea9dase5ad,ase e e9EVBaE9exxVffice9Es f a,,9a9d,aeacB $ ,axV^esaffEsdab,e,V9cBN Dukunu and Tamalitos ase a5a,ex 5ade fsE5 9e,& saed fsexB see9 cEs9, sa^^ed a9d xea5ed 9 Be fsexB cEs9 BVxE, VxVa,,& B 9E ,,9N DVEV9V, a WexAfsca99a5ese, fesxEsee9cEs9a5a,exBacE9a9cEcE9V5,E,B,e tamalitos do not. They are often served alongside stewed meats, their sweet starchy nature a perfect side to the savory entree.

1) WHETHER THE CORN MASA HAS BEEN PRE-COOKED LIKE POLENTA IN A POT PRIOR TO MAKING THE TAMALES DETERMINES THE TEXTURE-FLUFFY OR DENSE LIKE AL DENTE PASTA-AND THUS THE VARIETY OF TAMALES BEING MADE. IN BELIZE TAMALES MADE WITH UNCOOKED CORN MASA ARE OFTEN CALLED BOLLOS.

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Panades ase de^fsed, Ba,f moon corn masa pastries seasoned with red recado a9d ,,ed B ^V,,ed xeaxE9ed xB Es sefsed beans. Fried to perfection, Bexe E,de9 Ba,f5EE9x Efcsx^E9BeEVxd&e e e9desE9Be9xdxa·Es& e goodness are best eaten hot and fresh, topped with a spicy vinegary habanero and onion sauce.

Salbutes are made by patting secadE xeaxE9ed cEs9 masa into the shape of a cEs9Es,,aa9dBe9de^ fs&9 N TBe 5axa ^Vffx up and then collapses in on itself, creating a soft surface piled high with richly seasoned pulled chicken, salsa and cheese.

Garnaches are produced by frying an already baked corn tortilla until crispy, turning it into a giant tortilla chip which is then slathered with a layer of refried beans, grated cheese and tomato salsa. This brings us to the great garnaches controversy: do you or don’t you add a xgVsEfEecBV^iPVsxxxa&NEVER,bVEBesx argue the sweet/salty contrast is a must.

Tacos 9 Be,˜e, ·ee s&E9e E9Ex Ba Osa9e a,E W Dxsc Bax Be bex acEx, bV Be cas xBa^ed, Be,˜ea9x&,e nsE,,ed acExp ca9 be found across the country.

The soft corn tortilla is usually rolled around pulled chicken or pork that has been slowly braised with red recado, onion, garlic and other seasonings and topped to taste with BE5e5adBaba9e e sEBExaVceNAEs f $N,Bexe ax&seaxca9qbebeae9Es f agVcEbseaEfax, ,B,V9cBEs·ee 95dafes9EE9x9acEN

DISCOVER THE POWER OF CORN WITH A CULTURAL COOKING CLASS WB,e&EV,,9d Bexe ^E^V,ascEs9 5axabaxed 5ea,x a9d x9acEx a,, E·es Be,˜e, Bese ase a,xE dE˜e9x Ef cEs9 dishes that are relatively unknown outside of certain districts or cultural groups.

I9EVsxEVBes95ExseE9,E,e T dEDxsc,^EcB‘ade9xe ^,a9cEs95axaa5a,5adBEV e ,,9,VxVa,,&xes·ed B xEV^M a9d xBV ‘x5,as E a5a,ex bV aes a9d ,,ed B sefsed bea9xM ase »c,V e x·e,& axxEcaeBe,˜e d a9KeEcBa9dME^a9Ma&acV,Vsexa9daseV9E9E9EBe,˜ea9xfsE5EBes ^asx Ef Be cEV9s&N I9 Be Ca&E Dxsc, a x^eca, ds9E 5ade fsE5 b,acE cEs9 a9d a,,x^ce ca,,ed I»qPaxBax^se^asea9d d EffeseE d a9ce Be xEsxE9A,,SEV,xDa&‘ca,,eLEx d F9adEx9Be,˜eM,bVx little known outside of the Mopan and Yucatec Maya and Mestizo communities of this region.

PHOTO CREDIT: LYRA SPANG/TASTE BELIZE TOURS

Taking a cooking class or cultural tour to a Maya community is a wonderful way to begin to learn Ba9dxE9 abEV Be »e9x·e se^esEse Ef EVxa9d9 a9d 5ea99fV, dxBex 5ade fsE5 cEs9 9 EVsbeaVfV,,&d·esxeBe,˜eN LYRA SPANG IS A FOOD ANTHROPOLOGIST, WRITER AND OWNER OF TASTE BELIZE TOURS, A UNIQUE CULTURAL & CULINARY TOUR COMPANY LOCATED IN PLACENCIA, BELIZE. TASTEBELIZE.COM/ TASTEBELIZE@GMAIL.COM.

CA R IBBEA NLIF ES T Y L E . C OM

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The Belize District District Hub: Belize City Belize City, located on the Central Coast, has become the most commercial hub and populated city in the country. Since becoming the endearingly “old capital” after the destruction of Hurricane Hattie in 1961, the city has rebuilt to now house of the Belize Tourism Village as a cruise port, The Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (PGIA) just 15 minutes on its outskirts, and the Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport (TZA) for regional and domestic flights. Getting to the islands is easy from the coast, with daily water taxi charters to San Pedro and Caye Caulker available from downtown Belize City.

PHOTO CREDIT: BEST WESTERN PLUS BELIZE BILTMORE PLAZA/DUARTE DELLAROLE

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What to do?

O Take a 15-minute immersive tour with Old Belize Adventure’s historical Train Ride O Sightsee downtown on foot and visit the Museum of Belize.

O Head to the oldest Anglican Church in Central America – St. John’s Cathedral – the only place outside England where kings were crowned.

O Enjoy stories of history and culture while tasting award-winning rum at the Traveller’s Heritage Centre Museum, one of Belize’s most historic distilleries.

O Admire the coastal monument of the Baron Bliss Lighthouse before getting a photo-op with the neighboring and colorful BELIZE sign.

O Visit The Belize Zoo to get up close and personal with Belize’s rescued or rehabilitated wildlife.

O Cruise the Belize River and keep your eye out for boisterous howler monkeys and sweettempered manatees.

O Explore the Maya Site of Altun Ha, where the largest jade carving in the Maya world was discovered.

O Enjoy a Birding Boat Cruise on the lagoons of Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.

O Try delicious and locally-loved meat pies for breakfast.

Where to Stay?

#1 Belize City Hotel Located just 10 minutes from both Municipal and International Airports.

The Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza accommodations include: WiFi Garden Restaurant Free Parking Fitness Center Sunday Brunch Business Center

RADISSON FORT GEORGE HOTEL AND MARINA amin.dredge@radisson.com www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/radisson

Daily Happy Hour Air-Conditioned Rooms Conference Center Banquet Facilities

BEST WESTERN PLUS BELIZE BILTMORE PLAZA reservations@belizebiltmore.com www.belizebiltmore.com

CA R IBBEA NLIF ES T Y L E . C OM

3 1/2 Miles Philip Goldson Highway gm@belizebiltmore.com Tel: 501.223.2302 WhatsApp: 636.6597

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ARE YOU

looking to invest?

SCAN WITH YOUR MOBILE CAMERA TO VISIT OUR REAL ESTATE WEBSITE

www.caribbeanlifestyle.com/property

REAL ESTATE AGENTS THE JAMES GROUP mike@jgroupbelize.com www.jgroupbelize.com

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VISTA REAL ESTATE findyours@vistabelize.com www.belizerealestate.bz

REMAX caribbean@1stchoicebelize.com www.1stchoicebelize.com

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A "Gud Maaning" Waking Up To a

Belizean Breakfast WRITTEN BY: DORA PAZ

PHOTO CREDIT: BELIZE FOOD TOURS/MONICA GALLARDO PHOTOGRAPHY

"I seh gud maaning, Belize, gud maaning!" Sure, they’re the lyrics to a famous Belizean song but what a good morning indeed when starting with an authentic, bona fide Belizean breakfast! We take our food seriously. Even the most simple breakfast dishes are chock full of flavor and cultural depth. Ready to experience it yourself ?

HERE ARE OUR TOP 5 BELIZEAN BREAKFAST EATS—OR RATHER, EXPERIENCES:

The "Drop Everything and Eat These" Stuff: Fry Jacks Prepare for the two best words uttered: Fry Jacks. So legendary, these puffy, soft yet crispy fried dough deserve all the descriptive adjectives—which many have compared to a much lighter beignet. A fully loaded plate looks like these delicate pockets of air served with refried beans, eggs, and ham or famous Belizean-spiced stewed chicken. Order on the side or even stuffed inside.

THE EXPERIENCE: Belizeans across the country have perfected the fry jack, but there’s nothing like dunking your fry jack in some refried beans while dipping your toes in fluffy white sand at Estel's in San Pedro on a Sunday morning. In the south?

You can't beat ordering Naia Resort & Spa’s melt-in-yourmouth fry jacks as room service in Placencia. Now the tough question is, sweet or savory? To help you decide, join a lunch food tour in San Pedro as Belize Food Tours ventures to The Fry Jack House, the newest eatery serving up both.

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The "Oh So Good" Stuff: Meat Pies Ahh, who knew these small, stuffed, handheld pockets of meat would become a Belizean staple? Dario's, Pou's, or Ladyville’s: you're likely in for a heated debate if you’re asking a Belizean to choose their preferred provider. But what exactly makes a meat pie great in the first place? The crust? The filling? The baker? Here’s what we know.

THE EXPERIENCE: Belize City, while not known as a tourist destination, is home to many of the meat pie-heavy hitters, and they’ve earned their titles. Skip the usual long lines to get them piping hot out of the oven at their respective bakeries if you're catching a water taxi since you’ll likely find them just as fresh at these delis. Choose Dario's if you like a spicier sauce in a buttery, flaky crust; Ladyville, if you appreciate, curry undertones and Pou's for uninterrupted filling with its near see-through thin crust. Not in the city? Hit one of the oldest delis in San Pedro town started by a pioneer of tourism: Celi's Deli. They've been flying in Dario's pies from Belize City to the island daily for decades because yes, it’s that good!

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The "Wow, that's Good" Stuff: Orange Walk Tacos You think you know a taco until you've tried Belize’s, as the seemingly simplest taco ever: minced chicken atop a fresh corn tortilla, with cilantro-pickled cabbage.

Sounds basic, right? Wrong. Hand-rolled to perfection, these little tacos pack a punch. See, the secret is in the chicken, which is slow-cooked for hours to fall-apart-tenderness in Belizeans’ favorite spice: red recado. Heavily influenced by our roots in the Yucatan Peninsula, Belize’s northern district of Orange Walk (OW) is where these tacos infamously originated.

THE EXPERIENCE: The ultimate OW Taco experience would have to be the annual Taco Fest, a showdown of taco makers battling it out for the coveted "Best Taco Award." But since this is a once-a-year event, you might miss it. That doesn't mean you have to miss the experience. If you're in Orange Walk, check out Mercy's taco stall near the center of Orange Walk Town. Ask any local, and they'll know exactly where.

If Orange Walk isn't your destination, then ask a local for a recommendation in your destination. Ready for another insider exclusive tip? Belmopan will be the newest destination for Belize Food Tours, taking you one taco at a time to one of the best taquero stalls in the country.

The "Maya Inspired" Chaya Eggs or Perix Paak (pi•rish pak) Last but certainly not least, a Belizean breakfast couldn’t be complete without honoring our Maya-Mestizo indigenous roots: Perix Paa’k and Chaya Eggs. Perix Paa’k is simply eggs scrambled with onions and tomatoes, while Chaya Eggs are eggs with a locally-loved dark leafy green, colloquially known as Maya spinach.

THE EXPERIENCE: Without a doubt, the most authentic way to experience these breakfasts would be through a homestay at a Maya Family in the jungles of southern Belize, like at IxCacao, where the Cho family will create an unmatched experience that's singular. If you aren't able to make it south, you have to stop at San Ignacio's most famous breakfast eatery, Pop's, for its Chaya Egg Stuffed Fry Jacks (two favorites in one!) or try a flour tortilla stuffed with Perix Paak at Celi's Deli in San Pedro Town, to give a nod to Belize's indigenous. Thank you, ancestors.

What a mouthful. Literally. When in Belize, do as the Belizeans do: never skip breakfast.

Trust us, it's worth it!

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STUNNING VIEW OF THE CARIBBEAN SEA IN BELIZE CITY! T. +501.223.3333 #2 Marine Parade, Belize City amin.dredge@radissonamericas.com www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/radisson 45

The Cayo District District Hub: San Ignacio Home to the capital, the City of Belmopan, Cayo District’s picturesque small towns, lush tropical forest, and winding rivers are sure to charm you.

As the smallest capital in the Americas, Belmopan’s central location makes it a perfect day trip for your adventures whether hiking or exploring limestone cave system at nearby National Parks.

Further West takes you to Belize’s “breadbasket,” the colorful twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena, connected by the iconic 1949 Hawksworth Bridge over the pristine Macal River. As the district that borders Guatemala, Cayo inspires irresistible Latin and Maya flavors that go on full-display every Saturday morning at the local farmer’s market in San Ignacio with stalls from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

PHOTO CREDIT: SAN IGNACIO RESORT HOTEL

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What to do?

O Chase Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve’s waterfalls and natural pools at Rio on Pools, Big Rock Falls, and more.

O Visit one, or all, of Cayo’s Maya Sites, like Cahal Pech and Caracol.

O Cross on hand-cranked ferry to Xunantunich Maya Site before exploring its ruins on horseback.

O Canoe into the remote underground chambers of Barton Creek Cave.

O Experience the world’s most sacred cave by spelunking Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave O Get friendly with San Ignacio Resort Hotel’s endangered residents at their Green Iguana Conservation Project

Where to Stay?

BLANCANEAUX LODGE info@coppolaresorts.com www.thefamilycoppolahideaways.com GAÏA RIVERLODGE info@gaiariverlodge.com www.gaiariverlodge.com

HIDDEN VALLEY INN & RESERVE reservations@hiddenvalleyinn.com www.hiddenvalleyinn.com KA’ANA RESORT reservations@kaanabelize.com www.kaanabelize.com SWEET SONGS JUNGLE LODGE reservations@sweetsongslodge.com www.muyono.com/sweet-songs THE RAINFOREST LODGE AT SLEEPING GIANT vacations@sleepinggiantbelize.com www.sleepinggiantbelize.com

O Trek deep into the jungle before rappelling into the Crystal Cave at St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park O Wake up early for San Ignacio's infamous Saturday Market for farm fresh produce and street food favorites.

O Take a leisurely (and invigorating) inner tube ride through the limestone interior of Jaguar Paw Cave O Enjoy a private picnic at the on-site Five Sisters Falls while staying at Gaïa Riverlodge O Take a bird watching tour, easily organized by your hotel.

O Go kayaking or Canoeing down the Macal River.

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Birding Soars in Belize

for a Regenerative Future WRITEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA PHOTOS CREDIT: RONI MARTINEZ

With tourism and conservation efforts often married in the Central American destination, av-itourism is expected to take flight in Belize as one of the fastestgrowing tourism trends.

The calls of resplendent Collared Aracari birds puncture the hazy fog in Western Belize’s lush greenery, where treetops scrape each other among rolling hills. Two Keel-billed Toucans— Belize's national bird—watched me unpack traveler's fatigue from their perch in the Trumpet Tree, within arm's reach (or rather, a wing's length) of a ginger fizz as the welcome drink on our balcony here at San Ignacio Resort Hotel. That morning, the harmonizing songs of flycatchers tumbled through the air, overpowered only by the droning synchronization of cicadas at dusk.

Home to near-600 recorded species of birds, including critically endangered and threatened species, Belize is a magnet for serious twitchers.

The country is preening itself to welcome flocks of nature lovers, with avi-tourism predicted to be popular with the world’s travel-thirsty ecotourists in the wake of COVID-19.

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According to a recent report by the Centre for Responsible Travel, birdwatching is among the fastest-growing trends in eco-tourism. After all, there's a renewed appreciation of oxygenating time in the great outdoors, which Belize checks all the boxes for by going birding.

And in this western nook of the country, the Cayo District holds one stronghold for survival: the elusive Orange-breasted Falcon (OBF). Always rare and localized because of its specialized habitat requirements like rugged cliffs, the OBF is said to occupy only four percent of its historical range in Central America. Specifically, range-restricted to the Maya Mountains of Belize and along the Mirador Cordillera in Guatemala.

Without a doubt, our Central American corner is one of the last places in the world to see this species in action.

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Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve’s cliffs in rugged and remote areas have proved to be prime nesting grounds for this high-elevation species, but this pocket of biodiversity yields other incredible species, like the mega-rare Solitary Eagle and gorgeously vibrant Violet Sabrewing.

But then there’s also the Chiquibul National Park.

Wild and real, the Chiquibul’s pristine greenery envelopes you into the Scarlet Macaw’s first choice for their breeding grounds. These are excursions for the serious birders in Belize, but what about nature lovers simply looking to experience the wild?

If you’d rather take the backseat birding route altogether, that would be from your balcony at San Ignacio Resort Hotel (SIRH). Thanks to its 17 acres to warrant its “only jungle in town” nickname, breakfast at the resort also means you’ve got a front-row seat to wildlife: Collared Aracaris mooch across its balcony, keeping you company alongside your cup of coffee.

With sustainable, nature-based holidays to remote places at the heart of regenerative tourism, Belize's wealth of birdwatching spots stand it in good stead.

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10 Pristine

Waterfall Adventures

These 10 incredible waterfalls in no specific order across Belize make for unbelievable hotspots to cool off after a long hike, picnic with a plus one, or simply kick back and relax.

WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA

PHOTO CREDIT: TAHNEE WILSON

Resting in the heart of tropical thickets, these 10 waterfalls are equally exotic as they are powerful.

While most people travel to Belize for its breathtaking coastline and cayes, few may realize that Belize also boasts some of the tallest waterfalls in Central America. Varying from awe-inspiring 1,600-foot tall cascades to humble jungle showers, these pristine natural formations in Belize should be on every traveler’s itinerary.

PHOTO CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

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PHOTO CREDIT: ROEMING BELIZE AT GAIA RIVERLODGE

CAYO DISTRICT THOUSAND FOOT FALLS. Naturally, we’re starting off with the second largest waterfall in the entirety of Central America which, unlike its name, actually measures nearly an epic 1,600 feet tall. Found deep within the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, enjoy the Thousand Foot Falls from its viewing area— accessible through the unpaved wilderness—or a downhill hike to its invigorating gorge.

BUTTERFLY FALLS. Plummeting 80 feet from crest to crystal-clear basin below, the pristine Butterfly Falls is the exclusive, private access waterfall hidden within the Hidden Valley Inn of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. Guests can hike 2.5 hours straight from the lobby, or walk a mere 20 minutes from the last access point by car.

BIG ROCK FALLS. As the Privassion River cuts through the pines within Mountain Pine Ridge, fresh spring water culminates with a 150-foot drop to gigantic boulders below: Big Rock Falls. Make the steep descent down its wooden, handmade staircase or for even more thrills, on horseback.

FIVE SISTERS WATERFALLS. Zigzag down 284 steep stone steps or take the on-demand funicular service to the Five Sisters Waterfalls, the five falls that culminate into one picturesque swimming hole as the heart of Gaia Riverlodge, within the Mountain Pine Ridge.

STANN CREEK DAVIS FALLS. After an 8 mile off-road drive from the Hummingbird Highway that fords several rivers and streams along the way, you’re rewarded with this estimated 500-foot Southern gem—second in size only to the Thousand Foot Falls.

TIGER FERN WATERFALL. Hidden within the vast 128,000 protected areas of Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary (CBWS), the Tiger Fern Waterfall is a must-visit in Southern Belize. Up the ante with its 4.3-kilometer out-and-back trail which gives hikers two options: a 360 vista of the Cockscomb Basin atop its summit campsite, or a double-waterfall adventure.

ANTELOPE FALLS. Trust us, the effort is worth the reward to trek further into the Mayflower Bocawina National Park for the impressive Antelope Falls. Hikers can enjoy its magnificence from below, or head up for a stellar 180 view—best enjoyed in its plunge pools above.

MAYA KING WATERFALL. Made of two cascading tumbles, this perfect balance of size and power is an easily accessible waterfall in the South. Plus, there’s a photo-op at every curve, like passing through its overhanging bamboo fronds THE FALLS AT BILLY BARQUEDIER. Access to this remote beauty is off-the-beaten-path: the short, 20-minute hike from the highway entrance is best in the dry season in its eponymous National Park.

TOLEDO DISTRICT RIO BLANCO FALLS. Thirty miles northwest from Punta Gorda and wedged by 500 protected acres inside its namesake National Park, the Rio Blanco Falls is a southern gem. Water flows through wide, shallow pools and over smooth slabs of sandstone; its rushing water pours over a 15-foot ledge into a deep, limestone boulder-lined pool. Did someone say cannonball?

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THE WINDING ROAD TO CARACOL Belize's Largest Ancient Maya City WRITTEN BY G. MICHAEL BOWEN | PHOTOS CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

FEscVe B sEVxad·e9VsexeEee s,,˜ee B abEV9dxB beautifully spectacular and exotic archaeological sites, the ,asexa9d5Ex5a#excEfcBB xasacE,N C

A MASSIVE ANCIENT CITY IN THE MAYA MOUNTAINS OF BELIZE Located 500 meters above sea level on the Vaca Plateau in Be EEB f ,,x Ef Be Ma&a MEV9a9x, Be CasacE, Ma&a eS x E9e Ef Be Bex ^E9x 9 Be,˜eN FsE5 x ce9es sxex a Ees9 ^&sa5d E9E9 ax Caa9a Es SE& Pa,aceE — Bx da&,xBea,,exxsVcVse9Be,˜eN NE E9,& x CasacE, Be ,asex Ma&a xe 9 Be,˜e a a^^sE»5ae,& ¨¨ xgVase E,E5eesx, bV Bx a9ce9 cade,xE9eEf,ase Be xa9d5Ex9Ve9a,EfE9E9 Be Maya cities. At the height of its power during the late classic ^esEdCasacE, , axBE5eEE·esN¨¨,¨¨¨9Baba9x,9eas,& ceBaEfBe9eBbEs9c&EfTEa,9GVae5a,aN WBe9 axEed abEV Be 5^Esa9ce Ef CasacE,, Be,˜ea9 sexeascBesDsNJa5eAeEfNEsBes9As˜E9a9·e U sx&xad, nCasacE,axde9e,&aEsce f EcE9e9d9B MVBe 9dE Maya. In its heyday, its political sway was felt well beyond Be 5Edes9 bEsdesx Ef Be,˜e—ax as f aa& ax 9 E^a9 C 9 HE9dVsaxR9Ca5^ecBe,Me»cERa9daTEa,9GVae5a,aNp LASER IMAGING TECHNOLOGY AT CARACOL I9¨¨?,a,axes5a9ecB9E,E&E9E9axLDARxca99ed Be #V9,ex Ef CasacE, fsE5 a9 as^,a9eN TBe LDAR 5a9 revealed hundreds of structures in the area, plus a system Ef xE9e caVxea&x Ba ,ead 9E Be c& ce9esN Bexdex x 55e9xe x˜e, LDAR se·ea,ed Be xca,e Ef ascV,Vsa, essac9axeBe BcB, ,Ee,&5adCasacE, e xe,fxVffice9N Ax Es f a9ce9 se,cx a,sead& dxcE·esed, CasacE, bEaxx more than 50 carved stone monuments, over 250 burials, and 200 caches.

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ALTAR 21 AND THE STAR WARS O9e x9ca9 dxcE·es& 5ade a CasacE, x Ba Ef A,as N, a a9 a,as ,Ecaed a Be ce9es Ef Be xerx primary ballcourt. Its inscriptions tell the story of how CasacE,a5EV f x,&defae9eBed BbEs9xeEfTEa, 9GVae5a,a,9BaxE9E9b&sexeascBesxaxaas S asN W TBe 9xcs^E9x se·ea, Ba LEsd DEVb,e Bsd Ef TEa, aacEeCasacE, d 9ADNLaes9AD,LEsdaeW s Ef CasacE, e9aced Be sx E9E9 as S as, W a 5a#Es political war of the ancient Maya which coincided with c&c,e Be EfVe9VxGse TBe – aas, S a9ddefaeTEa,N d TBx ,ed E a N¨&eas BaVx Es f TEa, 9 BcB & Be dec,9e9d ^E^V,aE9,B,eCasacE,E9EB Be esBa9d grew considerably in size and population.

A NEW PAVED ROAD TO CARACOL Its entrance road winds through Mountain Pine Ridge, #Vx xEVB Ef a9 S I9acE 9 Be,˜eqx Ca&E Dxsc, a9d V9, sece9,&, ax Eff Be beae9 ^aB—Ba x, V9, Dece5bes ¨N? Be9 sEadEsEx bea9N WBe9 axEed abEVBe5^acEfBe9esEad,DsNAs,e9CBaxe,E9e Ef Be ,ead9 ascBaeE,Exx xV&9 d CasacE,, xaed nTBe ^a·ed sEad E CasacE, ,, be a 5a#Es bEE9, 9E E9,&E Vx [Be sexeascBesx] bV E EVsx5 9 Be,˜e, b& 5aE9Bexe5Eseaccexxb,eNp Be,˜eAscBaeE,ExDsNMe,xxaBad,,E,EfNaE9a, TBe I9xVe Ef V,VC se a9d HxEs& ‘NICHM 9Eed Ba Be paved road will allow for decreased travel time to the site, and will also improve the response time for any emergency situations.

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TBe 9a5e CasacE,cE5ex fsE5 S^a9xB, 5ea99 xBe,,, Esx^sa,xBa^ed,BcB 5a& allude to the winding nature of these ancient roads which spiral out from its center.

TRAVELING TO CARACOL TODAY I x B,& secE55e9ded Ba sa·e,esx ^,a9 E ·x CasacE,B a EVs VdeN DVe E E·d C N?, TBe Be,˜e EV T sx5 Easd B Bax e9aced a GE,d a9d S asd CescaE9 program to enhance the safety of travelers. This includes protocols to improve sanitation practices, social interactions, and standard operating procedures.

PHOTO CREDIT: A. AND D. CHASE, CARACOL ARCHAEOLOGICAL PROJECT, WWW.CARACOL.ORG

Tsa·e,esx·x9 CasacE,‘B EsBEV aMVde xBEV,d ^,a9 E e9esBe xeB a 5,as& excEs BcB ,ea·ex eacB da& a ?:¨¨ a5 fsE5 Be DEV,ax DqS,·a FEsex Station. This station is located at the village formerly known as Augustine in Mountain P9edeNR aEe T Be sEad BsEVB CsxE& Re E cE99ecE Be MEV9a9 P9edeR Ead R N O9ce &EV 5ee Be excEs, x a 59Ve ds·e dE9 a 9d9 sEad E CasacE,NTsa·e,esx5VxBe9seVs9EBexaE9·aexcEsasEV9dPMN

WHAT TO BRING Mosquito repellent and sunscreen are a must. We recommend supportive shoes and comfortable clothing. There are no restaurants in the area, so plenty of water and a picnic will make all the difference.

ON THE WAY BACK Be sure to leave time to stop at one of the beautiful attractions inside the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest

Reserve. Among the most popular are 1000 Foot Falls, Rio Frio Cave, and Rio On Pools.

A Sanctuary of Nature, Serenity and Adventure in your own Private Reserve in Belize

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HIDDEN VALLEY INN, CAYO | BELIZE (866) 443-3364 | +501 832 8055 | HiddenValleyInn.com

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MUNDO

maya

WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA PHOTOS CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

For nearly 3,000 years, the Maya civilization flourished in Belize - once the heartland of the Maya. Today, the magnificent archeological sites, temples and ruins remain to reflect their impressive past, coyly hidden amongst Belize’s thick jungle with rich history and mysteries of the Maya culture.

Maya Temples ALTUN HA (ROCKSTONE POND) Being the closest to Belize City, Altun Ha is also the most visited in Belize.

Explore where the largest jade carving in the Maya world was discovered, and one of Belize’s greatest treasures: a jade head sculpture of sun god Kinich Ahau.

CAHAL PECH (PLACE OF TICKS) Once home to an elite Maya ruling family, Cahal Pech boasts an impressive 34 structures in just over two acres.

Plus, a royal burial chamber filled with trinkets for the afterlife: shell and bone ornaments, pottery vessels, obsidian blades, and a jade tile mosaic mask.

CARACOL (SNAIL) Located deep in the Chiquibul, Caracol is home to the tallest manmade structure in Belize – the 143-feet high temple of Caana (Sky Place). Also, noteworthy? Its immense agricultural field system and city planning.

CERROS (MAYA HILL) Located on the northern coast of Belize, the still-partially excavated trading center for obsidian and jade, Cerros, houses three large buildings and several plazas surrounded by pyramids. Within, Cerros’ tallest structure stands 72 feet high above the plaza.

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EL PILAR (WATER HOLE) Located near the Guatemalan border, El Pilar is the largest Maya site of the Belize River area. Though most remain inaccessible to the public, the ‘Water Hole’ houses 25 plazas with hundreds of ancient structures.

Tzunu’un, the house site, shows a glimpse of a traditional Maya home and forest garden.

LAMANAI (SUBMERGED CROCODILE) A 26-mile boat ride up the New River leads you to Lamanai, boasting 700 mapped Maya structures including the Temple of the Jaguar. As one of the biggest and most impressive sites in Belize, Lamanai was continuously occupied for over 3,000 years.

LA MILPA (MAYA FARM) With over 80 structures as the third largest Maya site in Belize, discover the few structures open to the public at La Milpa. In late April to early July, visitors have a unique opportunity to witness or participate in archaeological digs.

LUBAANTUN (THE PLACE OF FALLEN STONES) Occupied for about 150 years, Lubaantun’s structures were constructed without the use of mortar, with each stone cut to perfectly fit the other. A flawless crystal skull was discovered here, and it also housed Maya elites and three ball courts.

NIM LI PUNIT (THE BIG HAT) Nim Li Punit, found near the village of Indian Creek in Toledo, gets its name from the longest stela yet discovered in Belize and the second tallest ever carved by the ancient Maya: a ruler carved with a large, elaborate head-dress. The concentration of so many stelae is what makes this such a unique site.

XUNANTUNICH (MAIDEN OF THE ROCK) Venture across the Mopan River via hand-cranked ferry to reach Xunantunich, hosting 25 temples.

Onsite, the El Castillo temple rises 130 feet above the plaza and features intricate hand-carved friezes and stelae.

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Mystic Caves Hidden below the jungle canopies, navigate Belize’s complex underground cave system on foot, canoe or inner tube to reveal natural splendors of the Maya’s past. Considered pathways to the underworld, or ‘Xibalba’ in Maya, caves are sacred havens where glistening limestone formations and vast chambers are just the beginning.

RIO FRIO CAVE Located in the Mountain Pine Ridge area, Rio Frio Cave impresses with the sheer size of its chamber. The amphitheatre entrance has a phenomenal 65-foot tall arch, allowing visitors to see the entire half-mile length.

ACTUN CHAPAT AND ACTUN HALAL Actun Chapat, or the Centipede Cave, plus Actun Halal, or the Dart Cave, are located 19 miles south of San Ignacio.

Inside houses man-made features–including terraces and raised platforms. Human remains and artifacts have been found here.

ST. HERMAN'S CAVE Found along the forest trail within the St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park near the country’s capital of Belmopan, St. Herman’s Cave holds important cultural and archaeological significance. Pottery vessels used for collecting Zuh Uy Ha (virgin water) from dripping speleothems were found here.

ACTUN TUNICHIL MUKNAL (ATM CAVE) Located in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve in the Cayo district, this popular cave holds much evidence of Maya sacrifices – from pottery to a fully crystallized skeleton known as the “Crystal Maiden.”

TIGER CAVE This cave, named as such because villagers once saw a dog chase a jaguar cub into the cave, is about an hour-and-ahalf hike from the village of San Miguel, in the Toledo District.

BARTON CREEK CAVE Accessible only by canoe, this wet cave runs over four miles long, and was once used for Maya ceremonies and burials.

Even though most of the cave has been excavated, it still holds many visible artifacts.

CAVES BRANCH (NOHOCH CHE-EN) Float on an inner tube along the Caves Branch River as it takes you through this series of caves. There are various pottery shards remaining as evidence of the ancient Maya ceremonies.

CHE CHEM HA CAVE Discovered by a farmer just outside of Benque Viejo del Carmen, Che Chem Ha – the Cave of Poisonwood Water – holds numerous Maya artworks and artifacts. The cave’s entrance is decorated with Maya motifs, and its interior walls are lined with large storage jars.

CRYSTAL CAVE Along the scenic Hummingbird Highway lies the second cave within the St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park, the Crystal Cave or Mountain Cow Cave.

Ancient

Maya Sites

of Belize BY DISTRICT 1. COROZAL Cerros – Maya Hill Santa Rita

2. ORANGE WALK

Lamanai – Submerged Crocodile La Milpa – Corn Field El Pilar – Watering Basin

3. BELIZE

Altun Ha – Water of The Rock

4. CAYO

Xunantunich – Maiden of The Rock Cahal Pech – Place of Ticks Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave) Barton Creek Cave Rio Frio Cave Caracol – The Snail Actun Chapat and Actun Halal Che Chem Ha Cave

Nohoch Che’en (Caves Branch) St. Herman’s Cave Crystal Cave

5. Stann Creek Maintzunun – Small Hummingbird T’au Witz - Dwelling of The God of the Hill

6. TOLEDO Nim Li Punit – Big Hat Lubaantun – Place of Fallen Stones Tiger Cave

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Pockets of Peace:

Embracing Silence in Belize WRITTEN BY GISSELLE HERNANDEZ

When we think of travel, we think of absorbing the world outside our own. Our five senses are heightened as the need to consume everything around us multiplies ten-fold. Life in travel has always been a roaring cacophony of experiences—a hurried pursuit to cross off as much of our bucket list as possible. And after decades, we eventually realized what our loud living was doing to our Earth.

This sort of traveling left behind a worn-out world due to over tourism. Ignited by the prominence of sustainable travel, many began attempting to travel more consciously. But good intentions aren’t always enough, and sometimes we need to be forced to slow down.

The content marketing agency GLP Films was the first to write about the age-old adage that silence is golden in a traveling world. It seemed many ecosystems thrive in a noiseless environment, a fact not many had noticed in a “last chance tourism” era. But the benefits of sitting in silence were shown to have monumental benefits, for both the environment and the traveler. Particularly, at one not-so-hidden gem in Central America.

PHOTO CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

Sitting in silence in Belize With a low population density and a high percentage of forest cover, Belize is no stranger to pockets of peace.

Long before the pandemic, Belize’s lack of popularity was its strong suit—a place known for quietude, with a plethora of tranquil experiences at your disposal. In a last-chance tourism landscape among Instagram-driven itineraries tarnishing pristine sights, Belize welcomed travelers searching for, well, themselves.

And they found it.

PHOTO CREDIT: MUY'ONO RESORTS - COPAL TREE LODGE

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While bird watching deep in the Chiquibul Reserve, sitting atop canoes along a mangrove-thriving river, and snorkeling beneath the surface on the Caribbean Sea. What all these experiences in Belize have in common is the total decentralization of humans. Many of these nature-based tours work only in silence. Like spotting manatees—success means ensuring the boat engine is completely off. But while spotting wildlife in its natural habitat is a worthy venture in itself, there is something deeper at work within the gift of silence.

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PHOTO CREDIT: RONI MARTINEZ

A deepened connection The global concept of deep travel was first introduced in 2010 by Tony Hiss in his book In Motion: The Experience of Travel. Within, feeling interconnected and present to “broaden everyday life” was the basis of deep travel. It’s having an “aha” moment when the worries of the world fall away—when it’s only you and that heightened state of being. For many avid travelers, this is the reason they travel. In an era where instant gratification and constant stimuli exist, the concept may seem unattainable, but it’s closer than you think. Deep in the woods of Red Bank Village in southern Belize, a group of determined birders waits with bated breath to welcome the break of dawn.

Red Bank is known to be the Scarlet Macaw capital of the country, and yet, one erratic move could blow the birders’ cover. But to outsiders, how can this high-effort hobby of just watching birds be gratifying? The acts of standing still, focusing on something else other than yourself, and having patience work wonders for the psyche. Your state of being is not jampacked with thoughts of tours, itineraries, or deadlines. Out here in the forests of Belize, your mind takes a break—one for which your body is thankful—and you come to appreciate the attractions for what they are: a privilege of beauty. Once you come to terms with the fact that some experiences should never be rushed, or worse, polluted with noise, you’ll be open to the idea of traveling regeneratively, and in silence.

The best impact is no impact at all On the topic of regenerative travel—to leave a place better than you found it—there are still times when doing absolutely nothing counts. Sure, befriending locals, staying in eco-first hotels, and volunteer tourism all create a lasting impact on a destination. But when it comes to naturebased experiences, I’d like to argue the best impact is creating no impact at all. At least, not while you’re there in the flesh. Out here, it’s truly better to leave the sites just as you found them: sans footprint, litter, and noise.

Mother Earth housed umpteenth species millennia before us, and she will continue after us. It’s time we recognized the best way to help our green Earth thrive is by leaving no trace behind — a familiar yet under practiced concept.

Wildlife retook metropolises back during the worldwide shutdown and reminded us that it’s their home, too. For too long we have been at the center of consumption, carving our mark, and it’s high time for us to sit back, stay quiet and listen. Listen to the faint calling of an Orangebreasted Falcon in Mountain Pine Ridge; to the happy shrills of dolphins off Placencia’s coast; to the deep rumbling of hooves when riding horseback to Xunantunich. And who knows? We may even hear a symphony orchestrating its way out of our hearts in response.

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In your element

A PLACE TO ENGAGE THE SENSES WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA PHOTO CREDIT: KEVIN QUISCHAN

The task at hand: to distinguish memory from a dream.

Thankfully, in this corner of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve shoulder-to-shoulder with the rushing Privassion Creek, it is a distinction without a difference.

Recovering pine trees, meadows of palmetto, and wispy feather reed grass unfurl themselves on the flanks of a single brick-red dirt road. The sun-drenched landscape of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve receives more than 30 inches of rain per year, with the allwheel-drive required during Belize's rainy season. And yet, such an unimaginably dynamic terrain demands many happy returns. Within, a luxe hideaway stands in the peak of the elements as a place to engage all five senses—only in Belize.

Stretching for an epic 300,000 acres from the highlands of Western Belize and darting all the way up to the neighboring Sibun Forest Reserve, the journey to

Blancaneaux Lodge is as joyful as the destination itself.

Inside, there are countless riverine-carved plunge pools with no other swimmers in sight, pathways of hiking trails galore, and a handful of Belize's best eco-lodges.

On any one day inside, you can chase the second largest waterfall in Central America, spot a Puma, and adventure in pursuit of high-elevation species, like the endangered Orange-breasted Falcon.

As Francis Ford Coppola’s former (and first) family retreat to Belize, Blancaneaux Lodge is a lush tranquility with 70 sprawling acres, dotted with 20 thatched villas.

And spoiler alert: Blancaneaux Lodge happened to be Francis Ford Coppola’s personal writing retreat before opening to guests. Farm fresh within walking distance, the onsite organic garden supplies over 75% of seasonal produce—including on-demand craft cocktails and handmade pasta.

SIGHT

hidden details of Coppola’s career sprinkled in throughout the property. While an eclectic treasure trove of handcrafted Mahogany furniture, locally sourced nearby from San Ignacio, and intimate décor personally sourced from Mexico and Guatemala create a whimsical yet warm character, the real charm is in the free-spirited hodgepodge of film momentos, like the Pinocchio spewing water in the fountain outside of the main building—an extra that never made it on-screen. These fun props on the property make for memorable details, like each room’s “shell phone” intercom system that rings directly to the front desk as a delicately pink conch shell sits above a Mahogany base.

PHOTO CREDIT: KEVIN QUISCHAN

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TASTE the coffee culture that Francis Ford Coppola cultivated himself

in the middle of the rainforest. Importing an espresso machine (and pizza oven) to personally train the staff in, traditional Italian recipes passed through his family’s generations are served right at the Montagna, the fullservice restaurant acting as the heart of the property. Steps away, panela is made fresh by boiling and evaporating fresh-squeezed sugarcane; 6 gallons of juice requires around 60 pieces of sugarcane, an hour to extract, and another 3+ hours to boil and mold. But these tiny nuggets of gold are perfect to sweeten every cappuccino, trailing behind with hints of caramel and molasses. Not to mention, it lends an irreplaceable flavor in each room’s container of fully stocked tableta, Belizean coconut candy.

PHOTO CREDIT: GUNDOLF PFOTENHAUER

Guatemaltecqua specializes in Guatemalan cuisine with favorites like the subtle warmth of pepián soup, or salpicón, a finely diced beef salad flavored with sour orange and handpicked cilantro. But the third eatery holds all the charm of Blancaneaux being an epicurean’s perfect adventure. Led by the Head Gardener Elicer through the 3½-acre organic garden, you’ll forage for peak ripeness alongside your chef. The thatched palapa overlooks the garden and the kitchen is the focal point, acting as a pop-up bar with fragrant cocktails like their incredible Allspice Mojito. Sip and taste savory bites like the tempura curried cauliflower, and before long, the hum of easy conversation is only as loud as the sound of nighttime cicadas in the air.

FEEL sandbur grass add resistance to your jeans as you venture horseback

through the lowlands of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. With its own horse stables of 20 horses, the sensation of being remote and distant is as special as it is exclusive, moving through swathes of a private estate.

And if it’s adrenaline you long for, feed it by exploring on horseback. There are these little corners, secret jewels among the peaks that you come across on rides, like hidden jungle cascades and epic waterfalls like the 1000 Foot Falls, actually measuring 1,600 feet. Emerge from the foliage feeling as if you’re a pioneer, even in the modern age. After, feed fatigued muscles with the warmth of the horseshoe-shaped heated pool, which overlooks the Privassion, while drinking in the setting sun.

PHOTO CREDIT: KEVIN QUISCHAN

HEAR the never-ceasing gush of the Privassion’s hydro-electric powered system, which plays a huge role in Blancaneaux’s day-to-day operation.

Supplying 85% of the energy used on property, the creek supplies water for the onsite shower and laundry, which is also treated before going to the guest rooms. Although, guests can get a complimentary eco-tour of Privassion. Along with the swathe of birdsong from the jungle, knowing the carbon footprint of your stay can help each guest sleep just a little more soundly.

PHOTO CREDIT: KEVIN QUISCHAN

SMELL

a combination of herbs and honey with the Oriental Body Glow inside the Waterfall Spa, thanks to the staff who’ve studied the ancient techniques at the Sacred Wat Pho Temple in Bangkok. The one-room spa has natural light pouring in from its open-air design, fragranced by essential oil favorites like eucalyptus, and local products, like coffee and coconut.

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The Stann Creek District Dangriga Love, culture, not crowds? The culture capital of the country, Dangriga, is a proud and festive town with a vibrant Garifuna heritage. Despite beign the largest town in Southern Belize, Dangriga’s unpretentious coastal vibe and cultural sights are akin to the quintessentially laidback “Belize time”.

Hopkins Hopkins Village allures with culture, food and vacation thrills.

Travelers looking to soak up sea breezes and Garifuna culture can enjoy the near five-mile stretch of Hopkins’ sugar-like coastline, which shines against friendly smiles and an easy pace.

Placencia

Stretching 18-miles in-between the Placencia Lagoon and Caribbean Sea, the Placencia Peninsula hosts the three unmistakable neighborhoods of Maya Beach, Seine Bight and Placencia Village. The peninsula’s sandy hub, serves up barefoot tropical delights with its seafront action.

As a traditional fishing village, eco-resorts and cozy cabañas take full advantage of Seine Bight’s marine wonders offshore, while honoring its strong (and colorful) art pulse. Located in the center of the peninsula, the Garifuna village of Seine Bight and its rustic coastal vibe is sure to charm commuters.

PHOTO CREDIT: SIRENIAN BAY RESORT & VILLAS

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Weighing Investment

from North to South

WRITTEN BY: LARRY WAIGHT

PHOTO CREDIT: THE BELIZE COLLECTION

PHOTO CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

Many people turn their attention to Belize with the intention of investing in a beachfront property. Celebrities like Francis Ford Coppola, Madonna, and Leonardo DiCaprio have popularized Belize as a beach paradise, but this country's real estate market is significantly more diverse than that. The good news is that there are promising properties throughout both the North and South of Belize — and diverse opportunities suitable for a range of situations and budgets. The trick is finding out what you want the property for and where you want to invest.

Southern Belize: Coastal Property With Culture and Character Stann Creek District: Dangriga, Punta Gorda, Placencia

Southern Belize hasn't gotten as much attention from investors as the north has, but that's an opportunity in its own right. The land here tends to be much cheaper than in more developed tourism regions, as culturally rich coastal towns like Dangriga and Punta Gorda have a lot to discover but largely remain unnoticed by visitors. The Placencia Peninsula will change that sooner or later. This narrow strip of land offers beaches on both sides and has transformed into one of the most attractive destinations for tourists. It's still not as big as Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker, but Placencia has a lot of potential for resorts, hotels, and vacation rentals. Factor in the close proximity to natural landmarks like The Cockscomb Basin, and you're left with an undeveloped region that has a lot of potential for growth. Low property tax rates mean that you can invest in land cheaply, and then wait for prices to skyrocket as infrastructure and the tourism industry play catch-up. Those looking to invest in The Placencia Peninsula have three major settlements to investigate — Placencia Village, Seine Bight, and Maya Beach Village.

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Northern Belize: The Tourist Hub Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Orange Walk & Corozal

The hottest properties in Belize tend to be at Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye, but that also means that these investments tend to be pricier — at least comparatively. These popular destinations are restricted by the fact that they're islands in terms of both costs of development and the amount of property available. But these are popular spots that are only likely to grow in popularity. If you want to invest in a sure thing and aren't worried about getting in on the ground floor, these northern islands could be a good fit. That said, the north has less crowded properties as well. Destinations like Corozal and Orange Walk are a little off the beaten path, but they're popular choices among expats — and thus typically don't involve the chaos of dealing with tourism rentals. Both towns sit near the Mexican border, and Orange Walk sits beside the border with Guatemala as well. The close proximity of both to Belize City will help keep transportation and construction costs low if you're looking to purchase a property and then develop it.

Approaching Your Investment Smartly The biggest choice isn't where in Belize you invest but rather how you choose to invest. While Northern Belize is generally the more in-demand region for real estate, Southern Belize has its own fair share of tourism hot spots as well and can allow you to potentially stretch your dollar further. In either case, investors who really want to make the most money will realize how broadly open the market is — and that presents opportunities for residential and vacation rental opportunities, but there are also viable options for working with undeveloped land or commercial real estate. And now — before Belize's real estate market has hit the saturation point — is the time to invest.

PLACENCIA, BELIZE

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NAIA RESORT AND SPA | PLACENCIA, BELIZE Local: +011.501.523.4600 | Toll Free: +888.439.5866 | info@naiaresortandspa.com CA R IB B E A N L IFE STYLE. COM

Welcome Aboard

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DANGRIGA What to do?

O Admire Tiger Fern’s double-waterfall and 360 summits at the world’s first jaguar preserve, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary O Visit the interactive exhibits of the Gulisi Garifuna Museum O Enjoy a traditional Garifuna dish, like Hudut, on the beachfront O Visit Belize’s 2nd tallest waterfall, Davis Falls, by ATV O Snorkel Belize’s largest marine protected area at the South Water Caye Marine Reserve O Embark on the Marie Sharp’s Factory Tour

Where to Stay?

BLUE MARLIN BEACH RESORT reservations@bluemarlinbeachresort.com www.bluemarlinbeachresort.com

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PHOTO CREDIT: THE BELIZE COLLECTION

BLUE HORIZON LODGE info@bluehorizonbelize.com www.bluehorizonbelize.com

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hOPKINS What to do?

O Embark on a night hike tour of the world’s first jaguar preserve - Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary - with Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort O Groove to the Garifuna riddim with private drumming lessons at Lebeha Drumming Center O Visit Belize’s historical reserve, Serpon Sugar Mill, near the village of Sittee River O Spot wild crocodiles on the Monkey River Boat Ride O Try stand up paddle boarding at sunrise at Hopkins Bay Resort O Go on a day trip snorkeling to Bread and Butter Caye O Discover the secrets of Maya medicinal remedies at H’men Herbal Center O Enjoy a rum punch at the over water Starfish Bar of nearby Thatch Caye O Rappel 250 feet down the onsite waterfalls of Mayflower Bocawina National Park O Embark on a bioluminescence tour and sunset river cruise in Anderson Lagoon during Belize’s dry season

Where to Stay?

HAMANASI ADVENTURE & DIVE RESORT reservations@hamanasi.com www.hamanasi.com

HOPKINS BAY RESORT reservations@hopkinsbaybelize.com www.hopkinsbaybelize.com

THE LODGE AT JAGUAR REEF vacations@jaguarreef.com www.jaguarreefbelize.com

The best of Belize on and offshore.

BOOK NOW!

Toll Free: +1-844-235-4930 Direct: +501-523-7073

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reservations@hamanasi.com @HamanasiResort

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EMBRACING ECO-TRAVELS AS A FAMILY WRITTEN BY VIVIAN ROE-ROGERS

Planning a family trip can feel like a big task.

But what about when you want to also plan it as sustainably as possible? If your family loves to travel but you worry about the environmental, social and economic effects of doing so, fret not: eco-friendly, responsible travel with children is possible. After welcoming our first child into the world, we endeavored to prove just that.

As parents, it’s very important for us to use travel to inspire, educate and empower our children.

To not only show him different cultures, lifestyles and environments, but to also teach him how to travel responsibly. Essentially, making conscious decisions on how to bring positive impacts to the destination we visit.

As a country that has long focused on sustainability, Belize offers plenty of opportunities to explore its incredible cultural and natural environments in a responsible manner. Moreover, many of these activities are family-friendly. From snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef to a history lesson at an ancient Maya site, here, we share our guide to responsible family travel in Belize, including where to go and what to do.

One of the biggest ways to travel sustainably is to actively support the local economy. So whatever activities you choose to do, support a local tour guide or company instead.

Where to Go?

Responsible tourism encourages you to travel less and experience more. With one foot in the Central American jungles and the other in the Caribbean Sea, Belize offers families an abundance of diverse experiences in a relatively small region.

Thus, this means families can forgo the traditional modes of transport like flights to get around the country. Choose a few select locations and travel slowly. This allows the little ones (and you) to settle into a base and some sort of familiarity.

Both Hopkins and Caye Caulker are great family-friendly options to consider for the sustainably conscious family. The former is a small coastal fishing village with a vibrant Garifuna population. Here, the entire family can immerse themselves into the culture participating in a traditional drumming lesson or learning to cook a local delicacy, like hudut. Do it all from a place like Hamanasi Resort, an eco-resort surrounded by tropical flora on hundreds of feet of Caribbean Sea beachfront. As the first beach resort in Belize to be Green Globe Certified and as a founding member of Regenerative Resorts, Hamanasi believes that thoughtful eco-tourism can make a positive impact on the environment and our community.

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The latter is a laid-back island which in fact, boasts the motto ‘Go Slow’. Surrounded by the Belize Barrier Reef, the local mode of transport on the island is primarily on foot or by bicycle.

Children can snorkel, swim and splash about from the island’s shores. In addition, the island heavily promotes the responsibility of protecting the marine ecosystem.

Local tours, like those with Belizean-owned and operated SaltLife Eco Tours, highlight the importance of the coral system and its connecting wildlife to the reef. A snorkel trip with them sees you leave with more knowledge about the sea, its intricate ecosystem and what you can do to make it better - all whilst witnessing the beautiful wildlife that lies underneath the sea. Experiences like this not only are fun for the whole family but also teach our future generation the importance of preservation and conversation.

What to Do

Education through experiences is so important and Belize offers an abundance of these. Take a history lesson in the ancient Maya civilization - the first inhabitants of Belize. Of course, climbing to the top of the site is half the fun too. Or choose to learn about the indigenous practices with a Maya homestay. Predominantly based in Southern Belize, the programs are designed to promote foreign exchange and see visitors immerse themselves into modern-day Maya life. One to highlight in particular is the Toledo Ecotourism Association (T.E.A.) Maya Village Guesthouse Program.

The collective is owned by more than 200 members of the local community and endorsed by the Belize Tourism Board. Visitors stay with, eat and participate in everyday village life.

In addition, all profits go towards the local economy and community.

For the family of animal lovers, horseback ride through the jungle or visit a butterfly farm. In fact, simply walking in Belize can be wild. Birds, flora, fauna and local wildlife are spotted everywhere. For an interactive experience with one of the region’s favorite reptiles, head to the Green Iguana Conservation Project in the Cayo district. Based at San Ignacio Resort Hotel, the venture aims to conserve and look after the endangered species by educating the public about the role Green Iguanas play in the ecosystem. Here, visitors of all ages are given the opportunity to mingle with these wonderful reptiles and also learn about the incubation, hatching, rearing, and releasing process done at the project.

Indeed, there is so much to see and do in Belize for both family-friendly and eco-conscious.

The country truly does make a wonderful destination to make special memories as a family, as well as teach our next generation the value responsible tourism plays when traveling.

Our role as parents is to teach our children to become good global citizens. Having the opportunity to do so through travel is truly special and we hope to share many more adventures together.

PHOTO CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

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What to do?

O Discover Belize’s most well-formed atoll at Glovers Reef, by scuba or snorkel, with Splash Dive Center O Play a round and relax at Inky’s Mini Golf at Sirenian Bay O Go snorkeling at ‘The Turtle Spot’, nearby the Silk Cayes O Grab a mango-colada at the colorful and sunny seaside bar of Tipsy Tuna O Sharpen your skills at Jaguar’s Bowling Lanes, the only bowling alley in Belize O Dine on fresh seafood and traditional Italian cuisine at Mare, Turtle Inn’s flagship restaurant O Delight yourself with authentic and tropical gelato at Tutti Fruti

Where to Eat?

PLACENCIA

TIPSY TUNA tipsytuna@outlook.com @TipsyTuna

Where to Stay?

BRISA OCEANO RESORT reservations@brisaoceano.com www.muyono.com/brisa-oceano CHABIL MAR VILLAS info@chabilmarvillas.com www.chabilmarvillas.com ITZ’ANA RESORT & RESIDENCIES reservations@itzanabelize.com www.itzanabelize.com SIRENIAN BAY info@sirenianbay.com www.sirenianbay.com THE PLACENCIA RESORT reservations@theplacencia.com www.muyono.com/the-placencia TURTLE INN info@coppolaresorts.com www.thefamilycoppolahideaways.com/turtle-inn

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Placencia Sidewalk, Placencia Tel: +501 614-3890

Foow Us! @TipsyTuna

@tipsytunabelize

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SIRENIAN BAY RESORT AN ALL-INCLUSIVE, LAID-BACK LUXURY EXPERIENCE

RELAX | RESTORE | ENJOY Mile 17.5 Placencia Road, Placencia, Belize • Toll Free 866-459-8235 Local 501 614-2010 • info@sirenianbay.com • www.sirenianbay.com

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Access Point to SELf WRITTEN BY: DREA RENEAU

PHOTO CREDIT: DREA RENEAU COURTESY EUCALIPTO YOGA STUDIO

Experience your body energetically healing itself. It begins as a subtle overpowering of the senses. It’s how the air smells — crisp and spicy as you come up for air after a quick dive under celeste waters. Pure and earthy as you steady your breath on a hike through verdant pine forests. Then, there is a quiet reverberation that tingles at your fingertips, travels through your body, and settles on your mind. Colors seem more vibrant, sounds feel musically complex and flavors linger on well after the meal is done.

The rarity of this sensation is only outweighed by its transformative se,eNf M&sx5eI, ax5eda9V9desafV,,5EE9E9aP,ace9ca beacB‘xce9cxa9V9desxae5e9MNas5 W xeaas5»ecEE, Bd zephyr and the moon illuminated all but the shadows that loomed elegantly under the coconut trees. Sitting in vajrasana, I remember fe,9 Bexa9 E c,Exe 5& &e e x—a,E9e, EV 9 Be E^e9N WBe9 I 9a,,& se,a»ed 9E 5& xVssEV9d9x, I ax sadVa,,& E·escE5e by the sensation of expanded awareness : an eternity lived in a second. xE,, TBe Efxe,fBea,9xxEse9d EVscE,,ec·e5e5Es&,sead&Es f dE9,EadNEf We e9B9E5e5EsexasexEse9d EVsBeadxNTsVB x,EVsBE,ebEd&xE9ebC,EVdNAccexxEBExe,exsegVsex a surrender to nature, like accepting cosmic terms of agreement &EVq·e acVa,,& seadN WB,e &EV 5a& cE5e E »^e e se9ce Bx altering sensation at home, the magic of moon bathing on the xBEsexEfBe,˜exa9abxE,Va5^,e e sNCesa9^,acexasecEx5c access points to self.

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PHOTO CREDIT: MUY'ONO RESORTS

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eW ·e9Vse EVxde EVs da,& ,·ex a9d cBa,,e9e EVs cE5fEs ˜E9ex E »ee s9a,,& cEa» Ba ,·ex B9N Ax e,,9exx dex9aE9x E, Be,˜e Bax a,,—a bE,d c,a5 cEssEbEsaed b& 5a9& a cE9xcEVx sa·e,esN TBe xea5,exx b,e9d Ef 9aVse a9d ecE,V»Vs& ca9 be e9#E&ed a a ^,eBEsa Ef sexEsx asEV9d Be cEV9s&N AsEV9d Bs&x» ^esce9 Ef essexsa, land is protected. These national parks, natural monuments, and wildlife sanctuaries are places of unmistakable beauty and healing. Try unlocking your sense of self at these three high vibrational places.

ANCIENT MAYA TEMPLES If shadow work and connecting to past civilizations is your thing, take your yoga mat E E9e Ef Be 5a9& Ma&a e5^,ex 9 Be,˜eN XV9a9V9cBx,Ecae9d exN B AxBEsBa9d cranked ferry ride across the river will take you to Be xE9e 5ade9rx a9ce9 c&N E»^,Ese Be xe E 9d &EVs x^ace a9d dE9q Ese f E segVex permission from the spirits to share it. Start with ax,EE&EaxexxE9a5E9xBesV9xa9d end with an Om Shanti. Pro tip: burn some copal dVs9 &EVs ^sacceN SE5e se^e,,a9 x9r a bad idea either.

PHOTO CREDIT: ITZ'ANA RESORT

REJUVENATIVE RELEASE The medicine of life is on these trails. Learning the names and medicinal properties of plants as you walk is the ultimate grounding experience.

The ancient knowledge of the Maya can teach &EV E sea saxBex a9d xV9bVs9 B GV5bE Limbo to even lower blood sugar with chaya.

E5^,e C e &EVs e9esec dE9,Ead B a ·x E Be 9easex x^aN WBa bees Ba9 a se,a»9 massage to kneed all that healing information in.

Bs9 &EVs ca5esa, 9EebEEE a9d aEe 9 Be source energy around you.

PHOTO CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

OFFSHORE RESERVES We a,,E9EEfBe xeaqx Bea,9 ^sE^esexNTBe Be,˜e Basses Ref x Be ,asex 9 Be 9EsBes9 Be5x^BeseNEse Bef ad·eEsx9EsEe,,bs9&EVs desires to your mind. How do they compare to Be agVac E9des,a9d &EVrse xVb5esed 9i TBe xB Ef a sa˜9 BaExb,, Vs,e Eff ,E S Ca&exaseaEs f xEV Be ,NE9·xE9&EVssEVb,ex soaking away. Rinse with fresh water and enjoy caresses from the sun, a touch kept gentle by cool breezes that seem summoned especially for you.

RESORT & RESIDENCES

Born in adventure.

Refreshed by luxury.

ITZANABELIZE.COM reservations@itzanabelize.com USA: (813) 567-1059 | Belize: +(501) 523-3250

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Summits of Southern Belize

WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA PHOTO CREDIT: KEVIN QUISCHAN

Lace-up your boots and hit the trail: Belize beckons with kilometers of lush greenery to stretch your legs some in the South.

Visiting Belize, with its embarrassment of wilderness and cinematic coastlines, might convince you to forget about even heading out to the islands. A bastion of undiscovered authenticity where it’s always possible to live like a local, this is a place where the fishing culture is alive, the rain plentiful, and the hiking legendary.

The drive from the City of Belmopan to the Stann Creek District on the Southeast edge of the country is one of the better ways on this planet to spend 90 minutes: something magical happens on the Hummingbird Highway. At the very least, the emerald expanse calls to you for further exploration, begging you to discover it in all its intensity of beauty; answer with a hike.

Hiking is one of the best ways to truly explore a landscape—that slower pace and on-the-ground perspective can make it easy to appreciate your new surroundings, taking note of sights, scents, sounds, and textures easily missed at a faster clip like a quick drive past.

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PHOTO CREDIT: CAROLEE CHANONA

With destinations of varying difficulty and intensity, many trails in Southern Belize end at waterfalls like the magnificent Davis Falls, the hidden slip of Belize’s second-tallest waterfall eight + miles down a rugged trail, or the doubletiered beauty atop the Tiger Fern trail. Stretches along the Hummingbird and Southern Highways melt as Belize’s best word in hikes, really—a mic drop of sand-meets-sea just around the bend, while pristine jungle cascades culminate hundreds of feet below into a refreshing reward.

Plus, if you’re lucky, spot wildlife from a safe distance.

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For the intrepid: Outlier Trail Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary Elevation: 585 m Estimated hiking time: 6 hours Note: Expeditions require guided assistance and are available during the dry season only. Contact co-manager Belize Audubon Society (info@ belizeaudubon.org) for details.

For a truly challenging hike, try the trek to Outlier as the 14.0 kilometer one day challenge inside the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. As an outand-back trail, hikers follow the same path towards Victoria Peak (Belize’s second-highest point) for four kilometers before taking a right turn into the dense, tropical forest. Rising steeply as a strenuous climb, the way to the top sends hikers to the upper peaks in the northern rim of Cockscomb Basin, but not before passing through remnants of elfin woodlands. Heavily burdened with epiphytes and carpets of moss, the quasi-cloud forest is ethereal, dwarfed, and damp from its high-elevation; hikers scale the mountain face with the help of tree root footholds and on occasion, rope assistance. It’s difficult, but the payoff comes in the form of true satisfaction: hands on hips, drinking in sweeping 360 views of the Cockscomb Basin with a side of uninterrupted accomplishment.

For the modest: Antelope Falls, Mayflower Bocawina National Park Elevation: 196 m Estimated hiking time: 90 minutes Note: Hikers can end at the lookout shed, or take a short 20-minute spur up to the Fall’s crest.

Classed as moderate but sweat-inducing nonetheless, the hike to Antelope Falls inside Mayflower Bocawina National Park winds a route with two incredible vantage points. As a 3.1 kilometer out-and-back trail near Dangriga, hikers are engulfed in dense rainforest before the fringes of the Maya Mountains. Mostly flat terrain leads with gradual incline for a little over a mile, tracing to the base of the impressive Antelope Falls— tumbling over 1,000 feet below.

There’s a lookout shed at the base, perfect for catching your breath and a snap of the Falls in all its vertical expanse. Craving more? Climb 1.2 kilometers further to the crest by taking a right at the shed; in pursuit of purity, Manila ropes lead you to salubrious splash pools and vistas of the Stann Creek River Valley.

Energy is alive in every region of former Maya kingdoms, every inch of the anomalous Belize Blue Hole, and every song spilling from an open window on a Sunday afternoon.

Beauty takes its truest form in multicolored parrots and jaguars roaming free, protected like they are, nowhere else in the world, as in Belize. Snorkel the second largest barrier reef in the world, and celebrate culinary culture at our award-winning restaurants.

RESORTS, RESTAURANTS & RESIDENCES: Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge in the Maya Heartland of Belize The Lodge at Jaguar Reef, A Beach Chic Getaway Almond Beach Resort, A Haven for Romance & Wellness

info@thebelizecollection.com // USA +1(888) 822-2448

T E B NLIF E L ES I ZT YEL EC. CO CAH R IBBEA OML L E C T I O N . C O M

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Toledo District District Hub: Punta Gorda As the southernmost district of Belize, Toledo is a magical corner with warm hospitality and quiet escapes. Bordered by the Caribbean Sea and dotted with the most Maya villages inland, its towns are tranquil and inviting with deep fishing roots. Venture into its primary hub of Punta Gorda, or Peini, for a first-hand glance at Belizean farmers and fishers; abundant reefs and pristine islands, a mere 20-minute boat ride away, contrast bursting adventure against the Maya Mountain massifs. Time seems to move at a delightfully slower place in Toledo. Highways end where roads begin, and its rich Maya and Garifuna culture is as true as time.

PHOTO CREDIT: MUY'ONO RESORTS - BLUE HORIZON LODGE

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What to do?

O Master the cultural Garifuna drums with a

O Marvel at the pristine white-sandy beaches

lesson at Warasa Garifuna Drum School

of the three Snake Cayes within the Port

O Explore the Hokeb Ha, Laguna and Tiger Caves in Blue Creek O Savor and plunge into the invigorating falls at Rio Blanco National Park O Experience a living Maya experience and traditional overnight with a Maya Village

Honduras Marine Reserve O Visit the Spice Farm and experience the Botanical Gardens Walking Tour O Explore the Maya Sites of Nim Li Punit and Lubaantun O Head upriver between mangroves to watch wildlife on a Monkey River Boat Tour

Homestay O Witness cacao bean to bar with an Organic Chocolate Making Tour at Copal Tree Lodge

Where to Stay?

COPAL TREE LODGE reservations@copaltreelodge.com www.muyono.com/copal-tree

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Regenerative Artisan Experiences WRITTEN BY: GISSELLE HERNANDEZ

Belize is not the hidden gem it once was, tucked away from the world. In the past few years, many have ventured beyond the pristine beaches to the jungles lying inland, which hold unbelievable adventures that are only just being discovered. But there’s one more colorful aspect that adds to the vibrancy that is the Caribbean country: its people.

Geographically, Belize is at the center of the previous booming Maya Civilization. Despite Mexico and Guatemala usually being the ones associated with their history, Belize once was home to millions of Mayas, a fact evidenced by the many ancient temples scattered throughout the country. But that’s not the only culture deemed to be the backbone of the Central American nation. Today, Mestizos, Creoles, Chinese, Mennonites and many others consider Belize home. The mosaic that is the multitude of cultures only gets more intricate as you travel from north to south. The amazing aspect is you get to become familiar with many of them beyond the firsthand eyewitness. In Belize, you are able to completely immerse yourself in these unique societies. For a sample taste of the interconnectedness of these worlds, here are some artistic interactions to get you started.

Jippi Jappa Maya Basket Weaving By now we know how artistic and detailed the Maya people could be. They lived off their own farming methods, mostly on corn, beans, tomatoes and other vital foods. As a result, they would need to store all their goods in a secure and reliable container for future use. This is where the Jippi Jappa basket came in. The Mayas used the plant known as Jippi Jappa to weave their intricate baskets; they would cut open the palms, exposing their fibres and weave them for days. The experience is now being offered in Belize as a tour, where you can weave your own basket of any size, either for small jewelry or mementos or for bigger storage. By using our hands, we come to appreciate the complexities of the Maya's creations, a facet modern tools have not been able to replicate as perfectly. Intertwining these fibres to create something out of nothing is more than enough to learn the value of culture and tradition.

PHOTO CREDIT: NAÏA RESORT AND SPA

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Garifuna Drumming experience A people whose passion knows no bounds, the Garifuna have been a part of Belize’s history since the 1800s. Their arrival onto the shores of Belize is commemorated every year on November 19th, a public and bank holiday known as Garifuna Settlement Day. When speaking of the Garifuna, many think of their vibrant clothing, expressive dances and beautiful language. Down in Belize’s southeast coast, you are able to partake in their historical traditions through various encounters. One of the most sought after is the Garifuna Drumming Class at Warasa Drumming School in Hopkins.

You needn’t wait until November 19th to engage in the festivities of dancing and rhythmic drumming. Here, a group of Garinagu will take you through multiple, choreographheavy songs and dances. The men will beat their drum enthusiastically, occasionally asking you to join in as they teach you a few tips and tricks on how to master the primero and segundo drums. Or you can join the vivacious women and their flowing skirts dancing to the beat, their movements miming daily routine tasks such as washing clothes, baking, and more. Many of these “mundane” moves are a reflection of their culture, deeply rooted in their history. You can also pair this tour with a Hudut cooking class for the full Garifuna experience.

Tortilla Making

San Antonio Women’s Group For those chasing the culinary side of Belize’s cultures, the San Antonio Women’s Cooperative in the Cayo District offers a tortilla-making class. The class entails making tortillas completely from scratch, starting from grinding the actual corn to make masa, the dough needed to make the tortillas, on a traditional volcanic basalt stone. After creating the dough, you’ll flatten out the balls of masa and place them on a traditional fire hearth, flipping them by hand. This is the traditional way of how the Maya women made - and still make - their soft, delicious tortillas. You’ll be able to appreciate every step that goes into the making of the fluffy masterpieces that can be eaten with a slew of dishes. To further the cultural ideal, the San Antonio Women’s Group also offers a ceramic making class. Requiring concentration and precision, you’ll be able to create your own piece of art to take home.

PHOTOS CREDIT: THE BELIZE TOURISM BOARD

These little windows into different worlds only scratch the surface of the artistic Mecca that is Belize, many of which go unnoticed. Make sure to keep these in mind the next time you find yourself wanting to bridge adventure with culture in Belize.

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THE SACRED GEOMETRY OF MOPAN MAYA EMBROIDERY WRITTEN BY: TANYA MCNAB PHOTO CREDIT: FULL MEMORY PHOTOGRAPHY

Xokb’il Chuy, translating to counted stitches, is the name of a Mopan Maya embroidery that turns geometry into art. True to its name, patterns are sewn using a complex counting system transmitted from mother to daughter for hundreds of years.

The designs depict motifs from Maya stories, such as the sun, moon, or snakes, or the flowers, plants and birds found in their environment. While first created on hand looms for millennia, the art evolved during the colonial period into the hand-stitched embroidery practiced today.

But that’s not the only history that the Mopan Maya hold: archeology clearly establishes the Mopan Maya as the first people of Belize. Not to mention, Belize’s very own name is likely from the Maya word belikin, which means “road to the sun.”

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Despite constant pressures to assimilate, the Xokb’il Chuy has endured a hand-sewn record of survival.

Against the odds, Maya women have kept their language and culture alive, one stitch at a time. While the Mopan Maya language is anticipated to go extinct in a matter of decades, the counted stitches practice is a living gift bestowed by one generation to the next, in an effort to ensure their continued survival.

This year, the Maya community organization Sarstoon Temash Institute for Indigenous Management (SATIIM) initiated a program with support from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) under its Cultural and Creative Industries Innovation Fund (CIIF) to preserve this cultural wealth. Here, Maya women are being positioned as national artists innovating new designs and bringing their creative products to a wider market, starting with modern fashion designs adorned with Xokb’il Chuy.

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Under this initiative, the brand Xe’il Belize was born.

Xe’il, which means ‘true to our roots’, is a meaningful brand designed and developed to provide a source of economic empowerment to Maya women while showcasing the dawn of a fashion era emerging from Southern Belize.

Local Belize designer Ronelli Requena designed the premiere collection of garments under the breakthrough collection, titled Yahtz’il, pronounced ya-sil, meaning ‘beloved’ through numerous consultations with the Maya women of the San Antonio Village in the Toledo District. In collaboration with the Ixk'äntz'iit women's cooperative from San Antonio Village in Toledo, Ronelli trained women within the village to sew these clothing as ready-to-wear items created with the conscious consumer in mind. The premiere collection includes 4 items for women and 1 for men, available in 3 different sizes.

Xe’il is but another example of empowered Maya women reclaiming their future by active participation. Not only does the fashion brand provide direct benefits to these indigenous communities of Toledo, but it intertwines their generational wealth of priceless practices with modernday slow fashion. Encompassing a new approach to fashion, each Xe’il garment is timeless, while being sourced, produced, and sold locally— valuing each individual along the way.

If you’re interested in supporting this initiative, find more information at www.facebook.com/xe.ilbelize

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Chasing Spirits in Belize WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA

With a history that traces back to 17th-century trade running, rum production is a stronghold in the region as one of the first industries that took root. And when you visit the Caribbean, separating a good, strong (practically omnipresent) rum punch from your travels is almost impossible. Some people come to the Caribbean chasing freedom. Some come looking for a challenge to give meaning to their lives. Some come for rum. For those 18 years and older (Belize's legal drinking age) seeking a spirits-driven stay in Belize, we’ve got two destinations to keep on your list.

If you're a non-drinker, have no fear. Whether you’re chasing spirits or wayward wilderness, there’s a space for you here in Belize with plenty of natural and historical experiences to entertain yourself with.

PHOTOS CREDIT: MUY'ONO RESORTS

A SINGLE ESTATE SPIRIT IN THE RAINFOREST COPAL TREE LODGE, PUNTA GORDA

Picture this: miles of viridescent mounds within the Maya Mountain range fan out ahead of you. A choir of howler monkeys echo in the distance, only to be interrupted by the low hum down the hill from Copal Tree Lodge, thanks to the Copal Tree Distillery—hugged by over 22,000 acres of preserved rainforest. The majority of rum in the Caribbean—as much as 95 percent—is produced from molasses, but rum can also be made from pressed sugarcane juice as they do with Copalli Rum. Within a mere 2 hours of harvest, the cane is shredded and pressed to make a small-batch Rhum Agricole, for a lighter, grassier, and more vegetal rum. From freshly harvested sugar cane fields inside its 3,000-acre organic farm, the zero-impact facility uses only its heirloom sugarcane (that's a non-hybridized native variety), pure rainwater, and yeast.

Enjoy barrel-rested, white rum, and cacao-infused Copalli rum during the tour, or in one of Copal Tree Lodge’s crafted cocktails at the Rum Bar.

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ONE RUMMAKER’S LEGACY AT BELIZE’S OLDEST DISTILLERY TRAVELLER’S HERITAGE CENTRE, BELIZE CITY

Rum is the spirit of choice in Belize, and Don Omar—the affectionately nicknamed patriarch of Traveller’s Liquors—seems to have been let on early to that fact. As the country’s oldest distillery, Travellers Liquors in Belize City has been producing the rich, dark, fruity Travellers One Barrel rum since the 1950s. With those in transit in and out of the old capital being his majority clientele in 1953, Traveller’s was the obvious name for his then-bar serving up homemade tipples. Fast forward nearly seven decades later, the Perdomos have carried their father’s signature recipe past Belize to international markets with whiskey that is barrel-rested—exported from the likes of Jack Daniel’s—and tropically-aged for years at a time. Take a tour of the distillery to see rum-making paraphernalia, the bottling factory, and to taste the entire Traveller’s line.

If you don’t like it neat, a glass of ubiquitous Caribbean rum punch should slip down a treat. Featuring an inside look at the bottling process, product sampling, Belizean cocktail making tips, and opportunities to sample the flavors, you can share the secrets and live the traditions of the Perdomo family. ​ PHOTO CREDIT: NAIA RESORT & SPA

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A YEAR TO MONTH travel to MONTH WRITTEN BY: CAROLEE CHANONA

The year ahead will be huge and full of hope: for wellness, for travel, and for simply renewal.

Reasd,exx Ef Be9 &EV ·x Be,˜e, Beseqx a calendar curated to an adventure for every month Ef Be&easN Ese Bef &EVs·x E Be,˜e, be xVse E check our website for an updated schedule of ·ee 9xBsEVBEV&e Be as!

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FEBRUARY Some things are just synonymous with romance.

As the New Year unfolds, the most colourful (and noisy) feeding frenzy goes on full display as monogamous Scarlet Macaws aBse 9 e B EV S NB E9cd C 9a,,&, e xee B ,f,E9 e ,E·ebsdx ase 5Ex ^,e9f,V asEV9d a,e V 99eqx Da&N 9eW xxxee B ,Eca,,&9de a9esed aBe f see d Ea,eExcE^e d x &9 freely in the wild by visiting Red Bank Village on a birding tour.

,E·e e W s,,e,Ebxe d sEs f xxe, e smoky meat against the caramelized shell. Indulge with fresh Spiny Lobster before the season closes in February on Ambergris a&e C sB, asEV9das9a·a,N C McsE9xca,ecE5^aseE d sa˜, B EsMasdGsax,E,d e B Mex˜EsadE9EfE,Gsa9 as9a·a, C xe B 9V5bes E9e ·ee 9 E9 A5bessx a&e C 9 FebsVas&N Ed B &^a9, EVsBx, a9d E5e B 5ade costumes awaken the cobblestone streets of San Pedro with a colorful jamboree to usher in the solemn Lenten season.

And lastly, what better way to revel in the month of love a9 B xBE9xE5eEs f 5V,a,e9easxa9x d a Belize's Street Art Festival? FsE5 ·bsa9 ^a99x a9d a9d B csaf#ed e ,s& e Ea,e e d EEd d cas·9xa9d^esfc,& e a,Esed c,EB9, e B b,EcE ^as&x&,e x·a, e f ^V,xex ,Eca, B a,e99P,ace9caa9d,˜ee B &N C c,Exe eB E it all with the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza.

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PHOTO CREDIT: JOSHUA DANIEL NUNEZ

JANUARY Irx ^ae E9e, a9d 9Erx &EVs 5e E xe

Be ^ace Es f Be &eas aBeadN WBe9 e dE sa·e,aa9,BeserxEa^^sEacBex:a,,EV ambitious escapes and mindful simplicity.

If&EVrsefe,9a5bEVx,E^Es f V,5ae Be 9 ^s·ac&:aEa,sexEsbV&EVEfa^s·aex,a9d resort, like Ray Caye. If &EVrse csa·9 ,frx e x5^,e ^,eaxVsex ‘,Ee xB9 E9 Be Casbbea9 SeaM9xead,E^Es f fVxxfseeaccE55EdaE9x instead, like Blue Marlin Beach Resort.

BseaBaE9 B a sVxc Be,˜ea9 fe,, &EVq·e x,, E a,, Be 9ecexxex ‘a9d a sea: as conditioning).

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MARCH

O9 Be x,a9dx, rx s um and sun for Spring Break: dashing adventure beckons by day, and entertainment is irresistible at night.

On Ambergris Caye, live music at Palapa Bar pair ^esfec,&BEa999es tubes while Caye Caulker is da&s^^esrx ^asadxe, B The Split being the place to be for youngsters and &EV9aBeasa,EeN A9d 9,a9d, E9e Ef Be Es,drx ,asex s·es sadE9x aEex E Be s·esba9Ex Ef Be,˜e— fsE5 a9 S I9acE E Be,˜e &— C Es f a bV˜˜9 4-day canoe race, bs559 B Bassax9 competitiveness.

Held annually near National Heroes & Benefactors Day, onlookers cheer for its entirety: N 5,exN a& S Es f Be xas9 acE9 B Be only jungle in town at San Ignacio Resort Hotel.

APRIL

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4

APRIL

Rising abruptly from the lowlands, the jagged Cockscomb Mountains are an impressive 5axx Ef sEcE ·xb,e fsE5 Be cEaxN WB9 Be range, Victoria Peak Natural Monument boasts Be ,e EfBe x—a9dB a BeEfN,N¨ 5eesx, Ba a,xE 5aEex Be xecE9dBex e,e·aE99Be,˜eN DVs9 Be,˜eqx ds& xeaxE9, BEesx Ba·e a V9gVe cBa9ceEcE9gVesE,E5e Be esVcEsaPeaE Trail; add accomplishment and adventure to your A^s, a9d aEe Be da& »^e e dE9 9 SEVBes9 Be,˜eNP,Vx,qx^esfeceaBesExV55:9EEE hot during the daylight trek, and not too cold for a restful sleep in your Hennessy Hammock. Plan in ad·a9ceb&cE9ac9xcE5a9aes,Be,˜e Audubon Society.

PHOTO CREDIT: KEVIN QUISCHAN

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MAY

I9 Be,˜e, Whale Shark diving is the prelude to a summer of feasting, frolicking and feeding by the Es,drx,asexxBN e9B MascB a9d JV9e, ·xEsx Ef Be Gladden Spit Marine Reserve Ba·e a V9gVe cBa9ce E x5 B Bexe e9,e a9xN P,a9 aBead B GE,d Standard tour operator Splash Dive Center and tick x559WBa,eBasEx S Eff&EVsbVcEe,x!

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JUNE

V,59a9 C cV,Vse a9d cVx9e, Be,˜erx food festivals are all the buzz for June. The Lobster Festival in San Pedro, Placencia and Caye Caulker cE9cdex B Be E^e99 Ef Be,˜erx S^9& LEbxes xeaxE9 — ,Ee,& Be cEV9s&rx 5Ex popular festival yet; huge block parties and live 5VxccE5b9eEs f abE9adxee afEEdbaccBa9a,N Meanwhile, mangos reach peak ripeness across the country and Hopkins Village becomes animated with this wholesome celebration of o5a9Vq — Be Gas9aV Esd Es f 5a9E B the Mango Festival. Stay nearby at The Lodge at Jaguar Reef — Be ^esfec BasbEVsEs f EEd f ex a9dbeacBbEV9dsE5a9cxN CA R IBBEA NLIF ES T Y L E . C OM

Laes, ·e9Vse 9E Be Dee^ SEVBR Be cBEcE,ae stronghold comes alive to salute all things cacao with Belize's Chocolate Festival. Held annually near SE·ese9 Da&, Bsee BE,e da&x ase decaed to the Maya food of the gods with innovative and traditional cuisine in Toledo, alongside the enriching Ma&acV,VseNa& S #VxEVxdPVe 9aGEsdaa Copal Tree Lodge, a Muy'Ono Resort.

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JULY

& WB ·xBe,˜e9JV,&iME9e&,BE9e&NTBa9ExEn,E xeaxE9,pBeseqx9EgVeVxa9da,,BExeI9xasa5 worthy destinations won’t need to photoshop out the V9beE9E9x ^BEEbE5besN YEVrse a,xE x5acE 9 the middle of Summer, which means it can get balmy gVcEN TBe #V9,e ca9E^& ca9 ^sE·de cEE,9 se,ef, a9d &EV ca9 exca^e E a #V9,e ,Ede 9 Be,˜erx Wexes99esEsN Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve gets the coolest in the country, and you can choose from the likes of Blancaneaux Lodge, Gaia Riverlodge, or Kane Villas—axa&Es f ·ee s&bVNde 85

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AUGUST Serendipitous isolation: time it right and you could

Ba·ebeBe acBa,,E&EVsxe,fNDsf99ExBEV,des season, privacy is the name of the game with just a few passing boats in the distance. Find a hotel on the SEVBeaxes9Eax, C ,Ee Itz'ana Belize.

E,d B a9d bsB, a9 S PedsEqx xsexe ,, B a cV,Vsa, display of The Mundo Mayaax,a9d Be rx5Exa9c^aed event: The Costa Maya Festival. Participants from all over Ce9sa, A5esca ce,ebsae Bes xBased Besae B music, parades, drinking, and dancing before crowning a fex·a,gVe9axMxxExa C Ma&aN

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SEPTEMBER

FsE5 Be a sax9 cese5E9& E TBe Cas9·a, Ead R MascB a9d Mxx QVe9 Ef Be Ba&, September is a celebration in Belize Es f Ba Be a&5e9— and the latter political heroes fought for ce9Vsex aE: FseedE5N He,d 9 bEB Be,˜e & C eas,& Se^e5bes a9d Osa9e a,E W TE9 E9 I9de^e9de9ce Da& xe,f, 9E9xE^ e9es& 9 colorful costumes take to the streets to dance in sync B Casbbea9 beaxEs f Be,˜erx Cas9·a,Ead R MascBNTBe sedx, Be &e,,Ex, Be see9x—Casbbea9 ,fe x a xs, Ef color. Move with the steel pans and drums as the streets reverberate with rhythm.

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OCTOBER

TBese x9r a E9cB C Fex·a,, bV ,Eca,x a9d tourists alike herald in its open season.

FEsBExeEf&EVE9des9,QVe9E9cB C x a tropical marine mollusk, and it is delicious.

Ax E9e Ef Be 5Ex x9ca9 xBesex 9 Be,˜ecE9cB , xaxa^,eacsExxcEV Be 9s&— absolutely irresistible in dishes like ceviche, fritters, curry, and soups. Most people dexcsbe cE9cB ax a9 VbesfsexB ^asa,,e, E calamari, with a slightly sweet and chewy texture. Try it in fritters, ceviche, or soup with Be ,Eca,,&,E·ed Lily's Treasure Chest, a beachfront restaurant in San Pedro Town.

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NOVEMBER O9 NE·e5bes N?B, &EV can join the historically x9ca9 9aE9a, BE,da& commemorating the arrival of BeGasfV9aEBe,˜e9N8¨N

PHOTO CREDIT: THE BELIZE COLLECTION

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From the infectious Punta beats the night before and see9ac5e9x Ef Be sx landing at sunrise, honor the inspirational cultural survival Ef Be GasfV9a 9 Da9sa, a9d xEaE 9 SEVBes9 Be,˜eN Stay nearby in Hopkins at Hamanasi Resort or The Lodge at Jaguar Reef.

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DECEMBER

I9 Dece5bes, xe,e 9E Be,˜erx seefx a9d ^eaEx with the slowest pace as the year draws to a close.

Embrace the holidays (with an upbeat local resort), or escape ‘a9d E E a asV f 9 x,a9dMN Afes a,,, Dece5bes x fV,, Ef ds&, bsB, xV9 dappled days crisp with temperatures Ba d^ 9E Be ¨xN O9 Be seefx, aEe it easy with a private vacation rental, like Casa Al Mar on St. George's Caye.

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Our Photographers Be9d Be ,e9x, ^BEEsa^Besx 9es^se sea,& dffese9,&N TBe ca5esaqx 5a9^V,ab,& ca9 extend the human eye, but it takes the vision to bs9 E ,feN We aEe Bx E^^EsV9& E Ba9E eacB a9d ·ee s& ·xVa, cE9sbVEs E Be Be,˜e GE,dEEE: B cEV e ,d9EBa·edE9eBx5aa˜9e without you.

PHOTO CREDIT: DUARTE DELLAROLE

THANK YOU!

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MINISTRY OF HEALTH CONTACTS

By District

BELIZE’S COUNTRY CODE IS +501

COROZAL

675 6667 • 670 9469 • 670 9468

ORANGE WALK

670 9367 • 670 9375

SAN PEDRO

672 0911 • 671 0911

CAYE CAULKER 668 2547

BELMOPAN

822 1815 • 663 0691

BELIZE CITY

613 0787 • 223 2722

SAN IGNACIO

664 2694 • 824 4804

DANGRIGA

522 2494 • 629 7439 • 601 1045

INDEPENDENCE 632 4702 • 603 5123

TOLEDO

722 0410 • 625 6415 • 637 6497

Toll Free 0-800-MOH-CARE CA R IBBEA NLIF ES T Y L E . C OM

PRODUCED AND PUBLISHED BY: MCNAB PUBLISHING LTD. 4752 WEST LANDIVAR, BELIZE CITY, BELIZE PUBLICATION TEAM: TANYA MCNAB CREATIVE DIRECTOR LOUISE ROE LEAD BRAND MANAGER CAROLEE CHANONA EDITORIAL DIRECTOR CRISTINA REYNA LEAD ADMIN COORDINATOR AND SR. GRAPHIC DESIGNER ASHLEY KEATING BILLING ADMINISTRATOR COVER PHOTOGRAPHY AND LOCATION: FULL MEMORY PHOTOGRAPHY BARTON CREEK ARCHEOLOGICAL RESERVE CAYO DISTRICT, BELIZE COPYRIGHT: THE BELIZE GOLD BOOK IS A CARIBBEAN CULTURE + LIFESTYLE PUBLICATION AND IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF MCNAB VISUAL STRATEGIES. NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN CONSENT FROM THE PUBLISHER. CONTACT US: WWW.CARIBBEANLIFESTYLE.COM ADVERTISE@CARIBBEANLIFESTYLE.COM ON SOCIAL CHANNELS: @CARIBBEANLIFESTYLEBELIZE 89

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