We over at Apolyton determined we have more population than Belize, and probably a greater GNP. So, we've decided that once our party, the Apolyton Unaffiliated Party wins the election, we'll invade you. Hey, we need to assert ourselves as the first cybernation in the world. And we want those coastal reefs for ourselves, too. Get ready to be ruled by Apolyton!

Added on Date: 00:37:46 6/01/99

It would therefore be advisable for the Belizian army (two drunk guys and a kid with a stick) to stand down otherwise they will be attacked (molested) by the Apolyton front line pervertroopers Monk and Gregor.

Added on Date: 03:55:23 6/01/99

: It would therefore be advisable for the Belizian army (two drunk guys and a kid with a stick) to stand down otherwise they will be attacked (molested) by the Apolyton front line pervertroopers Monk and Gregor.

YEAH! And may I add, nihihihihi!

Added on Date: 04:45:34 6/01/99

YEAH! GO APOLYTON GO!

Prepare to greet your new rulers!!!
(The coalition party will win!!)

Added on Date: 07:37:42 6/01/99

: : It would therefore be advisable for the Belizian army (two drunk guys and a kid with a stick) to stand down otherwise they will be attacked (molested) by the Apolyton front line pervertroopers Monk and Gregor.

: YEAH! And may I add, nihihihihi!

Argh! It's nihihihihihi! the horrible nihihihihi!

Added on Date: 07:41:46 6/01/99

: Argh! It's nihihihihihi! the horrible nihihihihi!

"Ni" in combination with "Hi" is © Copyright Monk 1995-1999. All rights reserved. Distribution encouraged as long as this legal note remains.

Added on Date: 09:40:01 6/01/99

Kai,

I believe the Belize tourism office in Germany is still open. They have a good brochure in German: Bopserwaldstr 40-G D-70184 Stuttgart, tel. 711-233-947, e-mail germany@t-online.de

Here is some information (in English, sorry) on planning your trip and itinerary, from our forthcoming Belize Book of Lists 2000.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

>>

10 Facts to Know about Belize before You Come
# 1 Location and Government
Belize (formerly British Honduras) is on the Caribbean Coast of Central America, bordering Mexico and Guatemala. It is a democratic member of the British Commonwealth, with a Westminster-style system with a prime minister, an elected house of representatives and an appointed senate. The current prime minister is Said Musa, a British-educated lawyer of Palestinian and Belize heritage. He heads the People’s United Party, which swept national elections in 1998.

# 2 Size and Population
Belize is about the size of the U.S. state of Massachusetts -- 8,866 square miles -- with a population of only about 240,000, about as many people as are in the city of Savannah, Ga.

# 3 Language
English is the official language, but Creole, a combination of English, African and other languages, is the lingua franca. Spanish is widely spoken. Garifuna and Maya languages also are spoken. Many Belizeans are bi- or tri-lingual.

# 4 Entry Requirements
You must have a valid passport to enter Belize, with at least six months before expiration, but visas are not required for citizens of the U.S., Canada and the U.K. Entry is granted for up to 30 days, with renewals of up to a total of six months permitted (renewals at a cost of US$12.50 per month.)

# 5 Money
The Belize currency is the Belize dollar, which is tied to the U.S. dollar at a fixed 2 Belize to 1 U.S. dollar rate. U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere in Belize; Canadian dollars, Mexican pesos and European currencies are not widely accepted. Visa, Master Card and American Express are accepted at many hotels and at some shops and restaurants.

# 6 Activities on the Caribbean
Belize offers visitors world-class diving, snorkeling, fishing and other water activities in the Caribbean Sea, around the Belize Barrier Reef, the longest barrier reef in the Western and Northern hemispheres, and on its mainland coast and more than 200 cayes. Boat charters are available. Sea kayaking is a popular sport, and wind surfing is growing in popularity. There is no surfing in Belize.

# 7 Activities on the Mainland
Belize also offers visitors unspoiled nature on the mainland, with the opportunity to see hundreds of species of birds, rare animals including the jaguar and four other types of cats, the tapir and peccary. Jungle lodges in all price ranges offer comfort and adventure.

# 8 Maya Ruins
Belize, once the heart of the ancient Maya empire with a population of more than a million people, has Maya ruins everywhere, and at most sites you’ll see few other visitors. Caracol, thought to have been larger than Tikal, Lamanai, Xunantunich, Altun Ha and Cahal Pech are the five most popular ruins to visit. Modern Maya comprise a little more than a tenth of the Belize population, mostly concentrated in southern and western Belize.

# 9 Most Popular Tourist Destinations
The most popular tourist destinations in Belize, in order of visitation, are Ambergris Caye
(a resort island about one-half the size of Barbados, with good hotels, restaurants and water sports, but with sand streets and no buildings over three stories), Cayo (Belize’s “Wild West” with jungle lodges, Maya ruins, butterfly farms, Mennonites, the gateway to the cool Mountain Pine Ridge and mighty Caracol, and all sorts of outdoor activities including river running and caving), and the Placencia peninsula (a little bit of the South Pacific on the southern mainland, with a growing number of excellent small hotels and restaurants on a long stretch of sandy beach).

# 10 Off-the-Beaten Path in Belize
Off-the-beaten-path areas of interest to visitors include Corozal Town, a gem of a town close to the Mexico border; Belmopan, Belize’s remarkable (and remarkably small) capital; Punta Gorda, Belize’s southern outpost and icon for the “real Belize”; Caye Caulker, a budget version of Ambergris Caye but with its own style; the Shipstern/Sarteneja peninsula, where doing nothing is a way of life; Hopkins/Sittee Point, what Placencia was just a few years ago, and friendly as heck; Gales Point, hauntingly beautiful; rural Orange Walk District, home to several top jungle lodges, hundreds of thousands of acres of unspoiled nature, and the birding haven of Crooked Tree; Dangriga, jumping off point for many cayes and the center of Belize’s Garifuna culture; the Maya Mountains, rugged and little explored in modern times; and the offshore cayes and atolls, where life is slow and diving is fantastic.

10 Top Destinations for Visitors
# 1 Ambergris Caye
Beginning in the early 1950s, and accelerating beginning in the 1970s and 80s, this was the first area of Belize to develop for tourism. It remains the most popular destination in the country. And for good reason. It offers a variety of sand and sea activities, a spectrum of hotel rooms from budget to deluxe, good restaurants, and the option of land tours. While tourism is the leading activity and considerable development has occurred, the streets are still sand, golf carts are still the main type of transportation, and no building is over three stories. There are no big cruise ships vomiting day trippers, as on most Caribbean islands. Visitors feel safe and comfortable here. Snorkeling (from a boat) is excellent, and the recreational diving is good. You’ll love it here if you like a laid-back resort atmosphere without too much commercialization.

# 2 Cayo District
About 20 years ago, the first small jungle lodges began operation around San Ignacio. Now, there is a flourishing mix of hotels, cottages and jungle lodges near San Ignacio and in the Mountain Pine Ridge, along with a lot of natural attractions and outdoor activities -- canoeing, caving, hiking, horseback riding, to name a few. The country’s most accessible Maya ruins are here, as well as Caracol, in its heyday in the Classic Period a larger city-state than Tikal. And speaking of Tikal, Cayo is the Belize gateway to that astounding site. For many visitors, Cayo is the turf in the classic Belize surf ‘n turf. Betwixt Belize City and San Ignacio, Belmopan is the down-sized capital of Belize, but the attractions here are not in the capital itself but in the country side. The Belize Zoo is here, as are several excellent jungle lodges. Along the scenic Hummingbird Highway and nearby are barely explored caves, wild rivers and national park areas. You’ll love it here if you like outdoor activities and an uncrowded “Wild West” atmosphere.

# 3 Placencia
In recent years, the Placencia peninsula has been undergoing a boom (a Belize-style boom, anyway) with the development of about a dozen new small beach resorts and new restaurants, including excellent Italian and French ones, adding to the existing inventory of small high-quality inns and budget hotels. Building lots have been sold by the score, to foreigners who think they’d someday like to live by the sea. At the same time, the peninsula hasn’t changed that much: Seine Bight is still a very poor Garifuna village, Placencia, a Creole village, still has its plank sidewalk, and the largest grocery is the size of your living room. The beach is still a pleasant, sometimes garbage-strewn long narrow stretch of sand. The reef is almost 20 miles offshore here, but there are closer cayes for good snorkeling. You’ll love it here if you want a little bit of the South Pacific in Central America.

# 4 Caye Caulker
Caulker is slowly going up-market, but it remains mostly a budget version of Ambergris Caye, with small locally owned hotels and modest restaurants. Some think the island is a little funky; others say it’s just laid-back. Diving and snorkeling are similar to Ambergris Caye. You’ll love it here if you like a small, easy-going island with budget prices.

# 5 Remote Cayes
When romantics dream about the Caribbean, with coco palms swaying in the tradewinds and the reef just steps off the sandy shore, the remote cayes are what they’re dreaming of. Belize has more than 200 islands in the sea. Almost all of them are tiny, most are unpopulated, and many are incredibly beautiful, with sandbanks backing up to gin-clear water. A few, around Belize’s three atolls, are as South Pacific as you can get in this hemisphere. So what’s the catch? Why do visitors to remote cayes number only a few thousand a year? Because they are remote and small and difficult to get to. Airstrips are rare; boat trips out to them are expensive and may involve puking your guts out in that gin-clear water. With exceptions of a few expensive dive resorts, accommodations are mostly basic, with limited or non-existent running water and electricity. Tropical storms and hurricanes periodically destroy what accommodations there are. There are few places to eat, and no shops. But for those who want to get away to a deserted tropical island, a visit to South Water, Little Water, Northeast, Ranguana or other remote caye could be the experience of a lifetime. You’ll love it if all you want is sun, sand and sea.

# 6 Belize City and Belize District
Belize City’s reputation (far worse than the reality) scares the bejeebers out of most North American tourists, which is too bad, because Belize City offers a side of Belize that you don’t get to see elsewhere. It’s a busy, bustling and colorful port city with excellent restaurants and pleasant hotels. Nearby is a wealth of interesting things to see, including the Community Baboon Sanctuary, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary and Altun Ha. You’ll love it if you don’t bring misconceptions in your luggage.

# 7 Corozal Town Area
Most visitors see Corozal only as an overnight stop on the road from the Yucatán to the Belize cayes or Cayo, but Corozal in fact is one of the undiscovered jewels of Belize, with friendly folks and low prices on the beautiful Bay of Chetumal. There’s not a lot to do, but it’s a great place to do it. You’ll love it, if you want to slow down and enjoy a Mexican-Belizean experience.

# 8 Hopkins Area
This is what Placencia was like just a decade or so ago. Expats are moving in to Hopkins, a friendly Garifuna village that only got telephones a couple of years ago, and to “real estate subdivisions” nearby. New small seaside hotels are going up in Hopkins and Sittee Point. Although at times the sand flies can eat you alive here, you can get in some excellent fishing and beach time, with day trips to nearby Cockscomb and boat trips to the reef. You’ll love it if Placencia is too developed for you.

# 9 Rural Orange Walk District
Farms, jungle and wildlife are about all you’ll find here. Orange Walk Town itself is not of much appeal to visitors, but once you’re away from town, this is authentic Belize. Several of Belize’s best jungle lodges are located here. You’ll love it if you’d be happier living in 1890 than today.

# 10 Punta Gorda
Belize tourism promoters refer to this as Belize’s outpost. It’s certainly that, the jumping off point for unspoiled Maya villages and for onward travel to Guatemala and Honduras. At present, few tourists venture this far south. Over the next few years, however, as the Southern Highway resurfacing is completed and the road is (possibly) extended into Guatemala, this area will take off -- again, by Belizean standards and at least in the dry season -- in tourism development. Come see it now. You’ll love it if you want an ends-of-the-earth ambiance.

5 Doable Itineraries
Although you can base in one area or island and do day trips to other areas, most visitors staying more than a few days find it easier and cheaper to base themselves in two or more areas. Here are some doable itineraries. Of course, the mix of destinations varies depending on the interest and budget of the traveler.

If you have 5 days:
Limit your visit to one easily accessible area, with good options being either Ambergris Caye or Placencia for sun and sea, or Cayo District for Maya ruins, bush and wildlife.

If you have 7 days:
Divide your trip into a mainland and sea segment:
Ambergris Caye or in Placencia: 3 days
Cayo: 4 days

If you have 10 days:
Visit three areas. One good option:
Ambergris Caye: 3 days
Placencia or Hopkins area or a remote caye: 3 days
Cayo: 4 days

If you have 14 days:
Add either Toledo or Corozal district.

If you have 21 days:
In three weeks, you can see at least the highlights of what Belize has to offer, although four weeks would be better. A recommended division:
Belize City and Belize District: 2 days
Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker: 4 days
Remote caye: 4 days
Placencia or Hopkins: 3 days
Cayo/Mountain Pine Ridge/Tikal: 4 days
Punta Gorda: 2 days
Corozal/Orange Walk districts: 2 days

Ideal Unlimited Itinerary
If you have plenty of time and plenty of money, here’s the ideal itinerary for Belize:
Days 1-7: Decompress on Ambergris Caye
Fly into the international airport, then hop a 20-minute flight to San Pedro, for a week of relaxation, sun and getting into the pace of Belize. Do day sails to Caye Caulker and Half Moon Caye/Blue Hole.
Days 8-13: Explore Northern Belize
Return to Belize City, pick up a rental car, and head up the Northern Highway. Explore Crooked Tree, Community Baboon Sanctuary, Altun Ha, Orange Walk Town, Corozal Town and the Sarteneja peninsula.
Days 14-19: Wildlife Spotting in Orange Walk District
Drive to Gallon Jug and Lamanai for wildlife spotting, birding and Maya ruin trips. Stay at top jungle lodges.
Days 20-22: Capital, My Dear Fellow
Drive to Belmopan, seeing the capital, Belize Zoo, Guanacaste park and other sites, including top jungle lodges near Belmopan.
Days 23-27: Discover Cayo
Drive to Cayo. Stay at one of the cottage colonies or jungle lodges. Explore San Ignacio town, ruins of Cahal Pech, Xunantunich, El Pilar, Che Chem Ha. Try horseback riding, caving, rivering. Visit Mennonite areas.
Days 28-30: Tikal
Visit Tikal, staying near the ruins.
Days 31-34: Mountain Pine Ridge
Drive into the reserve, staying at a good jungle lodge. Hike, visit waterfalls, caves. Tour Caracol.
Days 35-40: Garifuna Days
Drive down the beautiful Hummingbird Highway, with stops at Five Blues and Blue Hole parks. Spend a few nights in Dangriga and Hopkins, with side trips to Gales Point, Cockscomb Jaguar Preserve, and Red Bank to see the scarlet macaws.
Days 41-46: Placencia
Relax on the Placencia peninsula, dive or snorkel the southern reef and cayes, with side trips to Monkey River.
Days 47-52: Toledo
Drive to PG and explore Belize’s southern outpost. Overnight in Maya villages. Do a short trip to Puerto Barrios/Livingston.
Days 52-54: Return to Belize City
By now you’re mellow enough to enjoy Belize City. Explore this hub of Creole culture.
Days 55-65: Remote Cayes and Atolls
Get out in the Caribbean, with a long visit to an atoll such as Lighthouse and/or or to one or more of the small cayes such as South Water. Remember, you’ll need at least 24 hours after your last dive before you can fly out.

Added on Date: 09:42:54 6/01/99

Jill,

As you probably know from your last trip to San Pedro, the big thing that influences how comfortable you feel is the breeze from offshore. To me at least, that's much more important than the actual temp. If there's a breeze and you're close enough to the water, or are on the water, to feel it, even 90F + feels nice; in those rare times when the wind drops off, or if you're away from the shore, then even 80 degrees feels hot and sticky.

If you don't already get it, you might sign up for the daily weather report from the National Meteoroligical Service and Naturalight. For example, below is today's e-mail weather report. Oops, I see it is copyrighted and redistribution is prohibited, so I'll just put the info address.

When the seasonal rains start, inland temps will drop.

--Lan Sluder

>>

-----------------------------------------------
This daily weather report brought to you by the
National Meteorological Service and Naturalight
Productions <.">http://www.bze.net>. Please email
ozone@btl.net for comments on the weather and
info@bze.net for information about this or other
Internet services, including website design and
hosting.

Added on Date: 09:54:12 6/01/99

Hi All,

I'm thinking of driving from Chicago to Belize later this summer. I've got maps, 4X4, GPS, and ambition. I have driven around Mexico some in the past, but not in the south. What's the word? Will Chiapas be a problem if I go that way? How are the roads once you get into Belize? Any suggestions/stories would be helpful. Thanks!

Added on Date: 10:18:50 6/01/99

The new beach resort of Bahia Laguna is open and in full operation. My husband and myself are the new owners and yes, Hotel Seine Bight, as it once was has been closed since March 27th. It strikes me as humorous to see postings, information and rumors which no one really knows anything about. Many new owners change the names of businesses. There are no legal battles, there is no "cover up" and thank you Tony and Mary for your support. I always consider the source when it comes to "I heards, she saids" and so on. If you want to find out more about our place find us on the website under our new name, Bahia Laguna.
: : : I, too, have heard the information outlined above. I don't know the about the legal battles going on. However, I don't believe there's any kind of "cover up" regarding the renaming of the hotel. Simply, new owners (of something) are in place and running the hotel. Someone either insisted that they change the name, or the new owners thought changing the name might be a good
: : : idea, I don't know which. But, nothing sinister.

:
: DOES ANYONE KNOW WHO THE NEW OWNERS ARE? WHEN IS IT SCHEDULED TO REOPEN? THE WEB SITE LISTED DOES NOT DETAIL THE NEW OWNERS. THANKS.

Added on Date: 11:15:14 6/01/99

If anyone would like to discus the Belizegate cover-up nd her role in it Linda cassidy can be reached at: 615-698-3979.

Added on Date: 11:46:57 6/01/99

Hi Lan,
I've tried to access that website numerous times (www.bze.net) and always get a message that the site is "under construction." I'd be interested in receiving the daily weather updates also (coming to Ambergris Caye July 2nd). do you know any other site that provides that service?
Thanks,
Jennifer
My email is jwren@bkb.com

: Jill,

: As you probably know from your last trip to San Pedro, the big thing that influences how comfortable you feel is the breeze from offshore. To me at least, that's much more important than the actual temp. If there's a breeze and you're close enough to the water, or are on the water, to feel it, even 90F + feels nice; in those rare times when the wind drops off, or if you're away from the shore, then even 80 degrees feels hot and sticky.

: If you don't already get it, you might sign up for the daily weather report from the National Meteoroligical Service and Naturalight. For example, below is today's e-mail weather report. Oops, I see it is copyrighted and redistribution is prohibited, so I'll just put the info address.

: When the seasonal rains start, inland temps will drop.

: --Lan Sluder

: >>

: -----------------------------------------------
: This daily weather report brought to you by the
: National Meteorological Service and Naturalight
: Productions <.">http://www.bze.net>. Please email
: ozone@btl.net for comments on the weather and
: info@bze.net for information about this or other
: Internet services, including website design and
: hosting.

Added on Date: 11:54:51 6/01/99

: Hi All,

: I'm thinking of driving from Chicago to Belize later this summer. I've got maps, 4X4, GPS, and ambition. I have driven around Mexico some in the past, but not in the south. What's the word? Will Chiapas be a problem if I go that way? How are the roads once you get into Belize? Any suggestions/stories would be helpful. Thanks!

I have driven to Belize from the east and west coast,you dont need a 4x4,the roads are fine,i never had a map,and i dont speak spansh.

Added on Date: 13:35:57 6/01/99

Jennifer,

Odd about you not being able to access that site. It's one of the, if not the, largest Belize sites. I access it several times a day. I'd check your settings to be sure you have the right address, which is http://www.belizenet.com/ Once on the home page, click on Weather and that will take you to the section where you can sign up for the free e-mail delivery of the Belize weather report.

Actually, Tony Rath, who owns Naturalight, also owns this Better Belize It site.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 13:48:36 6/01/99

John,

You shouldn't have a problem driving down. Roads in Mexico are good to excellent, no 4WD needed. Main roads (Northern Highway, Western Highway, Hummingbird Highway) in Belize are good two-lane paved roads. Other roads in Belize vary, but most are okay without 4WD except during rainy periods.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 13:51:48 6/01/99

Also one in San Pedro

regards

Gaz Cooper
Gaz cooper's DIVE BELIZE
www.diveblize.com

: : Any western union in Belize? can someone tell me
: : or another aternative to send money to ralatives
: : safe way. thanks

: yes main office beliz2 city (regent st.)
: agencies in Belmopan, san ignacio orange walk and corazal i'm not sure on dangriga or p.g.

Added on Date: 15:00:04 6/01/99

We just want to say sorry for the war act made by Lordstone, he is now removed from the power, and we are ready to start discussing a cease fire.
Thank You

Added on Date: 15:34:25 6/01/99

: Any western union in Belize? can someone tell me
: or another aternative to send money to ralatives
: safe way. thanks

There is one in Stan Creek,I send money threw the mail,send it regesterd and some one has to sign for it.I have also sent it just threw the mail,and have never lost any thing.If you send things they put a HIGH duty on it,some times more then what its worth.But things still get threw,i would give the Belize post office a 10.

Added on Date: 17:25:45 6/01/99

Hi there,

I did the drive to Belize with a friend from Toronto last winter and there is a web site about our experience... it's http://www.interlog.com/~ajs/photoalbum/mexico_belize/

It was a great experience, and I got by, with water pump breakdown in Veracruz, with very little Spanish.

Dave

Added on Date: 20:28:03 6/01/99

Hi, I'm really interested in surfing in Belize.
Please, please send some information about surfing over there: beaches, points, towns, acommodation, prices, etc.
thanks,
mfer

Added on Date: 20:37:09 6/01/99

: Hi, I'm really interested in surfing in Belize.
: Please, please send some information about surfing over there: beaches, points, towns, acommodation, prices, etc.
: thanks,
: mfer

Belize doesn't offer much for surfers - this is due to the fact that we have the world's second largest barrier reef - all the waves are blocked on the reef - surfing outside the reef would be almost suicidal.

Added on Date: 20:51:20 6/01/99

: We plan to got to Belize in November.
: We´re travelling via Cancun. Usefulls hints and informations concerning this route welcome.

: We´ve got three weeks all in all. Where to go and what to do? (No diving!) We want to got to San Ignacio-region including Tikal for sure. What else?
: We will be in Belize on Settlements day. Where to go?
: We nearly know nothing. There seems to be no good german travel-guide.

Hi,
You have to visit the Community Baboon Sanctuary in Bermudian Landing. Its one of the world's first community-based grassroots conservation projects that have had tremendous success. Thye support the world's larghest population of black howler monkeys, over 200 species of birds, 200 species of trees. countlless mammals, excellent canoe rides (see 5 feet iguanas), possible crocodiles. night hikes, creole cuisine and much more. Bed and Breakfast availbale with local people, two lodges availbale with modern facilities- they are Jungle Drift Lodge and Cashew Land Guest House - for the latter ask for Roy Young- email ryoung@ucb.edu.bz. It will be an experience that you'll remember! A nice way to get an "inside" look at local/community life. Any questions, please feel free to respond. Enjoy your treip to Belize and do your part to keep it beautiful for others to follow - thanks!

Added on Date: 20:58:32 6/01/99

: All you belizean pepal, please e-mail me, hi to all crooked tree,Burrel boom village and Belize too. I miss home.

Hi Carol,
I'm a belizean studying abroad and like you I miss home soo soo much. I'm from Bermudian Landing but I have lots of freinds from Bend Tree - the Tilletts and Gilletts and Crawfords. I would love to communicate with you and any other Belizean from the Jewel.
Please do respond. I'll be heading to Hawaii in a few days but I go to school in Vermont - where are you?

Added on Date: 21:02:05 6/01/99

Hi Wendy and Marla,
Hope that this message gets to you guys. Just wanted to to say hi ands to let you guys know that I miss youboth and think of you all the time. Marla I hope that you new born is happy and healthy and that you are yours are having a wonderful time. Wendy, I hope that all is going well for you. When are you going to LA? Gongratulation on both your graduation from UCB - way to go - sorry that I couldn't be there to sahre in the special momemt with you all but hopefully next time.
Please, if you guys getthis message - please respond.

If anyone knows my two dear freinds, please pass this message on to them.

Colin young

Added on Date: 21:06:09 6/01/99

??????????????

Added on Date: 21:33:50 6/01/99

Hi. We are going to Ambergrise Caye for 5 nights and a lodge in the rain forest for 3 nights. Everyone we ask says we don't need to take malaria pills, except our doctors here in the US. Does anyone know of anyone that got malaria after a few days in beliz2. Would you recommend the malaria pills. Is there anything you can suggest.

Added on Date: 00:28:44 6/02/99

Interested in a relaxing but adventurous holiday to Belize plus. I have personally explored & designed this tour. Starting in Playa del Carmen (4nts), then onwards to Caye Caulker (5nts). Next stop Tikal (2nts) & finishing in San Ignacio (2nts) Only CAD$1995.00 from Vancouver or Calgary, CANADA. Land only prices at $1395.00CAD
email us your address and we will send you all the details.
info@pacesetter-travel.com

Added on Date: 00:43:52 6/02/99

Proud Canadian?? Where are you from "Mr. Rumtree"??? I have been reading your messages....where are you from?
Chetumal is a wonderful city. Very clean and pretty Travelling by taxi is incredibly cheap. I have stayed at El Cedro and the Holiday Hotel (which is very, very nice!!) Lots of shopping available but the "brand name" stuff you might buy are all "copies" of the real thing. Who will know though??
: : anyone know how large a city chetumal is ? what can one expect to find as far as shopping , large american style malls or smaller strip type . what can you bring back into beliz2 duty free . how much duty will you pay on items that aren't duty free ? do you pay duty on prescription drugs? are all prescription drugs available or a smller percent of what is available in the states?

: pop. 130,000+great town for shopping cheap,cheap and even cheaper hotel ucum 12.50 u.s 4-- 2 people, hotel tulum 7 u.s 4-2 people I recommend hotel ucum very nice Aveinida M Gandhi 167 go to the museum maya look south to the down heroes street then look left thats gandhi walk east 100 yds. or look east you cant miss it don't ask to see the rooms thats rude????? shop in the market taxi anywhere in town for6-10 peso /eat at pollo brujo on obregon street walk to the sea from the market 6 streets down go west great chicken. and best of all get a lonely planet travel book I give prices in peso and u.s. the money to have there or anywhere.I am PROUD canadian without a proud doller.have fun I now I would

Added on Date: 02:37:44 6/02/99

It was destroyed in an Belizean counter attack!

Added on Date: 05:25:22 6/02/99

: Interested in a relaxing but adventurous holiday to Belize plus. I have personally explored & designed this tour. Starting in Playa del Carmen (4nts), then onwards to Caye Caulker (5nts). Next stop Tikal (2nts) & finishing in San Ignacio (2nts) Only CAD$1995.00 from Vancouver or Calgary, CANADA. Land only prices at $1395.00CAD
: email us your address and we will send you all the details.
: info@pacesetter-travel.com

Added on Date: 07:35:29 6/02/99

We have a trip to Glover's Atoll planned in a few weeks, and asked the same question of the travel agent. She said that she's never heard of anyone getting malaria, and nobody in her office has ever gotten immunizations, etc. before going to Belize. The Centers for Disease Control recommends preventative measures against malaria, and other good stuff like that (check out their website-you can do a search for their URL). It seems to be more of a risk if you're going inland rather than if you're going to one of the cayes. But you're doing both!!!
It's a tough call. We're going to "wing" it.

Added on Date: 08:41:45 6/02/99

Malaria is present in Belize, especially in the far south. However, most travelers to tourist areas such as Ambergris Caye don't take any malaria prophylaxsis, and it is extremely rare for visitors to get malaria (though at least two readers of Belize First have told me they did contract malaria in Belize). Physicians and the CDC tend to be conservative in their recommendations, but then they probably have seen cases of malaria!

If you are going to a remote area, especially in the far south, taking chlorquine is probably good, cheap insurance.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 09:47:17 6/02/99

No surfing in Belize (except maybe during a hurricane). Excellent windsurfing, though.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 09:48:48 6/02/99

: Hi. We are going to Ambergrise Caye for 5 nights and a lodge in the rain forest for 3 nights. Everyone we ask says we don't need to take malaria pills, except our doctors here in the US. Does anyone know of anyone that got malaria after a few days in beliz2. Would you recommend the malaria pills. Is there anything you can suggest.

I live in Belize, spend time on both the cayes/caostal areas and in the bush, have never contracted malaria, nor is it an issue among many of my friends who live here who take health risks seriously and would use preventatives if needed. In fact, talk to your doctor and ask how the medication might affect you. I've talked to more people who took the meds which didn't agree with them, then people who contracted malaria. And keep in mind, our strain is not the same as some of the other more vicious types you've read about and seen people in movies infected with.

Hope this helps.

Maya Travel Services

Added on Date: 10:01:24 6/02/99

what is the best time of year to come to Belize for flyfishing? Bone fishing? Tarpon? Permit? Bill fish?

Added on Date: 12:56:21 6/02/99

: Hi. We are going to Ambergrise Caye for 5 nights and a lodge in the rain forest for 3 nights. Everyone we ask says we don't need to take malaria pills, except our doctors here in the US. Does anyone know of anyone that got malaria after a few days in beliz2. Would you recommend the malaria pills. Is there anything you can suggest.

I my self haveing been bit by every bug in Belize have never gotten sick,but i have traveled all over the world.My wife and dauther got dengue fever after 3 weeks in Costa Rica and 10 days in Belize.So we dont know where they got it,but the poor thing was sicker then a dog for 10 days at Disneyworld,couldnt leave her bed.We only treated it with bed rest and water.We have never been sick from fever in Belize,but i could show you some good pictures of rashes,and nasty bug bites,look out for bees.

Added on Date: 14:14:57 6/02/99

: The new beach resort of Bahia Laguna is open and in full operation. My husband and myself are the new owners and yes, Hotel Seine Bight, as it once was has been closed since March 27th. It strikes me as humorous to see postings, information and rumors which no one really knows anything about. Many new owners change the names of businesses. There are no legal battles, there is no "cover up" and thank you Tony and Mary for your support. I always consider the source when it comes to "I heards, she saids" and so on. If you want to find out more about our place find us on the website under our new name, Bahia Laguna.
: : : : I, too, have heard the information outlined above. I don't know the about the legal battles going on. However, I don't believe there's any kind of "cover up" regarding the renaming of the hotel. Simply, new owners (of something) are in place and running the hotel. Someone either insisted that they change the name, or the new owners thought changing the name might be a good
: : : : idea, I don't know which. But, nothing sinister.

: :
: : DOES ANYONE KNOW WHO THE NEW OWNERS ARE? WHEN IS IT SCHEDULED TO REOPEN? THE WEB SITE LISTED DOES NOT DETAIL THE NEW OWNERS. THANKS.

Whilst browsing the web I was amazed to read this,
I suggest the managers ask their father-in-law about the legal battle involving him and belizean owner of the land, not to mention his illegal acquisition of Hotel Seine Bight, I can assure everybody there is a legal battle going on, the position of the current managers is very tenuous.
the usurped creator of Hotel seine bight, Pam

Added on Date: 14:57:53 6/02/99

The wife and I are planning a trip to Belize sometime in late summer for a week. Help us decide where & when...
we like - laid back, casual atmosphere, nice beach, snorkling, fishing. Need clean budget accommodation on beach w/AC, elec, water.
looking at Cay Caulker and Placencia. Any suggestions appreciated. Thanx :)

Added on Date: 15:29:56 6/02/99

Either Caulker or Placencia could be right for you. Depends in part on whether you want a small island experience or a mainland coast experience. Placencia is a lot more spread out, though Placencia village itself is fairly compact and self-contained, plus Placencia offers somewhat easier access to other areas -- you can do trips to areas such as Monkey River or Cockscomb.

I think beaches on the peninsula are generally much better than what Caulker has, though neither has world-class beaches.

Placencia also offers a wider range of accommodations, from Caulker-style basic places to deluxe places, and somewhat the same range in restaurants.

Oh, I just saw you want A/C. That pretty much means Placencia. I believe Iguana Inn on Caulker is supposed to be getting A/C this summer, but otherwise little if anything else is A/C. On the Placencia peninsula there are maybe five or six places with A/C -- new rooms at Serenity, new units at Rum Point, Inn at Robert's Grove, Nautical Inn. But these are definitely not budget places. You won't find A/C at ANY budget places in these two areas. In fact, only on Ambergris Caye can you find lower priced digs with A/C -- the new units at Ruby's have it, as do some of the rooms at the Hideaway.

When? Late spring/early summer is best for water viz. Winter is nice and not so hot, though Northers can chill things down then.

There's good snorkeling in both areas (from boats, not from shore) though I think snorkeling is a bit better off of Placencia. Fishing is better in the south off than around Caulker.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 16:31:49 6/02/99

Hello,

My name is David Merrick Fairweather. I live in Los Angeles. My father was born in British Honduras around 1917. His name was Elwyn Benjamin Fairweather (but he preferred being called "Ben").
His mother's name was Amy Fairweather. She was career U.S. Army and so was he (a Major specializing in Hospital Administration.) When I was born, my father was living in New York City. I know he also lived in U.S. Virgin Islands and retired to Puerto Rico where he passed away in the mid 1980's.

That's all I know about the Belizean side of my family. (My mother's side of the family is from Trinidad.)

I was born in New York City in 1953. I have never been to Belize but would like to go soon. Especially if I might meet some relatives and learn more about my family history.

I am hoping someone will read this and tell me more about the Belizean Fairweathers.

Thank you!

Added on Date: 01:59:01 6/03/99

Fairweather is a fine old Belize name, and there are quite a number of Fairweathers still in Belize -- about a dozen listed in the Belize City section alone of the telephone directory. In fact, a Fairweather headed the Belize Tourist Board office in New York until that office was closed.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 09:06:02 6/03/99

I'm not much of a fisherman, but I've been told the following about best times for various fish:

Permit, all year but April and May is prime time

Tarpon, all year but fall, especially October, is the best time (but some people have told me that late spring and summer is best -- I don't know)

Snook -- December - February

Bonefish -- all year, best late fall to spring, but they may go to deeper water when cold fronts come in during the winter

Marlin, sailfish -- late winter/spring

In short, there's good fishing for something any time of the year in Belize.

Mary Toy can probably give you lot better information.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 09:20:05 6/03/99

Dear sirs and mdm,
I just got Belizean citizenship recently.
I am planning a trip to Belize to get other things done.
But I do not really know what kind of things shall be done if I want to settle in Belize and start some business there.
Can anybody help me and give me some advice on that? as regarding the fomalities and the contacts.
will be very much appreciate if some kind enough to give me some advice.
James

Added on Date: 09:52:55 6/03/99

HI, IS THERE A SITE OR PAGE I CAN VISIT TO GET A PHONE # FROM THE BELIZE DIRECTORY. I'M AT MY OFFICE AN I DON'T HAVE A DIRECTORY AVAILABLE HERE. \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
IF THERE IS SOME ONE WILLING TO LOOK UP ONE FOR ME JUST E-MAIL ME APAS PLEASE..........

THANKS IN ADVANCE.

Added on Date: 11:16:53 6/03/99

HI, IS THERE A SITE OR PAGE I CAN VISIT TO GET A PHONE # FROM THE BELIZE DIRECTORY. I'M AT MY OFFICE AN I DON'T HAVE A DIRECTORY AVAILABLE HERE. \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
IF THERE IS SOME ONE WILLING TO LOOK UP ONE FOR ME JUST E-MAIL ME APAS PLEASE..........

THANKS IN ADVANCE.

Added on Date: 11:16:53 6/03/99

: Fairweather is a fine old Belize name, and there are quite a number of Fairweathers still in Belize -- about a dozen listed in the Belize City section alone of the telephone directory. In fact, a Fairweather headed the Belize Tourist Board office in New York until that office was closed.

: --Lan Sluder

I am sorry to hear that the NYC Belize Tourist Board was closed! Several years ago I was watching a TV show
that featured an interview with Camilla Fairweather. I called her
right away and had a nice conversation.

I would love to trace the geneaology of the Fairweather name.
And I would love to hear from any members of the Fairweather
Family. Send e-mail to Blindowl@Inreach.Com

--David Fairweather

Added on Date: 13:58:21 6/03/99

: HI, IS THERE A SITE OR PAGE I CAN VISIT TO GET A PHONE # FROM THE BELIZE DIRECTORY. I'M AT MY OFFICE AN I DON'T HAVE A DIRECTORY AVAILABLE HERE. \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
: IF THERE IS SOME ONE WILLING TO LOOK UP ONE FOR ME JUST E-MAIL ME APAS PLEASE..........

: THANKS IN ADVANCE.

go to belizenews.com - they have a telephone directory on there - not sure if its for the whole country - you can check that out.

Added on Date: 15:51:51 6/03/99

: Dear sirs and mdm,
: I just got Belizean citizenship recently.
: I am planning a trip to Belize to get other things done.
: But I do not really know what kind of things shall be done if I want to settle in Belize and start some business there.
: Can anybody help me and give me some advice on that? as regarding the fomalities and the contacts.
: will be very much appreciate if some kind enough to give me some advice.
: James

Dear James-

Really broad question. What will you need? Vehicle? Accommodations/real estate? What area? Legal advice? Be more specific, but I can tell you to get a bottle of aspirins....

Mucho suarte,

Maya Travel Services

Added on Date: 17:39:56 6/03/99

: Hi. We are going to Ambergrise Caye for 5 nights and a lodge in the rain forest for 3 nights. Everyone we ask says we don't need to take malaria pills, except our doctors here in the US. Does anyone know of anyone that got malaria after a few days in beliz2. Would you recommend the malaria pills. Is there anything you can suggest.

Here's my new revised malaria suggestions after speaking sober local advice. Yes, we do get cases of malaria in Belize and using anti-malarial meds won't tax your liver for a short period of time, although I have run across people on the pills for a few days who got sick from them, as per doc. If you want to insure you don't contract malaria, take the pills. But talk with your doc about the contra indications and how they may affect you. Again, I want to stress that our strain of malaria is not as bad as some others worldwide, but who needs any type?

Maya Travel Services

Added on Date: 17:45:29 6/03/99

I read somewhere that the Airport's Duty-free shop had been closed. Is that still true ???
Thanks.

Added on Date: 19:14:10 6/03/99

Just curious -- did you obtain citizenship through the economic citizenship program? Have you ever visited Belize?

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 20:52:26 6/03/99

: Hi All,

: I'm thinking of driving from Chicago to Belize later this summer. I've got maps, 4X4, GPS, and ambition. I have driven around Mexico some in the past, but not in the south. What's the word? Will Chiapas be a problem if I go that way? How are the roads once you get into Belize? Any suggestions/stories would be helpful. Thanks!

Added on Date: 05:46:18 6/04/99

: Hi All,

: I'm thinking of driving from Chicago to Belize later this summer. I've got maps, 4X4, GPS, and ambition. I have driven around Mexico some in the past, but not in the south. What's the word? Will Chiapas be a problem if I go that way? How are the roads once you get into Belize? Any suggestions/stories would be helpful. Thanks!
we are leaving oklacity end of june rds in beliz2 are dirt and gravel until yoy get to dangriga then paved not bad we've never drove through mexico e-mail me maybe we can helpp each other

Added on Date: 05:50:50 6/04/99

>> rds in beliz2 are dirt and gravel until yoy get to dangriga then paved not bad

Huh? You must be thinking about that other Belize!

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 08:22:07 6/04/99

: HI, IS THERE A SITE OR PAGE I CAN VISIT TO GET A PHONE # FROM THE BELIZE DIRECTORY. I'M AT MY OFFICE AN I DON'T HAVE A DIRECTORY AVAILABLE HERE. \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
: IF THERE IS SOME ONE WILLING TO LOOK UP ONE FOR ME JUST E-MAIL ME APAS PLEASE..........

: THANKS IN ADVANCE.

Jane,

I also wanted a hard copy of BTL's directory. I contacted them at e-mail address "sales@btl.net." However I have not received a response as yet. They also have a website at "http://www.btl.net/" but this does not give us search engine for our directory.

The directory that Colin sugested only has listings for San Pedro residents only. Their is an IPl telephone directory for Belize on the internet. To find this you need to do a search for "international telephone directory", then search within this search for Belize.

you can also obtain a copy at any library near you.

Avrail

Added on Date: 10:17:53 6/04/99

: All you belizean pepal, please e-mail me, hi to all crooked tree,Burrel boom village and Belize too. I miss home.

Added on Date: 10:18:26 6/04/99

I have a Belize phone book. What number are you looking for?

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 10:21:28 6/04/99

: Dear sirs and mdm,
: I just got Belizean citizenship recently.
: I am planning a trip to Belize to get other things done.
: But I do not really know what kind of things shall be done if I want to settle in Belize and start some business there.
: Can anybody help me and give me some advice on that? as regarding the fomalities and the contacts.
: will be very much appreciate if some kind enough to give me some advice.
: James

James,

I e-mailed you just a while ago asking how you obtained your citizenship? Were you in the country of Belize when you obtained your citizenship? Who authorized this?

Avrail

Added on Date: 11:52:51 6/04/99

: >> rds in beliz2 are dirt and gravel until yoy get to dangriga then paved not bad

:
: Huh? You must be thinking about that other Belize!you're right mr.sluder i said it backwards

: --Lan Sluder
: Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 14:03:01 6/04/99

LOOKING FOR INFO. ON COCONUTS CARIBBEAN, TIDES BEACH RESORT AND PELICAN BEACH RESORT.

THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 14:14:51 6/04/99

: Dear sirs and mdm,
: I just got Belizean citizenship recently.
: I am planning a trip to Belize to get other things done.
: But I do not really know what kind of things shall be done if I want to settle in Belize and start some business there.
: Can anybody help me and give me some advice on that? as regarding the fomalities and the contacts.
: will be very much appreciate if some kind enough to give me some advice.
: James
I have seen lots of people get citizenship with out ever comeing to Belize,and they never plan to.There was a big push just befor Hong Kong went back to china.And yes Avrail i think it is illegal?But its very easy to do,money works the same in Belize(some times better)just like the USA.If any one went threw the goverment chanels you have a long long wait,but it can be done.

Added on Date: 14:16:02 6/04/99

: >> rds in beliz2 are dirt and gravel until yoy get to dangriga then paved not bad

:
: Huh? You must be thinking about that other Belize!

: --Lan Sluder
: Belize First Magazine

I have a good video from BlackmanEddie to Sittee River all along the road,alittle boreing but shows Belize roads and just by chance my new built resort on Sittee River.THE MOST BEAUTHFUL PLACE IN BELIZE. send 10.00 to cover shipping to P.O.BOX 90202 PORTLAND OR,97290 and my sister will get it to you,if you buy land i return 10.00

Added on Date: 14:29:49 6/04/99

: : Dear sirs and mdm,
: : I just got Belizean citizenship recently.
: : I am planning a trip to Belize to get other things done.
: : But I do not really know what kind of things shall be done if I want to settle in Belize and start some business there.
: : Can anybody help me and give me some advice on that? as regarding the fomalities and the contacts.
: : will be very much appreciate if some kind enough to give me some advice.
: : James
: I have seen lots of people get citizenship with out ever comeing to Belize,and they never plan to.There was a big push just befor Hong Kong went back to china.And yes Avrail i think it is illegal?But its very easy to do,money works the same in Belize(some times better)just like the USA.If any one went threw the goverment chanels you have a long long wait,but it can be done.

Soma151,

I know what you say is true for a fact. I just wanted to know what year he applied and what government approved it (PUP or UDP). And, when exactly it was approved.

For a matter of fact if government issued it, then it is legal. However, if present government issued it then the people of Belize have legal grounds for contesting the issuance. Since, current governtment claims it is not selling passport and citizenship as accused by the UDP's through several bulletins and news brief.

But if you read my article on this board regarding "passport selling" then my point has just be proven. I should stress that it is time to solve problems and not just aggravate them for the hell of it.

Avrail

Added on Date: 14:59:21 6/04/99

Can anyone forward the recipe for panadees and salbatus? I'm sure they are simple to prepare i fonly I had a recipe.

Added on Date: 16:36:36 6/04/99

would any one be able to give me Bruce and Charlene's phone ,fax or E mail number
Thanks in advance
Sharon

Added on Date: 22:10:13 6/04/99

Go to Ambergriscaye.com website, under goods and services you will find all the info and photos that you are looking for. Good luck and have fun!! (not Pelican Beach though).
: LOOKING FOR INFO. ON COCONUTS CARIBBEAN, TIDES BEACH RESORT AND PELICAN BEACH RESORT.

: THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 22:19:47 6/04/99

Phone book says 011 501 26 3289
I can also look in newspapers from 2 months ago... let me know if you want me to have a look.
: would any one be able to give me Bruce and Charlene's phone ,fax or E mail number
: Thanks in advance
: Sharon

Added on Date: 22:26:33 6/04/99

Looking for partners for investment in
Belize Real Estate.

Added on Date: 00:22:19 6/05/99

>>Yes, we do get cases of malaria in Belize and using anti-malarial meds won't tax your liver for a short period of time, although I have run across people on the pills for a few days who got sick from them, as per doc. If you want to insure you don't contract malaria, take the pills. But talk with your doc about the contra indications and how they may affect you.<<

Chloroquine (brand name Aralen) is the malaria prophylaxsis most docs prescribe for Belize, since strains in Belize are not resistent to this drug. It's been around for a long time. It's proven, not very expensive, and has few if any side effects for most people. I used it in Vietnam many years ago, as have millions of others. You do need to take it with food as it may cause cramping or other gastrointestinal symptoms otherwise. Also, young kids may find it hard to take. You take one tablet by mouth beginning before arriving in an infected area, continuing for a short time after leaving.

Mefloquine (brand name Larium) and some of the other antimalarial drugs for use in areas where there is resistance do have some potentially serious side effects -- but nothing like being dead, which happens several million times a year round the world with malaria. But these types of drugs are NOT needed for Belize. I have taken Larium myself, and had no problems, but some have reported psychological disturbances and other problems with it.

I just wish that people in Belize would check the facts before repeating the old saw about "I never hear of malaria and nobody I know takes anything for it." Folks who live in, say, San Pedro, may not be much aware of what goes on in, say, Punta Gorda or in rural Corozal district.

Malaria IS present in Belize and always has been. Not everywhere but in many rural and remote areas. It is more under control now than at some times in the past, but the last figure I saw was that there were something like 6,000 to 8,000 cases reported annually in Belize. That's quite a large number given that the population is only around 240,000.

True, most of these cases were in remote areas of the far south and far north among people exposed for a long time to vectors, but it does happen. It is rare to have cases reported in Belize City, Ambergris Caye, on most other cayes, or in parts of Cayo, but especially after the rainy season cases in rural areas are not uncommon. I personally know a number of people who have gotten malaria in Belize (all in Toledo district, I believe, maybe one in Corozal district), and while the strains in Belize may not usually be life-threatening or as serious as those in Africa or Asia, it still isn't a whole lot of fun.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 14:14:52 6/05/99

The Tides is a new hotel at the north end of San Pedro -- haven't stayed there yet but have gotten very good reports on it for a mid-priced hotel.

Coconuts is south of San Pedro, a nice motel-like place on the beach, well-run and effectively marketed.

Pelican Beach (owned by the family of the person who runs this Web site and Naturalight also) in Dangriga is a seafront hotel, the best in Dangriga. It has a certain colonial charm, though it's not for everybody. You may mean the cottages on South Water Caye that are owned by the same family -- they get almost nothing but good reviews if you want a simple place on the water with good snorkeling.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 14:22:24 6/05/99

Wow, I had a great 25-day trip in Belize. I didn't spend more than $10 U.S. a night for accomodations until I spoiled myself at Chaa Creek the last 2 nights. I did find something the guide books were either wrong or misleading about: Yes, you can use U.S. dollars and traveler's checks anywhere in the country. HOWEVER, what I never read was that most stores and restaurants in smaller towns simply can not accept a U.S. $50 bill or traveler's check, because they just don't have enough cash on hand to give change! Make sure you have a lot of 20's, not too many 50's or 100's. If you're wondering about my budget accomodations, here they are: The Trek Stop, Cayo, $10 U.S. a night per person. Outstanding place, great people, good food. Deb & Dave's Last Resort, Placencia. $20 U.S. for two people. Very clean rooms, convenient location. The Old Dorm, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, $7 U.S. Only for people who can really rough it. Room was full of tarantulas, seriously. It's probably worth spending a few dollars more for one of the newer dorms. Tina's Backpacker's Hostel, Caye Caulker, $5 U.S. per person. Shared rooms, common livingroom with American cable TV and a kitchen, and a nice upstairs balcony overlooking the sea. The only drawback here is the shower water, which smells like rotten eggs. Tom's Hotel, Caulker, $27 Belize for a double, that is $6.75 U.S. per person per night, an amazing value! Very clean rooms, nice quiet location. Definitely the thing to do, for the young or young at heart, is sleep cheap and spend your money on trips and tours. That's why you travel, to see the country. Even the expensive places usually don't have A/C and TV, and their tours are overpriced.

Added on Date: 19:44:30 6/05/99

Be SURE to have a dive video done when you visit Belize. We had ours done by Kevin Keith last year; it is a great souvenir. We enjoy watching it over and over and remembering our time on Ambergris. If you need more info, you can e-mail Kevin at videoguy@btl.net. jj

Added on Date: 20:09:18 6/05/99

Steve Garrette- Hey man, how are you? contact me at the above Email address.

Added on Date: 22:23:20 6/05/99

Placencia is a small village at the end of a 17 miles long peninsula. It has beatiful beaches with palmtrees and is close to the Barrier Reef. We own a beachlot with palmtrees and a lovely brandnew house at the edge of the village. It is for rent! It is a big wooden house on posts, seven feet of the ground. It has two bedrooms (11 x 11 ft and 9 x 11 ft) with one kingsize and one double bed. A bathroom with hot shower etc. A large livingroom with open kitchen, dining bar, double bed. A bathroom with hot shower etc. A large livingroom with open kitchen, dining bar, table etc, fridge, stove and so on. The veranda is 8 x 26 ft and looks out over the Carribean Sea. The house is fully furnished,including sheet- and towel service and cleaning once a week. Mrs Lydia, who owns a nice budget hotel, which is recommanded in all the travelguides, looks after our place. The price is 500 $ US or 1000 $ Belize a week. We don't have vacancy from December '99 until the beginning of April '2000, except maybe one or two weeks in January. Information? E-mail tot Susanne & Fred in Holland (Europe). E-mail: fredkrijnen@compuserve.com. In Placencia contact Mrs Lydia: phone: 00 501 6 23117. If you are in Placencia on a low budget, we can highly recommand Lydia's Rooms. It is located on a nice spot near our house. It's cheap and clean and Mrs Lydia is very friendly and helpful.

Added on Date: 07:18:00 6/06/99

Coconuts Hotel, http://www.ambergriscaye.com/coconuts is situated on a white sand beach and is 1 mile from the 2nd largest barrier reef in the world. Diving and snorkeling is great. The staff bends over backwards to please every guest. Bicycles are free to guests to use.

A continental breakfast with juices, toast (homemade bread), homemade muffins, lots of coffee or tea is included in the very reasonable room rate. They also do family style lunches for their guests at Coconuts when requested ahead of time. It is called "eat with the gang". Cost is $5 u.s. for a huge plate of whatever the daily meal may be. Pork chops, fish, chicken, etc. The girls rotate the menu so the food is different each day.

The rooms are super clean, large, well-decorated, air conditioned, and you can get cable TV if you want it. This is one of the most laid-back places in the Caribbean. I have stayed here six times with each one a great vacation. If you need more info, e-mail me at: mailto:sandcrab@bigfoot.com

I have heard good things about the tides but have not been there.

Pelican Beach is an excellent hotel.

Have a fun vacation,
Jim.

: LOOKING FOR INFO. ON COCONUTS CARIBBEAN, TIDES BEACH RESORT AND PELICAN BEACH RESORT.

: THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 10:45:45 6/06/99

: I read somewhere that the Airport's Duty-free shop had been closed. Is that still true ???
: Thanks.

When I was at the Belize International airport last Wed it was open...no signs about it closing.
Perry

Added on Date: 11:23:04 6/06/99

I have sent a couple of e-mails to Ranguana Lodge and Reef resort over the last 2 months and have gotten no response. We would really like to vacation there, but can't seem to get a response to our request for reservations. Does anyone know what is happening there?

Added on Date: 14:47:38 6/06/99

We are interested in travelling throughout Belize and we are interested in taking 2-3 days out to go to Tikal from Belize. Has anyone else done this? How would we get there?
Also, how are the buses throughout Belize? Run on schedule and affordable?
Thanks!!!!!

Added on Date: 15:43:23 6/06/99

: We are interested in travelling throughout Belize and we are interested in taking 2-3 days out to go to Tikal from Belize. Has anyone else done this? How would we get there?
: Also, how are the buses throughout Belize? Run on schedule and affordable?
: Thanks!!!!!

Given the fact that you want to stay at Tikal 2 or 3 days, my suggestion would be that you either take a public bus from the Guatemalan border (cheapest) or hire a van at the border
to take you to Tikal. The van is a little less complicated, because it's direct. With the bus, you go into either Flores or get off at the cross roads to Tikal and catch a van from either
place to the site.

Busses in Belize are excellent, especially between Belize City and the Western Border; they run about every half-hour during the day, and some are express. It costs only $5.50Bz (US $2.75) to go
from the bus station in Belize City to the Guatemalan border or Cayo District.

Added on Date: 19:42:21 6/06/99

: Phone book says 011 501 26 3289
: I can also look in newspapers from 2 months ago... let me know if you want me to have a look.
: : would any one be able to give me Bruce and Charlene's phone ,fax or E mail number
: : Thanks in advance
: : Sharon

Wendy thanks for your reply
Sharon

Added on Date: 20:44:47 6/06/99

Hey, Avrail- want to attack these people too?

Doctors to repair facial deformities

A team of doctors, nurses and technical personnel,
who are part of the Life Enhancement Association for
People, LEAP, will once again be in Orange Walk Town
to perform much needed surgeries. The medical
professionals will perform over twenty surgeries to
repair facial deformities such as cleft lips and palates
in the new surgical wing of the Orange Walk Hospital.
All patients are evaluated and then a program for
operations is set. Anyone wishing to be evaluated
should contact the Orange Walk Rotary Club at
03-23024. The services provided by LEAP are free of
cost.

Added on Date: 20:46:45 6/06/99

Dear Paula,

Try sending your e-mail to the Sea Spray Hotel in Placencia (see them under lodgings at Placencia.com). I've been successful this way, and also I know that Kevin Modera Guide Services (see also at Placencia.com) will do guided trips to Ranguana Caye that include cooking, fishing, snorkeling, etc. (so you don't have to bring your own food). I'm sure that Mary Toy who works with Kevin would be more than happy to set the trip up for you, just drop her a line and she can do all the contacting and reserving with Ranguana. As for myself (a humble romance writer on a mission to do some historical/Belizean atmosphere research), I'm leaving for my first visit to Ranguana in only a few days, so if you wait another couple of weeks, I'll be posting a little report here on the chatboard. In the meantime, keep trying with the e-mail and good luck!

Regards,

Jill

Added on Date: 21:41:30 6/06/99

: Looking for partners for investment in
: Belize Real Estate.

Added on Date: 22:05:18 6/06/99

I am going to visit Ambergris Caye for the first time in August. I am trying to decide what hotel to stay at. My price range is $60 - 80 per night for two people. We would like access to a pool and the nicest beach. Any recommendations? We have been looking into Banana Resort and Sun Breeze Hotel? Any information would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

Added on Date: 23:53:53 6/06/99

: Hey, Avrail- want to attack these people too?

: Doctors to repair facial deformities

: A team of doctors, nurses and technical personnel,
: who are part of the Life Enhancement Association for
: People, LEAP, will once again be in Orange Walk Town
: to perform much needed surgeries. The medical
: professionals will perform over twenty surgeries to
: repair facial deformities such as cleft lips and palates
: in the new surgical wing of the Orange Walk Hospital.
: All patients are evaluated and then a program for
: operations is set. Anyone wishing to be evaluated
: should contact the Orange Walk Rotary Club at
: 03-23024. The services provided by LEAP are free of
: cost.

!!!

Give it a rest yea brave soldier in distress. Too brave to state your name !!!. My point was well made and debated. and proven over and over again by people jumping in with their own experiences.

I don't need to repost my issues and pointers. Because from the fact that you are taking this to a personal level I can see not only did you miss the point by ten a mile radius but choose to carry out an onslaught attck on me on the chat board. Have a personal beef with me my e-mail is listed you know.

For the matter being this topic is no longer posted on this site so why drag it through the mud. I am always up for a healthy debate. But a knowledgeless, sensless one , NO.

My Last response to !!!

Avrail

Added on Date: 09:28:35 6/07/99

: I am going to visit Ambergris Caye for the first time in August. I am trying to decide what hotel to stay at. My price range is $60 - 80 per night for two people. We would like access to a pool and the nicest beach. Any recommendations? We have been looking into Banana Resort and Sun Breeze Hotel? Any information would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

I haven't been inside BB. but I can speak for Sun Breeze, which is located on the edge of San Pedro town with a pool and I know the accomodations are one of the better values on Ambergris.

Maya Travel Services

Added on Date: 09:36:55 6/07/99

Elisha,

Both places are nice and are very good values. They are about the same size. Because it is new, Banana Beach has nicer rooms, plus they are one-bedroom condos, not motel rooms. Our readers are saying they love Banana Beach. For many people, being close to town is a plus, and in that SunBreeze is attractive because it's just at the edge of town, within an easy walk of restaurants and shops. SunBreeze is close to a good in-town beach at Ramon's, but right at the motel is seawall.

If the price you're offered is the same, and if you like being a bit out of town, I'd say Banana Beach. If there's a significant price difference, then you have to weigh the differential.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 09:57:19 6/07/99

As Judy said, Belize buses going west are cheap and frequent and generally more comfortable and less crowded than buses in Guatemala.

Getting to Tikal, here are the options you have:

5 Ways to Get to Tikal
The magnificent ruins of Tikal are around 60 miles (by road) from the Belize border at Benque Viejo. This road, long has been paved at the Tikal end, is being further improved, with additional paving being done from El Remate back toward the Guatemala/Belize border.

# 1 Minivan Tour from San Ignacio
Several Belize operators offer no-hassle day and overnight tours to Tikal. Day trips, usually including guides, border fees, lunch and admission to Tikal, run about US$75 per person.

# 2 Fly from Belize City
Tropic Air, Maya Island Air and Aerovias fly from the international airport in Belize City to Flores (around US$160 round trip). Minibuses do the 40-mile run from Flores to Tikal. Overnight package tours, including lodging at Tikal, are available from Belize City and San Pedro, from around US$250.

# 3 Take a Guatemala Taxi or Minibus
This is a cheaper option than a tour by a Belize operator. Walk across the border at Benque Viejo and bargain with a taxi or minivan driver in Melchor. A good price is around US$10 per person one way.

# 4 Take a Guatemala Bus
Buses (Pinita and Rosita lines) leave every hour or two from Melchor, starting around 3 a.m. Fares to either Flores or Puente Ixlú near El Remate (where you’ll have to change buses to Tikal) are around US$2. You may pay a little more than locals.

# 5 Drive
Most Belize car rental agencies won’t let you take vehicles into Guatemala, but a couple, including Crystal in Belize City and Western in San Ignacio, do permit it.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 10:01:35 6/07/99

The only price i have found for months now is $661 from chicago
and just cant seem to pay theat much for them. We paid about $510
last april but it was through bulk from our hotel but we are
planning on going in the fall and we have our condo style place picked
out already and most of the bulk airfares you have to choose a hotel to.
Any help or suggestions would be great. Thanks Josh Brewer

Added on Date: 12:53:11 6/07/99

: The only price i have found for months now is $661 from chicago
: and just cant seem to pay theat much for them. We paid about $510
: last april but it was through bulk from our hotel but we are
: planning on going in the fall and we have our condo style place picked
: out already and most of the bulk airfares you have to choose a hotel to.
: Any help or suggestions would be great. Thanks Josh Brewer

Josh,

I can get them for you for as low as $479 US. dollars from Chicago to Belize in high season. And, as much or little as $298 in off season.

Need more information my e-mail is avrailparham@yahoo.com

Added on Date: 13:15:08 6/07/99

I have been in both resorts, and have just returned from Banana Beach Resort. They are both very nice properties but I think Banana Beach is my choice because of its fabulous one bedroom condos for a very reasonable price.

A hotel room just doesn't compete with these new and beautiful condos. Banana Beach is on one of the best beaches on Ambergris Caye and it is so restful. It also has a real nice pool to lounge around with tropical plants all over. Bicycles are available through Banana Beach, or fun to use golf carts and I used both.

Taxis are cheap and every trip is fairly short. There are good restaurants close enough that a walk will get you there. I will return to Banana Beach at the first opportunity.

: I am going to visit Ambergris Caye for the first time in August. I am trying to decide what hotel to stay at. My price range is $60 - 80 per night for two people. We would like access to a pool and the nicest beach. Any recommendations? We have been looking into Banana Resort and Sun Breeze Hotel? Any information would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

Added on Date: 16:12:17 6/07/99

Try www.priceline.com. Have heard cheaper tickets can be purchased there.

Added on Date: 18:25:31 6/07/99

Try www.priceline.com. Have heard cheaper tickets can be purchased there.

Added on Date: 18:25:57 6/07/99

You need to read the Belize Report!
Recent articles include moving to, and live in, Belize, as well as setting up a business.
Go to the "Useful Information" index for the moving articles, and the "Business & Investment" index for the rest.
Good Luck!

Added on Date: 18:32:25 6/07/99

Mopan River Resort is the answer!
Opening November 7, 1999, we are an all-inclusive, full service resort in the Cayo District, near San Ignacio.

One great price gets you everything, transfers, tours including Tikal, meals, taxes and more!
Please visit our website for full details.

Added on Date: 18:37:10 6/07/99

: : I read somewhere that the Airport's Duty-free shop had been closed. Is that still true ???
: : Thanks.

: When I was at the Belize International airport last Wed it was open...no signs about it closing.
: Perry

it is closed.

Added on Date: 19:29:29 6/07/99

: : The only price i have found for months now is $661 from chicago
: : and just cant seem to pay theat much for them. We paid about $510
: : last april but it was through bulk from our hotel but we are
: : planning on going in the fall and we have our condo style place picked
: : out already and most of the bulk airfares you have to choose a hotel to.
: : Any help or suggestions would be great. Thanks Josh Brewer

: Josh,

: I can get them for you for as low as $479 US. dollars from Chicago to Belize in high season. And, as much or little as $298 in off season.

: Need more information my e-mail is avrailparham@yahoo.com

Avrail,Is this the price with all the airport taxes?How much can you get them for from Portland?The cheepest i can get is 580.00us,that is with all taxes or airport fees or what ever you want to call them.I would like to here what other people are paying,and no low balling,haha.

Added on Date: 20:18:29 6/07/99

:
: : Looking for partners for investment in
: : Belize Real Estate.

Email me with what your looking for,im always looking for things in Belize.I have land but no money.

Added on Date: 20:22:53 6/07/99

I would like to have informaiton on any children welfare agencies, that might give me information about adopting a child under the age of five

Added on Date: 20:31:50 6/07/99

: The only price i have found for months now is $661 from chicago
: and just cant seem to pay theat much for them. We paid about $510
: last april but it was through bulk from our hotel but we are
: planning on going in the fall and we have our condo style place picked
: out already and most of the bulk airfares you have to choose a hotel to.
: Any help or suggestions would be great. Thanks Josh Brewer

Why don't you send an email to Alvin at Trphorizon@aol.com......we've gone through him a number of times and sometimes he has some great rates. It's worth a try. He's an agent in CA who specializes in Belize trips.

Added on Date: 20:32:43 6/07/99

: Hello,

: My name is David Merrick Fairweather. I live in Los Angeles. My father was born in British Honduras around 1917. His name was Elwyn Benjamin Fairweather (but he preferred being called "Ben").
: His mother's name was Amy Fairweather. She was career U.S. Army and so was he (a Major specializing in Hospital Administration.) When I was born, my father was living in New York City. I know he also lived in U.S. Virgin Islands and retired to Puerto Rico where he passed away in the mid 1980's.

: That's all I know about the Belizean side of my family. (My mother's side of the family is from Trinidad.)

: I was born in New York City in 1953. I have never been to Belize but would like to go soon. Especially if I might meet some relatives and learn more about my family history.

: I am hoping someone will read this and tell me more about the Belizean Fairweathers.

: Thank you!

I have a Belize phone book. Send me an email if you would like me to send you the names and phone numbers of all the Fairweather's in Belize, who have listed numbers. I also know a Fairweather in NYC, Gilda Fairweather. Her brother, Evan Fairweather SR, still lives in Placencia. I'm not sure what her husbands name is. I met her through my job.

Added on Date: 20:44:11 6/07/99

: The only price i have found for months now is $661 from chicago
: and just cant seem to pay theat much for them. We paid about $510
: last april but it was through bulk from our hotel but we are
: planning on going in the fall and we have our condo style place picked
: out already and most of the bulk airfares you have to choose a hotel to.
: Any help or suggestions would be great. Thanks Josh Brewer
Josh:
Check out Magnum Belize,We flew from Syracuse N.Y.
for $508.00 PP including all fee's!!!!
call 1-800-447-2931 ask for Traci
or e-mail traci@magnumbelize.com
happy hunting!!!!!!
Scott

Added on Date: 20:47:27 6/07/99

Am planning a trip to Belize in July. Can someone tell me about Banana Beach, Coconuts & Journey's End Resorts? I will be traveling from the U.S., will immunization be necessary?

Added on Date: 21:10:08 6/07/99

How difficult is it to travel around Belize?
Should the plans be booked in advance from home?

Are there hostel and/or budget hotel
(< $20/night) accomodations widely available?

Is it safe for a young woman traveling alone?

How much does it rain in June/July and does
this effect scuba diving conditions?

I had found a internet link to a tour services
that specialized in 'authentic' tours to the
ruins, where you sleep in tents, and eat
local food, something organized by the
government or a local agency, I think to benefit
local people, but I can't find it now. Does
anyone have any information on this?

Sorry for all the questions! Thanks!

Added on Date: 21:46:16 6/07/99

I want to know how many gift items are allowed to bring in and if you have to pay duty for them. Small items am bringing with me, can anyone help
Thanks

Added on Date: 22:28:56 6/07/99

How much does it cost to take a ferry ride from Amergris Caye to Belize mainland? How long does this take? Does anyone recommend doing this instead of a flight? I am interested in spending a day or two exploring here and I am going to be staying on Ambergris Caye.

Added on Date: 22:30:54 6/07/99

I second the nomination of Alvin at Tropic Horizon! He got us good fares from Seattle when nobody else could, and plus, he's a great guy!

Regards,

Jill

Added on Date: 00:01:30 6/08/99

Dear PB,

Scroll down the chatboard here (see Jim's comments under vacationing in August a few lines down) and take a gander at the Ambergriscaye.com website (look at their "messages" and their lodgings sections) and you'll find plenty of comments about Banana Beach, Coconuts, Journey's End and immunizations. Also, Lan Sluder's Belize First website is great to learn what people have had to say about the different hotels (find the link from one of Lan's postings on this chatboard). Do some hunting, and I'm sure you'll find all kinds of info to answer your questions!

Good luck,

Jill

Added on Date: 00:10:12 6/08/99

Dear Elisha,

Although I've never taken the ferry (and I've lent my Belize books to my soon-to-be travelling companion, so I can't even tell you how much the ferry costs), I did take a tour to Lamanai that went from Ambergris to the mainland by boat...and it was a long, wet, bumpy ride. The flight, on the other hand, was fifteen minutes, $40 each way (approximately), and relatively painless. I'd recommend the flight.

Regards,

Jill

Added on Date: 00:14:29 6/08/99

Here is one more way to get to Tikal: I saw an ad at Chocolate's Dive Shop on Caulker for a non-stop bus directly from Belize City to Flores for U.S. $20. This would be a good option, in my opinion, for solo travelers who speak zero Spanish, as it will eliminate border difficulties in changing buses. For $20 it's not a bad option. Once in Flores, it is relatively easy for even a non-Spanish speaker to get a minibus to Tikal, since it is such a common trip. Inquire about this bus service at Chocolate's.

: We are interested in travelling throughout Belize and we are interested in taking 2-3 days out to go to Tikal from Belize. Has anyone else done this? How would we get there?
: Also, how are the buses throughout Belize? Run on schedule and affordable?
: Thanks!!!!!

Added on Date: 08:06:00 6/08/99

A ferry between Ambergris Caye and Belize City is around US$12.50 one way. Miss San Pedro may be a bit cheaper, can't recall. If it's a nice day, it's not a bad trip, but it can get rough. Flying into the municipal airport is only about US$23 one-way.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 09:03:20 6/08/99

It's easy to travel independently in Belize. While hostels are not common in Belize --there are a couple of places that are more or less hostels -- you can find safe, clean lodging for under US$20 a night in most areas, especially on Caulker and in Placencia village and in Cayo. To name a few: Deb & Dave's in Placencia, Tom's Hotel in Caulker, Trek Stop in Cayo.

With routine cautions, it's safe for a single woman to travel in Belize. I see quite a number of single female travelers there.

Typically, seasonal rains do come in late June, but that's a blessing inland because it cools things off. Unless there's a tropical storm coming through, water viz is good to excellent in June and July.

You may have seen a reference to the Maya home stay programs in Toledo (in the far south) around PG. There are a couple of those. It is pretty wet in the summer in PG, though.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 09:10:01 6/08/99

Coconuts and Banana Beach are run by the same folks. Both are excellent. Coconuts is more of a small, moderate motel on the beach. Banana Beach is a new condotel on the beach -- with one bedroom units, nice and new. We get good feedback on both and have never had a negative word on Banana Beach since it opened. Banana Beach is a couple of miles south of town, and some people do prefer to be closer to town.

Journey's End is on north Ambergris -- to get to town you have to take the hotel water shuttle or a water taxi. It's a large (for Belize) full-service resort.

I'd say the vast majority, 98%+ or more, of people coming to Ambergris Caye don't get any shots.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 09:15:58 6/08/99

I am not sure, but I believe that Belizeans have a right to bring
two small items duty free. i would check with the Embassy in Washington.

Added on Date: 11:36:06 6/08/99

Soma -
I'm paying $493. on American out of Miami for mid-June trip. Seems to get more & more $$$ all the time!!!

Added on Date: 11:46:20 6/08/99

hello i need 5 tickets to beliz2 from pittsburgh, leaving june 14 and returning july 5th. the dates are somewhat flexible on the dates. anyone who can help please let me know as soon as possible. thanks

Added on Date: 13:04:15 6/08/99

What's the best place to stay in Corozal? Do I need to make a reservation in June or is it easy to find rooms available?

I'll be going from Corozal to SPO -- should I go back to Belize City and fly??

Thanks for any advice.

Added on Date: 13:21:39 6/08/99

: Soma -
: I'm paying $493. on American out of Miami for mid-June trip. Seems to get more & more $$$ all the time!!!
I'm paying $700 for Northwest from the Midwest for the first part of July. Outrageous, but not many seats left!!

Added on Date: 14:52:39 6/08/99

: What's the best place to stay in Corozal? Do I need to make a reservation in June or is it easy to find rooms available?

: I'll be going from Corozal to SPO -- should I go back to Belize City and fly??

: Thanks for any advice.

Tony's on the sea is quite nice. Sorry, but what/where is SPO. You can fly from Corozol to San Pedro, but no where else.

Maya Travel services

Added on Date: 17:43:43 6/08/99

Jill: send me an email and I'll get in touch with them for you (whether or not you want to use our services - I'll be happy to help).

Mary

: I have sent a couple of e-mails to Ranguana Lodge and Reef resort over the last 2 months and have gotten no response. We would really like to vacation there, but can't seem to get a response to our request for reservations. Does anyone know what is happening there?

Added on Date: 18:04:12 6/08/99

Rain has really mucked up local road conditions. The Dangriga-Placencia bus trip yesterday took almost 4 hours, without many of the usual stops (the side roads were simply impassable). Fly if you can.

More Placencia news at http://www.kevinmodera.com/news.htm

Also, if you've been to Placencia, and have a little time to answer some survey questions, please go to http://www.kevinmodera.com/survey.htm

Thanks in advance.

Added on Date: 18:08:40 6/08/99

The Belize Airports Authority, newly installed since the People's United
Party took power in August last year, has left no stone unturned to
dislodge Lauren Duty Free International and its business partner UETA from
its lease of duty-free space at the airport. When the company failed in
its efforts to obtain a restraining order from the court, the Belize.
Airports Authority lost no time in physically emptying the store of all its
stock and placing these in containers for the owners to take away.

So what's new.
First BCB
Then Passports
Now this.
Like the man said you aint seen nothin yet.
Dont say you weren't forewarned.
Joelwb@msn.com

Added on Date: 19:07:08 6/08/99

:
: : Soma -
: : I'm paying $493. on American out of Miami for mid-June trip. Seems to get more & more $$$ all the time!!!
: I'm paying $700 for Northwest from the Midwest for the first part of July. Outrageous, but not many seats left!!

Paid $460 r/t from Hartford, CT in Sept. 98'. Try
the New York Times travel section on Sundays. Many
consolidators advertise there, r/t prices listed.
But beware! Some are shady outfits. Crosscheck
with the Better Business Bureau. I used World
Trade Travel, I was happy, no problems. Current
prices (late May) ran $300- 360 r/t NY, last I
checked.

Added on Date: 20:57:39 6/08/99

Tony's is the traditional favorite "upscale" place in Corozal Town. The better rooms have ice-cold A/C and cable TV (and sometimes ants) and there's a lovely thatch bar on the bay, plus a good but quite expensive restaurant. Figure US$60 or so. I enjoy this place though I sometimes feel I'm being overcharged (as when I was charged Us$15 for a load of laundry that cost Tony probably 50 cents US to have done, but I guess that's why he and his wife have done so well.)

A personal favorite is Hok'ol K'in just north of Tony's. Run by a former Peace Corps volunteer and her Belizean partner. No A/C but breezes from the bay keep things cool. Toilets don't accept tissue -- it's that kind of place. Tours here are among the best in Belize, well-priced and with unusual local options you won't find at touristy places. Highly recommended. About US$40.

In nearby Consejo there's an attractive small inn owned by a Connecticut couple, with views of the lights of Chetumal -- Casablanca. Maybe US$50.

There are cheaper places, too: Hotel Maya, Nestor's, Central, etc.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine
Ad-free & totally candid advice on Belize ... even when we're wrong!

Added on Date: 22:09:03 6/08/99

: I read somewhere that the Airport's Duty-free shop had been closed. Is that still true ???
: Thanks.

If you are referring to the duty free shop that was located in the arrival lounge. Yes that is closed and completely gone, all the walls and fixtures have been removed. I believe that the duty free in the departure lounge is still open but forgot to check when we left this time.

Added on Date: 22:54:19 6/08/99

The current rate from Miami to Belize on Taca or American should be no more than $350.00 If you are paying more than this rate you are not using a wholesaler.

Added on Date: 23:07:01 6/08/99

Well the answer to this question would depend upon if you are a Belizean or a tourist. As a tourist you are generally allowed to bring a certain luggage allowance. On American Airlines it is two bags each weighing 70 lbs. On Taca two bags each weighing 50 lbs. You are now required to fill out a customs form stating the value of your goods. Sometimes you can end up not paying anything the last time we went we declared that we had a total of $50.00 US and ended up paying a duty of $20.00 US. This was not very good. I declared that we had a can opener plus a fry daddy the rest was used clothing plus I was carrying some meat products ( hamburgers, hot dogs luncheon meat) If you can take all of your receipts with you so that you can prove cost if they decide that you should pay duty. If you are a Belizean you are entitled to enter I think several times a year without paying any duty on some items. Actually most of the customs people are very nice and if your gifts are not very expensive and not excessive in number you should do okay. I have furnished an entire house with dishes, linens pots and pans and have very rarely had to pay any duty at all. Just keep your receipts and don't be afraid to nicely say that you disagree with the duty that they want you to pay.

Added on Date: 23:23:34 6/08/99

Yes the rainy season started a day late this year.
Instead of June 1st it was June 2nd. Mango Creek area had 11 inches of rain in two days plus probably another 3-4 after that. Southern Highway is muddy but passable in two wheel drive. Trip from Mango Creek to Dangergia took us two hours. Coastal Highway was avoided by us due to the reports of bad washboard or scrubboard as a Belizean would say. However people in Democracia reported that the graders had been out working the road on Monday the 7th. As usual a grader on the Southern Highway was nowhere to be found. Cisco has started working on two small bridges right outside the Dangria cutoff and the other outfit is messing with the road from the Mango Creek junction to about the Savanah river forest airport. Hope that Placenica is doing better with their water supply than we across the bay are. No water after 6 every evening is getting ridiculous. The old saying of water water everywhere but not a drop to drink could apply here. Guess one must remember that this is the charm of Belize.

Added on Date: 23:39:48 6/08/99

I am going to be visiting Ambergris Caye for 10 days in Aug./Sept. Does anyone recommend staying on the mainland first? I would like to explore some Mayan Ruins while I am there. Or is it practical to plan my entire stay on Ambergris and take a day trip or two to the mainland? If you recommend staying on the mainland first -- where should I stay and for how long. Are guided tours of the ruins expensive? What is the price range usually. And finally -- do you recommend visiting the Belize Zoo? Thank you so much for any information you have to offer! Very very much appreciated!

Added on Date: 00:29:16 6/09/99

On our next trip to Belize we would like to take the ferry boat from Punta Gorda to Livingston and maybe up the Rio Dulce. Has anyone made this trip? How often does the boat run?

Added on Date: 01:16:40 6/09/99

What's up to all my old peep's.I just want to say to all those who remember me ,tanks for treating me like I was a true belizean.I'm half America,but Ifeel like a true BELIZEAN ,because I was welcome to sweet Dangriga. BIG & RESPECT .

Added on Date: 02:06:30 6/09/99

Check out the pictures of Country and Western superstar LeAnn Rimes and the pictures of the baracuda's she caught at:

www.journeysendresort.com/notes.htm

Added on Date: 09:40:57 6/09/99

: I am going to be visiting Ambergris Caye for 10 days in Aug./Sept. Does anyone recommend staying on the mainland first? I would like to explore some Mayan Ruins while I am there. Or is it practical to plan my entire stay on Ambergris and take a day trip or two to the mainland? If you recommend staying on the mainland first -- where should I stay and for how long. Are guided tours of the ruins expensive? What is the price range usually. And finally -- do you recommend visiting the Belize Zoo? Thank you so much for any information you have to offer! Very very much appreciated!

If you enjoy ruins, caves, jungle river canoeing and horseback riding, birding and beautiful and intereting surroundings, I'd say 4 or 5 days in the Cayo distrist is a must. The Belize Zoo is a remarkable facilty and their contribution to the preservation of the flora/fauna of Belize indispensible. Rates in Cayo run the gamut and you can stay in or near San Ignacio town less expnsively then in the riverside jungle lodges, but some of the lodges have just come up with packages that are affordable and competitive with town rates. If you need more info, email me and I'll provide options and rares for your to mull over.

Sincerely,

Katie Valk
Maya Travel Services

Added on Date: 10:15:17 6/09/99

I agree with Katie that if you have a keen interest in ruins and outdoor activities it's probably easier and better to split your time between the mainland and Ambergris Caye. You can do most tours from Ambergris Caye (see our Fun, Free & Easy Guide to Ambergris Caye on our Web edition for a complete list of tours and evaluations of them) but you spend a lot of time coming and going and if you do several the cost will be higher than staying on the mainland.

Ambergris and Cayo is the classic "surf and turf" trip -- the San Ignacio and Mountain Pine Ridge areas do offer a lot.

Yep, the Belize Zoo is a must. We rate it the # 1 attraction of its type in Belize in our new Belize Book of Lists 2000.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine
http://www.turq.com/belizefirst/

Added on Date: 12:57:25 6/09/99

There's no longer a ferry from PG. It was discontinued a couple of years ago. There are, however, water taxis -- Requena's, Paco's and others. They go daily in good weather. It's about an hour to Puerto Barrios, around US$10 one-way. Plus exit fee. Most boats are in the morning. There may be one in the afternoon. They'll usually go to Livingston if there's enough demand. Best to check a day in advance.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 13:02:28 6/09/99

I now have tickets for $415.00 tax includeded to Belize from Chicago for the months of June,July,August .

From chicago to Belize for the months of September October November $360.00 tax included.

To those people who responded earlier to my $479 post the new quotes are now applicable to you. Please be patient with me. I will e-mail all the information within a day including airline, flight schedule.

Avrail

any questions e-mail me at avrailparham@yahoo.com

Added on Date: 15:00:48 6/09/99

My sister, Mom, and I spent a week at Lamanai Outpost Lodge in May and had a most wonderful experience. The staff is outstanding, the food extremely delicious, and the accommodations excellent. The owners, Mark and Monique, encourage the researchers to spend time with the guests. That was probably the most exciting part of the trip. We talked with academics researching howler monkeys, crocodiles, birds, Mayan ruins, and ecology issues. The Lodge has an experienced ornithologist on staff, Marcus, and he took my Mom out a number of times on bird watching walks. In all the trip was very memorable and I encourage anyone wanting a wonderful vacation learning about and being in nature, this is it. I also want to thank Close Encounters for directing us to the Lamainai Outpost Lodge and making all the arrangements. They did a great job.

Added on Date: 18:06:00 6/09/99

"Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said . . . Be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods."
--Daniel 3:16, 18

The narrative of the manly courage and marvellous deliverance of the three holy children, or rather champions, is well calculated
to excite in the minds of believers firmness and steadfastness in upholding the truth in the teeth of tyranny and in the very jaws of
death. Let young Christians especially learn from their example, both in matters of faith in religion, and matters of uprightness in
business, never to sacrifice their consciences. Lose all rather than lose your integrity, and when all else is gone, still hold fast a
clear conscience as the rarest jewel which can adorn the bosom of a mortal. Be not guided by the will-o'-the-wisp of policy,
but by the pole-star of divine authority. Follow the right at all hazards. When you see no present advantage, walk by faith and
not by sight. Do God the honour to trust Him when it comes to matters of loss for the sake of principle. See whether He will be
your debtor! See if He doth not even in this life prove His word that "Godliness, with contentment, is great gain," and that they
who "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, shall have all these things added unto them." Should it happen that,
in the providence of God, you are a loser by conscience, you shall find that if the Lord pays you not back in the silver of earthly
prosperity, He will discharge His promise in the gold of spiritual joy. Remember that a man's life consisteth not in the abundance
of that which he possesseth. To wear a guileless spirit, to have a heart void of offence, to have the favour and smile of God, is
greater riches than the mines of Ophir could yield, or the traffic of Tyre could win. "Better is a dinner of herbs where love is,
than a stalled ox and inward contention therewith." An ounce of heart's-ease is worth a ton of gold.

Added on Date: 19:32:14 6/09/99

Sylvia, do you ever READ this chatboard, or do you just post your rantings on a monthly basis? I think it most cowardly of you not to include your address. If I could find you on the web elsewhere (and I've tried)...well, I won't go into details, but I will beg you one last time: could you please refrain from posting things that have little or nothing to do with Belize?

Thank you and goodnight,

Jill

Added on Date: 22:13:22 6/09/99

: The wife and I are planning a trip to Belize sometime in late summer for a week. Help us decide where & when...
: we like - laid back, casual atmosphere, nice beach, snorkling, fishing. Need clean budget accommodation on beach w/AC, elec, water.
: looking at Cay Caulker and Placencia. Any suggestions appreciated. Thanx :)

Added on Date: 23:08:58 6/09/99

: The wife and I are planning a trip to Belize sometime in late summer for a week. Help us decide where & when...
: we like - laid back, casual atmosphere, nice beach, snorkling, fishing. Need clean budget accommodation on beach w/AC, elec, water.
: looking at Cay Caulker and Placencia. Any suggestions appreciated. Thanx :)

We just returned from Caye Caulker several weeks ago. There are many budget hotels there, but very few have air conditioning. We stayed at the Tropcial Paradise hotel.It is a very basic hotel and fairly inexpensive; some rooms have air conditioning, cable TV and refrigerators.They have daily housekeeping service and our cabana was very clean. There are really no beaches on Caye Caulker but the snorkeling is great and it is an extremely laid back little island. The dress of the day is tank tops and shorts....very casual. The food was very good everywhere we ate, simple yet tasty and very inexpensive. We enjoyed our short stay in Caye Caulker and would like to go back again.

Added on Date: 23:21:37 6/09/99

Give me contacts on missionaries in Belize. I hope to be doing tent-making (educational/computer consulting) while doing the work of missions.

Added on Date: 06:57:44 6/10/99

I am planning on going to Plancencia for 2 weeks in October or November and was wondering about the weather. I know it's hurricane season but I'm hoping for the best. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks !!

Added on Date: 08:27:22 6/10/99

: Sylvia, do you ever READ this chatboard, or do you just post your rantings on a monthly basis? I think it most cowardly of you not to include your address. If I could find you on the web elsewhere (and I've tried)...well, I won't go into details, but I will beg you one last time: could you please refrain from posting things that have little or nothing to do with Belize?

: Thank you and goodnight,

: Jill
Jill,I like reading his post,and if you think Christians are not a part of Belize,your wrong.

Added on Date: 13:49:01 6/10/99

: Sylvia, do you ever READ this chatboard, or do you just post your rantings on a monthly basis? I think it most cowardly of you not to include your address. If I could find you on the web elsewhere (and I've tried)...well, I won't go into details, but I will beg you one last time: could you please refrain from posting things that have little or nothing to do with Belize?

: Thank you and goodnight,

: Jill

Jill,I like his post,and if you think Christians are not a part of Belize,your wrong.

Added on Date: 14:00:16 6/10/99

I work with a Belize person in L.A..Are they all this STUPID?

Added on Date: 15:01:28 6/10/99

: I work with a Belize person in L.A..Are they all this STUPID?

I had alot of cocky come backs to your post but now i just think your an idiot. whos the stupid one

Added on Date: 15:29:01 6/10/99

: I am planning on going to Plancencia for 2 weeks in October or November and was wondering about the weather. I know it's hurricane season but I'm hoping for the best. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks !!

Weather patterns are changing worldwide and Belize is no exception. Here are average temps and rainfall for Oct and Nov.
Temps Oct: 84/70 Nov: 82/68

Rainfall in Punta gorda, whihc is south of Placencia and receives more rain then Placencia
Oct: 14.50 inches Nov: 2.60 inches

Maya Travel Services

Added on Date: 17:40:28 6/10/99

I really enjoyed Sylvia's comments too. Belizeans enjoy these chat boards and people's comments and beliefs are of interest throughout the world. I wouldn't read these chat boards if ALL they talked about were Belizean matters - I live in Belize, I already know what's going on here.

Also, Belizeans are very tolerant people, unless somebody is very rude on these chat boards, why worry? If you don't like Sylvia's messages.... don't read them.

: : Sylvia, do you ever READ this chatboard, or do you just post your rantings on a monthly basis? I think it most cowardly of you not to include your address. If I could find you on the web elsewhere (and I've tried)...well, I won't go into details, but I will beg you one last time: could you please refrain from posting things that have little or nothing to do with Belize?

: : Thank you and goodnight,

: : Jill
: Jill,I like reading his post,and if you think Christians are not a part of Belize,your wrong.

Added on Date: 18:43:48 6/10/99

If you aren't seriously venting, what do you exactly mean by this? I really would like to know.

Added on Date: 18:53:12 6/10/99

To All I've Offended:

Sorry if I've stirred everybody up! However, as a person who vividly remembers my past lives, believes in a woman's right to choose and has several gay friends, I can't help but be offended by most religious preaching. Call me weird, but I'd like to be able to scan this chatboard everyday without feeling as if I'm a heathen for my beliefs. Yes, I'm sure Christianity is a part of Belize, but does it really belong on this board (ala Sylvia's postings)? In my measly opinion, no.

So I'll just cast my lot with Avrail and make everybody mad...but I still think Sylvia should at least include her e-mail address so I can respond to her in person. The worst part about all this? She probably never reads this chatboard, and thus, my postings. Oh well.

Again, I apologize.

Regards,

Jill

Added on Date: 20:03:28 6/10/99

Generalization is a well known stupidity!

Added on Date: 20:19:41 6/10/99

I must confess I really did not read the
religious message. In the end, to each his own,
I like the chat board and I do prefer reading
Belizean topics. Although I am no fervent believer
and disagree with some aspects of institutionalized
religion, it does me no harm to come across
this type of information now and then.

Added on Date: 20:27:01 6/10/99

A really bad lighting/thunder storm hit Placencia about 1:00 a.m. Thursday morning. The lighting struck a telephone poll (next to our house - interesting experience).

Consequently, most everyone's phones are out, and consequently, so is email.

Don't worry if you're not getting through or getting responses to email.

If we get rain tonight, phone service may not be up and running until early next Monday or Tuesday (according to BTL).

So . . . don't worry (or get in a huff) if you're not getting responses to phone calls or email . . . it's just that tropical weather thing.

Mary

Added on Date: 21:44:14 6/10/99

: I work with a Belize person in L.A..Are they all this STUPID?

You can't generalize a whole country or race just because of one person.......but if you let us know what the situation is, maybe we can discuss it.

Added on Date: 22:15:06 6/10/99

: A really bad lighting/thunder storm hit Placencia about 1:00 a.m. Thursday morning. The lighting struck a telephone poll (next to our house - interesting experience).

: Consequently, most everyone's phones are out, and consequently, so is email.

: Don't worry if you're not getting through or getting responses to email.

: If we get rain tonight, phone service may not be up and running until early next Monday or Tuesday (according to BTL).

: So . . . don't worry (or get in a huff) if you're not getting responses to phone calls or email . . . it's just that tropical weather thing.

: Mary

back up and running as of 4 PM. today but more thunder forcast for tonight

Added on Date: 22:36:31 6/10/99

it's a long time since i've been abroad but i think i'm correct that Belizeans are allowed $ 100 U.S. per anum value of goods duty free

Added on Date: 22:47:12 6/10/99

I am planning 3 weeks in Guatemala including Tikal, hiking volcanoes, rafting on the Cahabon and the like. Beyond these adventures, I am looking for unique Belize adventures.

Obviously scuba diving is a top priority (any recommended bests)??

I would like to do some mountain biking as well, but have found little to no information. Any help here? I am also concerned that the inland weather may be (1) too rainy or (2) too humid and hot. Will the weather put a damper on these plans?

Any ruins that are still a "must see" after Tikal?

Any other insights from adventurous souls?

Thanks! Jeff

Added on Date: 23:14:20 6/10/99

Hi:
We are traveling to Belize at the end of June and wonder if there are any innoculations we should get. Our Dr. has suggested we take Malaria pills and hepatitis A shots. I'm not convinced it's necessary for a 14 day trip.
Any thoughts ?

Added on Date: 23:53:02 6/10/99

This isn't really worth an answer....
What kind of person would post a message like this? I think I KNOW who has the problem here.
: I work with a Belize person in L.A..Are they all this STUPID?

Added on Date: 03:37:23 6/11/99

Scroll down the page-there are a bunch of earlier inquiries & responses that you can read

Added on Date: 08:43:37 6/11/99

: I work with a Belize person in L.A..Are they all this STUPID?

Abbie,

Does the expression you are who you work with rings a bell?

The postee before is right this does not deserve a respond. But as you are in desperate need of some education yourself I would summise from my psyche training that this is a classic case of envy and moving up in the ranks. Maybe this Belizean terms you as stupid too, ever tought of this? Of course you wouldn't from the mere fact that you would think to post something of this caliber on a well looked into board declares your purpose.

But let's stop the ignorance. After all this could just be a language barrier and not one of a intellectual matter.

Look before you leap. More importantly think, think and then think some more. It could only help in your case.

Avrail

Added on Date: 10:01:56 6/11/99

: I am planning 3 weeks in Guatemala including Tikal, hiking volcanoes, rafting on the Cahabon and the like. Beyond these adventures, I am looking for unique Belize adventures.

: Obviously scuba diving is a top priority (any recommended bests)??

: I would like to do some mountain biking as well, but have found little to no information. Any help here? I am also concerned that the inland weather may be (1) too rainy or (2) too humid and hot. Will the weather put a damper on these plans?

: Any ruins that are still a "must see" after Tikal?

: Any other insights from adventurous souls?

: Thanks! Jeff

Dear Jeff,

You'll find Mtn bike rentals in Cayo and I know Chaa Creek Cottages has them as well. Chaa Creek has both upscale jungle lodge cottages and a wonderful riverside campground for $47.70 per person per night with bkft and dinner.

Lots of ruins in that area-Caracol is the largest, along with Xunantunich, El Pilar and Cahal Pech. And that's in the Cayo district alone. Lots of good caving in Cayo as well. You might prefer the Placencia area over the other caye/beach locations and there you'll find some good wildlife tours and jungle river kayaking.

If you need more specific info, email me at mayatravel@btl.net and I'll offer suggestions.

Enjoy your trip.

Sincerely,

Katie Valk
Maya Travel Services

Added on Date: 10:26:22 6/11/99

Can someone please help? Awhile ago I came across a web page for a business called FLORASOL where you could have flowers ordered online and delivered in bze city. Anyway I can't seem to locate it any more. If anyone knows where this is ,please help. THANKS....jayjay

Added on Date: 12:20:36 6/11/99

I can't help being exceptionally curious: are you THE Ricky Martin? Do tell!

Regards,

Jill

Added on Date: 13:44:15 6/11/99

Dear JayJay,

I didn't find the exact company you were looking for, but I did find this:

http://palestracorp.com/int/Belize.html

They have a website which says you can order flowers online and have them delivered to many places in Belize. Try putting "flowers" and "Belize" in a search engine and you might come up with others.

Sincerely,

Jill

Added on Date: 13:52:44 6/11/99

: I work with a Belize person in L.A..Are they all this STUPID?

I still have not gotten one answer to my ?.IT MUST BE TO HARD FOR YOU.So you did answer it! YES

Added on Date: 14:36:50 6/11/99

I now have tickets from washington d.c to Belize for $412 for adults and $344 for children tax included.

prices from Chicago remains the same at $415 for May, June and July and $360 for August, September and October.

For those people I e-mailed information to thank you for your response. For those I have not yet responded to please be patient I am confirming prices and dates will e-mail info as soon as possible.

my e-mail is avrailparham@yahoo.com or avrail@excite.com

Added on Date: 17:26:24 6/11/99

hello everyone

Added on Date: 17:49:38 6/11/99

WHATS UPFROM THEFERGUSON FAMILY. WE HOPE IT IS NICE DOWN THERE AS IT IN CHICAGO.

Added on Date: 18:52:35 6/11/99

Can you get tickets from Denver? Mr. Elway now has some free time!

: I now have tickets from washington d.c to Belize for $412 for adults and $344 for children tax included.

: prices from Chicago remains the same at $415 for May, June and July and $360 for August, September and October.

: For those people I e-mailed information to thank you for your response. For those I have not yet responded to please be patient I am confirming prices and dates will e-mail info as soon as possible.

: my e-mail is avrailparham@yahoo.com or avrail@excite.com

Added on Date: 18:53:54 6/11/99

: hello everyoneTHIS SUCKS

Added on Date: 18:55:30 6/11/99

: hello everyone

Added on Date: 19:54:07 6/11/99

I agree with Jill it is cowardly to post and not give an address to respond to. If you feel that strongly about your convictions you should not be ashamed to post your address. Makes your point whatever it is more valid

Added on Date: 21:06:03 6/11/99

I'm looking for low air fares from Miami to Belize.
I'm having a hard time finding anything under $570.
With which airlines did you find the deal from DC?
We're planning our trip for early August. Please
help!!! Thanks!

Added on Date: 23:19:22 6/11/99

I am considering going to Belize sometime next year. After reading many of the messages posted on this & other message boards I believe I have made a good choice. But I am still a little confused as far as where to go. I think Amergris Caye would probably be my best choice. I am looking for a place to relax, read, watch the ocean etc. but I also need to stay where I am close to town to walk in because my husband has a bit of different taste. He wants something to do even if it is just exploring the town or sitting in a bar w/ a tv. We plan on doing some sight seeing, would like to go on some tour things but we are not much in to scuba. We may want to snorkel but no more than once. In other words I want a laid back place for myself but close enough for things to do for him. We would prefer to stay in a beach front cabana or at least oceanfront accomadations with a porch/balcony without spending a fortune. I would like to find something for US $80 more or less per night that is somewhat secluded (not a lot of noise) but very close to interesting things to see or do. We also must have AC and a nice pool. We generally vacation on the beaches of Florida but I am not into crowds so I like the idea of Belize being so much less commercialized but I don't want to be bored to death either. I would appreciate any advice from anyone as far as what area of Belize would fit our taste and what motel choices(there are so many posted to choice from) would be best for me. Thanks in advace for your help.

Added on Date: 13:12:47 6/12/99

Dear Janet,

To start with, have you looked at the Ambergriscaye.com website? I'm sure you have, but I thought I'd just double-check.

OK, here's my advice: Everyone who's been to Banana Beach or the Sunbreeze (and who has posted on this chatboard) has said good things about them. Check out their websites, if you haven't already. The other piece of advice (and although this is my first-hand observation, it is only my opinion, others will disagree) is to avoid Rock's Inn. Although they have A/C, it very well might be broken (as it was when we visited April '98). And as I've pointed out many times before, A/C doesn't do you much good if the windows won't close (our window was broken, too, and missing screens as well).

So my best advice, no matter which hotel you choose, would be this: If you're going in the off-season, don't make reservations for more than, say, the first night. If you are somewhat flexible, you can get better deals if you just walk up and do some bargaining, and you can see the rooms before you commit money that often, with reservations, you can't get back. If you are going in the regular season (January to April roughly), it might be a better idea to have reservations in order to get exactly what you want.

Whatever you do, keep reading this chatboard and keep asking questions--both from people who've been to Belize (and probably know more than I do!) and from the hotels themselves when you're asking about reservations. Ask LOTS of questions about what to expect in your accommodations...and then ask some more!

Hope I've helped at least a tiny bit,

Jill

Added on Date: 13:40:24 6/12/99

got a question for any one willing to assist me,
ill be getting into beliz2 on a monday at approx
1:15 pm, what i want to know is can i catch a maya or tropic air from international to stann creek or do i have to go to municapal to catch a flight? also what are the scheduled times they leave and when i get to stann creek i need a bus going to mango creek or independence (same diff)
and if it is going to possible to cath a bus at 3pm from stann creek to mango creek any help i appreciate!!!!!!!!!! you can email me or post here
much thanks in advance

Added on Date: 13:49:08 6/12/99

IS THERE ANYONE IN PLACENCIA THAT IS ONE THIS CHAT BOARD REGULARY IF THERE IS STAY IN TOUCH

Added on Date: 14:08:24 6/12/99

Yeah sure i'm on most days

Added on Date: 14:48:12 6/12/99

Aren't all Ricky Martins "the" Ricky Martin??

We're livin la vida loca baby!!!!!

(P.S.-How did you like my performance on the Today show?)

Added on Date: 16:40:47 6/12/99

kevin pass this chat page address to as many people you can in placencia and tell them to get on board and chat I guess the phone lines are working now stay cool dude and big up to everyone.

Added on Date: 18:23:19 6/12/99

Dear RM,

Try looking at this web address--hopefully it will answer your questions!

http://www.belizenet.com/transportix.shtml

Have fun in Belize!

Regards,

Jill

Added on Date: 20:26:49 6/12/99

Loved the ballad on the Today show, Ricky! Great job!

--Jill

Added on Date: 20:33:13 6/12/99

Janet,

Based on what you say are your preferences and those of your husband,yes, I would say San Pedro is a good choice. Sounds like you should stay in town or nearby. It's not as if San Pedro is a big town with a lot of noise or bothersome activities. It's basically just an overgrown fishing village with sand streets.

Since you say you want A/C (almost all hotels on the island have it) and a pool (about a third of hotels on the islands have pools), here are some of the places you might consider in or near town:

Paradise Villas
SunBreeze
The Palms
Ramon's
Belize Yacht Club

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 20:37:36 6/12/99

: I am considering going to Belize sometime next year. After reading many of the messages posted on this & other message boards I believe I have made a good choice. But I am still a little confused as far as where to go. I think Amergris Caye would probably be my best choice. I am looking for a place to relax, read, watch the ocean etc. but I also need to stay where I am close to town to walk in because my husband has a bit of different taste. He wants something to do even if it is just exploring the town or sitting in a bar w/ a tv. We plan on doing some sight seeing, would like to go on some tour things but we are not much in to scuba. We may want to snorkel but no more than once. In other words I want a laid back place for myself but close enough for things to do for him. We would prefer to stay in a beach front cabana or at least oceanfront accomadations with a porch/balcony without spending a fortune. I would like to find something for US $80 more or less per night that is somewhat secluded (not a lot of noise) but very close to interesting things to see or do. We also must have AC and a nice pool. We generally vacation on the beaches of Florida but I am not into crowds so I like the idea of Belize being so much less commercialized but I don't want to be bored to death either. I would appreciate any advice from anyone as far as what area of Belize would fit our taste and what motel choices(there are so many posted to choice from) would be best for me. Thanks in advace for your help.

Added on Date: 21:29:12 6/12/99

I'm planning on visiting Belize soon. I was born in California and have never really been anywhere else. I'd like my first excursion to be memorable. I don't need to worry about hotels, I have friends in Belize City. But I'm confused as to when to go. I want to be a part of the festival, but when I did research - the whole month of August and September are festival related. I'd like to be pretty much "in the middle of everything". My goal is to meet as many beautiful belizeans as posible, make new friends and have an immense amount of fun doing it. And while my e-mail address is here, I'd also love to have some pen pals. But I do need vacationing info. I'm working real hard to save up enough money to really enjoy myself. But I need help!!!!Please feel free to e-mail me.

Added on Date: 21:30:56 6/12/99

Returned from Banana Beach in May. Fabulous place and reasonable. One of the best beaches on the island. E-mail me for more answers to your questions.

: I am considering going to Belize sometime next year. After reading many of the messages posted on this & other message boards I believe I have made a good choice. But I am still a little confused as far as where to go. I think Amergris Caye would probably be my best choice. I am looking for a place to relax, read, watch the ocean etc. but I also need to stay where I am close to town to walk in because my husband has a bit of different taste. He wants something to do even if it is just exploring the town or sitting in a bar w/ a tv. We plan on doing some sight seeing, would like to go on some tour things but we are not much in to scuba. We may want to snorkel but no more than once. In other words I want a laid back place for myself but close enough for things to do for him. We would prefer to stay in a beach front cabana or at least oceanfront accomadations with a porch/balcony without spending a fortune. I would like to find something for US $80 more or less per night that is somewhat secluded (not a lot of noise) but very close to interesting things to see or do. We also must have AC and a nice pool. We generally vacation on the beaches of Florida but I am not into crowds so I like the idea of Belize being so much less commercialized but I don't want to be bored to death either. I would appreciate any advice from anyone as far as what area of Belize would fit our taste and what motel choices(there are so many posted to choice from) would be best for me. Thanks in advace for your help.

Added on Date: 21:32:47 6/12/99

I'm driving my truck into Belize in December,and i would like to know
1 Do i need a pink slip for my vehicle?
2 Do i need insurance?
3 How much will i pay?
Anyone with information please respond.

Added on Date: 22:03:16 6/12/99

You may find this article interesting and can reach the author by the link at the end of the page.

"Travelling to Belize by road from the USA through Mexico by: Terry Warburton"

http://members.aol.com/belizeland/burritoexpress.html

Added on Date: 03:21:13 6/13/99

About half the Village and most of the resorts have phone service as of Sunday. About half of us still don't. So . . . your continued patience remains appreciated.

Mary

: : A really bad lighting/thunder storm hit Placencia about 1:00 a.m. Thursday morning. The lighting struck a telephone poll (next to our house - interesting experience).

: : Consequently, most everyone's phones are out, and consequently, so is email.

: : Don't worry if you're not getting through or getting responses to email.

: : If we get rain tonight, phone service may not be up and running until early next Monday or Tuesday (according to BTL).

: : So . . . don't worry (or get in a huff) if you're not getting responses to phone calls or email . . . it's just that tropical weather thing.

: : Mary

: back up and running as of 4 PM. today but more thunder forcast for tonight

Added on Date: 13:52:37 6/13/99

As of Sunday, about half of Placencia Village and most of the resorts now have phone service and email. Unfortunately, we're in the half that doesn't. Your continued patience remains appreciated.

Mary

Added on Date: 13:54:37 6/13/99

Yes you can catch a flight right at the International it is a little more expensive but to go to the municipal you will have to hire a taxi and pay $15.00--- Why are you going to Stann Creek? I would just take the plane to Placencia and then get a water taxi over to Mango Creek---rather than get off in Dangriga and ride the bus down. Just remember that the smaller airlines are not as generous with the baggage allowance and you might get tagged for more money if you don't meet their criteria. Water taxi ride from Placencia should be about $15-20US Of course you can do it your way and get off in Dangeriga and come down on the bus. You are looking at at least a 3 hour bus ride. Bus should be only about 12.00

Added on Date: 13:59:46 6/13/99

: I'm driving my truck into Belize in December,and i would like to know
: 1 Do i need a pink slip for my vehicle?
: 2 Do i need insurance?
: 3 How much will i pay?
: Anyone with information please respond.

Yes you need clear title to your vehicle to pass through Mexico, the person whose name is on the title must be in the vehicle. You will need the title in Belize plus you must get insurance when you pass into Belize. Their is an agent right at the crossing who can sell you insurance. We paid 238.50 Belize for a years coverage. Duty on the truck will be based on age--- if your truck is still listed in the blue book that is the approximate rate that it will be based on. If not they will just guess. Duty is also based upon the engine in your truck. 4cy vehicles pay less tax----- For a 89 Ford ranger we were taxed about $435.00US--- A additional stamp tax is also collected and the time we paid that plus 15% for VAT--- since VAT is no more I don't know what little addition they are tacking on. Hope this helps

Added on Date: 14:10:53 6/13/99

looked up the bus schedule for z-line and they show a 4 pm leave Dangergia arrive Ind. 9 pm
also leave 7pm and arrive midnight. So change that to a five hour bus ride.

Added on Date: 16:34:35 6/13/99

: got a question for any one willing to assist me,
: ill be getting into beliz2 on a monday at approx
: 1:15 pm, what i want to know is can i catch a maya or tropic air from international to stann creek or do i have to go to municapal to catch a flight? also what are the scheduled times they leave and when i get to stann creek i need a bus going to mango creek or independence (same diff)
: and if it is going to possible to cath a bus at 3pm from stann creek to mango creek any help i appreciate!!!!!!!!!! you can email me or post here
: much thanks in advance

You can fly direct from BZE Intl to Placencia on Maya Island air flight # 109 at 2:30 to Placencia, landing at 3:30 and then catch a boat across the lagoon to Mango Creek.

If you need help with reservations, let me know.

Sincerely,

Maya Travel Services

Added on Date: 11:22:25 6/14/99

There's a big difference between the situation where you're just a visitor to Belize and where you're moving there (or plan to leave your vehicle there.)

Here is the text of a couple of articles we ran last year on driving to Belize.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine
http://www.turq.com/belizefirst/

DRIVING TO BELIZE: TWO VIEWS

Easy: By Terry Warburton

Driving to Belize thru Mexico had always held a fascination for me, as I enjoy long drives and new places. I had finally made the decision to take one of my vans there, as the rental of a small vehicle at US$65 per day in Belize had started to become an aggravating part of my trips there. Paying US$500 to $700 each of my last eight trips since January 1996 had convinced me to take my own wheels.

I am planning on moving my business, a small manufacturing company, to Belize in late 1998, and having a van there will make things easier.
My vehicle of choice was a 1982 Dodge van, for several reasons. The first is that I had only paid US$300 for it, and it was in good condition to start with. Being reasonably mechanical, I took it upon myself to do what I could to prepare it not just for the drive through Mexico, but also to provide reliable transportation in Belize. As it was a high-mileage vehicle, I completely rebuilt the transmission and replaced the torque converter. I then replaced almost everything that could possibly go wrong with a vehicle, including the starter, alternator, all belts, all hoses, plugs, wires, distributor cap, rotor, thermostat, valve cover gaskets, water pump, timing chain and gears. The radiator was also pulled out and sent to a shop where it was flushed and repaired.

As I kept all of the parts that were replaced and took them with me, I felt confident that even if something went wrong on the road, I had the tools and parts to replace or repair the problem. I also took a floor jack and two hydraulic jacks. along with a large selection of tools.

I had decided to take a small 17-foot travel trailer with me on this trip. It would hold a lot of the woodworking tools and items for the house I am building and it would provide a place to stay during construction. The only things I did to it were to replace the bearings and make sure the spare tire was in good shape.

My cousin’s son, Nick, was coming along as he wished to spend the winter in Belize. I had arranged to fly a Belizean, Earl Green, to Houston where we would meet. He had done the trip a few times before and just having him along made me feel better about this adventure.

We left Orlando on a Thursday at 2:30 in the afternoon. We met Earl in Houston at a prearranged hotel at 6 Friday evening, had a good meal, and slept until 3 a.m. With the early start we made it to Brownsville at 10:30. The first stop was at Sanborn’s Mexico Insurance Services. They are right on the road into Brownsville at 1245 Expressway 77, Suite A, Brownsville, TX 78520, tel. 956-546-6644. I had phoned ahead and faxed them the info needed, so all the paperwork was ready. They were very helpful and the cost was US$47 for five days of insurance. The next stop was at M.C. Agency (225 E. 11th St., Suite 4, Brownsville, TX 78520, tel. and fax 956-542-2456.) The owner, Mario Casanova, had been informative as to what was needed and items not to be imported to Mexico. Again, I had faxed all the vehicle info and a list and value of all items that I would be transporting thru Mexico. He had translated it all into Spanish and had all the paperwork ready. There is a three-day period that is imposed to be sure the vehicle you have is not stolen> I was glad I had phoned ahead, so that it had already been checked out.

The final stop was at the actual company that handled transmigration thru Mexico. This was half-way down the highway to Reynosa where we had to cross. (If you are only traveling into Mexico and back to the States, you can cross at Brownsville.) The fees for both places came to US$250. I found out later that if you want to spend the time, you could skip using Mario. Personally, I felt his help was worth it. We were crossing on a Saturday and were lucky to get through as this place closed at noon. It was another 16 miles to the actual border crossing.
At the crossing point, things there were a little confusing. You stand in line to get a visa (US$10 each) and then in another line to get more papers (another US$20). There are people standing around that try to get you to go outside the building where they tell you that the driver needs five copies of the visa for the next stop point. They hustle you for US$2 and make the copies. After this, you go through and are in Mexico. This took about an hour and a half.

We headed back east along a road that had seen better days. I guess it’s to prepare you for the rest of the trip. We stopped at the first little restaurant and enjoyed some goat with rice and beans, washed down with a couple of Corona beers. The next stop would be yet another customs check about 10 miles down the road. The officer stamps your papers and asks for US$1. I gave him two bucks, which promptly disappeared into his shirt pocket, with a smile.

We had crossed the major hurdle and only had to worry about 1,400 miles of Mexican highway ahead of us, that and Belize customs.

While at the border, we met another Belizean from Succotz. We chatted and found out was on his 14th trip so far this year. He was doing what Earl was doing for me, which was to be a guide through Mexico for another dumb gringo. Next time we saw him he was at the Belize border. Along the way we also met up with David Alpuche from Belmopan, who was also bringing a vehicle back down.

We headed south down Highway 180. This follows the east coast of Mexico and seemed like the shortest route to Belize. The large farms seemed to have very rich soil and were all under production. The highway was a little rough, but not too bad. We had to drive around 45 mph and the trip was starting to look like it would take longer than I had planned. As I had a flight booked back to the States for the day before Thanksgiving, it seemed that driving through the night was going to be our fate. While people had warned me against this, it did not seem a daunting activity. That was until nature added rain and fog to our trip. Lucky for me it was Earl’s turn to drive, so I closed my eyes and slept for three hours. We had 10 extra gallons of gas on board so were not worried about finding a gas station. As it turned out the stations were all open 24 hours. Gas prices were a little higher than in the States, but not as silly as in Belize. We were concerned about gas quality, but it was a non-issue, as the van ran fine.

One of the worst things we experienced were the topes. These sleeping policemen or speed-bumps were located at virtually every small town on the highway. Taken at a speed of more than 2 mph, they could cause major front-end damage. We saw one vehicle with parts of its front end on the ground. Not all of these bumps are well-marked and after hitting one at 40 mph, I knew I better not do it again. The travel trailer suffered the most from these nasty things and needed repairs when we got to Belize. Don’t take topes lightly, just slowly.

We almost had trouble at one gas station when we were told they would not accept US money. We had used up our pesos and had no choice. It was five in the morning and we were not going to wait for a bank to open. We finally told them to siphon the gas back out or take the money. Logic won the day, and they settled for an exchange rate of 5 pesos to the dollar. The proper rate was better than 7 to 1, but I was in no mood to argue the point, as it was my fault for being short on pesos.

We were stopped several times in routine stops by the federales. It is a little intimidating to have 15 soldiers with AK-47s surround the vehicle and look in all the windows. They checked our passports and sent us on our way. For the most part they were always polite and business-like. We asked one what they were looking for. His response was “guns.” At no time was our vehicle truly searched, so these stops were of minor concern. I think we were stopped a total of six times on the whole trip.

In every large town, we managed to get lost, with no idea of what happened to the right road. There is a real lack of signs to keep you following what should be the main highway through town. In one town the policeman just looked at the big Trans-Migration stickers you must have in the front window and pointed us in the right direction. I guess he could just look at us and see we were lost. In another town a cab driver shouted at us to follow him as he led us out of town and back onto the road south. I gave him US$2, and he seemed happy. So was I!

At another time everyone we asked sent us in a direction that I thought was not right. When we arrived at a toll booth, we knew the next stop was out west in the middle of Mexico. They allowed us to do a U-turn and then another police officer led us to a different ramp. This was going north, but he explained it was the only way to go south. Just do another U-turn after going through the toll booth. Why didn’t I think of that? I thanked him and he just put out his hand and said “Money?” I gave him US$5. His eyes lit up. If we had gone through the wrong toll it would have cost more than that in lost time and money.
We finally made it to just outside Villahermosa by 8 p.m. Once again it was raining, and Earl was driving. We opted for the first motel we saw, as we had been on the road for 40 hours since leaving Houston. The motel was called The Ritz. When it was built it might have been. Now it was run down but clean, and it had a restaurant and bar. We left a wake-up call for 3 a.m. which we thought would get us to the border at a reasonable time. Fortunately Earl woke up at 3:10 and got us up. I went to the lobby to check out and found the security guard asleep on the couch. He woke up and went in the office to wake up the clerk. But hey, what did I expect for US$30?

The weather finally straightened out a little and we had a nice drive for the final run for Belize. This section of the highway was really good and we could drive 60 mph most of the way. We made it to the Mexican side of the border at Chetumal at 11 a.m. We were told to pull into a secured area until our paperwork had been cleared. It was not busy with people crossing the border, but it still took an hour for someone to come out and tell us we needed to pay US$50, not pesos or Belize dollars. I asked for a receipt and he just looked at me and asked how long I would like to wait for one. A Belizean at the border whom Earl knew told us they were not suppose to charge for looking at your paperwork, but would anyways. By this time I had seen enough of Mexico and reluctantly gave up the money.

One guy I saw had been waiting for five days to clear a small pick-up truck through Mexican customs. It seems that when he entered Mexico, the secretary mis-typed a number in the vehicle ID. Now at this end, they would not let him out, until they rechecked to see if it was stolen. They did let him through, though, right behind us.
We drove the 200 feet across into Belize and a sense of relief swept over us. We were home, and glad of it! It was my bad fortune to be crossing on a day when a lot of people were bringing vehicles across. This slowed down the proceedings as each one had to be looked at and assessed. That would delay us until 6 p.m. All the employees at the Belize border were polite and helpful. A couple of them even apologized for the delay and explained the backlog of vehicles. When it was our turn, I was glad I had taken the time to accurately list all the items that I was bringing and their value. Everything was accepted as written and the duties were US$54. The van was subject to duties and taxes of 88% of value. The valuation was US$750, which seemed reasonable to me. If it had only a four-cylinder engine the duty would have been 45%.

We cleared the last hurdles as there is a border broker right there to do the paperwork required. He charged US$20. There is a small insurance agency right there also, and for US$50, I took out three months of vehicle insurance. Next stop was Nestor’s restaurant in Corozal, for dinner and Belikins. After that we drove through Belize city and out to the Belmopan Convention Hotel, where the owner George Sosa had our room waiting. That bed sure looked good!
In hindsight:
1. Planning ahead paid off.
2. I should have changed more money into pesos.
3. I should have planned on taking four days through Mexico.
4. Would I do it again? Sure, what the heck!
While it cost around US$500 to fly Earl back to Houston and pay him for being a guide, I would recommend the use of a guide for anyone’s first trip.
Terry Warburton lives near Orlando, Florida, and in Camalote Village, Cayo District.

Another View: By Mike McKinney

The trip down here from Austin, Texas, was a major bitch.

I flew David Benjamin, a Belizean from Cayo, up to Houston to help me drive, and we loaded up and brought my 1988 Mazda down. We used Transmigrantes Lobo (US$150) to get through the Mexican border bureaucracy. They were great.
All was fine until the car blew up in Villahermosa. It just got a little hole in the radiator, but that was enough. I have absolutely no mechanical ability and David just a bit more. The car limped along gamely until we hit the Western Highway in Belize. By then, the car was overheating every few miles. Luckily, we were in the midst of a torrential tropical monsoon. So I sat with a bucket, which David acquired from someone he knew en route, between my legs while he drove. Every few miles, we would get out and scoop up water from the drainage ditches and fill the radiator. Needless to say, everything got soaked — us, the stuff in the car, everything but my books and computer. Thank God for that.

David went to his house in Esperanza and I went to stay with my friend, Gilda Rudon, who runs the Country Club Bar in Santa Elena. Like her namesake, Gilda is truly the good fairy of legend. All she lacks is the bubble. Her six (yes, six) sons helped me out the next day unloading the car, drying out the stuff, and taking it to get Belizean insurance. They were endlessly nice and accommodating. I won’t even mention how much it cost to import the car.

I remained broken down in Cayo with Gilda for two weeks. Attempting to get auto parts shipped to Belize is, like everything else here, very difficult to impossible. I was speaking with an expat friend in Cayo who said that people think that when you are in Belize, you have all the time in the world. I told her that no one realizes how much time is required to get nothing done.

Finally, my new employer in Hopkins sent the company’s mechanic to Cayo to tow the car and bring me and my stuff to Belize City. There the car would be repaired and I would use the company truck to go to my job in Hopkins. The Mazda is not really made for these unbelievably rough roads. They make Cayo roads look like the Hollywood Freeway.

So we towed the car to Belize City, and I drove the truck down to Hopkins. The village is very small, the services and infrastructure are non-existent, but it is lovely and the people are very nice. After two weeks the truck died. My car, now repaired, is still in Belize City.
I have been trying to ease into the scene slowly and discreetly. Everyone immediately knew who I was and what I was doing when I got here. They recognized the truck. Vehicles are a rare commodity here. I live very quietly — unbelievably so. Lunch and dinner are the big events. Now the truck is fixed, sorta. It is still dicey and, so far, my life in Belize has been a litany of car trouble.

Mike McKinley’s article on restaurants in the Hopkins area is also in this issue.

Added on Date: 12:32:42 6/14/99

BELIZE REPORT Volume 5, Number 2 has now been uploaded, and is viewable at: http://www.belizereport.com

IN THIS ISSUE:

Caracol Maya ruins: A timely update and progress report
Retire in Paradise!: No more excuses---the Government of Belize has made our paradise irresistable to retirees, aged 45 and over
Five Sisters Lodge: A peaceful retreat in the Mountain Pine Ridge of Cayo District
Get the most out of your Belizean Holiday...a travel planning guide

Also, the following articles have recently been updated or added to the archives:

duPlooy's Jungle Lodge: On the Macal River in the Cayo District
Ek' Tun: Your Private Jungle Paradise
San Ignacio Shuttle: Service reduced to once daily
Belize/Cancun connections: Improved air connections, now includes Chetumal

Added on Date: 12:36:50 6/14/99

BELIZE REPORT Volume 5, Number 2 has now been uploaded, and is viewable at: http://www.belizereport.com

IN THIS ISSUE:

Caracol Maya ruins: A timely update and progress report
Retire in Paradise!: No more excuses---the Government of Belize has made our paradise irresistable to retirees, aged 45 and over
Five Sisters Lodge: A peaceful retreat in the Mountain Pine Ridge of Cayo District
Get the most out of your Belizean Holiday...a travel planning guide

Also, the following articles have recently been updated or added to the archives:

duPlooy's Jungle Lodge: On the Macal River in the Cayo District
Ek' Tun: Your Private Jungle Paradise
San Ignacio Shuttle: Service reduced to once daily
Belize/Cancun connections: Improved air connections, now includes Chetumal

Added on Date: 12:39:59 6/14/99

As usual I am posting my e-mails sent to the government of Belize the opposition and all newspapers. This is one of 13 and the sixth I am posting on this site. Please feel free to comment and e-mail responses.

This issue is regarding an article in the Amandala Newspaper highlighting the visit of the PM to Punta Gorda. Discussing and debating the turn out of the audience and the much needed assistance in the southern part of the country. However, it side tracked into party partitions and critisized Miniters Espat's supporters or their purpose of being at the event rather than issues, issues, issues. Which they did touch but with much negative sacasm pointing to the Minister in post in Punta Gorda.

I am trying to give as much detail as the amandala site does not yet have an archive for me to copy and paste the article for your viewing.

Date: Mon, 24 May 1999 12:59:39 -0700 (PDT)
From: Avrail Parham | Block address
Subject: Re: face off
To: unitedd@btl.net

Avrail Parham wrote:
> To the editor of the Amandala Newspaper
>
>
> Dear Editor,
>
I read your article in your newspaper titled "Face
Off". From the headliner itself I tought "Face Off" let me read. Then I saw Espat and Musa face off. Correct me if I am wrong but arn't they
suppose to be on the same sides? Why the opposition? Is the party crumbling before it begins to prosper? Why the inner conflict? Or are
these backlashes from the Musa - Marin Party Leader Election?

Although your topic gave a healthy debate and show
cased both sides of the discussion it also hinted at party rivalry. I tought that once elected by the people you could not be demoted by the party. Seems to me while followers of Marin won their term in office fare and square their is still alot of squaring off going on behind
the scenes.

These two men Hon. Michael Espat and Hon. Florencio Marin both won and gained the confidence of the people in their division. Why not give them the powewr to show what they can do instead of knocking them at every turn they take to better their community's. Why give them the
post they won without the tools to succeed. You
talk development yet you stagnate your own party members to hold a malicious grudge? Without due care of the people this will affect? The
last time I checked a little boy from Columbia had to give back his computer he won in a spelling Bee contest because there is no
electricity? Where is the fight to fix this problem? Or has it just gone assunder because it
is Michael Espat's area? I tought the goal was to
help Belize and its people not just a chosen few?

Let the shameless politicking end it will only
aggravate your supporters into further choosing between the two evils. Let me see should I vote for a divided corrupted party (PUP)or should I vote for a confused corrupted party (UDP)? The choices we have to better our country is sooooooo encouraging don't you think?.
>
It's time to tighten the belt of disicipline and get down to business. That is the business of helping people of course rather than the usual
me me me first scenario. It sounds like I am
writing about children? Well this is what it looks like. When will Belize's politician learn
that whatever they do behind the scenes will
eventually come to light. And, that they are not the only ones living in Belize.
>
If it were not for Mike Espat half of the Toledo
district would not be registered to vote last election and aid in the power that you now
possess. If it were not for Florencio Marin half of Corozal would not be employed. And, I am sure they are many other things both of these men have done for Belize as well as if not better than yourselves. So why hit them below the belt when they are trying to do their jobs? The key is to support not demote.
>
But if the New PUP's under Musa's ruling still abide by George Price's logo "THE PARTY IS BIGGER THAN THE PEOPLE" then yes,I now understand fully the construction of the PUP's.
>
> Avrail Parham
> _____________________________________________________________

Added on Date: 13:36:07 6/14/99

Hi I want to visit Belize and do some diving. I'm a student so I'm looking for cheap(est) accomodation (huts or bungalows) and some places to go. Also, where's the ACTION in Belize and what else is there to do? Thanks for any mails!!

E-mail:Sherin007@yahoo.com

Added on Date: 13:47:46 6/14/99

I dont know if you know Earl and Deborah Hutchinson But my name is Francis Hutchinson. I wiil be arriving in Belize on the 18th of june 1999. I would like to know how the weather is going to be this time of the year.

Added on Date: 17:23:02 6/14/99

: I dont know if you know Earl and Deborah Hutchinson But my name is Francis Hutchinson. I wiil be arriving in Belize on the 18th of june 1999. I would like to know how the weather is going to be this time of the year.

Added on Date: 17:25:17 6/14/99

: : I dont know if you know Earl and Deborah Hutchinson But my name is Francis Hutchinson. I wiil be arriving in Belize on the 18th of june 1999. I would like to know how the weather is going to be this time of the year.

Added on Date: 17:26:06 6/14/99

big up to al

Added on Date: 18:08:03 6/14/99

: what is the best time of year to come to Belize for flyfishing? Bone fishing? Tarpon? Permit? Bill fish?

Ted,
My wife and I managed Turneffe Island Lodge for 5 years and I was involved with Turneffe Flats for 2 1/2 years, both of these places offer fantastic fishing and diving. My experience has shown that April and May tend to be the windiest months in Belize and this can seriously affect the flats fishing. Cold fronts in the winter can make the bonefish and permit move to deeper water. Tarpon tend to like brackish water so at the cayes seem to be more active whenever it has been raining. Just about anyplace you want to go offers fantastic fishing, your established resorts and operators generally have the really experienced guides locked up and that is an essential item. As they always say, the fishing is fantastic, it is up to you to catch.

Added on Date: 18:48:47 6/14/99

: I dont know if you know Earl and Deborah Hutchinson But my name is Francis Hutchinson. I wiil be arriving in Belize on the 18th of june 1999. I would like to know how the weather is going to be this time of the year.

CHANGEABLE!

Added on Date: 18:56:12 6/14/99

I can help with info and suggestions if you are looking to stay on Ambergris Caye (San Pedro). This is probably where you like to be. Lots of opportunity to dive and more ACTION than Placencia, etc.
Write ....
: Hi I want to visit Belize and do some diving. I'm a student so I'm looking for cheap(est) accomodation (huts or bungalows) and some places to go. Also, where's the ACTION in Belize and what else is there to do? Thanks for any mails!!

: E-mail:Sherin007@yahoo.com

Added on Date: 02:53:39 6/15/99

I think I read the answer to your question several times...NO, Belizeans are not stupid. I also think I read that YOU are the stupid one, but then what could we expect from someone so.....
: : I work with a Belize person in L.A..Are they all this STUPID?

: I still have not gotten one answer to my ?.IT MUST BE TO HARD FOR YOU.So you did answer it! YES

Added on Date: 03:01:59 6/15/99

Why don't you respond to a fellow Canadian and a person who loves Belize and it's people???
: big up to al

Added on Date: 03:07:58 6/15/99

HOT, changeable but warm rain is okay!! Have a wonderful trip. Where in Belize will you be visiting? Be sure to post a report....
: I dont know if you know Earl and Deborah Hutchinson But my name is Francis Hutchinson. I wiil be arriving in Belize on the 18th of june 1999. I would like to know how the weather is going to be this time of the year.

Added on Date: 03:15:55 6/15/99

Do you really think Ricky Martin has the time to spend on a Belize chat board?

What a sap!

Added on Date: 08:53:11 6/15/99

Caye Caulker, Placencia Village, Tobacco Caye and Glover's Reef Resort on Northeast Caye are the four places which traditionally attract budget-oriented divers, although there are budget accommodations on Ambergris Caye and elsewhere. Ambergris Caye has the most "nightlife" (not really that much). Caulker and Placencia have a little.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 15:21:45 6/15/99

LOOKING FOR TRIP REPORTS OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN TO EITHER RESORTS.

THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 16:19:15 6/15/99

: LOOKING FOR TRIP REPORTS OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN TO EITHER RESORTS.

: THANKS DENNIS

Casa caribe is about 7 miles north of town and has a nice beach with mexico rocks (good snorkeling)
in front of it. But having to take a 15ish minute boat ride every time you want to go into town gets tiring.
Coral bay villas is very nice and close to town and the owners are very nice as well. Large condo style
living. I would pick Coral bay. go on the snorkel picnic fishing trip and the guide will take you to
casa caribe to cook the fish you just caught right on the beach while you sip frinks at the casa caribe bar
and swim in there pool for free. Good luck Josh Brewer

Added on Date: 17:23:25 6/15/99

: :
The new beach resort of Bahia Laguna is open and in full operation. My husband and myself are the new owners and yes, Hotel Seine Bight, as it once was has been closed since March 27th. It strikes me as humorous to see postings, information and rumors which no one really knows anything about. Many new owners change the names of businesses. There are no legal battles, there is no "cover up" and thank you Tony and Mary for your support. I always consider the source when it comes to "I heards, she saids" and so on. If you want to find out more about our place find us on the website under our new name, Bahia Laguna.
: : : : : I, too, have heard the information outlined above. I don't know the about the legal battles going on. However, I don't believe there's any kind of "cover up" regarding the renaming of the hotel. Simply, new owners (of something) are in place and running the hotel. Someone either insisted that they change the name, or the new owners thought changing the name might be a good
: : : : : idea, I don't know which. But, nothing sinister.

: : :
: : : DOES ANYONE KNOW WHO THE NEW OWNERS ARE? WHEN IS IT SCHEDULED TO REOPEN? THE WEB SITE LISTED DOES NOT DETAIL THE NEW OWNERS. THANKS.

: Whilst browsing the web I was amazed to read this,
: I suggest the managers ask their father-in-law about the legal battle involving him and belizean owner of the land, not to mention his illegal acquisition of Hotel Seine Bight, I can assure everybody there is a legal battle going on, the position of the current managers is very tenuous.
: the usurped creator of Hotel seine bight, Pam
From: Bahia Laguna
To: pamfitz@hotmail.com
Subject: Thanx
Date: Tuesday, June 15, 1999 4:59 PM

So glad to hear from you. So many creditors are looking for you and Mike!!!!!!!
Thanx for coming out of the woodwork!. My goodness, you left so many innocent people with bad checks. You should be ashamed of yourself!!!!!!!!!!!!!
From website designer, divemasters, phone company, electric company, water company, village of Seine Bight, meat suppliers, fishermen, wineries, your hard working employees who depended on you for their livelyhood, not to mention the future guests who you stiffed on their credit cards for hundreds and some thousands of dollars, area banks, the Belize Tourist Board and the entire tourist industry of the fine country of Belize.
A 'legal battle'..............? I dare say, over a document you yourself signed under the witness of the local police department.
Please continue to communicate with us. The embassy, consulate, Belize Tourist Board along with the immigration department and a long list of creditors are very interested in your where abouts.

Added on Date: 19:10:08 6/15/99

In looking at a road map on Belize.Net, it appears that there is a road off the Northern Highway that connects to the Western Highway allowing us to bypass Belize City. We will be driving from Chetumal to San Ignacio. Does anyone know the name of this road and what condition it is in??? Thanks.

Added on Date: 20:21:10 6/15/99

I am leaving for Belize on July 1st. I just broke my leg and would like information about the availability of golf carts to rent. Do I have a chance of getting around?

Added on Date: 21:17:34 6/15/99

Corol Tillett I wan Tak send message EMAIL DQui449308

Added on Date: 22:29:51 6/15/99

: In looking at a road map on Belize.Net, it appears that there is a road off the Northern Highway that connects to the Western Highway allowing us to bypass Belize City. We will be driving from Chetumal to San Ignacio. Does anyone know the name of this road and what condition it is in??? Thanks.

The road is called the Burrel Boom Road, and it does reduce the mileage a little and allows you to bypass Belize City. It is not paved, but it's in pretty good condition,
as far as gravel roads in Belize go.

Added on Date: 22:54:59 6/15/99

Please, we have two opinion oriented questions. Looking for preferences between Rum Point and Kitty's in Placencia. It's our splurg hotel and it's a tourgh choice.
Also any advice on whether it's best to travel in the Cayo district by rental car or tours/public transportation? Thank you for help!

Added on Date: 23:47:06 6/15/99

Rum Point and Kitty's are both excellent places, and you won't go wrong with either. Some differences: Overall, the accommodations at Rum Point are more luxe, especially the new units which are very large, nicely furnished and have A/C. (But they are not directly on the beach.) Rum Point has a pool (above ground), Kitty's does not. Kitty's does not have any A/C. Rum Point also has the best hotel library in Belize. But what Kitty's does offer is one of the best beaches on the peninsula, a great Belizean barefoot casual atmosphere, a very good restaurant and bar, and the beachfront cabanas here are wonderful -- one of my favorite beachfront places to stay in all of Belize.

Actually, if you're looking for a splurge place, you might also look at Inn at Robert's Grove. Beautiful A/C rooms, pool, tennis courts, very good restaurant. Beach is not as good, though, in my opinion, as at Kitty's.

As to a car, personally I wouldn't be without one, but others disagree. Weather has been bad (rainy) in that area recently, and the Southern Highway and the road to Placencia have been in poor condition, which happens from time to time especially in the summer. There is now a shuttle on the peninsula, which helps, but I like having a car to go when and where I want.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine
http://www.turq.com/belizefirst/

Added on Date: 09:10:38 6/16/99

Plenty of golf carts to rent on Ambergris Caye. On the mainland, no.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 09:12:30 6/16/99

BELIZE REPORT Volume 5, Number 2 has now been uploaded, and is viewable at: http://www.belizereport.com

IN THIS ISSUE:

Caracol Maya ruins: A timely update and progress report
Retire in Paradise!: No more excuses---the Government of Belize has made our paradise irresistable to retirees, aged 45 and over
Five Sisters Lodge: A peaceful retreat in the Mountain Pine Ridge of Cayo District
Get the most out of your Belizean Holiday...a travel planning guide

Also, the following articles have recently been updated or added to the archives:

duPlooy's Jungle Lodge: On the Macal River in the Cayo District
Ek' Tun: Your Private Jungle Paradise
San Ignacio Shuttle: Service reduced to once daily
Belize/Cancun connections: Improved air connections, now includes Chetumal

Added on Date: 10:24:36 6/16/99

Mopan River Resort's Millennium Package offers the best value in Belize!

All-inclusive, seven nights, from Sunday, December 26: US$ 896 per person, double.

All transfers, meals and drinks, daily excursions (including Tikal), river activities, entertainment, fun, relaxation, taxes and service INCLUDED!!!

Booking now!

Added on Date: 10:30:27 6/16/99

Have heard all the good things that the beautiful country of Belize have been offering native americans. Lots of good friends and business associated brought back nothing but great memories of their vacation and will return again for some more one day.

Do keep up the good work

Added on Date: 11:53:22 6/16/99

Dennis, Both resorts are very nice. I visited Casa Caribe last month and found it quite nice although the lunch could have been better prepared. It was overcooked. Maybe the chef was distracted at the time. You have to use water transport to get back and forth to town which I find very inconvenient but that is up to your individual choice.

Coral Bay Villas are also tops but the rates are tops too. Not that they aren't worth it....from what I've heard and read, they are.

You may be interested in another property owned by a friend of mine called Banana Beach Resort. It is beautiful and new on one of the best beaches on Ambergris and located just 1-1/2 miles south of San Pedro. Why not take a look at their website: Click Here for Banana Beach Resort. The owner is Tim Jeffers and he will answer you very quickly.

: LOOKING FOR TRIP REPORTS OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN TO EITHER RESORTS.

: THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 13:56:10 6/16/99

Dennis, Both resorts are very nice. I visited Casa Caribe last month and found it quite nice although the lunch could have been better prepared. It was overcooked. Maybe the chef was distracted at the time. You have to use water transport to get back and forth to town which I find very inconvenient but that is up to your individual choice.

Coral Bay Villas are also tops but the rates are tops too. Not that they aren't worth it....from what I've heard and read, they are.

You may be interested in another property owned by a friend of mine called Banana Beach Resort. It is beautiful and new on one of the best beaches on Ambergris and located just 1-1/2 miles south of San Pedro. Why not take a look at their website: Click Here for Banana Beach Resort. The owner is Tim Jeffers and he will answer you very quickly.

: LOOKING FOR TRIP REPORTS OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN TO EITHER RESORTS.

: THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 13:58:35 6/16/99

A very well done website and the price is very good. Nice touch with the champagne. I wish you all the best in your new endeavour.
Jim Pennington

: Mopan River Resort's Millennium Package offers the best value in Belize!

: All-inclusive, seven nights, from Sunday, December 26: US$ 896 per person, double.

: All transfers, meals and drinks, daily excursions (including Tikal), river activities, entertainment, fun, relaxation, taxes and service INCLUDED!!!

: Booking now!

Added on Date: 14:05:37 6/16/99

A good golf cart rental company in Ambergris is Monchos Rentals. I found their golf carts to be in very good condition. Your hotel desk can set it up for you --- No Problem!

: I am leaving for Belize on July 1st. I just broke my leg and would like information about the availability of golf carts to rent. Do I have a chance of getting around?

Added on Date: 14:11:05 6/16/99

HELLO YOU ALL JUST LETTING

Added on Date: 17:01:15 6/16/99

big up to you all today. say hi to everyone from rumtree, fingers ,joonya,bigga,prof,chatbout,the shlurps,misses tree,geramjah and his wife that likes cookies more then the flamboyant "little pun for g man" d crazy canucks ya man

stay cool have a cool beliken
i be liken

Added on Date: 20:38:51 6/16/99

: Have heard all the good things that the beautiful country of Belize have been offering native americans. Lots of good friends and business associated brought back nothing but great memories of their vacation and will return again for some more one day.

: Do keep up the good work
belize is a beauty

Added on Date: 20:40:14 6/16/99

y'all have been most helpful sponsoring this worthwhile board. have another question for you. everything I've read has said that US dollars need not be converted to Belizean as US is accepted everywhere at a 2 to 1 exchange. True?
And that $20 US bills are probably the largest denomination that can easily be handled?
thanks in advance. see you next week!

Added on Date: 20:58:53 6/16/99

Hi,
I live on the Caribbean Island of St Barthelemy,
Looking for someone who collect phonecards to exchange with me, or anyone who else who is willing to send me a few used [empty] phonecards.
Thank you in advance.
Cheers,
Laszlo
My E-mail address is Wolfs.song@wanadoo.fr

Added on Date: 23:41:57 6/16/99

All that you have said is TRUE.

However, US bills larger than $20 can be used for paying in most hotels. Have a great vacation.

: y'all have been most helpful sponsoring this worthwhile board. have another question for you. everything I've read has said that US dollars need not be converted to Belizean as US is accepted everywhere at a 2 to 1 exchange. True?
: And that $20 US bills are probably the largest denomination that can easily be handled?
: thanks in advance. see you next week!

Added on Date: 07:08:49 6/17/99

LOOKING FOR INFO. ON PELICAN BEACH RESORT AND LIVING REEF DIVE CENTRE IN SOUTHWATER CAYE.

THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 13:20:45 6/17/99

: LOOKING FOR INFO. ON PELICAN BEACH RESORT AND LIVING REEF DIVE CENTRE IN SOUTHWATER CAYE.

: THANKS DENNIS

Dear Dennis,

Pelican has different facilities out on 15 acre SW Caye starting at $165.00/double per night including all meals, taxes and grat. Wonderful island situated directly on the reef. Heaven. I belive Living reef have left and are now managing Manta Resort, but I've been talking to another dive operator on Tobacco caye (your neighbor) who you can handle all your diving needs.

Pelican also has a well established hotel on the beach in Dangriga and run great day trips to the Jaguar Preserve, Gales Point for manatees/turtles and nearby Ben Loman Cave. Great service, wonderful food, nice beach and friendly and helpful mgmt.

If you need more info, feel free to email.

Best,

Katie Valk
Maya Travel Services

Added on Date: 15:46:41 6/17/99

Just a reminder if you need tickets for september it's best to book now.

The prices for Chicago to beliz2 is still the same for the months of June, July, and August is $360.00

From Washington DC to Belize the price is $412 for adults and $344 for children

From any where else in the US the price varies. But it could be less so e-mail query's to avrailparham@yahoo.com or avrail@excite.com

Thanks in advance,
Avrail

Added on Date: 16:24:14 6/17/99

For the best investment or realestate deal in Belize,go to BELIZE.NET,FORORM REAL ESTATE

Added on Date: 17:07:37 6/17/99

Be Blessed with this Prayer!
> >
> >Father, I ask you to bless your chrildren reading this right now! Lord, show
> them>a new revelation of Your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask You to
> >minister to their spirit at this very moment. Where there is pain, give
> them >Your peace & mercy. Where there is self doubting, release a renewed
> >confidence in Your ability to work through them. Where there is tiredness,
> >or exhaustion, I ask You to give them understanding, patience, & strength
> >as they learns submission to Your leading. Where there is spiritual
> >stagnation, I ask You to renew them by revealing Your nearness, and by
> >drawing them into greater intimacy with You. Where there is fear, reveal
> >Your love, and release to them Your courage. Where there is a sin
> blocking >them, reveal it, and break its hold over chrildrens' life. Bless
> their >finances, give them greater vision, and raise them up as a leaders, and
> friends >to support, and encourage them. Give them discernment to recognize
> the >demonic forces around them, and reveal to them the power you have in
> You to >defeat it.
> >
> >I ask You to do these things in Jesus' holy name!
> >
> >In Christian love, Your sister in Christ
> >
> >
>
>

Added on Date: 19:58:18 6/17/99

: I think I read the answer to your question several times...NO, Belizeans are not stupid. I also think I read that YOU are the stupid one, but then what could we expect from someone so.....
: : : I work with a Belize person in L.A..Are they all this STUPID?

: : I still have not gotten one answer to my ?.IT MUST BE TO HARD FOR YOU.So you did answer it! YES

BELIZE PEOPLE ARE MORE EDUCATED THAT WHO SEND THIS MESSAGE. IT TAKES ONE TO KNOW ONE

Added on Date: 22:49:40 6/17/99

: WHAT IS YOUR PROBLEM ?

JESUS@HEAVEN.COM

Added on Date: 22:55:35 6/17/99

WAY TO GO JESUS!!!!!!

Added on Date: 07:09:22 6/18/99

I see that the Belize Tourism Board was successful in its efforts to get TACA to reinstate the non-stop flight from Miami to Belize City. Effective June 19, daily service on 737 equipment will resume between Miami and Belize City, with continuing service to Flores (Tikal) and Guatemala City. It's the same route in reverse on the return.

For a couple of months, TACA service to Belize from Miami had been reduced to service only through San Pedro Sula.

Way to go, BTB. This is good news for Belize!

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 10:12:22 6/18/99

Thanks for the good news Lan. When I flew from Miami to Belize direct in May, I was charged $563US return by American Aitlines. I felt I was being ripped off and am glad to see that AA has competition once again. I like flying TACA...they are a first rate airline.

: I see that the Belize Tourism Board was successful in its efforts to get TACA to reinstate the non-stop flight from Miami to Belize City. Effective June 19, daily service on 737 equipment will resume between Miami and Belize City, with continuing service to Flores (Tikal) and Guatemala City. It's the same route in reverse on the return.

: For a couple of months, TACA service to Belize from Miami had been reduced to service only through San Pedro Sula.

: Way to go, BTB. This is good news for Belize!

: --Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 14:07:38 6/18/99

I am planning on going back to Belize within the year. Need a job there, know of any?

I've searched the Belize classifieds on the net. But so far all I see posted is commercial "get rich quick" ads from the US. I also have an Amandala from May 8 but need updated issue with classifieds.

I also have a 1996 Telephone directory but need 1999 version so I can start mailing my resume to potential employers not listed on the internet
e-mail address listing.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
Avrail

My e-mail is avrailparham@yahoo.com
or avrail@excite.com

Added on Date: 17:19:25 6/18/99

: : I think I read the answer to your question several times...NO, Belizeans are not stupid. I also think I read that YOU are the stupid one, but then what could we expect from someone so.....
: : : : I work with a Belize person in L.A..Are they all this STUPID?

: : : I still have not gotten one answer to my ?.IT MUST BE TO HARD FOR YOU.So you did answer it! YES

: BELIZE PEOPLE ARE MORE EDUCATED THAT WHO SEND THIS MESSAGE. IT TAKES ONE TO KNOW ONE

OHHHHHHHH IT TAKES ONE TO KNOW ONE.IS THAT THE BEST YOU STUPID BELIZE PEOPLE CAN DO.

Added on Date: 18:40:26 6/18/99

: Be Blessed with this Prayer!
: > >
: > >Father, I ask you to bless your chrildren reading this right now! Lord, show
: > them>a new revelation of Your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask You to
: > >minister to their spirit at this very moment. Where there is pain, give
: > them >Your peace & mercy. Where there is self doubting, release a renewed
: > >confidence in Your ability to work through them. Where there is tiredness,
: > >or exhaustion, I ask You to give them understanding, patience, & strength
: > >as they learns submission to Your leading. Where there is spiritual
: > >stagnation, I ask You to renew them by revealing Your nearness, and by
: > >drawing them into greater intimacy with You. Where there is fear, reveal
: > >Your love, and release to them Your courage. Where there is a sin
: > blocking >them, reveal it, and break its hold over chrildrens' life. Bless
: > their >finances, give them greater vision, and raise them up as a leaders, and
: > friends >to support, and encourage them. Give them discernment to recognize
: > the >demonic forces around them, and reveal to them the power you have in
: > You to >defeat it.
: > >
: > >I ask You to do these things in Jesus' holy name!
: > >
: > >In Christian love, Your sister in Christ
: > >
: > >
: >
: > This is not the place for this stuff,please take it someplace else!!!!!!!!

Added on Date: 21:32:52 6/18/99

Once I thought you may have had something to tell us about ourselves. But at this point, I think you are just consumed by your own hate. By not giving any explanation to what you consider Belizeans' stupidity you have revealed you own sense of stupidity. And by responding to your nonsensical responses I and other Belizeans have unfortunately dragged ourselves down to your level. That's it for me, I consider you a full-fledged moron.

Added on Date: 22:40:14 6/18/99

TEST TEST TEST

Added on Date: 23:15:41 6/18/99

To my beloved homeland and my fellow Belizeans.
May all your mornings be good ,and all your days
be blessed and happy with the bounty of this
blessed land. This BELIZE.Land Of The Free, not
only by the Carib sea ,but by any sea known to man: so a warm GOOD MORNING BELIZE,from one of your native sons in a distant land whos"thaughts
always takes him back you O land of my birth.
ALBERT ARNOLD.
QNTARIO,CALIFORNIA.

Added on Date: 23:37:16 6/18/99

Dear Stupid Abbie,
your head is very far up your ass. Hopefully you will soon disapear.
: I work with a Belize person in L.A..Are they all this STUPID?

Added on Date: 02:01:09 6/19/99

***Belize Issues a Public Retraction and Formal Apology to PABN***

After a year of false and inaccurate published information from Belize, the Reporter finally apologizes to Pan American Bancorp (PABN). Pan American Bancorp will be developing and financing several mixed- use subdivisions throughout Belize beginning with Ridge Lagoon Estates in Burrel Boom through our Belize Company Affordable Housing Group. There is still time to invest in this super company at reasonable prices.

http://www.panambancorp.com/

Go PABN!

This daily news summary brought to you by The Reporter Newspaper
Copyright 1998 The Reporter - All rights Reserved.
This Naturalight Productions service is for personal use only.
Commercial use or redistribution in any form, printed or electronic is
prohibited.

Please send questions or comments about the news to report@btl.net.
Comments or problems about this news service to bcbnews-support@bze.net.

Information about this service and other Internet services including
website design and hosting available at info@bze.net.
---------------------------------------------------------------------

***
Headline

Retraction

The Reporter wishes to retract the report sent to e-mail subscribers on
Wednesday about Pan American Bancorp.

Pan American Bancorp is a joint venture partner with Affordable Housing
Group Limited, a locally registered Belizean company, which is engaged in a
housing project at Ladyville in a new subdivision called Ridge Lagoon
Estate.

Pan American Bancorp owns 49 percent of Affordable Housing Group Limited.
The other 51 percent is owned by Mr. Joe Sanker of Los Angeles, California.

Mr. Sanker has produced documentary evidence to show that both Affordable
Housing Group Ltd. and an associate company called Alph's National
Building Society are registered entities with corporate status in Belize.

Alph's National Building Society was registered in Belize on August 9,
1998. Affordable Housing Group Limited was registered on February 27,
1998.

Reporter retracts completely and unconditionally the negative things it
said about Pan American Bancorp and apologizes to its directors and to Mr.
John Schmitz, its CEO.
****

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with the other address in the Subject: line

Added on Date: 02:36:21 6/19/99

http://www.panambancorp.com/press/press_releases/purewater980611.html

Thursday June 11, 2:53 pm Eastern Time
Company Press Release
Purewater/PanAmerican Bancorp to Begin Funding Mortgages in Central America in Late Summer
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 11, 1998--Purewater Sciences International Inc. announced the completion of the merger with PanAmerican BanCorp, an international mortgage and finance company.

PanAmerican/Purewater (NASDAQ: PRWT - news) announced the start of their first major subdivision in Belize. The slab foundations are being poured this month and model homes will be ready for the September inauguration. During the month of September, Belizeans celebrate their independence.

PanAmerican has chosen then to start taking the first applications for mortgages. The company has over 300 qualified, interested people looking to buy homes in Belize. This first subdivision will total some 1800 homes with Phase I covering approximately 500 homes.

The pass-thru certificates totaling $10 million being issued to fund these loans have already been placed in the secondary market, subject to final documents. The final documents and language will be in place by the expected October closings. Once the first wave is accomplished, PanAmerican expects to issue more certificates to fund the estimated $150 million plus in mortgage money needed in Belize alone. PanAmerican BanCorp intends to continue to participate and grow in the expanding global mortgage markets, as well as the growth mortgage markets in America.

Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this news release may be considered ``Forward-looking'' statements, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such statements include declarations regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the company and its management. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could materially affect actual results.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact:
PanAmerican Bancorp
Investor relations, 516/232-2221


Copyright © 1998 PanAmerican BanCorp.

Added on Date: 02:40:13 6/19/99

http://www.panambancorp.com/press/press_releases/panamerica980708_1.html

Wednesday July 8, 4:01 pm Eastern Time
Company Press Release
PanAmerican BanCorp Secures Belize Arrangement
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 8, 1998--PanAmerican BanCorp (PRWT), which recently merged with Purewater Sciences International Inc., has announced that the first mortgage applications have been received from Belize.

Its wholly owned subsidiary, Affordable Housing Group Ltd., is the first foreign company to be licensed to conduct mortgage banking in the country of Belize.

The first 800 of some 6,000 mortgage applications from Belize citizens are being processed. The first closings are expected in late August or early September. Most borrowers are government workers or other civil servants and employees of large Belize companies. The home foundations have been laid out and the models will be completed as scheduled; inauguration of the sub-division is set for September. The government of Belize has backed the program and investors have committed to fund $10,000,000 in mortgages monthly beginning immediately.

PanAmerican BanCorp will receive an origination fee in Belize approximating 5% and an annual servicing fee of 2% on the mortgage portfolio balance - a very lucrative fee schedule for originating warehousing and servicing government guaranteed mortgages.

PanAmerican BanCorp expects the mortgages in Costa Rica to be larger than anticipated. John Schmitz, CEO of PanAmerican BanCorp, will return to Costa Rica in late summer to further arrangements to provide mortgages to the 20,000 new homes under the government guarantee program. Loans are approximately $25,000 to $30,000 each.

The matters discussed in this news release may be considered ``forward looking'' statements, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such statements include declarations regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the company and its management. Prospective investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could materially affect actual results.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact:
PanAmerican BanCorp
Investor Relations
516/232-2221


Copyright © 1998 PanAmerican BanCorp.

Added on Date: 02:42:45 6/19/99

: http://www.panambancorp.com/press/press_releases/panamerica980708_1.html

: Wednesday July 8, 4:01 pm Eastern Time
: Company Press Release
: PanAmerican BanCorp Secures Belize Arrangement
: NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 8, 1998--PanAmerican BanCorp (PRWT), which recently merged with Purewater Sciences International Inc., has announced that the first mortgage applications have been received from Belize.

: Its wholly owned subsidiary, Affordable Housing Group Ltd., is the first foreign company to be licensed to conduct mortgage banking in the country of Belize.

: The first 800 of some 6,000 mortgage applications from Belize citizens are being processed. The first closings are expected in late August or early September. Most borrowers are government workers or other civil servants and employees of large Belize companies. The home foundations have been laid out and the models will be completed as scheduled; inauguration of the sub-division is set for September. The government of Belize has backed the program and investors have committed to fund $10,000,000 in mortgages monthly beginning immediately.

: PanAmerican BanCorp will receive an origination fee in Belize approximating 5% and an annual servicing fee of 2% on the mortgage portfolio balance - a very lucrative fee schedule for originating warehousing and servicing government guaranteed mortgages.

: PanAmerican BanCorp expects the mortgages in Costa Rica to be larger than anticipated. John Schmitz, CEO of PanAmerican BanCorp, will return to Costa Rica in late summer to further arrangements to provide mortgages to the 20,000 new homes under the government guarantee program. Loans are approximately $25,000 to $30,000 each.

: The matters discussed in this news release may be considered ``forward looking'' statements, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such statements include declarations regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the company and its management. Prospective investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could materially affect actual results.

:
: --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
: Contact:
: PanAmerican BanCorp
: Investor Relations
: 516/232-2221
:
:
: Copyright © 1998 PanAmerican BanCorp.

: I HAVE SEEN MANY THINGS LIKE THIS COME AND GO IN BELIZE,ANY ONE LOOKING INTO THIS LOOK GOOD AND HARD BEFOR YOU INVEST.
:

Added on Date: 13:34:37 6/19/99

: Be Blessed with this Prayer!
: > >
: > >Father, I ask you to bless your chrildren reading this right now! Lord, show
: > them>a new revelation of Your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask You to
: > >minister to their spirit at this very moment. Where there is pain, give
: > them >Your peace & mercy. Where there is self doubting, release a renewed
: > >confidence in Your ability to work through them. Where there is tiredness,
: > >or exhaustion, I ask You to give them understanding, patience, & strength
: > >as they learns submission to Your leading. Where there is spiritual
: > >stagnation, I ask You to renew them by revealing Your nearness, and by
: > >drawing them into greater intimacy with You. Where there is fear, reveal
: > >Your love, and release to them Your courage. Where there is a sin
: > blocking >them, reveal it, and break its hold over chrildrens' life. Bless
: > their >finances, give them greater vision, and raise them up as a leaders, and
: > friends >to support, and encourage them. Give them discernment to recognize
: > the >demonic forces around them, and reveal to them the power you have in
: > You to >defeat it.
: > >
: > >I ask You to do these things in Jesus' holy name!
: > >
: > >In Christian love, Your sister in Christ
: > >
: > >
: > Its funny how only good words can get answers like below,we will be praying for you brother.I love reading your post keep up his work!
: >

Added on Date: 13:38:56 6/19/99

LOOKING FOR INFO. ON TO CONTACT THE LODGE?

THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 18:35:09 6/19/99

Looking for anyone willing to sell me those old Belize music-example-"Sweet Belizean Girl" "Birds'
Isle" "Lord Rhaburn" "The Professionals" etcetera. CD's a preference but will also buy vinyl. Would also prefer items in good condition.

I do Belize it !

Added on Date: 22:16:25 6/19/99

Anybody up?

Added on Date: 03:00:09 6/20/99

: Once I thought you may have had something to tell us about ourselves. But at this point, I think you are just consumed by your own hate. By not giving any explanation to what you consider Belizeans' stupidity you have revealed you own sense of stupidity. And by responding to your nonsensical responses I and other Belizeans have unfortunately dragged ourselves down to your level. That's it for me, I consider you a full-fledged moron.

Jerry,You are a sucker,just like all the other stupid Belize people that answed this post.But i think you people are use to being suckers,look at your goverment and how they sucker you all the time.STILL WAITING FOR ANSWER??????

Added on Date: 16:42:40 6/20/99

Anyone know of any belizeans coming to de games to compete . de got de support in de hood! sorry i could not see de beliz2 soccer team .big up anyway sorry i could'nt buy de ref at the airport but i did try.... big up dudes

Added on Date: 22:27:02 6/20/99

Hi there Rumtree

Placencia is slowing down now getting to the best time of year not many tourists nad the beach to ourselves.
Good party at dockside all weekend though

later

Added on Date: 12:27:41 6/21/99

I stayed at Coral Bay Villas a year ago for 9 days. Herm
& Linda were wonderful!! They arranged snorkeling trips
for us, even went to the market and picked up beer and
bottled water for us!! The condo we had was perfect for the
4 of us. It was a 15 minute walk to the center of town, and
they had free bicycle use for guests. I would recommend it
to anyone!!

: LOOKING FOR TRIP REPORTS OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN TO EITHER RESORTS.

: THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 12:53:41 6/21/99

Hi, my name is Jeff McLellan, I'm a 24 year old who was born and raised (and still living in) Vanocuver, British Columbia, Canada. I enjoy sea kayaking and am planning on taking up scuba diving this summer. I am in the process of planning a trip to Belize within the next year and was wondering if there are any other people around my age who are also in the process of planning a trip to Belize. If so please respond. This is the first time I'm planning a trip on my own and was hoping to get info from other people about Belize and what they plan on doing. And even possibly chatting with some people who might be down there at the same time I am. Cheers.

Added on Date: 15:53:47 6/21/99

: Hi, my name is Jeff McLellan, I'm a 24 year old who was born and raised (and still living in) Vanocuver, British Columbia, Canada. I enjoy sea kayaking and am planning on taking up scuba diving this summer. I am in the process of planning a trip to Belize within the next year and was wondering if there are any other people around my age who are also in the process of planning a trip to Belize. If so please respond. This is the first time I'm planning a trip on my own and was hoping to get info from other people about Belize and what they plan on doing. And even possibly chatting with some people who might be down there at the same time I am. Cheers.

Hi Jeff,
My friend Jen and I will be on Ambergris Caye from July 3rd until July 10th, traveling from Boston, MA. I'm 25 and she's 28...Only a couple of weeks away so you're probably planning your trip later in the year, but just wanted to let you know. Can't offer you any info b/c it's our first time there also, but I've found that this board, as well as Ambergriscaye.com (but that's specifically for Ambergris) have been really helpful and have lots of info already posted...only wish I had found the board before booking my trip b/c I think we could have gotten a better deal...and of course you can post specific questions and plenty will answer.

Anyone else that is going to be on Ambergris Caye around that time let us know! My email is jwren@bkb.com.
Thanks,
Jennifer and Jen

Added on Date: 16:55:20 6/21/99

: Hi there Rumtree

: Placencia is slowing down now getting to the best time of year not many tourists nad the beach to ourselves.
: Good party at dockside all weekend though

: later

ya man.wish i was there but anyway have one me there and i'll have one for you here later dude

Added on Date: 17:11:35 6/21/99

: : Hi, my name is Jeff McLellan, I'm a 24 year old who was born and raised (and still living in) Vanocuver, British Columbia, Canada. I enjoy sea kayaking and am planning on taking up scuba diving this summer. I am in the process of planning a trip to Belize within the next year and was wondering if there are any other people around my age who are also in the process of planning a trip to Belize. If so please respond. This is the first time I'm planning a trip on my own and was hoping to get info from other people about Belize and what they plan on doing. And even possibly chatting with some people who might be down there at the same time I am. Cheers.

: Hi Jeff,
: My friend Jen and I will be on Ambergris Caye from July 3rd until July 10th, traveling from Boston, MA. I'm 25 and she's 28...Only a couple of weeks away so you're probably planning your trip later in the year, but just wanted to let you know. Can't offer you any info b/c it's our first time there also, but I've found that this board, as well as Ambergriscaye.com (but that's specifically for Ambergris) have been really helpful and have lots of info already posted...only wish I had found the board before booking my trip b/c I think we could have gotten a better deal...and of course you can post specific questions and plenty will answer.

: Anyone else that is going to be on Ambergris Caye around that time let us know! My email is jwren@bkb.com.
: Thanks,
: Jennifer and Jen

Be sure to stop by Coconuts Beach Bar for a visit... we will give you some ideas to help you find your way around San Pedro Town
Margie and Ada and Jennifer

Added on Date: 23:31:29 6/21/99

: : : Hi, my name is Jeff McLellan, I'm a 24 year old who was born and raised (and still living in) Vanocuver, British Columbia, Canada. I enjoy sea kayaking and am planning on taking up scuba diving this summer. I am in the process of planning a trip to Belize within the next year and was wondering if there are any other people around my age who are also in the process of planning a trip to Belize. If so please respond. This is the first time I'm planning a trip on my own and was hoping to get info from other people about Belize and what they plan on doing. And even possibly chatting with some people who might be down there at the same time I am. Cheers.

: : Hi Jeff,
: : My friend Jen and I will be on Ambergris Caye from July 3rd until July 10th, traveling from Boston, MA. I'm 25 and she's 28...Only a couple of weeks away so you're probably planning your trip later in the year, but just wanted to let you know. Can't offer you any info b/c it's our first time there also, but I've found that this board, as well as Ambergriscaye.com (but that's specifically for Ambergris) have been really helpful and have lots of info already posted...only wish I had found the board before booking my trip b/c I think we could have gotten a better deal...and of course you can post specific questions and plenty will answer.

: : Anyone else that is going to be on Ambergris Caye around that time let us know! My email is jwren@bkb.com.
: : Thanks,
: : Jennifer and Jen

: Be sure to stop by Coconuts Beach Bar for a visit... we will give you some ideas to help you find your way around San Pedro Town
: Margie and Ada and Jennifer

Added on Date: 11:32:46 6/22/99

I am thinking of visiting Placencia Peninsula soon. I have been looking on the internet for places to stay and accomodations. Any recommendations? What do you think of Singing Sands and Bahia Laguna? Both look nice on their website, but I would love to get a third parties opinion. These are close to Seine Bight. What is this village like? What is the beach like? Thank you so much for any helpful advice!

Added on Date: 12:32:49 6/22/99

: I am thinking of visiting Placencia Peninsula soon. I have been looking on the internet for places to stay and accomodations. Any recommendations? What do you think of Singing Sands and Bahia Laguna? Both look nice on their website, but I would love to get a third parties opinion. These are close to Seine Bight. What is this village like? What is the beach like? Thank you so much for any helpful advice!

......
Bahai Laguna is the former Hotel Seine Bight. It is under new ownership following a change that was unpleasant for everyone (especially the former owners and guests at the hotel.) Until things are sorted out, we do not recommend this property.

Singing Sands is also under new management, but this is probably an improvement.

Seine Bight is a Garifuna village. Very poor. In a bit of culture shock.

The beaches on the peninsula vary somewhat but in general are okay -- not world class by any means, a narrow strip of toast-brown sand, and there's a good deal of seagrass -- but among the better beaches in Belize. Sand flies can be pretty bad at times. Snorkeling around nearby cayes such as Laughing Bird is excellent, and diving is also very good.

Our current recommendations on hotels in Placencia include, in several categories:

Upmarket: 1) Inn at Robert's Grove -- pool, tennis courts, A/C, good restaurant 2) Rum Point Inn -- lots of character, pool, new units have A/C, good library 3) Luba Hati --excellent retaurant, nice rooms, but no A/C and no pool

Nice, barefoot casual: 1) Kitty's -- beachfront cabanas are wonderful, one of the nicest beaches on the peninsula, good restaurant

Family-oriented: 1) Serenity 2) Nautical Inn 3) Green Parrot

Budget/Low Moderate: 1) Deb & Dave's Last Resort 2) Sea Spray, 3) Trade Winds

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 13:23:32 6/22/99

LOOKING FOR TRIP REPORTS.

THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 13:30:43 6/22/99

i have a penfriend in wondefull beliz2..and he adviced me to visit this webpage....and i sure like it alot..its a beauty.
may god bless u all sweet belizan people.
kissses from tessa

Added on Date: 13:37:19 6/22/99

: : : Hi, my name is Jeff McLellan, I'm a 24 year old who was born and raised (and still living in) Vanocuver, British Columbia, Canada. I enjoy sea kayaking and am planning on taking up scuba diving this summer. I am in the process of planning a trip to Belize within the next year and was wondering if there are any other people around my age who are also in the process of planning a trip to Belize. If so please respond. This is the first time I'm planning a trip on my own and was hoping to get info from other people about Belize and what they plan on doing. And even possibly chatting with some people who might be down there at the same time I am. Cheers.

: : Hi Jeff,
: : My friend Jen and I will be on Ambergris Caye from July 3rd until July 10th, traveling from Boston, MA. I'm 25 and she's 28...Only a couple of weeks away so you're probably planning your trip later in the year, but just wanted to let you know. Can't offer you any info b/c it's our first time there also, but I've found that this board, as well as Ambergriscaye.com (but that's specifically for Ambergris) have been really helpful and have lots of info already posted...only wish I had found the board before booking my trip b/c I think we could have gotten a better deal...and of course you can post specific questions and plenty will answer.

: : Anyone else that is going to be on Ambergris Caye around that time let us know! My email is jwren@bkb.com.
: : Thanks,
: : Jennifer and Jen

: Be sure to stop by Coconuts Beach Bar for a visit... we will give you some ideas to help you find your way around San Pedro Town
: Margie and Ada and Jennifer

Thanks, we were already planning on it! When I first started looking into Ambergris Caye, someone who stays at Coconuts often (Jim Pennington) answered one of my emails. He was really helpful in providing info on Ambergris and said we have to stop by your bar, so... see you in a couple of weeks!
Jennifer

Added on Date: 16:02:11 6/22/99

: I am thinking of visiting Placencia Peninsula soon. I have been looking on the internet for places to stay and accomodations. Any recommendations? What do you think of Singing Sands and Bahia Laguna? Both look nice on their website, but I would love to get a third parties opinion. These are close to Seine Bight. What is this village like? What is the beach like? Thank you so much for any helpful advice!

you wnow your best bet is to right on down to placencia town and check out the deals yourself there are ton of places a good selection from low $ to high $so just go down check in the people are very freindly my advice go local see it beliz2 it. p.s make sure you got U.S. funds anything else but B.H. don't bring

Added on Date: 17:11:28 6/22/99

is anyone coming up for the games.does anyone know the athletes coming let me kwow, they got fan support up here

Added on Date: 17:18:07 6/22/99

Read about the exciting new legislation that is sure to make Belize irresistible to retirees: Now appearing in the new issue of Belize Report online.

Also in this issue: Caracol Maya ruins; Five Sisters Falls and Lodge; and a Belizean holiday travel planner

Added on Date: 18:07:24 6/22/99

how safe is te beliz2 post office in regards to sending money orders or other valuables by mail? anyone had any bad experience loss of checks etc. I recently had a check not reach its belize destination. the belize authorities say that the problem is at the US end and the US authorities say it the problem is in Belize. It will take about 3 months or more to determine where the check was actually cashed. I am really bombed because the international money order that was stolen was supposed to be a mother's day gift.

Added on Date: 18:56:27 6/22/99

SOMA151

Why do you and your associates still bash PABN and not be thankful for help that we're giving Belize.

Do you know if you bought yesterday, today just in one day you would have made a +45.16% return on your money! That's almost 50% just in 1 day!

Belize from thier lies about PABN has cost investors millions and millions of dollars and cost Belize new homes that they could have 1 year ago!

Stop Bashing PABN if you really care about Belize!

Go PABN!

: : I HAVE SEEN MANY THINGS LIKE THIS COME AND GO IN BELIZE,ANY ONE LOOKING INTO THIS LOOK GOOD AND HARD BEFOR YOU INVEST.
: :

Added on Date: 19:00:43 6/22/99

I've had very bad problems with their post office. One christmas, all my gifts didn't get delivered to the final addresses until April when they were tracked to have arrived in Belize in November. Luckily that shipment was by Fed-Ex and since they were late, I didn't have to pay.

Another shipment of gifts that actually reached Belize and was addressed properly was returned all the way back to me here in the USA. I had to pay for that shipment.

I've also had problems with sending cashier's checks a couple years ago that just disapeared.

In the future you should western union or do a bank to bank transfer if sending money. That's what I've learned to do.

Good Luck

: how safe is te beliz2 post office in regards to sending money orders or other valuables by mail? anyone had any bad experience loss of checks etc. I recently had a check not reach its belize destination. the belize authorities say that the problem is at the US end and the US authorities say it the problem is in Belize. It will take about 3 months or more to determine where the check was actually cashed. I am really bombed because the international money order that was stolen was supposed to be a mother's day gift.

Added on Date: 23:10:17 6/22/99

It is total Belizean. Hi my name is Ivan Ciego. I am 100% Belizean. I am living in Virginia Beach Va and is the owner of Ceelo2000 Computers. We ship custom built systems to Belize on special orders. Check out me site for more details or email me. I am also giving away free email accounts. Sign up at my site. It is free you pay nothing and best of all you can keep intouch with your family and friends at home and abroad. Remember it is free.

Added on Date: 08:38:11 6/23/99

Ceelo2000 is totally Belizean. Hi my name is Ivan Ciego. I am 100% Belizean. I am living in Virginia Beach Va and is the owner of Ceelo2000 Computers. We ship custom built systems to Belize on special orders. Check out me site for more details or email me. I am also giving away free email accounts. Sign up at my site. It is free you pay nothing and best of all you can keep intouch with your family and friends at home and abroad. Remember it is free.

Added on Date: 08:38:51 6/23/99

Ceelo2000 is totally Belizean. Hi my name is Ivan Ciego. I am 100% Belizean. I am living in Virginia Beach Va and is the owner of Ceelo2000 Computers. We ship custom built systems to Belize on special orders. Check out my site for more details or email me. I am also giving away free email accounts. Sign up at my site. It is free you pay nothing and best of all you can keep intouch with your family and friends at home and abroad. Remember it is free.

Added on Date: 08:39:33 6/23/99

: I've had very bad problems with their post office. One christmas, all my gifts didn't get delivered to the final addresses until April when they were tracked to have arrived in Belize in November. Luckily that shipment was by Fed-Ex and since they were late, I didn't have to pay.

: Another shipment of gifts that actually reached Belize and was addressed properly was returned all the way back to me here in the USA. I had to pay for that shipment.

: I've also had problems with sending cashier's checks a couple years ago that just disapeared.

: In the future you should western union or do a bank to bank transfer if sending money. That's what I've learned to do.

: Good Luck

:
: : how safe is te beliz2 post office in regards to sending money orders or other valuables by mail? anyone had any bad experience loss of checks etc. I recently had a check not reach its belize destination. the belize authorities say that the problem is at the US end and the US authorities say it the problem is in Belize. It will take about 3 months or more to determine where the check was actually cashed. I am really bombed because the international money order that was stolen was supposed to be a mother's day gift.

Like I always say so what's new. Of course I know the answer.

In the distant past I had some problems with the
postal system in Belize. We are talking about twenty years ago. Your experience reflects mine albeit years apart.
First I contacted my local post office here in
L. A.
After their explanation and suggestion I contacted the Belize Postal service about my problem.
I did get an answer from someone I knew and whom my mom knew personally. Well did I get a tounge lashing. I kept copies of the response and may still have a copy around.
Unfortunately no one seems to want to accept responsibility, i.e. the belize or the U. S. postal service.
The way it turned out I guess I was the culprit.
Bottom line when dealing in money matters oe other important issues, to be safe, certify or register or send important material by express mail. As you sugessted perhaps Western Union may be your best bet.
On the other hand I am listening to first hand experience of family members who seems to believe
even western union has some questionable practices
going on.
Oh they get their money alright but when it was received and at what hidden cost is the concern of the receipients.
I'm sure not everyone has had the same experience.

Another way to go is to have the bank where you are, send to a bank in Belize, although you will pay the price, but I bet this would be your best bet.
Sorry about your mishaps and losses.
joelwb
joelwb@msn.com

Added on Date: 09:01:50 6/23/99

My own experience with mail to and from Belize has been good. Not saying that thefts don't happen, but I've never had a money order or check stolen. I have had a problem recently with a package of books coming from Belize, but that's more a problem with the sender than with the postal system, I think. Compared with the postal systems of most other countries in the region, even "modern" Costa Rica, Belize's is efficient and not corrupt.

I will say that outside of Belize City and the major towns, it can take a long time to get things, coming or going. Belize City to the U.S. via airmail is usually very fast and efficient.

But, if speed and certainty are vital, a bank electronic transfer or perhaps Western Union would be the way to go.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 09:20:38 6/23/99

Date: Wed, 23 Jun 1999 07:53:06 -0700 (PDT)
From: Avrail Parham |
Subject: Passport and Citizenship
To: pup@btl.net
CC: unitedd@btl.net

Sent to Amandala, Reporter, Belize Times, PUP, UDP

To Whom It May Concern :

On June 4, post haste I saw a posting on the "belizeit.com" web site by a James Wang claiming that he just got his Belizean citizenship without
even being there. As any concerned Belizean I sent an email to all listed above regarding this matter, asking if this was legal and proclaiming my right to defend my country and its people were it to be illegal.

On June 11, I sent another e-mail again to all listed above regarding the post on the "belizeit.com" web site, his e-mail to me and my reply.

On June 17, I discovered that James Wang had indeed received his citizenship legally. No thanks to you my fellow Belizean people. How
I fell into this discovery was absolutely amazing I was looking for an e-mail address and went into the directory on the "belizemall.com" web
site. I saw "International Services limited" but what intersted me was the description below i.e. "Immigration, Business Consulting and Offshore Services Company." naturally I clicked in and found a form to fill out with comments and question, so I did. I asked When was this
program started and which government was in power when it was formed?

Today June 23 I got a reply stating:

"This was initiated in 1989 by the People's United Party. It was continued by the United Democratic Party in 1993 but more organized and
transparent. The People's United Party took over the Government in 1998 and continued the Program that was set up in 1993. We would be glad to send you additional information."

Why, my first reaction was how silly of me not to know that amidst all the corruption of past and present government this would be illegal. Of course not, our politicians and governmental body is too 'money hyped' to let a little old scheme like this past them by without profitting personally from it.

And, to think I e-mailed an article to all listed above regarding the "Passport Selling" issue Dean Barrow brought to light again. I think my hands are a little too eager to get to the point you all know I will and this is :

1. If this was made legal by the PUP's in 1989 term in office and condoned and made clearer by the UDP's in 1993 in their term in office;
and is now in use again by the PUP's then why cry wolf, Dean Barrow? The PUP's made it possible and your party condoned its actions, so clearly you knew of its existence.

2. As for the PUP's I should say if they could sell out B.E.L as much as they did last term elected why should this come as a shock to
me? To learn that they made legal the selling of our birthright for a meagre $50 500 US dollars. Then they wonder where the drugs and crime
situation arose from? Excuse me when I say, you sold our country and its right of its people when you made these bargains with these strangers of who's back ground we know nothing about. Never mind that your little scheme carries a clause that stipulates "the government of Belize have a right to revoke any passport or citizenship". What good will this do after all the pondering and reaping of our country have taken place? If you can't control the little 'gang bangers' in our
country then how in GOD's good name can you keep track of these people? The one thing that crosses my mind when referring to these people is
that they are either very wealthy or have a death penalty hanging over their heads. Would I give you the benefit of the doubt to say that you
would check the background of these people before entering our country? NO, NO and then NO again, if you can advertise our citizenship on the
"web" like common 'toiletries' then whatelse would you expect your people to think of you?

3. And, why arn't the Belizean people offered as much insentives as our foreign counterparts? You stagnate your people to uplift others. How rich of you to nonchalantly give away what is not yours. What gives you politicians the right to barter with our livelihood. Who made you judge and jury? Not the people of Belize. The people of Belize place their lives and trust in electing a governmental body to guard and secure their future for their children and children's children not just your own.

4. And, finally where and to whom's pocket is the money from this high profile scheme going to? Certainly not our people. But then again when has any governmental body in beliz2 cared about its people other than election time when handing out $100 dollar bribes. Why, a $100 dollars every four years imagine this our hard sweat and labour goes directly to your pockets, not to safe guard in some swiss account but to create economic relief for those in need and make the country a more liveable place. How rewarding to receive $0.068 cents a day for our contribution to your reign in glory. Why "gee, gosh, golly" if I save my $0.068 cents given at the mercy of my government because they love me, for 20 years at a $100 every four years I could finally fix the whole in my roof come next election.

Have a ball at our expense folks. Silly, silly me how could I forget so quickly, Why I didn't have to tell you did I because you have been having the ball of your lives for the past 3 decades. my, my, my,em...

Avrail Parham

Added on Date: 11:17:36 6/23/99

I have been sending mails to Belize for many years. In the beginning a few of mails were displaced. A few was delivered late, as a matter of fact, one was delivered a month after I sent it, for whatever reason. The point I am trying to make here is that when sending mail to Belize, especially important mails which include money and/or important papers, they should be registered. Sure it cost a few dollars more to do this but it will, at the end of the day, save you some stress. Registered mail at delivered directly to the adress, and must be signed for by someone at that resident. You said you sent an international money order, then you should be able to go back to the American Post Office where you purchased the money order and get a refund after one money if your party still have not received your mail by then. For your information, I would suggest that in the future you register ALL mails to Belize, especially those of importance. I hope I have been of some help to you.

Added on Date: 12:41:42 6/23/99

:
: I have been sending mails to Belize for many years. In the beginning a few of my mails were displaced. A few was delivered late, as a matter of fact, one was delivered a month after I sent it, for whatever reason. The point I am trying to make here is that when sending mail to Belize, especially important mails which include money and/or important papers, they should be registered. Sure it cost a few dollars more to do this but it will, at the end of the day, save you some stress. Registered mail are delivered directly to the address, and must be signed for by someone at that resident. You said you sent an international money order, then you should be able to go back to the American Post Office where you purchased the money order and get a refund after one month if your party still have not received your mail by then. For your information, I would suggest that in the future you register ALL mails to Belize, especially those of importance. I hope I have been of some help to you.

Added on Date: 12:46:02 6/23/99

: how safe is te beliz2 post office in regards to sending money orders or other valuables by mail? anyone had any bad experience loss of checks etc. I recently had a check not reach its belize destination. the belize authorities say that the problem is at the US end and the US authorities say it the problem is in Belize. It will take about 3 months or more to determine where the check was actually cashed. I am really bombed because the international money order that was stolen was supposed to be a mother's day gift.

I HAVE BEEN SENDING THINGS TO BELIZE FOR ALMOST 10 YEARS,NO TROUBLE TILL THE LAST 6 MONTHS,EVEN MY REGESTERED THINGS ARE NOT GETTING THREW,PACKAGES ALWAYS TAKE FOREVER,SO SEND THE CHEEPEST YOU CAN.BUT NOW THERE SEEMS TO BE A THIEF SOME PLACE IN THE SYSTEM.

Added on Date: 16:41:15 6/23/99

: Date: Wed, 23 Jun 1999 07:53:06 -0700 (PDT)
: From: Avrail Parham |
: Subject: Passport and Citizenship
: To: pup@btl.net
: CC: unitedd@btl.net
:
A REBEL WITH OUT A CAUSE!
:
: Sent to Amandala, Reporter, Belize Times, PUP, UDP

: To Whom It May Concern :

: On June 4, post haste I saw a posting on the "belizeit.com" web site by a James Wang claiming that he just got his Belizean citizenship without
: even being there. As any concerned Belizean I sent an email to all listed above regarding this matter, asking if this was legal and proclaiming my right to defend my country and its people were it to be illegal.

: On June 11, I sent another e-mail again to all listed above regarding the post on the "belizeit.com" web site, his e-mail to me and my reply.

: On June 17, I discovered that James Wang had indeed received his citizenship legally. No thanks to you my fellow Belizean people. How
: I fell into this discovery was absolutely amazing I was looking for an e-mail address and went into the directory on the "belizemall.com" web
: site. I saw "International Services limited" but what intersted me was the description below i.e. "Immigration, Business Consulting and Offshore Services Company." naturally I clicked in and found a form to fill out with comments and question, so I did. I asked When was this
: program started and which government was in power when it was formed?

: Today June 23 I got a reply stating:

: "This was initiated in 1989 by the People's United Party. It was continued by the United Democratic Party in 1993 but more organized and
: transparent. The People's United Party took over the Government in 1998 and continued the Program that was set up in 1993. We would be glad to send you additional information."

: Why, my first reaction was how silly of me not to know that amidst all the corruption of past and present government this would be illegal. Of course not, our politicians and governmental body is too 'money hyped' to let a little old scheme like this past them by without profitting personally from it.

: And, to think I e-mailed an article to all listed above regarding the "Passport Selling" issue Dean Barrow brought to light again. I think my hands are a little too eager to get to the point you all know I will and this is :

: 1. If this was made legal by the PUP's in 1989 term in office and condoned and made clearer by the UDP's in 1993 in their term in office;
: and is now in use again by the PUP's then why cry wolf, Dean Barrow? The PUP's made it possible and your party condoned its actions, so clearly you knew of its existence.

: 2. As for the PUP's I should say if they could sell out B.E.L as much as they did last term elected why should this come as a shock to
: me? To learn that they made legal the selling of our birthright for a meagre $50 500 US dollars. Then they wonder where the drugs and crime
: situation arose from? Excuse me when I say, you sold our country and its right of its people when you made these bargains with these strangers of who's back ground we know nothing about. Never mind that your little scheme carries a clause that stipulates "the government of Belize have a right to revoke any passport or citizenship". What good will this do after all the pondering and reaping of our country have taken place? If you can't control the little 'gang bangers' in our
: country then how in GOD's good name can you keep track of these people? The one thing that crosses my mind when referring to these people is
: that they are either very wealthy or have a death penalty hanging over their heads. Would I give you the benefit of the doubt to say that you
: would check the background of these people before entering our country? NO, NO and then NO again, if you can advertise our citizenship on the
: "web" like common 'toiletries' then whatelse would you expect your people to think of you?
:
: 3. And, why arn't the Belizean people offered as much insentives as our foreign counterparts? You stagnate your people to uplift others. How rich of you to nonchalantly give away what is not yours. What gives you politicians the right to barter with our livelihood. Who made you judge and jury? Not the people of Belize. The people of Belize place their lives and trust in electing a governmental body to guard and secure their future for their children and children's children not just your own.

: 4. And, finally where and to whom's pocket is the money from this high profile scheme going to? Certainly not our people. But then again when has any governmental body in beliz2 cared about its people other than election time when handing out $100 dollar bribes. Why, a $100 dollars every four years imagine this our hard sweat and labour goes directly to your pockets, not to safe guard in some swiss account but to create economic relief for those in need and make the country a more liveable place. How rewarding to receive $0.068 cents a day for our contribution to your reign in glory. Why "gee, gosh, golly" if I save my $0.068 cents given at the mercy of my government because they love me, for 20 years at a $100 every four years I could finally fix the whole in my roof come next election.
:
: Have a ball at our expense folks. Silly, silly me how could I forget so quickly, Why I didn't have to tell you did I because you have been having the ball of your lives for the past 3 decades. my, my, my,em...

: Avrail Parham

Added on Date: 17:46:31 6/23/99

Has anyone ever bin down dare if so say hi to oscar from rumtree tell i'll see him soon for a cold one under de hot sun.......

Added on Date: 18:11:57 6/23/99

Hoping to confirm that the bus schedule as found on the internet from Belize City to San Igancio does indeed run on Sundays and that the last bus leaves at 7:00pm. If anyone has any information or comments, I'd be very appreciative.

Added on Date: 21:38:36 6/23/99

Sorry, forgot to post 2nd part of question... Does anyone know the estimated taxi fare from the International Airport to Novelos Bus Station? Thank you in advance for your help.

Added on Date: 22:09:25 6/23/99

: To my beloved homeland and my fellow Belizeans.
: May all your mornings be good ,and all your days
: be blessed and happy with the bounty of this
: blessed land. This BELIZE.Land Of The Free, not
: only by the Carib sea ,but by any sea known to man: so a warm GOOD MORNING BELIZE,from one of your native sons in a distant land whos"thaughts
: always takes him back you O land of my birth.
: ALBERT ARNOLD.
: ONTARIO,CALIFORNIA.

Added on Date: 22:50:18 6/23/99

: To my beloved homeland and my fellow Belizeans.
: May all your mornings be good ,and all your days
: be blessed and happy with the bounty of this
: blessed land. This BELIZE.Land Of The Free, not
: only by the Carib sea ,but by any sea known to man: so a warm GOOD MORNING BELIZE,from one of your native sons in a distant land whos"thaughts
: always takes him back you O land of my birth.
: ALBERT ARNOLD.
: ONTARIO,CALIFORNIA.

Added on Date: 22:50:18 6/23/99

: To my beloved homeland and my fellow Belizeans.
: May all your mornings be good ,and all your days
: be blessed and happy with the bounty of this
: blessed land. This BELIZE.Land Of The Free, not
: only by the Carib sea ,but by any sea known to man: so a warm GOOD MORNING BELIZE,from one of your native sons in a distant land whos"thaughts
: always takes him back you O land of my birth.
: ALBERT ARNOLD.
: ONTARIO,CALIFORNIA.

Added on Date: 22:50:18 6/23/99

: To my beloved homeland and my fellow Belizeans.
: May all your mornings be good ,and all your days
: be blessed and happy with the bounty of this
: blessed land. This BELIZE.Land Of The Free, not
: only by the Carib sea ,but by any sea known to man: so a warm GOOD MORNING BELIZE,from one of your native sons in a distant land whos"thaughts
: always takes him back you O land of my birth.
: ALBERT ARNOLD.
: ONTARIO,CALIFORNIA.

Added on Date: 22:50:18 6/23/99

The gov't regulated fare is $30 Bze ($15 US). That's all it should cost, no matter what the cab drivers tell you....

Added on Date: 23:28:47 6/23/99

: is anyone coming up for the games.does anyone know the athletes coming let me kwow, they got fan support up here

Hey are you from Belize?????

Added on Date: 00:42:55 6/24/99

Has anybody ever stayed here; would appreciate any info ( good or bad ).
Thanks !!

Added on Date: 09:20:00 6/24/99

You might also think about taking the van from the international airport to San Ignacio. It's either US$20 or $25. You can arrange it by contacting duPlooy's lodge. I believe now it's only going once a day, though.

If you're taking a taxi into Belize City to catch a bus, it will be US$15, so you don't save much over the van. (You can walk out to the highway and catch a bus there, though with luggage such it can be a hassle.)

Note that the bus terminals in Belize City are not in a good area, and you should exercise caution, especially after dark.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 09:26:02 6/24/99

: : is anyone coming up for the games.does anyone know the athletes coming let me kwow, they got fan support up here

: Hey are you from Belize?????

only when its cold in canada

Added on Date: 13:04:35 6/24/99

: The gov't regulated fare is $30 Bze ($15 US). That's all it should cost, no matter what the cab drivers tell you....

that's right 15 u.s no more no less up to 4 people or more in a wagon

Added on Date: 13:21:22 6/24/99

is there anyone on line in punta gordo if so i would like to talk i need some info on sometings

Added on Date: 13:29:16 6/24/99

: I work with a Belize person in L.A..Are they all this STUPID?
ARE YOU CRAZY? I KNOW YOUR NOT CRAZY ENOUGH TO MAKE AN IGNORANT STATEMENT LIKE THAT!

Added on Date: 13:36:12 6/24/99

:
: :
: ARE YOU CRAZY? I KNOW YOUR NOT CRAZY ENOUGH TO MAKE AN IGNORANT STATEMENT LIKE THAT!

Added on Date: 13:38:05 6/24/99

LOOKING FOR MAP DETAILING ALL THE CAYES.

THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 16:46:37 6/24/99

Dear Avrail

You may be a Belizean, but you are not living here.

We Belizeans that live in country, because we want to, not because we have to, have the right to vote. We vote in a democratic fashion with the majority rules ideology. The Belizean voters, over the past 30 years, have executed their rights to vote and, although you cannot always please everybody at the same time, both parties are very popular with their supporters.

The Belizean passport "sales" scheme has been in effect for quite a while, with both parties overseeing the process. Don't you think that if the Belizean Voter was completely opposed to this plan, the plan would have been scrapped?

Belize is an underpopulated, developing nation which needs to be able to attract more financial investors, as well as professional experts in all fields. The "Citizenship" plan helps acheive these goals.

Many Belizeans go abroad for educational purposes, gain their degrees, realize they can make more money in another country, and don't come back. The gap that this "brain drain" creates must be filled. It would be wonderful if all educated and afflulent Belizeans came back home and offered their services here... however, this is not happening. THEREFORE, we NEED the financial, educational and professional assets that NEW BELIZEANS bring with them.

I hope that this helps you to understand.

Best wishes

Amanda Syme

: : Date: Wed, 23 Jun 1999 07:53:06 -0700 (PDT)
: : From: Avrail Parham |
: : Subject: Passport and Citizenship
: : To: pup@btl.net
: : CC: unitedd@btl.net
: :
: A REBEL WITH OUT A CAUSE!
: :
: : Sent to Amandala, Reporter, Belize Times, PUP, UDP

: : To Whom It May Concern :

: : On June 4, post haste I saw a posting on the "belizeit.com" web site by a James Wang claiming that he just got his Belizean citizenship without
: : even being there. As any concerned Belizean I sent an email to all listed above regarding this matter, asking if this was legal and proclaiming my right to defend my country and its people were it to be illegal.

: : On June 11, I sent another e-mail again to all listed above regarding the post on the "belizeit.com" web site, his e-mail to me and my reply.

: : On June 17, I discovered that James Wang had indeed received his citizenship legally. No thanks to you my fellow Belizean people. How
: : I fell into this discovery was absolutely amazing I was looking for an e-mail address and went into the directory on the "belizemall.com" web
: : site. I saw "International Services limited" but what intersted me was the description below i.e. "Immigration, Business Consulting and Offshore Services Company." naturally I clicked in and found a form to fill out with comments and question, so I did. I asked When was this
: : program started and which government was in power when it was formed?

: : Today June 23 I got a reply stating:

: : "This was initiated in 1989 by the People's United Party. It was continued by the United Democratic Party in 1993 but more organized and
: : transparent. The People's United Party took over the Government in 1998 and continued the Program that was set up in 1993. We would be glad to send you additional information."

: : Why, my first reaction was how silly of me not to know that amidst all the corruption of past and present government this would be illegal. Of course not, our politicians and governmental body is too 'money hyped' to let a little old scheme like this past them by without profitting personally from it.

: : And, to think I e-mailed an article to all listed above regarding the "Passport Selling" issue Dean Barrow brought to light again. I think my hands are a little too eager to get to the point you all know I will and this is :

: : 1. If this was made legal by the PUP's in 1989 term in office and condoned and made clearer by the UDP's in 1993 in their term in office;
: : and is now in use again by the PUP's then why cry wolf, Dean Barrow? The PUP's made it possible and your party condoned its actions, so clearly you knew of its existence.

: : 2. As for the PUP's I should say if they could sell out B.E.L as much as they did last term elected why should this come as a shock to
: : me? To learn that they made legal the selling of our birthright for a meagre $50 500 US dollars. Then they wonder where the drugs and crime
: : situation arose from? Excuse me when I say, you sold our country and its right of its people when you made these bargains with these strangers of who's back ground we know nothing about. Never mind that your little scheme carries a clause that stipulates "the government of Belize have a right to revoke any passport or citizenship". What good will this do after all the pondering and reaping of our country have taken place? If you can't control the little 'gang bangers' in our
: : country then how in GOD's good name can you keep track of these people? The one thing that crosses my mind when referring to these people is
: : that they are either very wealthy or have a death penalty hanging over their heads. Would I give you the benefit of the doubt to say that you
: : would check the background of these people before entering our country? NO, NO and then NO again, if you can advertise our citizenship on the
: : "web" like common 'toiletries' then whatelse would you expect your people to think of you?
: :
: : 3. And, why arn't the Belizean people offered as much insentives as our foreign counterparts? You stagnate your people to uplift others. How rich of you to nonchalantly give away what is not yours. What gives you politicians the right to barter with our livelihood. Who made you judge and jury? Not the people of Belize. The people of Belize place their lives and trust in electing a governmental body to guard and secure their future for their children and children's children not just your own.

: : 4. And, finally where and to whom's pocket is the money from this high profile scheme going to? Certainly not our people. But then again when has any governmental body in beliz2 cared about its people other than election time when handing out $100 dollar bribes. Why, a $100 dollars every four years imagine this our hard sweat and labour goes directly to your pockets, not to safe guard in some swiss account but to create economic relief for those in need and make the country a more liveable place. How rewarding to receive $0.068 cents a day for our contribution to your reign in glory. Why "gee, gosh, golly" if I save my $0.068 cents given at the mercy of my government because they love me, for 20 years at a $100 every four years I could finally fix the whole in my roof come next election.
: :
: : Have a ball at our expense folks. Silly, silly me how could I forget so quickly, Why I didn't have to tell you did I because you have been having the ball of your lives for the past 3 decades. my, my, my,em...

: : Avrail Parham

Added on Date: 18:59:04 6/24/99

hows it going

Added on Date: 22:42:12 6/24/99

ya man

Added on Date: 22:43:23 6/24/99

my ganja is at 28"s

Added on Date: 22:45:02 6/24/99

keep on rocking

Added on Date: 22:45:41 6/24/99

stay cool dude go have some sex wiyh ms shlurp say hi to everyone in b.c. for me love ya all

Added on Date: 22:49:03 6/24/99

: my ganja is at 28"s

hope das in bh dude everytin cool hi from us r,m.r,f,j,B,p,c.p.e,m.s'p.e steve o, bent,en every1 else talk soon rumtree out>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> > .

Added on Date: 00:22:00 6/25/99

: stay cool dude go have some sex wiyh ms shlurp say hi to everyone in b.c. for me love ya all

Are you in Wpg? If so maybe you know me Family?
We are from Belize!! Maybe I know you? My name is Elvis Pacheco

Added on Date: 01:40:51 6/25/99

: Dear Avrail

: You may be a Belizean, but you are not living here.

: We Belizeans that live in country, because we want to, not because we have to, have the right to vote. We vote in a democratic fashion with the majority rules ideology. The Belizean voters, over the past 30 years, have executed their rights to vote and, although you cannot always please everybody at the same time, both parties are very popular with their supporters.

: The Belizean passport "sales" scheme has been in effect for quite a while, with both parties overseeing the process. Don't you think that if the Belizean Voter was completely opposed to this plan, the plan would have been scrapped?

: Belize is an underpopulated, developing nation which needs to be able to attract more financial investors, as well as professional experts in all fields. The "Citizenship" plan helps acheive these goals.

: Many Belizeans go abroad for educational purposes, gain their degrees, realize they can make more money in another country, and don't come back. The gap that this "brain drain" creates must be filled. It would be wonderful if all educated and afflulent Belizeans came back home and offered their services here... however, this is not happening. THEREFORE, we NEED the financial, educational and professional assets that NEW BELIZEANS bring with them.

: I hope that this helps you to understand.

: Best wishes

: Amanda Syme

Amanda Syme :

I 've been posting on this board for quite a while now and to every time I post something that remotely displeases a reader I get knocked with Why aren't you here? For the fact being I have been here for only 2 years. When I was in Belize and writing the same things about the same corruption that passes from one government to the other not much people cared. But because I am here its okay to tell me of my rights as a Belizean simply due to distance.

Well if I had a job there I would be there. Do you have one to give me?

I do understand our democratic system and if you truly believe that the people of Belize like it the way it is then maybe you should go out more often. Try socializing with the people who live in the"magestic alley" or those from the "jump street area", "St martins area" and the list goes on and on, then see what they say. I did a of couple years ago and I am sure popular opinion have not changed drastically in support of our governmental bodies but rather have increased negatively. Why? Because these people you are speaking of have finally come to the same realization that I have come to i.e no matter our protest and dissatisfaction with government's ruling nothing will change because what the government wants is what the government will have irregardless of its people's concerns. So, in answer to your question, No if the populus of Belize strongly disagreed and protested nothing would come of it. I know from first hand experience. Try gathering 700+ signatures and presenting them to your government to have them throw it back in your face not a week later but a split second later telling me and 100+ people standing behind me that the signatures are not valid therefore, does not deserve a second glance. Then maybe you will understand a little more about why I write the way I do and why it is extremely significant for me to gain public recognition here from the people of Belize before going back and carrying on in the manner I did.

And as for the matter of fact Belizeans are not aware of the economic citizenship offered by our government even though it has been in effect since 1989. And, if they were they would strongly protest. You want proof let me e-mail you 50+ Belizeans living in Belize who replied to this article and was not aware of this project. And these are just people who have access to a computer. What about those that don't?

But thanks all the same I did appreciate your comments. And, you did help me to understand. Understand how out of touch high societal Belizeans (as they often refer to themselves) are with their people who provide them with their fine living. But what does it matter right because these are not the circles of being that matter to economic growth. (according to high societal Belizeans).

Avrail Parham

Added on Date: 09:21:32 6/25/99

Looking for the cheapest rates from MSY to Belize round trip from 16sep99 till around 24sep99...
And how is the weather in September? Thanks for the help.

Ray

Added on Date: 10:51:04 6/25/99

: SOMA151

: Why do you and your associates still bash PABN and not be thankful for help that we're giving Belize.

: Do you know if you bought yesterday, today just in one day you would have made a +45.16% return on your money! That's almost 50% just in 1 day!

: Belize from thier lies about PABN has cost investors millions and millions of dollars and cost Belize new homes that they could have 1 year ago!

: Stop Bashing PABN if you really care about Belize!

: Go PABN!

:

: : : I HAVE SEEN MANY THINGS LIKE THIS COME AND GO IN BELIZE,ANY ONE LOOKING INTO THIS LOOK GOOD AND HARD BEFOR YOU INVEST.
: : :
THIS SOUNDS TO GOOD TO BE TRUE 50% OVER NIGHT,I THINK YOU SAID IT ALL.

Added on Date: 13:55:36 6/25/99

You might check Travelocity or one of the other on-line reservation services, which will give you all the rates for any flight.

You might find a travel agency in New Orleans with lower bulk rates with TACA, although since, as I understand, TACA is no longer flying non-stop from MSY to Belize City (think you have to go to San Pedro Sula and change to a small plane) the deals may not be as good.

Another option is to fly to Cancun or Cozumel (dirt cheaper from New Orleans) and take a deluxe bus from there to Belize.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 14:04:16 6/25/99

: : stay cool dude go have some sex wiyh ms shlurp say hi to everyone in b.c. for me love ya all

: Are you in Wpg? If so maybe you know me Family?
: We are from Belize!! Maybe I know you? My name is Elvis Pacheco ya man in wpg and for the best reggae in wpg check out bramear bakery thursday nights jah vibes is playing there now very irie later dude

Added on Date: 17:35:13 6/25/99

Belize, Scale 1:350.000, International Travel Maps No. 243, Vancouver, ISBN 0 921 463 24 3

Added on Date: 07:37:08 6/26/99

jus ta say hi to ya all please if anyone is going by punta negra please say hi to me freind oscar thank you very much big up to all

Added on Date: 10:32:43 6/26/99

: LOOKING FOR MAP DETAILING ALL THE CAYES.

: THANKS DENNIS

: Try "Cruising Guide to Belize and Mexico's Caribbean Coast Including Guatamala's Rio Dulce" (2nd edition) by Capt. Freya Rauscher. Wescott Cove Publishing Company, Stamford CT

Added on Date: 10:37:04 6/26/99

yo dudes keep dem belikin flying and crisp you must right me i know you got dem pics by now jus everyone stay way to cool yes sir RESPECT PEACE LOVE TO ALL RUMTREE OUT................

Added on Date: 10:42:24 6/26/99

In Placencia, there is an ice cream parlor disguised as a native shack sitting just off the main (three foot wide) street and there Ms. Daisy conjures up ice cream that would put Ben and Jerry to shame. . . and just around the corner from there resides the world's best massage therapist who is known by all as Ms. Patricia, aka, "The Library Lady who lives in the pink house." It would be well worth detouring from whereever you are going to or coming from to treat yourself to these two delights! From Hong Kong to San Franciso, it's only 2,462 miles out of your way. . . You will not be disappointed!

Added on Date: 13:12:24 6/26/99

: In Placencia, there is an ice cream parlor disguised as a native shack sitting just off the main (three foot wide) street and there Ms. Daisy conjures up ice cream that would put Ben and Jerry to shame. . . and just around the corner from there resides the world's best massage therapist who is known by all as Ms. Patricia, aka, "The Library Lady who lives in the pink house." It would be well worth detouring from whereever you are going to or coming from to treat yourself to these two delights! From Hong Kong to San Franciso, it's only 2,462 miles out of your way. . . You will not be disappointed!
:
ya man patricia is great she helps me eveytime and donations of books are very much help for everyone

Added on Date: 13:25:40 6/26/99

hey jim how long ago were you there where did you stay? everywhere in b.h is a god send and the people de freindly like no tomorrow peace mang get back rumtree out****

Added on Date: 13:39:30 6/26/99

: : I dont know if you know Earl and Deborah Hutchinson But my name is Francis Hutchinson. I wiil be arriving in Belize on the 18th of june 1999. I would like to know how the weather is going to be this time of the year.

Hi, Francis!! I hope I have the right person. I am
Aunt Debbie's god daughter from Chicago.
Write me back if you
get this message.
Andrea

Added on Date: 14:26:35 6/26/99

Thinking of taking dive trip to Caye Caulker. Wondering if there are air conditioned rooms, resturants, transportation on island? How does the diving compare with Cozumel, Roatan, Bahamas? Thanks in advance.

Added on Date: 16:07:40 6/26/99

Dear Friends! Please, help me!
I'm Ukrainien citizen,but all time live & wok in Russia (Moscow). 10 years was officer of the Cpecial Force Marine Corps in former USSR.At the present day I teach Japanese martial art Shorinji Kempo in my "Central Shorinji Kempo School" in Moscow. Every year I have practice in Japan & USA.I want to move from Russia to Belize in the next year.I'm look in for possible legal live & work (martial arts, massage,or any other) in Belize.What propositions & soviets?
Thank You.

Added on Date: 18:52:54 6/26/99

Dear Abbie,
I am not Belizean, yet I felt very deeply about your posted message. I am an african american female. I have experienced more than my share of closed-minded racism/bigotry. I don't exactly know what your point was by making that statement. Though I do not care to know the origin of your thought(or lack thereof), I do believe you are one of the many people who need to take a step back and look in the mirror. I feel that anyone who takes the time to respond to your silly antics run the risk of bellittling themselves by stooping to your amazingly low level. But at the same time, I know alot of Belizeans (at least the ones I know) are very proud of their heritage. Who they are and where they are from mean alot to them, as should anyone and their place of origin. And for you to have the audacity to demean them and judge them by one persons actions is very sad. I have no intention of name calling or labeling you with the numerous well-fitting words from ethnic street slang dictionary. I'm sure you know alot of stupid people. One or two of every race, creed or color. Perhaps some even closer to you than you think. Perhaps you don't notice because you blend so well? Maybe the owners of this site should have just deleted your comment. But they did not, and in the light of things - I wish you a future of enlightenment. Hopefully, one day you will grow up and out of these immature displays of hopelesness. And realize at the root of every problem is a person with a very small mind. Please take your blinders off. Didn't your mommy teach you "If you haven't got anything nice to say - don't say anything at all"? But I guess if some of us followed that rule, we'd all live in pretty quiet towns.

Added on Date: 21:50:59 6/26/99

A friend and I just stayed at Cozy Corner last weekend (Big Father's Day bash at Dockside). Had ALOT of fun with the super friendly locals. As a matter of fact, I was just searching the web for the music that all the boys were playing. Could it have been Terror Fabulous? Also, went sailing with Japs to Hunting Caye . . . ate cuda, lobster, conch fresh every day!!!!!!! Can't wait to get back.

Added on Date: 22:52:12 6/26/99

A friend and I just stayed at Cozy Corner last weekend (Big Father's Day bash at Dockside). Had ALOT of fun with the super friendly locals. As a matter of fact, I was just searching the web for the music that all the boys were playing. Could it have been Terror Fabulous? Also, went sailing with Japs to Hunting Caye . . . ate cuda, lobster, conch fresh every day!!!!!!! Can't wait to get back.

Added on Date: 22:52:33 6/26/99

Is there anyone on line that can tell me about living in beliz2 full time that was living in the USA, would you come back? The pros and the cons of livingthere? Are there many employment opportunities there for skilled workers? What about starting businesses...is it hard to do?

Added on Date: 01:46:12 6/27/99

Placencia is a small village at the end of a 17 miles long peninsula. It has beautiful beaches with palmtrees and is close to the Barrier Reef. We own a beachlot with palmtrees and a lovely brandnew house at the edge of the village. It is for rent! It is a big wooden house on posts, seven feet of the ground. It has two bedbrooms( 11 x 11 ft and 9 x 11 ft) with one kingsize and one double bed. A bathroom with hot shower etc. A large livingroom with open kitchen, dining bar, table etc, frigde, stove and so on. The veranda is 8 x 26 ft and looks out over the Carribean Sea. The house is fully furnished, including sheet- and towelservice and cleaning once a week. Mrs Lydia, who owns a nice budget hotel, which is recommanded in all the travelguides, looks after our place. The price is 500 $ US or 1000 $ Belize a week. We don't have vacancy from December '99 until the beginning of April '2000, except maybe one or two weeks in January. Information? E-mail to Susanne & Fred in Holland (Europe) E-mail: fredkrijnen@compuserve.com. In Placencia contact Mrs Lydia: phone 00 501 6 23117. If you are in Placencia on a low budget, we can highly recommand Lydia's Rooms. It is located on a nice spot near our house. It's cheap and clean and Mrs Lydia is very friendly and helpful.

Added on Date: 06:03:42 6/27/99

: A friend and I just stayed at Cozy Corner last weekend (Big Father's Day bash at Dockside). Had ALOT of fun with the super friendly locals. As a matter of fact, I was just searching the web for the music that all the boys were playing. Could it have been Terror Fabulous? Also, went sailing with Japs to Hunting Caye . . . ate cuda, lobster, conch fresh every day!!!!!!! Can't wait to get back.
ya man japs is avery fine sailer he can take you to de best spots he was born and raised in placencia big up to japs

Added on Date: 09:38:34 6/27/99

Hey this is Princess. I'm looking for a few e-mail/chat partners. Most of my Belizean friends have returned to Belize. Then I moved away from the area, and now miss so much of the culture. If you'd like to make a new friend my e-mail address is listed. Hope to hear from you soon.

Added on Date: 13:29:31 6/27/99

Joyce,

We have a section of about 50 pages on our Web edition of Belize First Magazine which candidly covers the pros and cons of living/retiring in Belize. The Belize Report newsletter is also starting to do some stuff on the subject.

As to working in Belize, you have to understand the entire Belize economy as measured by GDP is about the size of the economy of a town of 25,000 in the U.S. or Canada, and that per capita GDP is only 1/10th of that in the U.S., and that especially in rural areas unemployment is very high. There are not many good jobs paying attractive wages and naturally enough Belize tries to keep these jobs for Belizeans rather than non-Belizeans. Belize generally welcomes those who are investing in starting a business and employing Belizeans as long as it is not something, such as a small retail shop, that Belizeans can more easily finance and do themselves.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 13:43:16 6/27/99

Until recently there has not been much if any A/C accommodations on Caulker, but a couple of the more "upscale" places are adding it -- Iguana Reef and Belize Oddessy, I think. There are a number of good, not very expensive restaurants. The island is small (just the fraction of the size of Coz or Roatan), the village is fairly compact, and most people just walk.

The best diving in Belize is not right around Caulker or Ambergris but on the remote atolls (Lighthouse, Glover's and Turneffe) or farther south on the reef. You can reach Lighthouse and Turneffe from Caulker/Ambergris.

Caye Caulker has a Web site, and our Web edition of Belize First Magazine has an extensive, ad-free guidebook to Caulker by guidebook author Harry Pariser and others.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine
http://www.turq.com/belizefirst/

Added on Date: 13:49:00 6/27/99

Japs; a.k.a. Lowell; a.k.a. Nigel. No matter what he's called he is a fine sailor, chef, and water man. I, too, enjoyed the trip to Hunting Caye last week. Am anxious to return.
: : A friend and I just stayed at Cozy Corner last weekend (Big Father's Day bash at Dockside). Had ALOT of fun with the super friendly locals. As a matter of fact, I was just searching the web for the music that all the boys were playing. Could it have been Terror Fabulous? Also, went sailing with Japs to Hunting Caye . . . ate cuda, lobster, conch fresh every day!!!!!!! Can't wait to get back.
: ya man japs is avery fine sailer he can take you to de best spots he was born and raised in placencia big up to japs

Added on Date: 13:56:48 6/27/99

: Is there anyone on line that can tell me about living in beliz2 full time that was living in the USA, would you come back? The pros and the cons of livingthere? Are there many employment opportunities there for skilled workers? What about starting businesses...is it hard to do?

Added on Date: 16:27:28 6/27/99

: Is there anyone on line that can tell me about living in beliz2 full time that was living in the USA, would you come back? The pros and the cons of livingthere? Are there many employment opportunities there for skilled workers? What about starting businesses...is it hard to do?

If you would like to email me, I will talk to you about Belize. Soma151@yahoo.com

Added on Date: 16:29:19 6/27/99

: Dear Abbie,
: I am not Belizean, yet I felt very deeply about your posted message. I am an african american female. I have experienced more than my share of closed-minded racism/bigotry. I don't exactly know what your point was by making that statement. Though I do not care to know the origin of your thought(or lack thereof), I do believe you are one of the many people who need to take a step back and look in the mirror. I feel that anyone who takes the time to respond to your silly antics run the risk of bellittling themselves by stooping to your amazingly low level. But at the same time, I know alot of Belizeans (at least the ones I know) are very proud of their heritage. Who they are and where they are from mean alot to them, as should anyone and their place of origin. And for you to have the audacity to demean them and judge them by one persons actions is very sad. I have no intention of name calling or labeling you with the numerous well-fitting words from ethnic street slang dictionary. I'm sure you know alot of stupid people. One or two of every race, creed or color. Perhaps some even closer to you than you think. Perhaps you don't notice because you blend so well? Maybe the owners of this site should have just deleted your comment. But they did not, and in the light of things - I wish you a future of enlightenment. Hopefully, one day you will grow up and out of these immature displays of hopelesness. And realize at the root of every problem is a person with a very small mind. Please take your blinders off. Didn't your mommy teach you "If you haven't got anything nice to say - don't say anything at all"? But I guess if some of us followed that rule, we'd all live in pretty quiet towns.

You must be a Belize person,you sound as stupid as them,and who cares if your a proud black person! Who would even answer a post like this? STUPID PEOPLE!!!!

Added on Date: 16:37:12 6/27/99

BEST REALESTATE DEAL IN BELIZE SEE BELIZE.NET,CLICK ON FORUMS,UNDER REALESTATE,SITTEE RIVER

Added on Date: 17:21:28 6/27/99

: Thinking of taking dive trip to Caye Caulker. Wondering if there are air conditioned rooms, resturants, transportation on island? How does the diving compare with Cozumel, Roatan, Bahamas? Thanks in advance.

Lots of options for diving in Belize. The diving is as varied as the accommodations and services are varied. Belize is a diving destination where you can go on week long excursions for months in order to really experience what is offered. Someone once told me that with the length of the Barrier Reef, the circumference of the three offshore atolls, and areas dived inside the reef, that Belize has more diving than Cozumel, Cayman, and Bonaire combined. WOW!!! Any specific questions contact me.

Added on Date: 20:22:54 6/27/99

To all the Belizeans and others I have offended, I sincerely apologize for being such a jackass! Maybe the reason I keep calling you stupid is because I come from a long line of idiots myself. I can't help but lash out, because I can't change the way I am. So please ignore me from now on. I know not what I do. As most stupid people act on pure impulse. Again I am very sorry!! Oh and I apologize too.
Abbie

Added on Date: 02:06:37 6/28/99

Hi,

can any one tell me the details on how it went?
how was the parties ................

Added on Date: 12:09:57 6/28/99

LOOKING FOR INFO. ON RICARDO'S BEACH HUTS AND ANY OTHER INFO. ABOUT THE CAYE.

THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 13:04:01 6/28/99

: To all the Belizeans and others I have offended, I sincerely apologize for being such a jackass! Maybe the reason I keep calling you stupid is because I come from a long line of idiots myself. I can't help but lash out, because I can't change the way I am. So please ignore me from now on. I know not what I do. As most stupid people act on pure impulse. Again I am very sorry!! Oh and I apologize too.
: Abbie

YOU STUPID BELIZE PEOPLE.THIS IS NOT MY APOLOGY,I WOULD NEVER APOLOGIZE TO YOU.AND FOR PEOPLE WHO KEEP ANSWERING THIS POST,YOU SNOW HOW STUPID YOU ARE!!!

Added on Date: 13:20:01 6/28/99

Tired of looking at the price tag of your dream computer? Then check us out We are a Belizean owned and operated computer business in Virginia Beach VA. We custom build your computer with quality parts. Then we ship it to your destination in Belize. Check us out for an attractive payment plan. We stand behind our product- with a one-four years warranty.Use our online form for to get a quote on your system. Stop paying twice for one computer!!

Added on Date: 14:01:26 6/28/99

I went to Singing Sands in February and had a great time. The cook (her name escapes me at the moment) was wonderful and Pedro Pop is a first class divemaster. I suggest you bring your own equipment if you dive though. Hank and Kathy, the managers, are very nice and do anything they can to make your stay pleasant. They have 6 cabanas and a beach house. We stayed in the house, but I recommend the cabanas, unless you have a need to sleep more than 2. The beach is very nice and they have access to the lagoon for canoeing. If you go, make sure you stop by the Green Parrot for one of their Mango Daquaries! Have a great time!

Added on Date: 17:27:18 6/28/99

is nobody using this jus say hi get on board

Added on Date: 07:57:43 6/29/99

hi there...new to this board..i am going to relocate to beliz2 in september...need a rental
that will allow my 3 little maltese dogs..also,
what are the rules regarding the importation of
dogs into the country...any help is greatly
appreciated..see you in sept...tim

Added on Date: 09:56:29 6/29/99

Tim,

Belize is a pretty big small country, 200 or so miles long -- in what part of it do you plan to live?

Bringing in dogs is usually no problem (except, maybe for the dogs, which may not adjust too easily to the climate and insects). You'll need a certificate from a vet done within 48 hours before you arrive in Belize certifing that the animals have had rabies vaccination between one and six months before arrival and that they have been vaccinated against distemper, canine hepititus, parvo and leptospirosis. They can't have any open wounds.

--Lan Sluder
Belize First Magazine

Added on Date: 10:41:17 6/29/99

Please check out my newsletter...I have several new articles on life and investment in Belize.
You can find them on the site map or under the "Useful Info" and "Bus. and Investment" indices.
If you want something different, challenging and rewarding, Belize can be the place for you. But it is best to plan on starting your own business, than trying to find an existing position.

Good luck to you, Pamella Picon, Editor

Added on Date: 11:11:59 6/29/99

At the risk of sounding like the typical American tourist - are there any golf courses in Belize? We spent a week in Placencia last year and are planning on returning to Belize for two weeks in August in both the Mountain Pine Ridge and Placencia. I read somewhere that there is a golf course that was built as part of a large plantation that is available to tourists. Also, a group of U.S. investors were building a course in cays - Church Cay I think.

Added on Date: 11:14:05 6/29/99

Mopan River Resort, Belize's first all-inclusive luxury resort in the Cayo District, open November 7, 1999.

Our tour schedule has been expanded to offer the Tikal excursion to ALL guests, whether staying 3, 4 or 7 nights.

Tikal, and all other daily tours, are FREE, as part of our all-inclusive packages.

Check out our website!

Added on Date: 11:20:04 6/29/99

A trip to Caracol ruins; Fivd Sisters Falls & Lodge in Mountain Pine Ridge; Retirement in Paradise made easy; and a Belizean Holiday Planner: All of this appears in our new issue: Vol. 5, #2, now available online

Added on Date: 11:23:49 6/29/99

There is a 9-hole course on Caye Chapel, just south of Caye Caulker. Very controversial, in many ways -- politically, economically and environmentally. There are some private holes off the Northern Highway, but the Caye Chapel course is all you can play now. A couple of courses are in the blue sky stage.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 12:38:05 6/29/99

: Until recently there has not been much if any A/C accommodations on Caulker, but a couple of the more "upscale" places are adding it -- Iguana Reef and Belize Oddessy, I think. There are a number of good, not very expensive restaurants. The island is small (just the fraction of the size of Coz or Roatan), the village is fairly compact, and most people just walk.

: The best diving in Belize is not right around Caulker or Ambergris but on the remote atolls (Lighthouse, Glover's and Turneffe) or farther south on the reef. You can reach Lighthouse and Turneffe from Caulker/Ambergris.

: Caye Caulker has a Web site, and our Web edition of Belize First Magazine has an extensive, ad-free guidebook to Caulker by guidebook author Harry Pariser and others.

: --Lan Sluder
: Belize First Magazine
: http://www.turq.com/belizefirst/

Tropical Paradize has some a/c rooms which are decent if you dont mind taking a shower with a few of the native cockroaches. Thier rates are good.

ntuglyk1@aol.com

Added on Date: 12:47:26 6/29/99

: Until recently there has not been much if any A/C accommodations on Caulker, but a couple of the more "upscale" places are adding it -- Iguana Reef and Belize Oddessy, I think. There are a number of good, not very expensive restaurants. The island is small (just the fraction of the size of Coz or Roatan), the village is fairly compact, and most people just walk.

: The best diving in Belize is not right around Caulker or Ambergris but on the remote atolls (Lighthouse, Glover's and Turneffe) or farther south on the reef. You can reach Lighthouse and Turneffe from Caulker/Ambergris.

: Caye Caulker has a Web site, and our Web edition of Belize First Magazine has an extensive, ad-free guidebook to Caulker by guidebook author Harry Pariser and others.

: --Lan Sluder
: Belize First Magazine
: http://www.turq.com/belizefirst/

Tropical Paradise has A/C rooms at a reasonable price and man do you need it! Oh yeah I did have a 2 inch guest crawl out of the wall in the shower one day..

Added on Date: 12:53:50 6/29/99

I"lI make this short, Jaguar Paw very costly$$$ not much wild life to see except a bunch of nice dogs and a pet howler monkey,cutter ants and one boa snake. Great food high priced.

Caye Caulker, nice place great food,great prices,friendly people, dirty shore line. Great place to make base camp. We stayed at Tropical Paradise:some have A/C rooms very clean rooms,but they need to inspect thier shower walls better. the wood is rotting and allowing 2 inch crawling roaches into the shower with you. We were unhappy that the restaurant was not open in May.

Added on Date: 13:17:41 6/29/99

I"lI make this short, Jaguar Paw very costly$$$ not much wild life to see except a bunch of nice dogs and a pet howler monkey,cutter ants and one boa snake. Great food high priced.

Caye Caulker, nice place great food,great prices,friendly people, dirty shore line. Great place to make base camp. We stayed at Tropical Paradise:some have A/C rooms very clean rooms,but they need to inspect thier shower walls better. the wood is rotting and allowing 2 inch crawling roaches into the shower with you. We were unhappy that the restaurant was not open in May.

Added on Date: 13:19:01 6/29/99

any need for well trained medical professionals in belize?? or are the labor laws dificult to overcome...

Added on Date: 14:26:46 6/29/99

what are the savings rates in beliz2 for dollar
accounts in excess of 500k??? i assume the banking
system is stable and would like to know the names
of 2-3 of the best and most prestigious of the banks so that i can contact them...thanks again

Added on Date: 14:33:34 6/29/99

Easy, Tim. Keep your hand on your wallet. And keep in mind that the Belize dollar is essentially non-convertible outside of Belize. Even converting Belize dollars to hard currency within Belize is often difficult, as there periodically are U.S. dollar shortages. And don't forget the potential of devaluation of the Belize dollar. That's rumored from time to time. Interest rates (selling or buying) are much higher than in the U.S., 2 1/2 time or so higher, but the risk is much, much higher. Most Belizeans with money keep most of it in U.S. dollar accounts.

There are only two Belize-based banks, Belize Bank and Atlantic Bank. Both are tiny, the size of a small S&L in the U.S. Atlantic Bank, for example, has deposits of only around US$65 million. The international banks Barclays and Scotiabank have branches in Belize.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 19:36:12 6/29/99

Here's a great very detailed map that's free online. It shows most of the Cayes, even the very little ones like Hatchet Caye and Little Water Caye. My Big Real Map doesn't list or detail nearly as much as this Online Map.

Hope this is useful to you.
this is a Great Website that a couple of explorer\adventurers put together.

http://www.caske2000.org/maps/belize6.htm

: LOOKING FOR MAP DETAILING ALL THE CAYES.

: THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 20:19:07 6/29/99

here's the Link

: Here's a great very detailed map that's free online. It shows most of the Cayes, even the very little ones like Hatchet Caye and Little Water Caye. My Big Real Map doesn't list or detail nearly as much as this Online Map.

: Hope this is useful to you.
: this is a Great Website that a couple of explorer\adventurers put together.

: http://www.caske2000.org/maps/belize6.htm

: : LOOKING FOR MAP DETAILING ALL THE CAYES.

: : THANKS DENNIS

Added on Date: 20:22:16 6/29/99

We are looking for a great place to stay and have heard wonderful things about Ambergris. Any suggestions? Looking for affordable accommodations. Would appreciate any help you have to offer. Honeymoon will be Nov 1999. Thanks in advance.

Added on Date: 23:09:52 6/29/99

if anyone knows of someone on the internet down in P.G.I would love to chat with them punta gorda is one the most remote places in beliz2 that is not totality cut off road.But how can one get to Barranco there is some trails maybe or air strips maybe. I would guess go to Sta. Theresa get a guide and hope you don;t end up anywhere near Crique Sarco Belize then your lost in big time jungle so is there anyone in P.G?? I know I could phone there but that is very pricey so who can help

Added on Date: 07:59:15 6/30/99

For candid, ad-free advice on Ambergris Caye, you might check out our Fun, Free & Easy Guide to Ambergris Caye. It rates, reviews and prices most of the hotels, restaurants, etc. on the island.

Depending on when in November you're going, it may still be off-season in San Pedro, with some real bargain hotel rates. Some hotels start their high season at Thanksgiving, and some Nov. 1 or Nov. 15.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 10:59:47 6/30/99

See on the Channel 5 news that a German tourist was robbed at gun point by five men on a pier on Caulker. Police have detained five men in connection with the robbery.

--Lan Sluder

Added on Date: 11:11:59 6/30/99

I was just wondering if anyone has stayed at Journey's End and if so would they recommend it.

Added on Date: 12:25:58 6/30/99

We're not on Ambergris, but we have a beautiful location for weddings and honeymoons.
An unparalleled setting on the bank of the Mopan River, in the western Cayo District, with hundreds of birds, trees, flowers and luxury accommodations.

Our terrific, all-inclusive price of US$677 per person, double for 7 nights; includes transfers, meals & drinks, all tours and excursions (plus Tikal), taxes and service.

Added on Date: 12:53:58 6/30/99

I don't think you can beat Coconuts Hotel for value and affordable accommodation. It is located on Ambergris Caye about 1/2 mile south of San Pedro Town (easy walk along the beach). Yes, it is directly on the beach and close to many good restaurants. The reasonable room rate includes free bicycles for all guests to use, a continental breakfast every day with homemade breads and muffins, copious amounts of juices, coffee and tea, jams, butter and cereal. The rooms are large, beautifully decorated, super clean with hot and cold running water, air conditioning and cable TV if that's what you want. It also has a great little beach bar with some of the best conversation on the island from guests, local business people, and the friendly bar staff. You can see the hotel at their website http://www.ambergriscaye.com/coconuts and then enjoy your honeymoon there as many have before you.

: We are looking for a great place to stay and have heard wonderful things about Ambergris. Any suggestions? Looking for affordable accommodations. Would appreciate any help you have to offer. Honeymoon will be Nov 1999. Thanks in advance.

Added on Date: 14:04:51 6/30/99

Although I've just returned from Placencia and haven't written my "trip report" yet, I wanted to say that I can attest to the sandfly problem--I had lots of them land on me whilst walking through town, so beware, and be liberal with the bug spray!

Jill

Added on Date: 17:22:28 6/30/99

Late News Round-Up from Belize
Updated July 1, 1999
Belize First Magazine

DESPITE AD CAMPAIGN, BELIZE TOURISM LIMPS ALONG
The Belize Tourism Board is touting a 2% increase
in international air arrivals during the
March-to-May 1999 period. Given the expensive
full-page ads run this year by Belize in North
American travel magazines, part of a US$500,000 ad
campaign, the results seem limited, say tourism
observers, who point to booming levels of tourism
throughout most of North America, Mexico and the
Caribbean. In May 1999, international tourist
arrivals to Belize totaled 7,735, up 4.7% from the
previous May’s 7,390. But, on a daily basis,
that was an increase of only 11 visitors a day for
the month. “A good salesman could make a few
phone calls and get that many extra bodies a day,”
said one hospitality industry veteran. Tourism
has been dead in Placencia, Caye Caulker and in
other areas in recent weeks, say observers. Hotels
are cutting rates and struggling to gain occupancy
over the summer. One somewhat upmarket beachfront
hotel in San Pedro is offering rooms for as low as
US$45. With only a few exceptions, hotels and
other tourism operators are doing limited
business, and many are unprofitable. Tourism was
off 10% during the four months following October
1998, when Hurricane Mitch ravaged Honduras and
Guatemala, almost completely sparing Belize but
leaving misinformed travelers in its windy wake.
One good sign: July bookings appear stronger in
San Pedro and Cayo.

STREET FIGHT IN SAN PEDRO
Locals who are tired of muddy streets and tourists
and tourism promoters who want to maintain the
atmosphere of the island are lining up on opposite
sides of the street in San Pedro. The San Pedro
Town Board is studying putting gravel or
cobblestones on a part of Coconut Drive near the
airstrip. Opponents say it would be the beginning
of the end of San Pedro’s laid-back island
ambiance. They point to the influx of cars and
trucks on the island and say that paved streets
and too many vehicles threaten the island’s main
business, tourism. Some have suggested making
Barrier Reef Drive (Front Street) a
pedestrian-only avenue.

SEASONAL RAINS BEGIN
Seasonal rains began on schedule this year, with
downpours hitting Stann Creek and Toledo districts
in early June. Parts of the Coastal Highway,
Southern Highway and road to Placencia were very
muddy, slowing traffic.

BTL’s MONOPOLY TO END?
Belizeans love to complain about the local
telephone company, Belize Telecommunications, Ltd.
And not without reason, observers say. BTL has a
legal monopoly on all forms of telecommunications
in Belize. Independent ISPs can’t offer cheaper,
better Internet access. It’s even against the law
to use Internet-based long-distance programs to
avoid sky-high long-distance rates from BTL.
BTL’s international calling rates are as much as
15 times higher than those paid for similar calls
placed from the U.S. Internet service is several
times more costly in Belize than in the U.S., and
service is spotty, with severe problems with
e-mail and Web access, especially from more-remote
areas such as Placencia, PG and Corozal. BTL
turned a US$20 million profit last year.

The days of BTL’s monopoly, however, appear to be
numbered. The legal monopoly status ends in the
year 2002. Government officials are saying
privately that competition may be introduced
before then. For example, new telecommunications
start-ups are poised to operate in Belize’s free
trade zones. One, Belize Telecommunications
Systems Company
Ltd., based in the Corozal Free Zone, is planning
to offer low-priced services including a
US$20-a-month unlimited-use Internet plan,
one-price-all-you-can-talk cellular service, and
steeply discounted long-distance rates. The catch
is that, for now, these unBelizeable deals are
available only for businesses located within the
Corozal Free Zone. Others will have to wait. And
pay.

TACA REINSTATES MIAMI NON-STOPS TO BELIZE
TACA’s non-stop Miami-Belize City flights,
suspended April 19, were reinstated June 19,
thanks to the work of the Belize Tourism Board
negotiators. Daily service on 737 equipment has
resumed between Miami and Belize City, with
continuing service to Flores (Tikal) and Guatemala
City. It's the same route in reverse on the
return.

CONSERVATIONIST PIONEER JAMES A. WAIGHT DIES
James Aloysious Waight, first president and
founding member of the Belize Audubon Society,
proponent of Belize’s national park system, former
colonial governor of Belize and head of the
colonial survey department, died May 29 at the age
of 92.

BELIZE GETS TOUGHER ON GUNS
Beginning July 19, tough new gun control rules
will go into effect in Belize. Among the new
regulations: Those wanting a gun license will
face a four-week waiting period, must attend a
training session, and supply samples of test-fire
bullets, cartridges and casings as a way of
linking a gun to its owner. A gun license will
have to be carried just like a driver’s license.
Farmers in rural areas will be exempt from some of
the licensing rules.

GUATEMALA FARMER KILLED BY BDF
Belize Defence Forces soldiers allegedly shot and
killed a Guatemala farmer, Mateo Paiz, who was
selling produce in Arenal village, in western
Belize just south of Benque Viejo. Arenal
villagers generally dispute BDF claims that the
farmer was a serious threat to the soldiers, who
were armed with rifles, although he may have been
waving his machete. They say Paiz, from nearby
village of El Rondón in Guatemala, often came to
Belize to sell produce door-to-door. Paiz’s was
shot to death in front of his 10-year-old son.
The Guatemala government has protested the
shooting.

LOBSTER SEASON OFF TO SLOW START
The 1999 lobster season began June 16. Smaller
than-expected catches appeared to reflect a
continuing decline in the Belize lobster
population, due to overfishing. The season
continues through March 15, 2000.

WHALE SHARKS BECOMING TOURIST ATTRACTION
Whale sharks, gentle giants of the ocean, are
regularly seen off the southern coast of Belize in
between April and June. Snorkelers flock to see
these huge fishes.

CAUSEWAY ACROSS PLACENCIA LAGOON PROPOSED
A causeway across the Placencia Lagoon connecting
Independence village and the Placencia peninsula
has been proposed by Betty Zabaneh, president of
the Belize Senate. Some peninsula residents are
concerned about the environmental impact of a
causeway.

TOURIST BOARD CLEANS UP, POINTS WAY
A reinvigorated Belize Tourism Board led by
Tourism Minister Mark Espat and Director Valerie
Woods is helping clean up the roadways of Belize
and putting up signs to keep visitors from getting
lost. In late April, the BTB, Ministry of Tourism
and Belize Waste Control Limited removed 47 old,
rusty vehicles from the sides of the Northern
Highway, and 62 from the Western Highway.
Separately, the BTB is erecting road signs to
direct tourists traveling by rental car to key
destinations such as the Belize Zoo. Eight signs
are being placed where the Northern and Western
highways enter Belize City. Another sign will go
up at the junction of the Northern Highway and the
road to the international airport.

ASHCROFT WINS SOME, LOSES SOME
Michael A. Ashcroft, chairman and CEO of Carlisle
Holdings (formerly BHI), may be Belize ambassador
to the United Nations with friends in high places
in the People’s United Party and simultaneously
treasurer of Britain's Conservative Party, but
according to recent media reports he has been
turned down for a peerage in England. Ashcroft
recently completed the sale of his company’s
non-core assets in Belize, keeping the interests
in BTL and Belize Bank, and saying he would
reinvest the proceeds in

Added on Date: 20:12:39 6/30/99