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 dut