Tag:
Belize Tourism Board
Community and Society
Newly elected BTIA President Efren Perez visits San Pedro
The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) San Pedro Chapter recently welcomed their newly elected national president, Efren Perez, who visited San Pedro Town from January 27th through 29th. This visit is part of an initiative to increase BTIA membership and share what the organization has accomplished. The organization believes that with a larger membership, they can enhance their advocacy efforts. While in San Pedro, Perez gave an exclusive interview to The San Pedro Sun, sharing his thoughts and vision for the future.
Community and Society
San Pedro Town honors the legacy of Elvia Staines
On Saturday, January 11th, the Staines family, along with friends, staff, and members of the San Pedro Town community in Ambergris Caye, gathered to lay to rest their beloved matriarch, Marcela Elvia Staines, affectionately known as Doña Elvia. She was a pillar in the local tourism industry and the proud founder of the renowned award-winning Elvi’s Kitchen, considered one of Belize's best restaurants, cherished by Belizeans and visitors alike.
Business & Economy
Belize celebrates record-breaking tourist arrivals in 2024
In 2024, Belize's tourism sector has seen remarkable growth, making it a historic year for the industry. The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) reported that overnight visitor arrivals reached 562,405, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 11.8% compared to 2019, the previous peak year for tourism in the country. The year 2024 has been transformative for Belize's tourism industry, marked by record-breaking visitor numbers and substantial economic contributions, solidifying the country's position as a leading destination in the Caribbean.
Business & Economy
BTB advises stakeholders to register new or developing accommodation projects
San Pedro Town, located on Ambergris Caye, is a highly sought-after destination for tourism and real estate. It is recognized as the fastest-growing municipality in Belize, with new accommodation projects continually being developed. To assist tourism stakeholders in entering the industry smoothly, the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) reminds all owners of prospective hotels or other types of tourism accommodations that, according to Section 5 (3) of the Hotels and Tourist Accommodation Act, they must apply for and obtain registration from the Registrar of Hotels before beginning any renovations or construction on their developments.
Community and Society
San Pedro hosts one of the best Lighted Boat Christmas Parades
After a five-year hiatus, the Holiday Lighted Christmas Boat Parade was held again in San Pedro Town on Saturday, December 14th. The event was revived by islanders Elito Arceo and Karen Canul, along with the San Pedro Tour Operators Association and Seaduced by Belize. This creative and colorful event was considered one of the best. The participating boats lined the eastern coast of San Pedro, illuminating the area with dazzling lights. Visitors and residents enjoyed the traditional event, which had been absent since 2019. The highly anticipated spectacle raised the bar for highlighting the Christmas spirit and concluded with a fantastic fireworks show in front of Central Park.
Community and Society
San Pedro’s Holiday Boat Parade is set for December 14th
After some uncertainty, the 2024 Holiday Lighted Boat Parade has been scheduled for Saturday, December 14th. The traditional event ushers in the holiday season, brightening the coast of San Pedro with twinkling lights, happy people, and Christmas galore. Participation is free, and anyone interested can call or message 610-1690. There are no participation fees; interested individuals can call or message 610-1690 for more information.
Business & Economy
Island Tourism Stakeholder take part in Sustainability as a Business Revaluation Workshop
On November 26th, in San Pedro Town, Riviera Maya Sostenible, a Mexico-based organization, partnered with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) to host a workshop titled "Sustainability as a Business Revaluation Process" at the San Pedro Lions Club Den. The event aimed to support global sustainability goals by raising awareness and encouraging the local tourism industry to adopt sustainable practices. Promoting sustainability is essential for Belize's tourism sector, as it contributes to economic growth while safeguarding the environment and preserving cultural heritage.
Community and Society
Graduate ceremony held for new San Pedro Tour Guides
A group of 43 islanders received their certification from the Belize Tourism Board after successfully completing the national tour guide training. A brief ceremony commemorating their achievement was held on Thursday, November 7th, at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium. The new tour guides, including several women, were joined by their families and friends to celebrate this significant milestone.