Tag:
Belize Tourism Board
Travel & Tourism
BTB Reports 7.3% Decline in Overnight Visitors in the Last Two Months
Belize’s tourism sector has experienced a notable downturn in overnight arrivals during April and May. According to the latest statistics released by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) on their “Tourism Performance Dashboard,” the figures show a concerning trend. The most striking data point comes from May 2025, which recorded 41,074 overnight visitor arrivals, a 7.3% decrease compared to May 2024, when arrivals stood at 44,313.
Community and Society
Fire Drill Conducted at Sunbreeze Hotel
To enhance fire emergency preparedness in the hospitality sector, a fire drill was held at the Sunbreeze Hotel on Coconut Drive, near downtown San Pedro. The exercise occurred on Thursday, May 29th, shortly after 4PM. The simulation was conducted in collaboration with the San Pedro Fire Service, the Traffic Department, the San Pedro Police Formation, Island Emergency Services (IES), and the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) representatives.
Community and Society
San Pedro’s Saca Chispas Field to Undergo Major Upgrades
The Honorable Louis Sylvestre Sporting Arena, popularly known as Saca Chispas, located in downtown San Pedro, is set to undergo significant upgrades. The Ministry of Tourism has announced plans to transform the venue into a multi-purpose stadium. The field has previously hosted the Belize Tourism Board’s International Music and Food Festival. After holding the event there for two consecutive years, organizers recognized the need to renovate the facility to better accommodate larger crowds and high-profile performances. As a result, the festival will not take place this year.
Travel & Tourism
BTB Hosts Key Tourism Events Highlighting Growth and Innovation
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) successfully hosted three events on Thursday, May 8th, and Friday, May 9th, at the Belize Civic Center in Belize City, drawing hundreds of participants from across the tourism and business sectors. The Building on Our Momentum (B.O.O.M.) Forum, the Belize Airlift Development Conference, and the 9th Annual Digital Marketing Summit highlighted the country's strategic direction for sustainable tourism, enhanced air connectivity, and cutting-edge digital engagement.
Police News
Toxicology tests determine three deceased American tourists were fatally exposed to carbon monoxide
On Wednesday, March 26th, it was confirmed that three American female tourists, Kaoutar Naqqad (23), Imane Mallah (24), and Wafae El-Arar (26), found dead at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort on Ambergris Caye over a month ago, died from fatal exposure to carbon monoxide. Gian Cho, the Executive Director of the Belize National Forensic Science Services, stated that this conclusion was based on the toxicology tests conducted in the United States.
Community and Society
14 Tropic Air Employees Certified as Tour Guides
A class of pilots and staff from Tropic Air received their certificates after completing the National Tour Guide Training Program. A brief ceremony was held at the company’s corporate headquarters, during which representatives from the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) and trainer Philip ‘Billy’ Leslie distributed certificates to the participants. Fourteen department staff members undertook the course and can now apply for their Tour Guide licenses.
Arts & Culture
Art in the Park highlights San Pedro’s talented artists
San Pedro Town Councilor Marina Kay and local artist Edwardo ‘Papo’ Alamilla hosted a vibrant Art in the Park event on February 7th and 8th at Central Park. The occasion showcased the work of many talented artists from San Pedro Town and attracted numerous locals and tourists. Some paintings were available for purchase, and a few collectors left with beautiful masterpieces created by island painters.
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.