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Belize Tourism Board
Business & Economy
Hol Chan Marine Reserve’s new park fee remains undecided
The proposed increase in entrance fees at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR) from US$10 to US$20 has sparked controversy among tour operators and tour guides. They have voiced their concerns, questioning the HCMR management about the 100% increase and the need for a proper justification. HCMR has responded to these concerns, explaining the process that led to the new proposed entrance fee. It's important to note that the US$20 entrance fee was not a unilateral decision by Hol Chan but a collective one following a meeting with the heads of the associations representing tour operators, tour guides, and sports fishers, ensuring transparency in the decision-making process.
Business & Economy
Hol Chan Marine Reserve holds public meeting regarding park fee increase
On Wednesday, June 12th, tour operators and guides from San Pedro and Caye Caulker met to discuss the proposed fee increase at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR) from US$10 to US$20. The attendees acknowledged that operational costs are rising and were open to an increase but requested a detailed analysis justifying the 100% raise. The HCMR management agreed to conduct a thorough study and provide a report to the stakeholders by Wednesday, June 19th, regarding the proposed fee hike to access the marine park.
Entertainment
San Pedro BTIA chapter hosts annual Beer Festival
The Belize Tourism Industry Association San Pedro Chapter (SP BTIA) hosted its second annual Beer Festival. This unique event combined the thrill of a Stew Chicken Rice and Beans competition with other fun activities. This one-of-a-kind fundraising event featured the best Belizean beers, various delicious food, artisanal products, and live music by DJ Smallz and the Coconut Trio Band.
Business & Economy
Tourism stakeholders discuss Hol Chan Marine Reserve’s new increase in park fees
On Tuesday, May 21st, tour operators, tour guides, fly-fishing guides, and other business community members in San Pedro Town convened at the Lion's Den to discuss the increased fees to use the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Hosted by the San Pedro Tour Operators Association (SPTOA), and led by President Roberto Canul, the discussion in the public meeting heard most of the attendees disputing the increase, which was not yet official, from US$10 to US$20 to access the famous reserve. Many of those opposing the increase demanded a proper justification for such an increase and a public meeting with the Hol Chan management to understand the need for a 100% increase.
Sports
Boxing night in San Pedro features Belizean and Mexican fighters
The Angel Nuñez Auditorium at the San Pedro High School was the venue of an electrifying boxing event on Saturday, April 13th, featuring three big fights. Dubbed ‘Clash at the Beach,’ the main event of the evening was the fight for the World Boxing Council (WBC) Continental Latin American Atomweight championship between female boxers. Other boxing titles up for grabs included the Lightweight and Featherweight championships.
Community and Society
Independent study places Belize 9th on a list of highest plastic polluters worldwide
A study conducted by Utility Bidder on plastic waste emissions into the ocean has ranked Belize 9th on the list of countries contributing to this environmental issue. The research revealed that Belize emits 0.96kg of plastic into the sea per capita annually. The study aims to identify which countries contribute the most to plastic pollution. In the previous report, Belize was placed 10th, but in the latest report, there has been no improvement in decreasing the amount of plastic waste generated by Belizeans. The research observed the probability and quantity of plastic waste entering the ocean and the mismanagement of plastic waste.
Government
PACT and the BTB unite forces to boost Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas in Belize
The Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) and the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) are pleased to announce the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at jointly financing the enhancement of tourism products and services within Belize’s protected areas.
Conservation
The 13th annual Reef Week is set to begin!
Belize's Barrier Reef Reserve System (BBRRS) plays a significant role in the country's economy and identity. Every year, conservation partners team up to highlight the reef's importance and celebrate its existence in Belize. The 13th Annual Reef Week 2024 will be celebrated from March 9th to 16th under the theme "Unite in the Coral Reef Fight: Learn, Teach, and Do What's Right!" The public is invited to participate in a week-long series of activities celebrating the Belize Barrier Reef while learning and having fun.
