Tag:
Tourism Industry
Community and Society
BTIA President Efren Perez Retains Second Term as President of FEDECATUR
The President of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA), Efren Perez, was confirmed on June 3rd to serve a second term as President of the Federation of Tourism Chambers of Central America and the Dominican Republic (FEDECATUR). The rotating leadership position at the regional organization has placed Belize at the center of regional tourism dialogue.
Dr. Love
Doctor Love: Slow Season
Doctor Love is the islands, and possibly the world’s greatest authority on just about everything. The Doctor answers questions concerning any subject except religion or politics. Persons needing additional assistance or counseling should contact Family Services Division at 227-7541. The opinions herein are not necessarily of The San Pedro Sun. Write Doctor Love at PO Box 51, San Pedro Town, Belize, or email: dr.love@sanpedrosun.com
Community and Society
Community Volunteers Unite for Another Sargassum Clean-Up
A grassroots movement formed by a group of island residents known as San Pedro Citizens for Change (SPCC) continues to advocate for local needs through community action. The group recently organized another Sargassum clean-up effort in the downtown area. The latest campaign took place on Sunday, May 31st, when volunteers tackled a section of beach north of Central Park that had become nearly impassable due to large accumulations of the brown seaweed. SPCC thanked everyone who participated and stated that it plans to continue its clean-up efforts every other week, along with other community projects.
Business & Economy
Future of Sugar Industry in Belize Continues to Face Challenges; May Affect Tourism Sector
In January of this year, the 2026 sugar crop season officially opened, with production projected to increase by up to 20%. As the crop season nears its end, production and cane quality are reportedly up; however, concerns about the industry’s future continue to grow. The main issues are rising fuel prices and limited access to fertilizers, factors that are believed to affect next year’s crop and markets nationwide.
Travel & Tourism
Belize records steady tourism growth in first quarter of 2026
Belize’s tourism sector has kicked off 2026 with consistent performance, recording 187,290 overnight visitor arrivals between January and March. According to preliminary data from the Belize Tourism Board, arrivals showed steady growth over the three-month period, increasing from 59,164 in January to 59,231 in February, and reaching 68,895 in March.
Travel & Tourism
San Pedro Concerns Highlighted in BTIA Meeting with Tourism Minister
On Monday, March 16th, the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) Board of Directors, representing each district in the country, along with its Executive Committee, attended an in-person meeting with the Honorable Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism. San Pedro Chapter Chairwoman Melanie Paz represented Ambergris Caye interests. The meeting focused on urgent tourism challenges across the country, with San Pedro and Caye Caulker highlighted as particularly vulnerable amid ongoing infrastructure development.
Business & Economy
Tourism Minister Says Ambergris Caye’s Infrastructure Needs Improvement
San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, is considered Belize’s premier tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The island, dubbed ‘La Isla Bonita,’ has even been called the country’s tourism mecca because of its popularity, beauty, and proximity to the second-largest barrier reef in the world. However, Minister of Tourism, Honourable Anthony Mahler, believes Ambergris Caye’s infrastructure requires significant improvements to continue meeting the demands of the tourism industry.
Community and Society
No More Dock Permits in San Pedro; Derelict Docks to Be Removed
The number of piers in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, has long been a topic of debate as the town continues promoting itself as a beach destination. Area Representative Honourable Andre Perez has indicated that the island is now overrun with docks and reminded the public that no additional permits will be approved for the construction of new piers. Authorities say much of the eastern coastline is already saturated with docks, which have become an eyesore for residents and visitors alike.