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
San Pedro Tourism Awards recognize outstanding island stakeholders in the industry
For the third consecutive year, several businesses that excel in the tourism industry were honored for their outstanding contributions to this vital sector in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. Councilor Ernesto Bardalez organizes the annual event, known as the "San Pedro Tourism Awards. " Bardalez, along with Mayor Gualberto "Wally" Nuñez and Area Representative Honorable Andre Perez, presented the awards to the winners at this year's gala.
Community and Society
Island Emergency Operation Centers demonstrate skillful response to Tropical Storm Sara
After Tropical Storm Nadine passed on October 19th, residents of San Pedro did not anticipate another weather system to impact the area in mid-November. While the hurricane season typically concludes at the end of the month, storms rarely form in November. However, this year was different, as Tropical Storm Sara emerged, bringing heavy rainfall and flooding to much of Belize, including the Cayes, over the weekend of November 17th. In San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) branch was activated to monitor the weather system. Shelters were set up, and the team remained on standby for any emergencies.
Community and Society
Continuous flooding emphasizes the need for proper drainage on new streets
In San Pedro Town, recent efforts have been focused on addressing significant drainage issues and improving road conditions, which have been worsened by flooding from Tropical Storm Sara. Under the leadership of Mayor Gualberto "Wally" Nuñez and Councilor Ernesto Bardalez, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is undertaking a multi-phase initiative to enhance drainage systems and pave roads across the island. Several neighborhoods, including San Pablo, DFC, and Escalante Marina Drive, have already experienced progress due to the ongoing road construction project. However, the lack of a proper drainage system on the newly paved roads continues to result in flooding in these neighborhoods, causing considerable discomfort for the residents.
Environment
San Pedro recognized as the leading fishing destination in Belize for 2024; 12th-best fishing town globally
Belize is quickly becoming one of the premier fishing destinations in Central America, especially for saltwater anglers looking for diverse fishing experiences. A recent study by Fish Booker, a well-known global platform for booking fishing trips, highlights Belize’s growing appeal in this area. The study analyzed 266 fishing locations outside the United States, using five key criteria based on data from over 40,000 fishing excursions conducted in the past year.
Conservation
Belize hosts 1st Annual World Sustainable Travel and Hospitality Awards
On Friday, September 27th, Belize celebrated Tourism Day by hosting a gathering of global leaders during the 1st Annual World Sustainable Travel and Hospitality Awards at the Oakridge Venus in Spanish Lookout. The event aimed to acknowledge individuals and organizations contributing positively to tourism and pioneering sustainability initiatives. Among other countries, Belize stood out and was awarded for being the leading sustainable destination, recognizing its efforts to implement sustainable tourism practices, preserve natural and cultural heritage, and promote responsible tourism worldwide.
Travel & Tourism
Major upgrades planned for Belize’s Philip Goldson International Airport
Ranked as one of the worst airports in Central America in a travel magazine article, the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA), north of Belize City, is set for major upgrades within the next two years. These upgrades, expected to significantly improve the airport’s facilities and services, may remove the PGIA from such ratings.
Business & Economy
Caye Caulker BTIA opens new Tourism Information Center
The Caye Caulker Belize Tourism Industry Association (CCBTIA) inaugurated its new Tourist Information Center (TIC) in Caye Caulker Village on August 2, 2024. The event was attended by a diverse group of guests, including BTIA members, management, and representatives from the Belize Tourism Board. The main highlight was a ribbon-cutting ceremony that marked the official commencement of TIC's operations in Caye Caulker.
Environment
New park fee go into effect at Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Starting August 1st, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR) will implement a new entrance fee of US$15 for all 15 zones. Initially, there were discussions of a US$20 fee, but this was met with resistance from tour guides and operators. While some accept the new fee, a US$5 increase from the previous cost of US$10, others are worried about its impact on their businesses. The HCMR management has not provided additional comments on the fee increase.
Travel & Tourism
Joseph Pate Honored as BTB’s Frontline Hero for Exceptional Bartending Skills and Community Contributions
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) proudly announces Joseph Pate as the latest recipient of its esteemed Frontline Hero award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to both the bartending industry, tourism, and the community.
Joseph, affectionately known as JoeDaBartender, has been a stalwart in the bartending scene for over a decade, honing his craft with dedication and passion. His journey commenced at Coco Beach Resort, where he gained the foundational principles of bartending - speed, efficiency, and consistency.
Travel & Tourism
Belize’s South Water Caye has been recognized as one of the top 100 beaches in the world, receiving the Golden Beach Award for 2024
Blue Marlin Beach Resort is one of Belize's most tranquil island escapes, located 14 miles off the coast of South Water Caye in Dangriga Town. Based on a survey conducted by Beach Atlas titled "Golden Beach Award 2024," a hundred of the best beaches were selected worldwide, covering various aspects of what makes a beach exceptional. The "Blue Marlin Caye" landed in the top hundred unique beaches and ranked number seventy on the list. The beach is well known for its diverse criteria, highlighting the significance of local communities, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
