Government
Land borders to reopen at the end of May; sea entry remain closed
After more than a year, the Government of Belize will reopen its land borders to welcome foreign tourists. The anticipated reopening will occur in a phased approach, and tourists must be pre-booked with a Gold Standard hotel. The western border with Guatemala and the northern border with Mexico set to reopen on May 31st, while the sea borders in Punta Gorda Town and San Pedro Town will start operating at a different date to be announced.
Travel & Tourism
BTB Launches Belizean Traveler Campaign to Boost Domestic Tourism
On May 14th, 2021, the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) launched its Belizean Traveller Campaign – the organization’s signature event that aims to boost domestic tourism by encouraging Belizeans to be tourists in their own country.
Travel & Tourism
Alaska Airlines announces service to Belize
Another international air carrier has announced that it will add Belize to its travel options. On Wednesday, May 12th, Alaska Airlines said they would soon start offering a non-stop flight to Belize from the west coast in the United States of America. Tickets are set to go on sale in June 2021 with full flight schedules.
Travel & Tourism
Belize Prepares for the Restart of Cruise Operations
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) on Wednesday, May 5th, 2021 released a new set of health and safety protocols that will guide the restart of cruise operations in Belize. The protocols outline the necessary adjustments and adaptations to be undertaken at each step of the cruise cycle - from home port, to destination and return.
Travel & Tourism
Three Perfect Three Days in Belize through the eyes of travel writer Ali Wunderman
Next time you fly with United Airlines, do not forget to check out the recent publication of their in-flight magazine, Hemispheres featuring Belize. The Jewel was chosen for the ‘Three Perfect Days’ article written by none other than well-known travel writer and Belize’s greatest fan Ali Wunderman. The review highlights Ambergris Caye, the Cayo District, and Placencia in southern Belize.
Business & Economy
Ministry of Tourism, BTB, and Tourism Police commit to address tour operator issues in San Pedro
Members of the San Pedro Tour Operators Association (SPTOA) met with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ministry of Tourism, Acting Director of the Belize Tourism Board (BTB), and head of the Tourism Police Unit on Wednesday, April 21st, to discuss various issues relating to tour operators on the island. The government representatives listened to the issues brought up by SPTOA members, such as the operation of unlicensed tour operators. The representatives committed to tackling the situation by increasing inspections and improving enforcement. The option to categorize licenses and address the alleged violations in the Qualified Retirement Program (QRP) was also discussed.
Community and Society
Garage Bar & Grill is the newest scene for suppering and socializing
Sporting a casual, trendy vibe with an artistic spin on all things garage, fine dining comes without the bling at this smart and snappy locale. From repurposing tires into seating and hanging lights to oil drums for table stands, bicycle crank and chain bar stools, and glass tabletops with mechanical gears and toy cars underneath, they have ultimately recycled their décor into industrial chic.
Health
Requirements for Travelers to Belize
The statutory instrument states that the Ministry of Health & Wellness considers persons to be fully immunized two weeks after they have received two full doses of the COVID-19 vaccine and are verified through an official document two weeks. It also states that the Ministry reserves the right to test anyone, regardless of meeting the above criteria.
