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.
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.