Eco-Tourism?

WHAT IS ECOTOURISM? According to the Quebec Declaration, it "embraces the principles of sustainable tourism... and the following principles which distinguish it from the wider concept of sustainable tourism: Contributes actively to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, Includes local and indigenous communities in its planning, development and operation, contributing to their well-being, Interprets the natural and cultural heritage of the destination to visitor, Lends itself better to independent travelers, as well as to organized tours for small size groups".

For a country the size of Belize, only 9,000 square miles, to set aside over 3,000 square miles green foliage is remarkable, and testifies to the value Belizeans put on the wonders of nature, and their phenomenal environment. This is a sign of greatness and is probably unequaled anywhere.
Ecotourism vacations deliver thrilling and unique nature adventures amidst extraordinary ethereal environments and hideaways.

Dia de San Pedro weekend culminates with Fishing Tour

Beach dwellers, land lubbers and sea farers were patiently awaiting the 'catch of the day' to come in as Sunday marked the culmination of the Dia de San Pedro weekend with a fishing tournament. Although the turnout was dismal, the fish were a no show as well. Boat after boat came in empty handed, but as luck would have it, big fish started to hit the docks. The rest of the boats made it in by 6, which marked the close of the official weigh in. Fishing enthusiasts gathered by the weigh in station to watch as the fishes were tallied. Rules of the game were simple, biggest fish or total combine poundage wins! Here are some images for your viewing pleasure.

Catch of the day!

Overall, it was a great three day weekend full of activities and events that brought residents and tourists together in honor of our patron saint, St. Peter!

Dia de San Pedro draws hundreds on first nite!

Party goers en-masse rendezvoused at the Saca Chispas (Old Football Field) on Friday nite in grand anticipation of the opening ceremonies for day one of the Dia de San Pedro weekend. Despite the delays, hundreds showed up for the fun, local talent, rides, games and yummy food and drinks that were available at the fair grounds. With mechanical rides, kids trampoline and other fun games, everyone had a great time. Later in the night, the crowd was eager to judge the 15 contestants that signed up for the very first annual Karaoke Competition. Participants had the task of picking three of their favorite songs and sing their hearts out to the delight of the judges and crowd.

Pictures courtesy TacoGirl Blog!
Day one was plenty fun, tonights line up shows Belizean Culture at its best featuring The Belize National Dance Company and the San Pedro Dance Company Act 1. After that segment, put on your dancing shoes and vibe along with the Super Furia Band. Music, entertainment, great food, plenty of drinks and your closest friends and family, what more can you ask for?! See you there!

Dia de San Pedro weekend kicks off!

Today, Friday, marks the opening ceremonies for the long anticipated Dia De San Pedro weekend. The celebartion is to honor or pay tribute to the patron Saint Peter (San Pedro). It also celebrates all of the past accomplishments that we have achieved as a community and is time of reflection for the future achievements. It is a two part weekend, one the religious aspect and two the happy side to any festival. Tonight, festival goers will enjoy local entertainment and will have a chance to participate in the first annual Karaoke competition.

The religious aspect...misa de gallo

Entertainment at its finest

story telling for the kids on how it used to be in San Pedro

Last year's hit, the Pantempers Band on steel drums. Great stuff!

The weekend culminates with the Fishing Tournament!

Ambergris Caye gears up for Dia de San Pedro Weekend!

Visitors enjoying Belize in late June can participate in Dia de San Pedro, a three day celebration for Saint Peter, the patron saint of San Pedro Town in Ambergris Caye, the largest island off the coast of Belize. Dia de San Pedro is observed on June 27th. Festivities include an early morning boat parade, processions, educational workshops and lectures on the island history, special church masses, blessings of the fleet and local fishermen, dances, special concerts and a fiesta/jump up.

Dia de San Pedro or Saint Peter’s Day is one of San Pedro’s oldest traditions. June 29 has been a festive day for as far back as the early 1900’s. To celebrate it then, the great Mestizadas were held for up to 5 days, all in honor of the Patron, Saint Peter.
In 1848, when the Mestizos settled in this village, the island was named after St. Peter, the disciple of Jesus who was a fisherman. Most people in San Pedro have always been fishermen, thus the great devotion to the fisherman patron.
The Mestizadas took on a Mexican flavor which we inherited from the Mestizo immigrants to San Pedro. It included dances, prayers, food and revelry.
Civic minded citizens of San Pedro have managed to keep the tradition alive and the celebrations continue every year bigger and better. The Town Council along with a committee of religious faithfuls are the main organizers of the festivities. The program this year calls for opening ceremonies on Friday, June 26, will include formal speeches by the Mayor followed by cultural dances. To add something new to the weekend’s activities, the Town Council is pleased to announce the first ever Dia de San Pedro Karaoke Competition.

Stay tuned, we'll keep you updated as the weekend progresses!

San Pedro's International Costa Maya Festival is the only festival of its kind in Central America. It is the biggest festival in Belize, as well as the highlight of Ambergris Caye's entertainment year. The dates for the 2009 Festival are from Thursday, August 6 to Sunday, August 9th 2009
Parades, Music, Dancing, Delicious food, La Reina de la Costa Maya, Contests of many varieties, the Costa Maya Festival is an exciting celebration for everyone!
Singing Sensation Fabiola Rodas joins such great artists as Supa G, Grupo Crash, Nathalie Arceo, Dennis Wolfe and the Usual Suspects, Mayan singer Alonzo Heredia, Ballet Folklorico de Quintana Roo de la Secretaria de Cultura, Comedienne “La Chupitos”, and international stars Grupo Bryndis.
The single most biggest event on Ambergris Caye!!

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Living the life on La Isla Bonita while helping newcomers obtain desirable real estate at the lowest possible price! http://www.ambergrisproperty.com/ - Buyer's Advantage Real Estate

3rd Annual LobsterFest a succulent success!!

San Pedro was a lobster lover’s paradise this past week, as Lobster Fest 2009 drew the crowds by the hundreds at the Lobster Festival Block Party that was held on Saturday, June 20, at Central Park. Lobster delicacies were on the top of the menu, probably the only thing on the menu, at all the food booths. Restaurants from around the island set up their mobile kitchen at Central Park in order to cook and boast their top Lobster dishes, appetizers and even desserts.

Lobster Dishes gallore......from pasta, to kebabs, to pizza, tacos, burritos..and more!

lobster lovers has fun...

The third annual Lobster Fest was bigger than last year; not even the rain could stop the jammin' party. At the end of the nite, several booths had the chance to win prizes. Taking top honor awards at the festival were the following businesses:

Best Lobster Entrée - Elvi’s Kitchen
Best Lobster Appetizer – Sunset Grill
Best Cocktail – Black Orchid Spa
Best Booth – Rojo Lounge
People’s Choice (most visited booth) Elvi’s Kitchen & Rojo Lounge

Yummmmm.....

(Pics provided by San Pedro media houses)

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From dream homes, to undeveloped lots, to stunning condominiums, AmbergrisProperty.com is dedicated to suit all your real estate needs! 226-3232, 662-2020

Belize featured in American Way Magazine!

American Way: it is a visitors Magazine that is published by American Airlines and circulated in all American Airline flights. In its June 15th 2009 publication, American Way featured Belize in its main travel article. It is the first time in our collective history that Belize is featured in the American Way Magazine.

On wednesday morning, during the unveiling of the article at the Radisson Fort George Hotel, stakeholders in the tourism industry, the media and even the Prime Minister Honorable Dean Barrow got the opportunity to be amongst the first to see the Magazine’s Beautiful Belize publication.

In fact, the cover page of the magazine features the beautiful Kim Simplis Barrow, the Prime Minister’s wife sitting down on the beach with the Caribbean Sea in the background.

Lobster Season officially opens!

Lobster Season officially opened today with fishermen heading out as early as possible to catch the most lobster on the first day. But the rainy day definitely posed a problem for the fishermen, making the waters murky and decreasing visibility, and making the lobsters run away for shelter. At only $16 per pound for lobster tails at the co-operative, fishermen are looking elsewhere to get top dollar for the prized lobster tails.

A quick check at the fishing Caribena co-operative revealed the official count was very low – only about 150lbs was recorded at the end of the first day.

Some resorts are shelling out about $25 per pound of lobster tail. Lobster season runs from June 15 to October 15th, 2009!

LobsterFest kicks off in style!

The official ceremonies for the long awaited LobsterFest kicked off with a "Meat and Greet" at El Divino Resturant at Banana Beach Resort on Sunday. Many fans and diners took the chance to take advantage of a mouth watering Brazillian style Rotiserrie. Mmmm, it was good and enjoyed by all who attended! Thats one way to kick off the starting of the lobster season! Stay tuned for more on this event and more as the week progresses! Photos courtesy The San Pedro Sun!

yumm...
diners having a ball...

Entertainment provided by the Fat Cats!

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Are you ready for LobsterFest 2009?

The Full Events Schedule for Lobsterfest 2009 has been released!
Sunday June 14th: “Meat and Greet” Opening ceremonies at El Divino (Banana Beach Resort). This evening features a special introduction by Mayoress Elsa Paz, musical performance by the Fat Cats, San Pedro Dance Company and more…
Monday June 15th: OPENING Day at Fidos Courtyard. All Day Festivities and the Fat Cats at 9:00pm
Tuesday June 16th: Portofino Lobster Feast
Wednesday June 17th: Pedro’s Inn Lobster Pizza and Poker NightFeaturing a musical performance by The Fat Cats, All You Can Eat Lobster Pizza for $25Bz, the 3rd Annual Lobsterfest Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament, Drink Specials and more.
Thursday June 18th: 80s “Rock Lobster” Night at the TackleboxCome eat, drink and dance to the hits of the 80s (and much more) at the Tacklebox. Starting at 6pm, we will be serving Lobster Ceviche, Lobster Quesadillas and lots of our famous hamburgers. Happy Hour is 6-8pm everyday with 3 beers for $10 and 2 for 1 rum drinks. Free drink raffles every half hour, lots of special lobster cocktails and a cool Caribbean breeze. Music all night with DJ Debbie.
Friday June 19th: Victoria House Lobster Dinner and the Fat Cats Perform.
Saturday June 20th: Lobster Festival Block Party!!! Central Park starting at 5:00pm. Featuring: Live Music, Fire Dancers, Great Food and Drinks and much more!
Sunday June 21st: Beachfront Lobster BBQ at Catamaran Beach Bar, located at Caribbean Villas Resort.

Savor San Pedro Lobsterfest

The rainy season in Belize is in effect during June, but that doesn’t stop San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye from celebrating the opening of the year’s lobster catching season with a big party. The inaugural San Pedro Lobsterfest in 2007 was deemed a big success by organizers, so hopes are high for another home run when the 2009 Lobsterfest kicks off on June 14 in the island’s major village.
The official website of the San Pedro Lobsterfest says the event is scheduled for 4 days from June 14th to 21st, so it’s unclear how that works out, math-wise, but I’m sure everything will be updated on the official events section of the site as the festival approaches.

Highlights last year were the “Meat and Greet” kick off party at Banana Beach on opening night, as well as the Portofino Beach BBQ, the all-you-can-eat lobster pizza night at Pedro’s Inn, the Afternoon Festivities at Fidos, and the Portofino Lobster Feast. There is also sure to be live music and booths set up by local businesses so this sounds like a huge highlight for visitors as well as the locals.

The lobster-catching season in Belize runs from June 15 to February 15, with the remaining 4 months being closed as this is the mating and spawning season for the delicious crustaceans. There have long been similar festivals in Caye Caulker and Placencia, but San Pedro being much larger this is likely to be the most important Lobsterfest in the country already. Are you seafood lovers ready??!

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Maya Research Program is a US based non-profit corporation that sponsors archaeological and ethnographic work in Middle America (Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico).



Join the Team!

Participate in one of our archaeological projects, or live in a Maya village with our researchers, or come with one of our tours as we visit the spectacular and breathtaking world of the ancient and modern Maya. For more information log on to mayaresearchprogram.org

Dock Street Art Gallery Open!

Located in the heart of town and beside our Sales office is an extensive collection of Art works by artist Linda Mikulich. Linda displays works of the Caribbean Sea, the Local Belizean people, street scenes, land and seascapes and her work keeps growing in different directions.

Known for her bold use of color and expressive brushwork, Linda continues to excite her collectors with her signature painting style. View her collection at the Corner of Barrier Reef Drive and Black Coral Street. Or call ahead to reserve a piece or viewing at 226-3232.

Forecasters at NOAA predict an AVERAGE Hurricane Season

Posted by: JeffMasters, 4:45 PM GMT on June 02, 2009


A near-average Atlantic hurricane season is on tap for 2009, according to the seasonal hurricane forecast issued June 2 by Dr. Phil Klotzbach and Dr. Bill Gray of Colorado State University (CSU). The CSU team is calling for 11 named storms, 5 hurricanes, and 2 intense hurricanes, and an Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) 88% of average. Between 1950 - 2000, the average season had 10 named storms, 6 hurricanes, and 2 intense hurricanes. But since 1995, the beginning of an active hurricane period in the Atlantic, we've averaged 15 named storms, 8 hurricanes, and 4 intense hurricanes per year. The new forecast is a step down from their April forecast, which called for 12 named storms, 6 hurricanes, and 2 intense hurricanes. The new forecast calls for a near-average chance of a major hurricane hitting the U.S., both along the East Coast (28% chance, 31% chance is average) and the Gulf Coast (28% chance, 30% chance is average). The Caribbean is also forecast to have an average risk of a major hurricane.

The forecasters cited several reasons for an average season:

1) Sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the tropical Atlantic
are quite cool. In fact, these SST anomalies are at their coolest
level since July 1994. Cooler-than-normal waters provide less heat
energy for developing hurricanes. In addition, an anomalously cool
tropical Atlantic is typically associated with higher sea level
pressure values and stronger-than-normal trade winds, indicating a
more stable atmosphere with increased levels of vertical wind shear
detrimental for hurricanes. Substantial cooling began in November 2008
(Figure 1), primarily due to a stronger than average Bermuda-Azores
High that drove strong trade winds. These strong winds increased the
mixing of cool waters to the surface from below, and caused increased
evaporational cooling.

2) Hurricane activity in the Atlantic is lowest during El Niño years
and highest during La Niña or neutral years. This occurs because El
Niño conditions bring higher wind shear over the tropical Atlantic.
The CSU team expects the current neutral conditions may transition to
El Niño conditions (70% chance) by this year's hurricane season. I
discussed the possibility of a El Niño conditions developing this year
in a blog posted Friday

Read more on this subject and more at href="http://www.wunderground.com">www.wunderground.com

SP LobsterFest Calender of Events!

The Full Events Schedule for Lobsterfest 2009 has been released!

Sunday June 14th: “Meat and Greet” Opening ceremonies at El Divino. Including the Fat Cats, San Pedro Dance Company and more…

Monday June 15th: OPENING Day at Fidos Courtyard. All Day Festivities and the Fat Cats at 9:00pm

Tuesday June 16th: Portofino Lobster Feast

Wednesday June 17th: Pedro’s Lobster Pizza and Poker

Thursday June 18th: Tackle Box

Friday June 19th: Victoria House Lobster Dinner and the Fat Cats Perform.

Saturday June 20th: Lobster Festival Block Party!!! Central Park starting at 5:00pm. Featuring: Live Music, Fire Dancers, Great Food and Drinks and much more!