Belize Travelcast

In this episode, Cindy from Chan Chich Lodge joins us to speak about conservation efforts to protect Belize and Central America’s wildlife and rainforests. Chan Chich Lodge in the north of Belize is a pioneer for conservation. Its name comes from the Yucatec words for “little bird” and is built on what was an undiscovered Maya city. Originally a residence for archaeologists and researchers, the lodge became popular with the public as word got out about the hidden gem that is this property and people came to visit for themselves. Because of the location’s isolation, it is a place where guests can go to be free from distraction and reconnect with themselves and nature. It is also due to this isolation that the conservation efforts began. So far from the nearest town, the lodge started growing their own crops and keeping their own animals such as chickens all for on-site consumption. This sustainability expanded and now the lodge takes every step to reduce its carbon footprint and environmental impact, something that in recent years has become a trend called “ecotourism.” Cindy enlightens us on all this and delves deeper into the stories of the people who come to enjoy what the lodge has to offer, a unique experience it fights to preserve as organizations contributing to the Belize Maya Forest project. This fund seeks to protect the natural corridor connecting Belize to Mexico and Central America which is inhabited by many treasured and endangered species like jaguars and tapirs. With over 300 birds in the area and authentic wildlife kept untouched by man, the many trails on the property are a sightseeing paradise that can be explored via the many guided tours offered or simply at your own leisure. The lucky guest might even spot an elusive jaguar passing through. Let’s go to Chan Chich, where guests can know they are helping to make a difference, traveling with a purpose. This episode was sponsored by St Leonard's Tours. Book their signature combo tour that takes you from the heights of the Xunantunich Maya temple to Cave Tubing into one of the Maya Underworld gateways. Let’s go Belizing!

In this episode, we are joined by Ruben Magana, co-owner of Sak Tunich with his father Jose Magana. Ruben speaks about Maya culture in Belize and how it is passed on and kept alive even today. Part of this cultural preservation is Sak Tunich itself. The name comes from the Mayan words for “white rock.” This is because under the topsoil of the property is a layer of pure limestone. The whole place resembles an authentic Maya site, including a plaza, ballcourt, and ceremonial room all carved and decorated traditionally. It is a place where visitors can see and learn more about the culture and traditions of Belize’s Maya people. The country is unique in part because it is the only nation where people can get married on any archaeological site. This means that traditions such as Maya wedding ceremonies are particularly strong. One practice in these ceremonies introduces the four cardinal points, north, south, east, and west, with their different associated colors and energies. One thing Ruben makes clear is that the Maya are not gone. In Belize alone, there are three different branches of the Maya people, of which he is Yucatec. However, ancient traditions are being lost to time and change, such as the language and English and Spanish taking over outside the home, as well as things such as traditional farming practices and rituals. Take a dive with Ruben into the rich Maya culture in Belize, past, present, and future, and see just how it is showcased throughout the country in both architectures like that of Sak Tunich down to the courting traditions of the people. This episode is sponsored by St Leonard's Tours. Let’s go Belizing!

This episode features Rodwell Ferguson Jr., owner of Untame Belize Tours and Transfers, and a board member of the Belize Tourism Board. In this episode, he dives into all his favorite activities and places to visit in Southern Belize. From rock sliding down waterfalls to hiking the world's only jaguar reserve in Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Reserve, Rodwell lets us in on all the top activities he has done and what he recommends every traveler should try when visiting Belize. Through his company, Untame Belize, he can take intrepid travelers on these memorable experiences. Rodwell refers to the Southern part of Belize as the "bread and butter" of Belize, as it not only offers inland and island adventures from popular destinations like Hopkins and Placencia but it is also home to some of Belize's prime industries contributing to Belize's economy, including citrus and banana. It is also home to Belize's second largest port, Big Creek Port. There's much to explore and discover in Southern Belize with Untame Belize. Their tours can range from zip lining through lush forest canopies to swimming with the sea turtles in the Caribbean Sea. Rodwell also mentions some of his favorite destinations in the south of Belize, including Davis Falls, the second largest waterfall in Belize, Red Bank, the largest gathering of scarlet macaws in Central America, and Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the worlds only jaguar reserve. If you are looking for adventures in Belize, then Southern Belize is the place to go! Let's go Belizing!

This episode is short and sweet with two guests, Mariel and Carlene, from Blue Marlin Beach Resort on South Water Caye. The name is a tribute to the island which was once used as a fishing camp and in honor of the rare and difficult catch of a Blue Marlin in the area. True to this, one of the top activities around South Water Caye is fishing, for both beginners and experts. In fact, fly fishing can be done right from the docks. Both snorkeling and diving are also available just off the island for those looking for something more adventurous, as the Caye is located on the Barrier Reef. Along with snorkel and scuba packages, Blue Marlin also offers relaxation packages for those who want to disconnect, go island hopping, hang out, and maybe get a massage. On the other hand, South Water Caye can also be used as a base for caving, ziplining, and any other trips on the mainland. When in Belize, Blue Marlin Beach Resort on South Water Caye is nothing if not an ideal destination. Let’s go experience all it has to offer. Let’s go Belizing!

In the episode, Norvani Santoya, Reservations manager at the Blue Zen Resort on Caye Caulker, talks about just why Caye Caulker and Belize as a whole are the perfect wedding destination. As Norvani states, Zen is about finding balance in relaxation and peacefulness. Located in an accessible yet private and secluded location, Blue Zen accomplishes just this. Along with handling arrivals/departures and general concierge service, Norvani and his team are also responsible for creating completely personalized packages for guests and, most of all, weddings. As the only English-speaking country in Central America and packed with unique attractions such as lobster fest, the second largest barrier reef, and the great blue hole, Belize is the perfect choice for those looking for a destination wedding. Whether you choose to get married on the beach, on a sandbar, in the jungle, on a Maya temple, or on a waterfall, Belize has you covered. What’s more, the ensuing honeymoon can start immediately after without much need for travel. Blue Zen can take care of all of this. Norvani and his team work with their guests every step of the way and will go to great lengths to ensure you have the wedding and honeymoon experience you envision. Enjoy Caye Caulker’s laid-back fishing village atmosphere with the best food and the best sunsets in Belize. Let's go Belizing!

In this episode, we speak with the Yucatec Maya healer and owner of Nuuk Cheil Cottages, Aurora Saki. Aurora speaks about her Maya culture and the tradition of healing that has been passed down through her family. Her mother learned from her grandfather and her uncle became world-renowned, the same uncle who she studied under for 8 years, learning the secrets of countless plants that when combined and used correctly can create nature's remedies for almost anything. She has now been a full-fledged healer for over 25 years, but this is not all she has accomplished. As a girl Aurora and her sisters almost single-handedly built the slate carving industry, making the form of art popular and widespread throughout Belize with their work. Growing up she learned not to be ashamed of her culture but to embrace it and won an award for writing her Mayan cookbook. She opened a restaurant. Then she opened Nuuk Cheil Cottages, deriving its name from the Mayan word for “forest” because of the surrounding area. In the heart of nature, Nuuk Cheil is a beautiful property just about 6 miles from the jaguar reserve where guests and groups can rent a place to stay while in Belize. Listen as Aurora details all of this and more, even including her own Romeo and Juliet story of how she ran away to marry her husband of 30 years, Ernesto Saki, a village chairman of the Mopan Maya. In addition, take a tour of her goodie bag of Maya concoctions that Aurora has created from nature: everything from eye drops to bug spray to hair loss treatments to even a dream serum, all of which she sells as part of being a Healer. So dive into the fascinating culture of the Maya and the well of ancient knowledge that Aurora has to offer.

In this episode, we sit down with Dorian Rivero, owner of Private Belize Adventure and tour guide of over 20 years, to discuss what activities are available to visitors based in Belize City such as those looking for a way to enjoy their Belize layover during a cruise. Belize City, being one of the first settlements, has a rich history and many historical relics, whether it be the artifacts in museums or the colonial style building, there is always a sight to see. From here, people are in the perfect location to embark on quick trips to more exotic destinations such as an ancient Mayan city or cave tubing through a gorgeous underground river. With Dorian and Private Belize Adventure, take a virtual walkthrough of a combo tour where guests book private trips to do just that, spending the day exploring the ruins of Altun Ha in addition to floating down the blue waters and breathtaking caverns of Nohoch Che’en. Anyone can book this tour on Belizing.com Altun Ha is unique, as the ancient city once served as a center of manufacturing and trade yet is not built on a body of water. Meanwhile, Nohoch Che’en provides an unforgettable cave-tubing experience where guests also get the opportunity to explore some dry branches of the cave to uncover artifacts frozen in time like abandoned Mayan pottery, left untouched for ages. In between or along the way shop at nearby establishments, and when it comes time, enjoy the delicious Belizean lunch provided. No need to worry about any park fees or equipment needed for your adventure; everything is included: tubes, life vests, helmets, and lights. There are many memories to be made from Belize City. Let’s go make them. Let’s go Belizing!

Ali Wunderman joins us in the studio for a conversation about the new Belize covid-19 travel restrictions and her experience traveling back to Belize for the first time during the pandemic. We discuss the new travel protocols and her experience arriving in Belize and visiting different areas of the country. With travel to Belize now fully reopened, including the return of cruise tourism in July 2021, there are some updated protocols and procedures that travelers should be aware of. Ali walks us through her experience and explains why traveling to Belize is as easy as 1-2-3.

In this episode, we take you on a virtual tour of the world-renowned Mountain Cow Crystal Cave in western Belize. The Crystal Cave is one of the most popular spelunking destinations in Belize. Expert cave guide Mr Francisco Itza from Belize Caving Expeditions will walk you through the entire experience by discussing what you'll see, hear, and do on this unique tour. You'll also get some travel tips and insights to prepare for the tour on your next Belize vacation. Crystal Cave Mountain Cow St. Hermans' Blue Hole National Park > Book This Tour

Ella Békési from Heritage Network Belize talks about Belize's cultural and natural heritage, including the tangible and intangible heritage. She also discusses why it is important for Belizeans, and visitors alike, to safeguard and embrace the cultural and natural heritage of Belize for generations to come. Their initiative started in the midst of the 2020 pandemic with the aim to support Belizean tourism professionals, cultural and heritage organizations, business owners, artists, and artisans coping with the impact of COVID-19.

Ali Wunderman is back in the studio of the Belize Travelcast to update us on what she's been up to since her last visit back in January 2020. She tells us what it was like being stuck at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic and how she missed Belize dearly and just had to come back as soon as she got the chance. Not only is Ali in Belize to rekindle her love for Belize's nature and people, but she was also here to work on a new cover article for Hemispheres Magazine's April issue, titled "Three Perfect Days in Belize". Check it out on your next flight on United Airlines. In this episode, Ali gives us the inside scoop of what she did for the article research to give visitors a glimpse of what you can do in Belize besides the typical activities. Ali talks about Belize's beautiful San Pedro Town as well as adventure-filled San Ignacio Town and the scenic journey down the Hummingbird Highway to Placencia. Book your next Adventure on Belizing.com Episode Notes Belize Ground Shuttle

Belize's Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, Honorable Anthony Mahler, talks about safety in Belize during the COVID-19 pandemic and discusses what travel and tourism in Belize will be like in 2021 and beyond. Tune in to hear about his vision for Belize tourism. Belize is safe to visit and is gearing up to become a first-class tourism destination under the leadership of Honorable Anthony Mahler. Belize COVID-19 Travel Updates. Aliana's Villas Belize Ground Shuttle Mangata Villas The Belize Tourism Board Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations See the Show Notes for more information.

Belize is open for travel! The Belize International Airport reopened for inbound tourism on October 1st, 2020. In this episode, we continue our conversation with Misty Michael from the Belize Tourism Board to discuss the Belize Gold Standard program for Health and Safety, and why it is important to ensure safety for guests and residents alike. A full list of Belize Gold Standard hotels, tours, and transportation options is available on Belizing.com. This episode is sponsored by the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, Belize Sailing Vacations, and Orchid Bay Belize. National Health and Safety guidelines were developed by the Belize Tourism Board through a 9-point certification program called the Gold Standard Recognition Program. A new Belize Health App is also required for entry to Belize.

Belize is open for travel! Yes, we’re back and we can’t wait to welcome you back to our shores. On October 1st, 2020, the Belize International airport finally reopened for leisure travel. Belize had closed its airport and borders on March 23rd. For over 6 months we were closed to inbound tourism. National Health and Safety guidelines were developed by the Belize Tourism Board through a 9-point certification program called the Gold Standard Recognition Program. A new Belize Health App is also required for entry to Belize. This episode is sponsored by: San Ignacio Resort Hotel Belize Sailing Vacations Orchid Bay Resort In this episode, Mrs. Misty Michael from the Belize Tourism Board joins us to talk about Airport protocols and other travel updates from Belize. Misty is the Director of Marketing and Industry Relations at the Belize Tourism Board, with many years of experience in Marketing, Branding, Business Development, and Communications. Misty has been very hands-on with all the countrywide preparations and high-level discussions and decision-making over these past 6 months. She is one of the key people leading this monumental effort in Belize’s tourism industry. As of October 1st, you can visit Belize by air, you can stay at Gold Standard certified hotels, use Gold Standard certified tour operators and certified transport such as shuttles, car rentals, and taxis. You can explore Belize from Reef to Jungle, responsibly, and safely at your pleasure. You can visit all the wonderful sites, taste all the delicious food, experience the rich cultures, and fully enjoy your Belize experience. For the latest updates and Belize Travel Restrictions, visit Belizing.com and TravelBelize.org

Take a virtual tour of Caracol, the largest ancient Maya city in Belize. Learn about the history of this magnificent place deep in the jungles of Belize. Our expert guide, Jorge De Leon, from Lion Adventure Tours, takes us on this trip and gives us some travel tips for your next in-person visit to Caracol. In AD 650, the urban area of Caracol had a radius of approximately 177 square kilometers. It boasts the tallest man-made structure in the country of Belize, and the city covered an area much larger than present-day Belize City (the largest metropolitan area in the country of Belize). At its peak, Caracol supported more than twice the modern city’s population. Caracol is a must-see, as it is one of the largest cities of the classic period and was in the middle of a power struggle with powerful cities like Tikal and Naranjo in Guatemala. Book this tour.

In this episode, we discuss the vibrancy and uniqueness of Belize’s music and musical artists. We are joined by Supa G, one of the most famous punta rock artists in Belize. We discuss the evolution of punta music from paranda to punta rock and Supa G's unique style that reaches across genres and has made him popular throughout the world. If you’re ready to dive into the rhythmic world of punta rock with Supa G, then this episode is for you. Find more information at https://belizing.com/podcast Episode Page.

This is the second part of our conversation on Belizean Culture and the people of Belize with Belizean Anthropologist Joe Awe from NINE Eco-Cultural Tours. Joe Awe is one of the most renowned experts on indigenous cultures in the country. In this episode, Joe continues the discussion on Belizean Cultures, how food and culture bring us together, and the Creolization of Belize.

The people of Belize are often referred to as a melting pot of cultures. For such a small country, Belize’s population is very diverse. In this episode, we discuss the origins of Belize’s cultural groups. Our guest is Joe Awe, Anthropologist and Chief Cultural Evangelist from NINE Belize Eco-Cultural Tours. Joe is one of the foremost experts on Belize's cultures. In this two-part discussion, Joe gives us a very thought-provoking lesson on the history of Belize's melting pot.

[Updated] The Belize airport reopening has been delayed. In this episode, sponsored by Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas, we will provide a summary of the information you need before you visit and what to expect while you are in Belize. Not all hotels will be open to international guests in the first phase of reopening. The hotels that are allowed to open must first certify for the new Belize Gold Standard certification program. Jim Scott was instrumental in developing these new standards and he sits down with us to discuss the stringent standards that will be put in place to ensure the safety and health of everyone coming to Belize. For official Belize travel updates, please visit https://belizing.com/coronavirus/

Listen to a preview of the next episode coming on July 3 discussing the opening of travel to Belize on August 15th. Mr. Jim Scott from Hospitality Training Services Belize will discuss the Belize Gold Standard Recognition program and the guidelines and protocols that they have developed for the country of Belize. These protocols will be in place to keep Belize and our visitors healthy and safe. The full episode will be available on July 3.