September a Festive Month- Independence Day and Jump Up Time

Independence Day and Jump Up Time

Belize: Adorned in Red, White, and Blue, the sound of the marching bands and the loud trumpets can be heard, commemorating the history of what has become Belize. Belize is the Land of the Free, and by listening to Belize’s many national, and historical September Celebration songs including Belize’s National Anthem, we can feel the vibration of the drums and the rhythm of the proud patriotic march.

Belize gained its Independence on September 21, 1981 and it was on this day that the Belizean flag was raised, and the Belize’s National Anthem song by all inhabitants, who proudly called themselves: ‘Belizeans’ for the very first time. Today, the entire month of September is packed with events, all aimed at celebrating Belize. This year September celebration theme is “Belize in you, Belize in me, Land of the Free!”

The Celebration began with the National Song Competition that was held on Saturday, August 10. On this day Belizeans gathered to participate in a three-song category competition: Junior, Patriotic, and Carnival. The winning songs will be used extensively throughout this year’s September Celebration.

Other popular historical events that will be taking place this year September includes: Carnival Mass Camp, Queen of the Bay Pageant, Carnival Queen and King Competition, St. George’s Caye citizen parade, Carnival Jouvert, Carnival Road March, and on the 20^th midnight Belize Independence Ceremony and fire works display.

For many and myself included September is one of the best times to celebrate with locals and experience the patriotism of Belizeans. The Belize Carnival is one of the most colorful, energized, and creative, event in September. The soca and punta music on this day will have you shaking your bum as you view the bright, and picturesque costumes.  Plan on visiting Belize this September celebration and experience the festivities on this tropical Caribbean paradise. Be sure to check out the official Calendar of Events click here.

Learn more about Belize by contacting Patty at patricia@splashbelize.com and learn how you can be part of the celebrations!

Top Reasons to Visit Belize

Need a reason to visit Belize? How about 5?

My husband, Ben and I vacationed in Belize for a week and if you ask me to give you one good reason to visit Belize, I honestly cannot! I simply cannot state one good reason, as there are many. Belize may be a small country but it is unique and exotic! I may not be able to give you ONE reason to visit Belize but I have narrowed them down to FIVE! They are just some things worth experiencing before leaving Belize.

1.      Quick and Easy Travels                          

Getting to Belize is no mystery and no hassle! Belize is only a two hours flight from the United States. My husband and I flew out of Miami and we were surprised of the short distance. Approximately two hours after takeoff and we had landed on earth’s paradise.

Although Belize is in Central America, surrounded by Spanish speaking countries, it is actually an English speaking country. Without the language barrier it was easy to communicate with the locals and learn a lot more about Belize.

American dollars are accepted everywhere in Belize and the exchange rate is  $1.00 USD to $2.00 BZD; it is a convenient and stable currency exchange rate that allows for a profitable return.

Did I mention that Belize is a small country filled with great adventures? In addition to it being small it is easy to explore, as most of the destinations are only a short drive or flight away from each other. Imagine exploring wildlife and marine life all in one day!

2.      Marine Life   

Belize may have been known as “mother nature’s best kept secret” but with such great wonders such as having the longest Barrier Reef in the Western Hemisphere, it can no longer be called a secret. The Barrier Reef of Belize is home to a vast array of marine life. Over 60 different types of corals, soft and hard, can be found on the reefs near Placencia, Belize.

When in Belize be sure to visit the Great Blue Hole. The Blue Hole is a natural wonder and a must for all divers and snorkelers. Ben and I had the most amazing time flying over the Great Blue Hole. The view up on top was as stunning as diving amidst the multitude of sea creatures and corals. 

Similar to the Caribbean islands, Belize has its fair share of island life. Relax on the beach and take in the beauty of the Caribbean Sea.

3.      Jungle Adventure

Belize’s natural jungle is full of ultimate adventures from kayaking, zip lining, caving, cave tubing, rappelling, and birding, to name a few. Ben and I got an adrenaline rush as we soared through the treetops in the jungle. After zip lining we got a chance to take it easy by cave tubing in the dark mysterious cave, where we saw and learned a lot about limestone formations.

Belize is also known to house the world’s only Jaguar preserve, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary & Jaguar Preserve.  The Belize’s Jungle unspoiled nature is definitely worth exploring.

4.      Culture

Cultural diversity in Belize is  amazing. It certainly took me by surprise when I learned that they are  eight ethnic groups living harmoniously in Belize: Mayas, Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, East Indian, Asians, Caucasians, and Mennonites. This cultural diversity not only makes Belize unique, but also, rich in culture. The food, dance, and traditions continue to be appreciated and practiced throughout the year in Belize.

                         

5.  History & Archaeology

Belize’s history is evident in each district with the presence of ancient Mayan temples and tombs. The Mayan civilization was one of great mystery. The Mayan built great structures using nothing more than  stone and wooden tools in the Classic period. To be able to view and even climb these ancient temples today  is a momentous experience.

Our vacation to Belize was more than a single adventure. It was many adventures and life experiences packed in one week of pure delight. If anyone should ask for one good reason to visit Belize, I can only answer with 5 good reasons!

Book your adventure today by contacting Patty at patricia@splashbelize.com

           

“Discover how to be”

Your Next Dream Vacation

At the start of every New Year we begin to envision and plan towards our dreams and future goals. In the hustle and bustle of an ordinary life it should be an obligation to take a few weeks off to enjoy a vacation, one that will allow you to experience the natural wonders of the world. There is but one place that allows you to experience the natural wonders of several “worlds”, and that place is called Belize.

Belize has been referred to for many years as a secret, the secret country in Central America that is marvelous in every aspect, despite the small landmass it occupies on the beautiful Caribbean Sea. Belize is approximately 185 miles long and 75 miles wide.  In size Belize is often compared to the state of Massachusetts in the U.S.A, yet it has so much to offer, with an opportunity for 247,019 discoveries (diverse cultures, caves, Mayan temples, rivers, marine life, and many natural resources).

Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation you can bet you will find it in Belize.   Belize is known for its many acres of unspoiled forest that hold the secrets of the Maya heritage, incorporating a vast array of temples, rivers, caves, and mountains. Belize was the center of the ancient Maya world.  Be it no surprise that Belize has one of the only jaguar preserves in the world, the “Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary & Jaguar Preserve.”

Not interested in experiencing miles of natural jungle life? Then be sure to visit one of Belize’s 400 tropical islands, and get a chance to dive into the enchanting Blue Hole, along the Western Hemisphere largest barrier reef. Enjoy the beauty of the magnificent underwater world, a nature so natural and captivating you will be left in awe. Belize is known for its intact Coral Barrier Reef that is home to 70 hard coral species, 36 soft coral species, 500 species of fish, and hundreds of other diverse plants and animals.  With all that Belize has to offer you will enjoy and explore a wide array of activities from the jungle to the beach such as:  hiking, birding, caving, camping, zip lining, scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, cultural experiences, and sailing just to name a few.

Relax, and take a breath of pure air! Forget about the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge into paradise. Start planning your dream vacation by choosing one of Belize’s resorts either inland or on any of Belize’s picturesque islands or beaches. Allow yourself to be one with nature, be one with Belize!

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Dream Vacation by contacting Patricia Ramirez at patricia@splashbelize.com

Getting To Belize: 1 – 2 -3 Heavenly Belize from the US or Canada

Belize is amazing!  Rapidly changing topography allows travellers to experience estuaries, rivers, jungle, mountains, coral reefs, expansive underground caves, glorious waterfalls and an incredible collection of flora and fauna.  Some come in the high season (November to May) to escape winter.  Some choose the quiet days of summer for their Belizean adventure. Both times of the year have their own unique attractions or things to do and the choice of when to visit is totally up to you, your budget and the adventure you seek.

Belize Map

Oh Girls Just Wanna Have Fun…..? Then Belize is your playground….

There is no travel destination more exciting for girls to be themselves and share quality time with their girl buddies than in Belize! If you don’t see yourselves lounging on the beach in the Caribbean or relaxing in a hammock on the beach under swaying coconut palms with a pinacolada  or sun tanning by the poolside or exploring the glorious pyramids of the ancient and mysterious Mayas amidst the lush rainforest, then Belize is not the place for you.

Dozens of private and public white sand beaches, with the magnificent barrier reef only a stone throw away, eagerly wait to be relished. Chic beach and rainforest resorts await the curious for the most breath-taking views of sunsets and tropical landscapes, to luxuriate the body and mind with full service salons and massages.

For the adventurous ladies, take a dive at the iconic BlueHole, or swim with the whale sharks of Gladden Spit. For the more daring, plunge into the deep blue Caribbean from high above the sky.  If not up for much adrenaline rush, take a tour to Hol Chan Marine Reserve for a scenic underwater tour snorkeling in a colossal aquarium of the world’s second largest barrier reef vibrant with corals, sponges and abundance of colorful aquatic life.

Ladies beware of the islands of Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker and Placencia. The quaint feel of the picturesque islands that spoils visitors with a range of exquisite accommodations, food and water sports, a melting pot of cultures and friendly people will steal your hearts!...You may never leave Las Islas Bonitas…


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Any unlucky anglers who haven’t been to Belize? Here is some bait to hook you….

Belize-is where you go catching not just fishing.  This small, yet so big blue Caribbean jewel, is synonymous with exceptional fishing.  Belize has long been recognized as a world-class angling destination, and fishermen from all parts of the world come for great sports fishing.

What makes Belize so appealing is the vast diversity of fishing grounds, of fish species, different types of fishing and the sheer natural beauty of the unique landscape where these grounds are found.  In addition to the endless numbers of cayes, deep blue water and turtle-grass flats, Belize boosts an abundance of rivers, lagoons, and freshwater lakes adding to the proliferation of fishing grounds.

Blogger- Megan Wood Fishing in Belize- http://meganlwood.com/

Make no mistake; Belize is no ordinary fishing spot.  Belize is home to the “Big Three,” where fly fishing enthusiasts have a chance at the revered Grand Slam – a bonefish, tarpon and permit in one day!

Prized for its incredible strength and speed, bonefish may average between 2 – 5 pounds and are caught on Belize’s flats throughout the year. The virgin waters around Placencia offer a fertile ground to sight and catch this top game fish.

Belize offers good fly fishing for tarpons. In fact, a couple hundred square miles of tarpon flats is featured throughout Belize. Tarpons are perhaps some of the strongest, largest (up to a whopping 200 pounds) and most acrobatic fish in saltwater. The best tarpon fishing months are from November through April or May.  Tarpon Caye lies offshore of Placencia.

Belize’s southern waters are not only known for tarpon and bonefish, but also the amazing number of permit that inhabit the long chain of cayes and flats. Also known as “Silver King

Outside of Belize’s magnificent barrier reef, dozens of other species are found in the deep blue sea including wahoo, dolphin fish (also known as dorado or maui-maui), grouper, barracuda, jack crevalle, yellowtail and mutton snapper. The three Atolls – Turneffe Islands, Lighthouse Reef and Glover’s Reef offer good chances of catching the great Blue Marlin.

So for those who like variety to catch their prize fish, Belize is a top flat fishing mecca offering a number of experienced operators and guides with abundant local knowledge. No matter whether you are a veteran or a novice, Belize’s saltwater fishing features exceptional angling prospects.  So pack your fishing gear or use our fishing gear but come to Belize.  In Belize, you’ll experience the difference between “just fishing” and “catching.”

Belize’s Barrier Reef, an Ultimate Diver’s Mecca

Belize Barrier Reef-Placencia

Belize’s amazing Barrier Reef is any avid diver’ or snorkeler’s aquatic playground that provides the ultimate experience. Divers from all over the world are discovering Belize’s exotic marine life and pristine waters and attest to the barrier reef being a colossal aquarium of exotic critters, graceful invertebrates, and colorful sea life. Spanning most of Belize’s coastline with 185 miles, this reef is the longest in the Western Hemisphere.

Belize has a remarkably high concentration of marine life. Schools of exotic fish, colorful coral gardens, grottos and walls lined with sponges appearing to have internal bioluminescence, caverns decorated with stalactites and ocean critters are ever present. More than 50 species of corals and 400 species of fish call these waters home including the horse-eye jack, barracuda, yellowtail snapper, pompano and goliath grouper often seen cruising the reef.

Belize Barrier Reef- Sea Turtle

With spectacular strings of unspoiled islands atop sparkling clear waters and three atolls, Belize is a mecca for divers and a water-borne Garden of Eden for water sports enthusiasts.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve, an offshore caye, is an excellent diving area easily accessed from San Pedro and Caye Caulker – two formerly sleepy fishing villages offshore and now popular tourist destinations and hub for divers. Inside the reef, coral rises to the surface in a long snaking ridge. Outside, the reef gently slopes down to some 40 feet, revealing many shallow water corals and a plethora of gorgonians. The sloping ledge is deeply cut with cracks and crevices winding to the reef’s outer edge where a great wall drops to the depths of the sea.

At Turneffe Islands, Lighthouse Reef and Glover’s Reef, the atolls provide scenic underwater topography and offer excellent variety of diving options. 

Belize Barrier Reef- Conch on Sea-floor

A truly fascinating phenomenon at Lighthouse Reef is the iconic Blue Hole. A titanic cave, once dry as demonstrated by the presence of stalactites, has been submerged since the end of the last Ice Age. A portion of its ceiling collapsed at some point in time, creating a blue hole more than 400 feet deep and nearly 1,000 feet across. At 100 feet, the wall gives way to a deep undercut. At a depth of 130 feet, the softly lit cavern’s 25 feet and upside-down monoliths hang from the ceiling. The sight of stalactites, silhouetted against the blue glow of the filtered light coming from beyond the ledge, is no ordinary experience. Some are so large that five divers side by side would not be enough to encompass them.

For all these reasons, Belize is the ultimate archipelago of natural and unspoiled beauty like a shining gem in the sun and mecca for divers from all over the world. But don’t take our word for it, be on the inside of Belize’s underwater paradise!