retirement homes at belize caribbean retire

Retire to the Tropics

Establishing a new, permanent comfort zone can be sometime a hasstle, but it's easy in Belize. Gentle breezes, swaying palm trees and a relaxing lifestyle are only a part of what makes the country alluring to retirees. Belize is growing in popularity with those who want modern amenities, good transportation, safe environment and little extras like water sports and outdoor adventures. It's a world full of splendor less than two hours plain from Miami. With English as the official language and a strong Belize dollar, it's the perfect destination to enjoy your golden years. Discerning pensioners soon discover how much Belize has to offer, like a temper year-round climate, an abundance of natural resources, magnificent natural attractions, numerous recreational activities and friendly people. Health care is relatively inexpensive, and many doctors and US-trained. Another advantage is the county's proximity to Mexico and Guatemala, which provide more opportunity for travel.

Retirees enjoy easy access to land for construction for a retirement home. Picture yourself laying languidly in a hammock under the shade of a coconut palm. Sun soaked shores and the soothing turquoise sea are your new backyard. If a more rustic setting strikes your fancy, you can always build you own magical retreat in a secluded wooden forest or jungle habitat. And this time around, it's Mother Nature who welcomes you to the neighborhood. Belize City offers an additional option for those pensioners who still want a little of that "big city" ambience without all of the pressures. Retiring to Belize is relatively easy to prepare. Anyone 45 years or older can apply for the Qualifies Retirement program set up by the Belizean Government. Qualified retirees are eligible for benefits including specific tax exceptions and incentives. They don't have to pay tax on retirement income in Belize, and are entitled to import a motor vehicle, boat, aircraft, personal effects and household items within one-year limit; some restrictions may apply. Belize is peaceful nation that boast a stable government and a good educational system for those retirees who bring children under 18 years old.

Think of retiring to Belize as one continuous vacation; the best you've ever had. Take advantage of what the country has to offer. You can do as little or as much as you want. Retirement may come late in life, but in Belize, it's only the beginning of really living.

Belize Punta Rock african music

Grooving to Punta Rock

Former centers of African slave trade, Salvador de Bahia in Brazil, Port-au-Prince in Haiti, or Havana, Cuba are among the destinations for travelers on musical pilgrimages. Belize, too, is a place where villages and towns are alive with the sounds of African music – large wooden drums; turtle shell percussions and acoustic guitarists with booming voices. Along with their own culture, language and religion, the Garinagu brought these unique rhythms to Belize.

Visiting the Belizean Garinagu coastal villages feels like you are in Africa. In the evening, the local bars are filled with Punta Rock, a mix of traditional rhythms and pop music. Punta Rock has become so popular that it is the country's national music, despite the fact that Garinagu represent just 7% of the country's population. Imagine African percussion, Cuban Son, American Blues and West African guitars all wrapped into one. Paranda's (a guitarists style) instrumentation is totally acoustic, just drums and guitars. It is both a Garinagu rhythm and a genre of music.

The basic rhythm can be heard in Garinagu traditional drumming styles dating back to St. Vincent and West Africa during the slavery era. It can also be hears in modern Punta Rock. Paranda became a genre itself in the 19^th century, shortly after Garinagu arrived in Honduras. It was there the first encountered Latin music, and incorporated the acoustic guitar, and a touch of Latin and Spanish rhythm into the music. Paranda reached its prominence in the early part of the 20^th century, and has changed little since.

There are only a handful of Paranderos alive today. Often there is only one or two per village, and virtually all are over sixty. Home to the largest Garinagu population in Belize, Daringa is the birthplace of Punta Rock. On most weekends you can hear a variety of Punta Rock bands or traditional drumming ensembles performing at various venues throughout the town. For Paranda, it's the same sad story.

travel Business Belize

Good Business in Belize

Stepping up its economic diversification policies, Belize is a tax heaven with investors-friendly for non-residents. It offers and English-speaking environment in a democratic country with a viable, literate workforce, low operating costs, a stable economy, a tropical climate, spectacular natural attractions and lots of leisure activities.

The country's close proximity to Mexico, and location of the northern east tip of Central America is used in the promotional line "60 seconds from NAFTA". The Americas and the Caribbean can be easily serviced from Belize. And a fixed exchange rate for 25 years, flexible fiscal incentives, repatriation of profit dividends and high return on fixed deposit.

Known for its sugar and citrus exports, and more recently its tourism, Belize boasts a strong investment climate – with everything from agriculture to telecommunications. The choices are enough to entice anyone from the casual investor to the serious business person. The Belize telecommunications market opened for competition in January, 1003.

Belize offers the following programs to encourage and promote investments: International Business Company (IBC), Export Processing Zone (EPZ), the most recent, Commercial Free Zone (CFZ) and insurance and mutual founds.

Any non-resident of Belize is qualified to form an International Business Company (IBC) easily incorporated within an hour. IBCs offer asset protection and no exchange controls. The are tax exemptions and capital gains, income, interests, shares and debt obligations by non-residents. No minimum paid up capital is requires. Other benefits include no currency restrictions or citizenship/residency requirements for directors or shareholders. Plus, meetings by shareholders and directors may be held in any country.

Restrictions are few: IBCs can not conduct business with Belizeans or as a bank, or own real estate. The few feeling requirements include needing a certificate fo incorporation, memorandum, articled of association, and having a registered office and agent in Belize. The IBC Experts Registered Agents Department will help with incorporation for a fee.

Traveling Around Belize car boats rent

Traveling Around Belize

Rental Cars

Renting a car is only one of the most popular ways of to explore. Several good rental companies provide relatively new fleets. However, before you get behind the wheel, make sure your vehicle is in a good condition and adequately fuelled. Driving is relatively easy and most roads are in good condition. Both well paved highways and narrow dirt roads lead to towns and attractions.

Familiarize yourself with your map. Pin point the four mayor fully paves highways: the Northern Highway, Western Highway, Hummingbird Highway and Southern Highway. Perhaps the most scenic of all the roadways is the Hummingbird Highway weaving through the foothills of the majestic Maya Mountains between Belmopan and Dangriga. Two police department courtesy check-points are for routine safety checks. Drivers are required to verify insurance, shown as a sticker on rental car windows, and sometimes a diver's license. Police may want to check the trunk of your car.

Many natural wonders and Maya sites are easily accessible by a car and 4x4 vehicles. However, rental companies require that you rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle if you are going off-road. Conventional cars are not to be driven off the paves highways. Some rental companies allow vehicles to be driven out of the country to visit the Tikal archeological site in Guatemala, and to Mexico as far north as Cancun. Written permission stating your willingness to accept full responsibility is required, and restrictions apply.

Airplanes

Intra-county air service is excellent and very safe. Local airlines such as Maya Island Air and Tropic Air fly convenient schedules to the cayes with reasonable fares. There are up to a dozen flights per day from the municipal airport and the views of the barrier reef and off-shore cayes are spectacular. Charter services are also available to meet private or special needs. Driving to the southern reaches of Belize is adventurous, but flying to distant places is certainly easier and leaves more time to enjoy the destination. And, sometimes it's just as scenic as bird's eye view.

Boats

Water taxis run regularly scheduled service from Belize City to Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Daily boats schedules between 8 and 17.30. Rides are fun, inexpensive and offer a close-up view of the cayes. The
Maritime Terminal and museum at the foot of the Swinging Bridge is the main arrival/departure point. Schedules are posted at the terminal. Service is also available from Caye Caulker through the Caye Caulker water taxi association to Ambergris Caye and back. As you board the taxi, make sure to locate safety equipment suck as life vests. Avoid cruising in inclement weather.

Portofino Beach Resort in Belize San Pedro Ambergris

Hello from Portofino Beach Resort in Belize!!

October is just around the corner!

In an effort to aid us with the Slow Season, we had offered a Fall Special for the month of September, 2009.  Whereby we were offering  50% off the rates listed on our website for our Beach Cabana based on double occupancy and the Portofino Mansion based on quadruple occupancy per floor.  Both specials were 20% commission able on accommodation only.  We would like to also offer this same special for bookings for the month of October 2009.  However, this only applies for new bookings as of today.

PORTOFINO is located on Ambergris Caye, the largest Island (Caye) along the Belize Barrier Reef (second largest in the world). Needless to remark that this is the most spectacular dive paradise in the world, including the Blue Hole, made famous by Jacques Cousteau, during his 1970 expedition with the Calypso, but there is more
Located North of San Pedro, Portofino sits on the most beautiful beaches of the island. Although you come to a very peaceful and quiet resort, town, shops and the nightlife are just 15 minutes away by boat. Many of the best restaurants (including Portofino's Le Bistro) are located north of San Pedro.

As a result of the protection by the reef, there is an abundance of underwater life, attracting many fish, making this the ultimate fishing paradise in the world. The flats offer some of the best Salt Water Fly Fishing in the world.
Explore Belize on daytrips starting from the Portofino dock; visit the many spectacular Mayan ruins, in the middle of pristine rivers, waterfalls and rainforest jungle, housing a wide range of plants, animals, and birds. Over 40% of Belize  consists of protected wildlife parks and reserves. Or go to one of the the many Caves in Belize, with Maya remains, spectacular geologic cave formations, or just relax and go Cave Tubing.

PORTOFINO offers eight (8) beach cabanas with clear and unobstructed Caribbean views, along with three (3) Tree Top suites that are on stilts 10ft (3 mts) in the air, offering beautiful views over the Caribbean and the second longest Barrier Reef in the world. To the rear of the suites is an amazing view of the lagoon, home to an assortment of rare tropical birds and the occasional Crocodile.
The cabanas have a superb view of the sea and the sunrise. The suites offer a superb view of the sea sunrise and the sunset at the rear of the property.


8 DAYS/7 NIGHTS HONEYMOON PACKAGE:
Accommodations:
Royal Orchid Suite 800 square feet - 75 square meters, with two 225 square feet - 20 square meters (each!) balconies, one overlooking the Caribbean sea, and the other one overlooking the lagoon, with four-poster bed, Jacuzzi, double sink and spacious jungle rain shower
or
Jasmine or Sunflower Suite 580 square feet - 55 square meters, elevated 10 feet -3 meters - in the air on wooden legs with a 170 square feet - 16 square meters - full-length balcony offering great views, queen-size bed, very large bathroom, double sink and spacious jungle rain shower.
Meals:
Full Breakfast every day, with room service if you wish.
Special Candlelight Dinner on first night with your choice of a bottle of Chardonnay Viña Undurraga, Chardonnay Calvet de Pays D'OC, Cabernet Sauvignon- or Merlot Viña Undurraga.
One day Beach Bar-B-Q, including Reef Snorkeling and Fishing:
Take off along the reef, towards Mexico Rocks, where you will snorkel at a remote area, then the trip goes North, where there will be some fishing along the way for Lunch. Your guide will prepare your lunch, for a romantic Beach Bar-B-Q. In the afternoon there will be more snorkeling at the pristine North end of the Island.


Full day jungle tour and visit to Altun Ha Mayan ruins:
Starting crossing the bay to the north River which was hand hewn by the Mayas. After following the river, arriving in the village of Bomba where you board a bus for Altun-Ha. Here you get a full guided tour, followed by a short ride to Maruba Jungle Spa. Here you also have the opportunity to do horse back riding or just swim or relax near the pool while lunch is served (not included in the price).
or.. You can upgrade the Altun Ha trip to (see upgrade price*):

Xunantunich / Barton Creek:
This active trip combines canoeing/kayaking and cave exploration through Barton Creek Cave with a visit to Belize's second largest beautifully excavated Maya City. Our expert guides provide keen insight into the world of ancient Maya civilization, leading our clients on an unforgettable tour.
Within the last 5 years, intense archeological work has revealed and preserved the ancient structures once hidden beneath the jungle floors. Today visitors have the privilege of climbing El Castillo, which at 130 ft. above plaza level, is the second tallest man made structure in Belize. 360-degree panoramic views from El Castillo offer a remarkable vantage point revealing the Ancient Macal River Valley and neighboring Guatemala.
After enjoying a healthy lunch, we continue to Barton Creek Cave in Amish territory. Equipped with canoes/kayaks and high-powered lights we gently paddle into Xibalba (she-bal -ba), Maya for underworld. Stalactites and Stalagmites hang high overhead as we float past impressive calcite crystals. Our knowledgeable guides will discuss the use of this cave by the ancient Maya, while some artifacts can be seen high above the alcoves. For the free spirited adventurer, the option for excellent swimming in the far chamber is a treat. Great mud baths to cleanse your skin is an added option.
Massage for two.
This package also includes:
Bottle of Champagne on ice waiting in your room upon arrival.
Fresh flowers from the PORTOFINO gardens every day.
Welcome Tropical Fruit Cocktail.
Local air tickets from Belize City to San Pedro -round trip for two.
Personal meeting at San Pedro Airport and boat transfer to the resort.
Free use of all resort water sports equipment.
VIP Service throughout your stay.
Free use of resort internet computers.
Total price for all the above:
Royal Orchid Suite: US$ 4,095 High Season; US$ 3,678 Low Season.
Jasmine or Sunflower Suite: US$ 3,465 High Season; US$ 3,069 Low Season.
Also available in one of our Beach Cabanas: US$ 2,885 High Season; US$ 2,478 Low Season.
Upgrade from Altun Ha to Xunantunich / Barton Creek*: US$ 381

Prices are per couple, per room.
9% government hotel tax, 10% general sales tax and 10% service charge are included.
Package is not available for Peak Season.


FISHING PACKAGES:
Our fishing packages are module packages, so you can adjust the package for the time you want to stay, and the number of days you want to go fishing; just take the base price and add on the number of nights with or without days of fishing, as you can see in our price list.
Accommodations:
You will be staying in one of our beach cabanas with clear and unobstructed Caribbean views.
Meals:
Includes daily all inclusive breakfast and daily 3 course a la carte dinner in our famous restaurant. During the days of fishing, lunch will also be included.
Fishing:
You will be going for the number of days you selected from our package, either Fly Fishing, reef fishing (both inside or outside the reef - depending on weather conditions) or trawling. Your guide will be the same one throughout your stay, please specify on beforehand the type of fishing you are interested in and which days you want to go fishing (our guides usually have a full agenda).
These packages also include:
Welcome Tropical Fruit Cocktail.
Local air tickets from Belize City to San Pedro - round trip.
Personal meeting at San Pedro Airport and boat transfer to the resort.
Free use of all resort water sports equipment.
VIP Service throughout your stay.
Free use of resort internet computers.

Attractions and Tours of Belize

Attractions and Tours of Belize

Just for starters you can explore over 2000 years of history, walk through the Garden of Eden and see what may the world's largest outdoor zoo. One trip to some destinations is enough to satisfy your curiosity. Belize is one of those wonderfully strange part of the world that lures repeat visitors with an exotic surprise in store at every corner.

Picture an open-air wonderland packed with action and off the beaten path adventure. Jaguars roam the wilds. Rare birds dart in and out of the treetops and creatures of the deep glide through pristine waters. Lush rainforest shelters secrets of ancient civilizations. Rivers, jungle, mountains, coral reefs, expansive underground caves and glorious waterfalls larger-than-life playgrounds for all ages. The country is a kaleidoscope of exiting natural wonders and an incredible diversity of wildlife, all living in harmony.

Climb the ruins at Altun Ha in the morning and glide down the Belize River in the afternoon. See the animals of the Belize Zoo and explore the vestiges of the ancient Maya and mighty Xunantunich, or watch for manatees at Swallow Caye, all in the same day. A host of different half, full day, overnight and extended tours combine trips to different attractions. When it comes to excursions, Belize mixes the best of Central American rainforest with offshore pursuits of the Caribbean.

Inland options are varied and exiting. Maya archeological sites take you to a trip back trough time. Parks and nature preserves teeming with birds and other wildlife are an invitation to explore Belize's natural beauty. Trails let you track jaguars and hike past waterfalls, while rivers give you the chance to tube or kayak your way into hidden caves. Learn about vegetation with medicinal properties, build shelters deep in the rainforests, go on a night hike for a good chance of spotting nocturnal wildlife or take an exhilarating boat ride to a place where the Maya once walked, just to scratch the surface of options available.

Trill seekers will find that this s only the beginning of a variety of outdoor recreation. Go on a nigh hike in Cayo for a good chance of spotting wildlife, as most animals are nocturnal. Mountain biking and horseback riding are great ways to explore hard-to-reach areas. Belize is a fantasyland of wild places and wild things. Jaguars roam the jungle in the preserve known as the Cookscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Howler monkeys scamper through the trees. One of Belize's top attractions, the reserve is where you cross rustic wooden bridges following spectacular trails, or tube your way along a shimmering river. Magnificent waterfalls and sparkling rivers will enchant visitors in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, the only pine forest in Central America. Just offshore, the Belize barrier reef parallels the coastline. Renowned for its marine life and coral formations the reef line is a big attraction for scuba divers and snorkelers.

Bird Watching in Belize

Saying Belize "is for the birds" isn't an exaggeration. You probably won't offend anyone by saying it. With nearly 600 identified bird species, and an average of 5 new species discovered annually, Belize is becoming a birding hotspot for amateur and professional birders from around the world.

What are considered rare sightings in other locations are commonplace in Belize. Boat-billed herons, highly sought by birders, are readily found around many Belizean waterways. Grey necked wood-rails are spotted along highways as they flee from approaching vehicles. You may see a Technicolor toucan, the national bird, nibbling nearby papaya tree while breakfasting at a jungle resort. Amazing hummingbirds seem to "stand" in midair or on invisible wings that hurtle them about, yet can stop in an instant. Magnificent fragrant birds soar overhead on a stretch of beach.

Birding opportunities exist for every level of birder. It's possible to spot more than a hundred species in just a few days. Birding can be combined with other exiting activities such as visiting Maya sites, canoeing, hiking and horseback riding. Some fo the best opportunities for spotting bird life is while strolling along the beaches. A year-round activity, birding can be especially colorful during matins season from March through August.

Many resorts have excellent bird habitats and offer guided birding. Serious birders will appreciate the excellent guides and birding checklists, which often includes several rare and endangered species seen at most jungle lodges. Six distinct geographical areas and all of the country's districts provide lush birding environments. In the coastal areas, undisturbed habitats of mangroves, beaches and cayes offer excellent chances for spotting shorebirds and waterfowl. The protected areas of the central and southern regions offer some of the best birding. Even urban areas have vibrant bird life with more than 120 species found around Belize City.

Mayan World in Belize Guatemala and Mexico border

The Ancient Maya World of Belize

More than two thousand years ago, the Maya began to build magnificent cities and ceremonial centers. Carefuly observing the tropical sky, they developed a series of complex calendars related to the moments of the sun, moon and planets. They meshed together in a continuous system of cycles used for agricultural, religious and political purposes. They invented the concept of zero and made astonishing advancements in math and science.

The Maya were also a warline people who practiced bloodletting and human sacrifice. War and sacrifice was a religious and cultural imperative sustaining their gods and ensuring continuation of the agricultural cycle. Early explorers traveled through Belize unaware of a single Maya site. Hidden by dense, uninhabited forest, monumental sculpture and architecture stood in mute testimony to an indigenous Maya occupation, once numbering an estimated one million.

Within these primeval jungles existed a great civilization reaching its glory when Paris was just as small village. This was a cultural florescence that lasted longer than the Roman Empire. By the end of the Classic Period, the grat cultural florencense beagan to collapse and many sites were abandoned. It wasn't until the excavations of Altun Ha, Lamanai and Xunantunich in the 1960s that the true extend of Belizes cultural heritage was unveiled. And only as recently as 1986, within the discovery od glyphs at Caracol indicating a military victory over the mighty city of Tikal, was it realized that some of the Belizean centers were supreme in the Mayan world.

Today, Belize is recognized as the center of the ancient Maya world, and a work in progress. Unexplored sites throughout the region lie hidden, waiting to be discovered. Implementation of a recent refurbishment program by the Belizean government includes building additional facilities and raising the standards at sites through more excavation and preservation. Archeologically speaking, to a great extend this ancient civilization still remains a mystery. However, much has been learned, added by new discoveries and the recent and ongoing decipherment of Maya hieroglyphic texts.

What sites to visit depends on your time and interest. Xunantunich is visually impressive, easy to access and has a crenellated temple top wrapped by a magnificent hieroglyphic frieze. Lamanai boast a nearly vertical pyramid dating to the time of Christ, and its highly recommended for its jungle ambiance and arrival via boat across scenic New River Lagoon. Altun Ha, closest to Belize City, is a well manicured historical park.

Cruise Belice yacht charter sailboat

Cruising and Chartering in Belize

Tucked between Mexico and Guatemala, Belize is the ultimate cruising experience. It is the mecca for the yachtsmen and Garden of Eden for the water sports enthusiast. Warm, emerald waters, gentle trade winds, protected anchorages and unsurpassed diving on the hemisphere's largest barrier reef translate into adventure experience you won't soon forget.

Belize is for cruising, as cruising should be. The famed barrier reef stretches almos 185 miles from north to south along the county's coastline. Full of unexplored territory, uninhabited cayes and intriguing little islands fringes with sugar-like sand beaches, the list of attributes is as ling as the barrier reef. It's simple a paradise found for boaters. Chartering a cruising sailboat is best of those who want to discover new places. No worries about taking the kids, who can explore tropical islands and can snorkel and fish along the reef.

The barrier reef creates the breakwater for inner channel. Coral formations flourish with marine life and natural beauty along the reef. More than 70 types of coral and over 400 species of fish call these waters home. Rare birds soar above the surface amid the tropical nirvana. East of the reef are magnificent atolls and tempting anchorages from Ambergris Caye heading south to the Sapodilla Cayes. Belize is blessed of having three of the four atolls in the Americas. Turneffe Islands Atoll is the jewel-like string of coral islands reminiscent of the south pacific. Farther seaward, Lighthouse Reef Atoll is noted for the renowned Blue Hole and Half Moon Caye Natural Monument with its trails and bird observation tower. Glover's reef, the third atoll is located southeast of Turneffe.

Charter companies in Belize City, Ambergris Caye and Placencia provide crewed and bareboat charters. Crewed charters offer the convenience of a captain and crew while self-sufficient passengers navigate the boat themselves on bareboat charters. Bareboat chartering is only allowed inside the reef. Local skippers can be hired for venturing inside and outside atolls. Snorkelers will find a myriad of lovely places to explore. Remember to be cautious. Never snorkel where there is a boat activity in the channel.

Belize rainforest jungle Spa therapy detoxifying exfoliation hydrating

Spa Therapy in Belize

Just because Belize is rustic and exotic doesn't mean you have to get out of the luxury loop. Relaxation starved visitors in need of some pampering can delight in spas that offer tranquility and exceptionally aromatic therapies. Spas boast a natural, earthy décor ansd often an open-air setting. Some lie tucked away in the lush jungle, offering a serene and private locale. Others can be found within picturesque seaside resorts. What better way to rejuvenate the body, calm the mind and soothe the soul than a massage amid breathtaking outdoor scenery?

Prepared to be spoiled with personalized service and attention, and for a range of detoxifying, exfoliation, hydrating, nourishing and de-stressing treatments. Price, length of time and technique vary depending on the type of treatment. All are a great way to refresh your tired boy after a day of action-pack adventure, or energize yourserf for tomorrow's round of fun in the sun.
Only the finest natural products are used for body and skin care. Rainforest herbs, essential oils, moisturizing mud and revitalizing seaweed are popular ingredients that are often available for purchase.

Spa resorts offer guests the flexibility of staying on property, and the convenience of scheduling treatments around your sightseeing plans. Some spa resorts offer full packages that include specific sessions in the price. Most spas require appointments or cancellations to be made several days in advance. Be sure to inquire ahead of time. Enjoy the amenities and activities of a full-service jungle lodge and the beautiful hilltop setting overlooking the Macal River Valley at The Spa at Chaa Creek in the Cayo District.

Soothe your senses in a private 330-acre nature reserve with a panoramic view of the Mayan Mountains and the pristine rainforest. Treatments include the Coma, a 90-minute deluxe massage incorporating elements from various massage techniques, and Hydrotherapy, and ancient underwater massage using your choice of seaweed, spirito di fango, bath salts or oils, or micronized algae. The Spa at Chaa Creek offers day packages and two to seven night packages featuring activities including guided nature walks, horseback riding, canoeing and mountain biking.

Try a healing therapy given by a certified acupuncturist at The Sea Spa at Robert's Grove in Placencia. Another popular treatment is the Maroccan Cocoon, and energizing and mineralizing body wrap. Located above the poolside palapa, The Sea Spa also offers facials, massages, manicures and pedicures. If you want to rest, relaxation and recreation are rolled into one experience, try one of the combination adventure and spa packages at Maruba Resort jungle Spa.
Treat yourself to the Japanese mineral bath or an exotically artsy Mood Mud Massage. Guests are guided along stone lined pathways to a large palm-thatched treatment room in the middle of the tropical rainforest; jungle noises are the sounds to be heard during your massage, which can include to be painted in different muds.

Explore dive snorkel walk caverns caves Belize

Caves and Caverns of Belize (Belice in spanish)

Begin you journey back trough time as you enter the amazing realm of Belize's cave system. It's like taking a trip into an underground library. It's a chance to learn more about the ancient Maya civilization, geological process that have shaped our planet and animals both living and extinct. Million years ago seeping rainwater and underwater rivers began etching through soft bedrock and outcrops. Today caves are to Belize like Swiss is to cheese.

Once caves are created, and while they are still relatively dry, the process reverses and a redeposition of material occurs. With eacj rainfall, a small mineral coating is left behind. Over a vast period of time, nature's paintbrush creates an endless array of cave formations known as speleothems – stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, colums, rim pools and more. Cool breezes flow from misty entrances. The silence is almost eerie as you step into the supernatural domain. Escorted by a guide, you enter a cave and it's easy to feel the presence of the other world. You may be expecting dank and claustrophobic passageways, but you are more likely to find enormous chambers. Pedestals and pinnacles shaped from dreams are revealed to you. You light flickers upon strange shapes and the ultimate dark beyond. Hear the echo of your voice bounce off the distant walls. Limestone rocks shaped over thousands of years stream down from the ceiling like pipe organs.

Underground river flow through a number of caves; some can be explored by kayak, canoe or rubber boat. Others are popular for tubing or wading with headlamps. Caves offer a wide range of activities from moderate to adventurous excursions to suit any age and fitness level. Go ahead; let your caving journey begin in Belize.

Caves played a major role in forming the ideology and distinctive worldview of ancient Maya culture. In addition to their mundane use as a water supply source, storage area, dump and temporary refuge, the ancient Maya considered caves to be a supernatural real where they deities and ancestors resided. Vapor clouds forming at the mouth of caves suggested to the Maya that these where the paces where the wind and the clouds were born. Here dwelled the gods of nature – the source of rain, thunder, and lightning. Caves were the portals between the tangible human world and the invisible world of gods – a place called Xibalba. It was herein the mouth of the caverns as well as deep in the recesses of the caves that the Maya performed their most sacred rituals.

New Year eve in Belize caye caulker

Key Caulker or Caye Caulker is a perfect place to receive 2009

The small island of reef barrier in belize is 40 min from belize city

The Auxillou Beach Suites are individual one-bedroom beachfront suites that are tastefully decorated to blend in with  Caye Caulker's island atmosphere.  We are located only fifty feet or  so from the breathtaking Caribbean Sea.  Welcome to a  discriminating island escape!
These are beach front condos that  are among the best on the island.  Step out from your deck and  walk on the beach!
Each fully air-conditioned unit features a king-sized bed, private  bath, hot/cold water, living room area, cable TV, wireless internet,
kitchenette, and each has its own spacious deck space.
Our ultra spacious units, each with a full 480 square feet of interior  space, makes these the most spacious yet affordable vacation units  on the island.  Our warm furnishings will make them your home away from home.        
This is the premier property on Caye Caulker. Come enjoy our breezy verandahs and starlit nights in relaxed comfort.
We are centrally located, just to the right of the main water taxi dock, and only minutes away from most of the restaurants, supermarkets and gift shops.  

    * Hol Chan Marine Park Full Day  Snorkel Trip
    * Manatee Watching Full Day Snorkel Trip
    * Sunset Sailing on traditional wooden  sailboat
    * Full day Cave Tubing adventure
    * Full day Lamanai & New River Tour
    * Beachfront accommodations at the Auxillou Beach Suites
    * Local flights PGIA / CKR
    * Comprehensive sightseeing tours including admission fees and lunch
    * Experienced English-speaking tour directors and local guides