airline wn Jungle River Tours, 20 Lovers Lane (southeast corner of the park in Orange Walk), 302-2293, runs a b

Behind the central acropolis is the temple of the wooden lintel. The carved lintel was of sapodilla wood. Just to the west of this temple was the observatory where the elite studied the stars. To the north of this set of buildings is a ceiba tree, believed to be at least 600 years old. Its huge buttresses fan out far enough that they could be the walls of another temple. The Ceiba was sacred to the Maya, who believed it was the symbol of all creation.

Jungle River Tours, 20 Lovers Lane (southeast corner of the park in Orange Walk), airline wn 302-2293, runs a boat service airline wn for the 26-mile run upriver. The cost is US $50 per person, with a minimum of four persons sharing the boat. The trip takes about 1.5 hours and includes lunch and pop. The owners, airline wn Herminio and Antonio are knowledgeable and will give you a complete guided tour along the

Hannah s, 5 Burns Street, 822-3647, $$, across from the Casa Blanca, has good Indian curry. It is all freshly made and served in the best of Indian style. Foods with sauces are the best, as you get far more spice for the price.

NATIONAL ANIMAL The tapir or mountain cow is a cute animal with a fat body, short legs, a long snout and white-tipped ears. Despite its name, the tapir is more closely related to the horse and rhinoceros than the cow. It is the largest land mammal found in Central America, weighing as much as 875 pounds (400 kg). This poor-sighted herbivore has excellent hearing and smell.

i love dirt cheap Fernando/Verde Tours, Sarteneja, 423-2085 or 423-2283, will take you on a snorkeling trip to the ree

Xachun is 15 miles north of Tikal and accessible during dry season by bike or four-wheel-drive vehicle. The oldest building ever found in the Pet n is located at this site. It dates back to 2000 BC. The archeologists who first came to excavate i love dirt cheap did some damage to the temples when they were looking for grave sites. This damage has been partially rectified by plastering with mortar to keep the buildings i love dirt cheap together.

Fernando/Verde Tours, Sarteneja, 423-2085 or 423-2283, will take you on a snorkeling trip to the reef or out fishing for snapper, grouper and tarpon. Since the men operating the tour agency have lived near these waters almost all their lives, they know where the fish are. The cost for fishing is US $150 a day, while a snorkeling trip with other people cost US $40 for each person for half a day.

advantage airlines Sea and Explore Belize, 1809 Carol Sue Avenue, Suite E, Gretna, LA 70056, 800-345-9786, US $200 per

The pineapple is the most commonly known bromeliad. It originated in Brazil and Paraguay and was spread by the local Indians before Columbus arrived. He took the plant to Europe, where it was planted advantage airlines and taken on to other countries. This perennial bromeliad grows up to five feet (1.5 meters) in height and its pointed leaves can be as long as 72 inches (185 cm). The edges of the leaves have sharp needles. Normally, each plant produces only one fruit.

signed to be energy efficient. Inside, the kitchens are completely furnished, and there is central air conditioning, cable TV, telephones, tiled bathrooms and hardwood finishings. Loft rooms are exceptionally attractive. There is a freshwater pool, a dock, as well as complimentary use of bicycles and kayaks. There is no bar or restaurant.

Damage to Cuello happened due to road construction in recent times. Building stones were removed for this work and graves were looted. The remaining objects found here are now part of the national exhibition.

Sea and Explore Belize, 1809 Carol Sue Avenue, Suite E, Gretna, LA 70056, 800-345-9786, US $200 per day, depending on what you do and what you opt to include. Sea and Explore specializes in customized tours for both individuals and groups. One of the owners is a native Belizean, so she knows where to go and what to do on a trip around the country.

highland pointe little rock NATIONAL ANIMAL The tapir or mountain cow is a cute animal with a fat body, short legs, a long snout

If Victoria Peak does not fit into your plans, a shorter, one-day hike takes you to Outlier Peak only four miles one way with an elevation change of 1,800 feet (600 meters). It will take you six hours to get to the top, which translates into an average of.6 miles an hour

Cerro Cahui Park is one kilometer down the road, past Don David s. The park is open from 8 am to 4 pm and costs 20 quetzals to enter. There are two groomed trails that you can follow; highland pointe little rock one is shorter than the other. The longer one takes about three hours to walk and has some elevation gain so the lookouts reveal both Lake Peten Itza and Lake Yaxja and their surrounding valleys. However, the biggest draw is to see and hear the howler monkeys. I saw about a dozen. There are also spider monkeys to be seen.

elize has become conscious of preserving its wildlife highland pointe little rock and the habitat in which it lives. Although this consciousness may be stimulated by the desire for tourism, the results are good. There are almost as many sanctuaries, parks and reserves offering protection to everything from animals to butterflies highland pointe little rock to snakes to orchids as there are missionaries trying to preserve the souls of the people.

NATIONAL highland pointe little rock ANIMAL The tapir or mountain cow is a cute animal with a fat body, short legs, a long snout and white-tipped ears. Despite its name, the tapir is more closely related to the horse and rhinoceros than the cow. It is the largest land mammal found in Central America, weighing as much as 875 pounds (400 kg). This poor-sighted herbivore has excellent hearing and smell.

e fares When leaving Caye Caulker, boats go from both the front and back docks. The last water taxi to Beliz

When leaving Caye Caulker, boats go from both the front and back docks. The last water taxi to Belize City leaves around 3 pm from the back dock and around e fares 5 pm from the front. They will stop at Caye Chapel and St. Georges Caye on request.

Coco Plum Island Resort, 520-2041, www.cocplumcay.com, sits on a tiny island eight miles from Dangriga. It is the island s only resort. There are five cabins, each near the water and facing the rising sun. The cabins have queen-sized beds, kitchenettes, private bathrooms with hot water, air conditioning and fans, private verandas and tiled floors. The resort offers tour packages and many special discounts. Wedding in mind? What a romantic place to start a marriage; the resort will do all the preparations. Their website is informative.

Guacamallo Bridge to Negroman is a 21-mile run starting in the Vaca Plateau in the Mountain Pine Ridge. e fares This rugged canyon e fares run is for rafting or very skilled kayaking as there are numerous Class III and IV rapids, plus several Class V stretches. Portages take you around the two Class VI waterfalls. The run starts at the high end of the Hydro Dam Road and goes through the canyon, past Black Rock and on to Negroman, where the river flattens out.

southwest gas jobs The island once was home to laughing gulls. However, with increased human traffic, the gulls have mo

The island once was home to laughing gulls. However, with increased human traffic, the gulls have moved to another island. Laughing Bird Caye was designated a protected southwest gas jobs area in 1981 and a national park in 1991 in the hope that the birds would return. Since the park has been established, camping has been abolished and mooring buoys have been secured to avoid boat damage to coral. There is a charge of $4 to enter the park.

Cheers Restaurant, Mile 31, Western Highway, 614-9311, $, west of the zoo by about three miles, is the closest place to eat. I had heard high praise of this restaurant and knew it was haunted by expats so I assumed it was good. When I got there, I think they accidentally served me a tough old rooster instead of a younger chicken. The restaurant is open-air and it has a small gift shop.

proc means example swimming pool. The grounds are well kept, with pathways that lead between the buildings. The restaur

swimming pool. The grounds are well kept, with pathways that lead between the buildings. The restaurant serves the tastiest meals and the largest portions in the area. It does this at the lowest price. Service is slow in the morning.

South Waters Resort, 523-3308, www.southwatersresort.com,. $$$$$, is the elegant yellow and white colonial house right on the beach on the lagoon side of the peninsula where numerous catamarans dock. There are rooms in the main building as well as condos with air conditioning, full kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms with sofa-beds, walk-in closets, full bathrooms and porches. proc means example Each condo can sleep up to four people comfortably. They also have beach cabins that sleep two, with private baths, ceiling fans, coffee makers and microwave ovens. They can arrange tours and have kayak rentals, laundry service, maid service and cable TV with DVD players.

southwest boarding passes rooms. Meals can be arranged at the hotel or through the locals. One of the typical Maya meals that

Ruby s Caf , 226-2063, southwest boarding passes $, beside the library on Front Street, has homemade pastries. It gets so swamped early in the morning that you must have patience in order to get served. The line is a good indication of the quality of food.

1.25 miles past San Antonio along the same road. There are two home stay houses in Santa Cruz. One is with Marcus Sho and the other is with Santiago Ash. If you would like to stay with them, ask in the village or go to Rio Blanco National Park Visitor Center and inquire there. Everisto Shoe and Venancio Canti have horses for rent. They are sanctioned by the Rio Blanco National Park to take visitors through on horseback. The men also offer birding tours and visits to ruins. To find these men, ask at the Rio Blanco Visitor Center or in the village of Santa Cruz. They need only one day s notice to pre

rooms. Meals can be arranged at the hotel or through the locals. One of the typical Maya meals that should be tried here is picary caldo. A picary is an animal that lives in the hills and his meat tastes like pork. The Maya fix it with herbs and spices a real treat. The TEA Guest House, 722-2096, $$, allows you to stay in a cabin shared with five other people. During the day, Maya guides lead excursions and teach you about the jungle. Your stay includes three traditional meals with a Maya family and, in the evenings, you can listen to their stories and music and watch some dancing. The TEA Guest House is similar to a home stay, only you and the Maya family have more privacy.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES & RAINFALL Daily temp. Monthly rainfall JAN 75.6 F/24.2 C 11 inches/27.9 cm FEB 78.4 F/25.3 C 8 inches/20.3 cm MAR 79.3 F/26.3 C 6 inches/15.2 cm APR 81.5 F/27.5 C 4 inches/10.2 cm MAY 83.5 F/28.6 C 7 inches/17.8 southwest boarding passes cm JUN 83.8 F/28.8 C 14 inches/35.6 cm JULY 83.3 F/28.5 C 16 inches/40.6 cm AUG 83.5 F/28.6 C 16 inches/40.6 cm SEPT 83.3 F/28.5 C 18 inches/45.7 cm OCT 80.0 F/26.7 C 15 inches/38.1 cm NOV 78.1 F/25.6 C 14 inches/35.6 cm DEC 80.1 F/27.2 C 12 inches/30.5 mm

southern winds SOUTH WATER CAYE South Water Caye is a 15-acre island 14 miles east of Dangriga that is a part of th

SOUTH WATER CAYE South Water Caye is a 15-acre island 14 miles east of Dangriga that is a part of the South Water Caye Marine Reserve (see below). There are three main hotels on South Water and the reef is close enough that you can easily swim to its edge.

Built on seven hills (like Rome), the town has an attractive setting and was once a tranquil place. However, after the recreational value of the area was discovered, every possible amenity was built to accommodate sports enthusiasts. Today, hiking boots, canoe paddles or climbing southern winds gear are often seen on the porches of the caf s and restaurants as the hikers and canoeists southern winds grab a quick bite to eat and share a tale before heading off for another adventure.

mahan air Ruthie s Caba as, 31 Southern Foreshore, 502-3184, $, has four cute little cabins with private bath,

Ruthie s Caba as, 31 Southern Foreshore, 502-3184, $, has four cute little cabins with private bath, TV, and fan. The yard is nice. The cabins are small but the people are so very friendly that it makes staying here a pleasure.

If you need a taxi service anywhere in Corozal or to Chetumal, call Leslie s Taxi Service, 422-2377, and ask for Alvin. If calling from Mexico, 501-422-2377 or 501-602-2583 (cell). I used Alvin. He drives carefully and does not overcharge.

soghoian Once a year female red deer give birth to one fawn that can stand within an hour of life. Mothers hi

Once a year female red deer give birth to one fawn that can stand within an hour of life. Mothers hide their fawns in thickets and visit only during feeding times. The red deer is a sociable animal and can be found in large herds dominated by one reproducing female. This female is also responsible for sounding a warning to danger; the entire herd follows soghoian her lead.

Boats can be hired at Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker and Corozal Town for the short trip to Sarteneja. It takes about 30 minutes from Corozal and about an hour from Ambergris. The boat should be arranged with a tour agency of your choice. The cost by boat from Corozal to Ambergris Caye is US $20, so expect to pay around that price from the cayes to Sartenejo and less from Corozal.

BIRDDATELOCATION Mangrove warbler Merlin Muscovy duck Northern boat-billed heron Northern soghoian jacana Northern parula Northern rough-winged swallow Northern shoveler Northern water thrush Olivaceous cormorant Osprey Pale-vented pigeon Pectoral sandpiper Peregrine falcon Pied-billed grebe Potoo Prarie warbler Prothonotary warbler Purple gallinule Reddish soghoian egret Red-winged blackbird Ring-billed gull Ringed kingfisher Roadside hawk Roseate spoonbill Rose-breasted grosbeak Rough-winged swallow Royal tern Ruddy crake Ruddy ground soghoian dove Ruddy turnstone Rufous-necked wood rail Sanderling Sandhill crane Sandwich tern Scarlet tanager Semipalmated plover Short-billed dowitcher Snail kite Snowy egret Snowy plover Social flycatcher Solitary sandpiper Sora Summer tanager Spotted sandpiper Stilt sandpiper Sungrebe Swainson s thrush Swainson soghoian s warbler Tennessee warbler Appendix

southwest customer relations huge bill or a colorful parrot with its loud call. Along with the indigenous birds of the country, B

Bol s Jungle Tours is on your right just before you come to the gate for the reserve. Bol s can take you for a hike into the jungle searching for wildlife or medicinal plants. They will take you by horseback to caves located on their property. The caves feature pottery and skeletons.

The terminal also houses the Maritime Museum and the Coastal Zone Museum. Both are open daily from 8 am to 4:30 pm; tickets are sold just outside the door, at the same booth where water taxi tickets are sold, and are good for both museums. The cost is BZ $4 per person, but US $4 for foreigners. The museum s main floor has model boats and documents southwest customer relations on display in dusty glass cases with little lighting. It offers a historical account of the maritime history of Belize. Upstairs is a collection of shells and corals southwest customer relations illustrating the oceanography of the area. The entire southwest customer relations museum is in dire need of repair and care. 223-1969.

huge bill or a colorful parrot with its loud call. Along with the indigenous birds of the country, Belize lies in a migratory path and thus has many visiting birds during spring and fall. It also has varied environments (islands in the Caribbean, rainforests, drier savannas and grasslands, swamps and lagoons), so it attracts birds needing those habitats.

The tapir is shy, hunts at night, and is rarely seen in groups larger than three or four. It breeds all year. The cows carry a calf from 390 to 400 days after mating; twins are rare. When born the calf has a brown coat lined with longitudinal white stripes and spots that

southwest giveaway Leave the ocean and go inland on any appealing street to Albert Street, where you will find St. John

Leave the ocean and go inland on any appealing street to Albert Street, where you will find St. John s Cathedral, the oldest Anglican southwest giveaway church in Central America. It had its foundation stone laid in 1812. Like the prison, the church was constructed with ballast bricks. It was in this church between 1815 and 1845 that the kings of the Mosquito Coast were crowned. This is the only cathedral outside of England where the crowning of kings has occurred.

Stingray southwest giveaway Village is similar to Stingray Alley off Ambergris Caye. It became popular southwest giveaway with the rays when fishers cleaned their daily catch and threw the unwanted parts into the water. The rays soon learned to stick around. The site is not visited by as many tourists as the one on Ambergris Caye. Snorkelers get a chance southwest giveaway to see big fish at Stingray Village.

air berline Caracol is on the Vaca Plateau and stands at 1,500 feet (450 meters) above sea level. The causeways

Caracol is on the Vaca Plateau and stands at 1,500 feet (450 meters) above sea level. The causeways around air berline it offer excellent walking and should not be overlooked. One of the causeways, an engineering masterpiece, still supplies water to the site.

In the sea grass beds at Hol Chan is the Boca Ciega sinkhole,or cave without a roof. The blue sponge fans and sea fans are abundant here. You must have permission from the warden to enter this area. Those diving along the cut should be aware that outgoing tides can create a strong current. All care should be taken not to drift with the tide into open water. This area should not be confused with Boca Ciega, just offshore from San Pedro, where you go about 100 feet (30 meters) deep. The sinkhole dive is for intermediate levels.

property is huge and encompasses mangrove swamp, savanna and jungle. Canoes are available for guests to use on the lagoons. The restaurant, $$$, serves American and Belizean foods and the bar serves great rum punch.

Hibiscus air berline Hotel, Market Square, 822-1418, hibiscus@btl.net, $$, has clean rooms with private bath and hot water. There is air conditioning and cable TV, tiled floors, a dresser and a patio door opening onto a large grassy courtyard. This and the El Rey are owned by the same people.

web only fare Although the earliest settlements are thought to have been around 200 BC, most of the large structur

English Caye is a tiny island about 10 miles east of Belize City. It has sandy beaches and a few coconut trees and is of no interest to the local diver/snorkeler or tourist. At one time it had a lighthouse designed to alert ships to the reef. Once a ship got close enough, a smaller boat would come out from English Caye and guide the larger vessel through the reef.

This is one of the few places in Belize where outdoor adventure web only fare in general and horseback riding in particular is part of the deal. The lodge has been rewarded for its efforts in these areas; web only fare last year, it received the Belize Eco Tour Award.

Although the earliest settlements are thought to have been around 200 BC, most of the large structures were built about AD 100. At its peak Altun Ha had over 3,000 people living in the center and an additional 5-7,000 people living in the vicinity.

a380 korean air Barrack Guest House, 8 Barrack Road, 223-6671, $, has five dingy rooms, three with baths. All have f

Barrack Guest House, 8 Barrack Road, 223-6671, $, has five dingy rooms, three with baths. All have fans. Rooms are located a380 korean air at the back of the building and you will have to be shown how to get inside the first time you arrive.

them so the budget crowd won t be disappointed. The rest of the seven wooden cabins are interspersed around the well-groomed gardens so they are non-intrusive to others. The cabins are spacious and well designed one even has a loft. All have porches, private baths with hot water,

Belize: a380 korean air animal life, 41-54; a380 korean air climate, a380 korean air 30-32, 64; economy, 15-18; geography, 23-30; getting around, 95102; getting here, 87-88, 92-94; government, 13-15; history, 2-13; holidays, 64-67; map, 99; marriage in, 264, 387, 476; National Archives, 234; national emblems, 57-61; nightlife, 133-135; parks, 27-29; people and culture, 18-23, 84; plant life, 33-41

nz air BARRANCO Barranco is a Garifuna village with about 150 citizens. It has electricity, plus one commun

BARRANCO Barranco is a Garifuna village with about 150 citizens. It has electricity, nz air plus one community phone, a store, a bar, a police office, a school and two churches. Barranco is part of the TEA and home stay programs. Besides enjoying the lifestyle of the residents, you can participate in their evening drumming sessions or visit the Temash Sarstoon National Park with a guide. You can hire a guide in Punta Gorda or in Barranco. If taking nz air a boat down to Barranco, it is easier to hire the same boatman for the park rather than negotiate a second nz air trip.

Prior to the arrival of the Benni clan, there were a few English settlers nz air living in the area, trading with the native Indians and growing vegetable gardens. They neither nz air resisted nor welcomed nz air the arrival of the Garifuna.

223-3888, www.chateaucaribbean.com, $$$$, is a colonial house that was once a hospital. It overlooks the ocean and has recently been renovated. Each room has air conditioning, a tiled bathroom, cable TV and a good view. The wrap-around porch dotted with wicker furniture is a draw. The restaurant has a notably good reputation. I did not find the staff particularly friendly. Belize Biltmore Plaza (Best Western), Mile 3, Northern Highway,

d airlines Barefoot Books, South end of Pescador Drive (Middle St.,) across from Mickey s, 206-2577, www.barefo

Barefoot Books, South end of Pescador Drive (Middle St.,) across from Mickey s, 206-2577, www.barefootbooks-belize.com, carries both new and used books, maps and travel guides. They have over 10,000 books in all from which to choose. Excellent addition to the city!

The area of Rocky Point and Robles Point, d airlines just south of the Bacalar Chico Cut on the east side, are nesting grounds for the green and loggerhead turtles. Rocky Point is the only spot in Belize where the mainland touches the coral reef; you can see parts of the reef sticking up out of the water as you approach. If in a boat at Rocky Point, you must go out onto open sea and then cut back in again at Punta Azul. If going the other way, cut out at Punta Azul and in at Rocky Point and continue your circumnavigation.

helvetic keep track of the complex treaties that the monarchs of England and Spain were always signing. If th

Fantasy Point, #1 Freedom St., 420-6033, www.fantasypoint progresso.com, $$$, has six rooms/casitas available and meals can be included in a package. Note that air conditioning costs an extra US $25 per night. The resort is within walking distance of the village of Progresso and located on the lagoon helvetic where peace and quiet are constant. The delicious meals are served in a large dining hall that is separate from the sleeping areas. This family is related to Mama Noot, located south of Dangriga, helvetic and to the owner of Mark Anthony Hotel in Corozal. In previous generations, they were known as rumrunners, but have given that up and become a family of hoteliers. They do the second occupation much better than the first.

fortable beds. The resort has recently been renovated by new owners, so everything is spit-polished clean. The restaurant, in the main building, offers both local and international dishes. They will also cook up your catch for you if you are lucky with the rod. The bar has two now-famous drinks that should be tried during their happy hour special that starts each night at 7:30 pm. They are the CocoNuts Blower and the Nice n Nauti. Activities such as fishing, diving and snorkeling can be arranged. Pick up from the airport is optional and costs $75.

keep track of the complex treaties that the monarchs of England and Spain were always signing. If they raided Spanish settlements and attacked Spanish ships when the Queen or King wanted helvetic peace, they ended up in the tower or dead.

The restaurant at Don David s serves the kind of food tourists want, like hamburgers along with cold Guatemalan beer (way better than Belikin). Sit in his open-air dining room and enjoy the gardens with all its wildlife. The service is as first class as the food.

track flights THE CAYES PLACES TO EAT Estel s Dine by the Sea 226-2019 Fido s Sport s Bar 226-3176 George s Countr

THE CAYES PLACES TO EAT Estel s Dine by the Sea 226-2019 Fido s Sport s Bar 226-3176 George s Country Kitchen ($$) 226-4252 Hideaway Sports Lodge ($$$) 226-2269; www.hideawaysportslodge.com Jade Garden ($$$) 226-2506 Jambel Jerk Pit ($$$) 206-2594 Jerry s Crab Shack ($$) 206-2552 Lilly s Restaurant ($$$) 206-2059 Manelly s Ice Cream Shop 226-2285 Marino s Bar 206-2389 Mickey s ($$) 226-2223 Moho Caye Restaurant (n/k) 223-5350 Palace Casino 226-3570 Pauly s Pizza Place ($) 226-2651 Pier Lounge track flights 226-2002 Purple Parrot ($$$) 226-2071 track flights Rasta Pasta ($$) 206-0356 Ruby s Caf ($) 226-2063 Sand Box ($$) 226-0200 Shark s Bar ($$) 226-4313 Syd s ($) 226-0994 Toucan s Pool-side BBQ ($$) 226-2148 Tropical Paradise track flights Restaurant ($) 226-0124 track flights Victoria House Restaurant ($$$$) 226-2067 track flights Wet Willy s bar 226-4054

per week, per person. The thatch on the roofs lasts about 20 years (unless a hurricane wipes it out completely). The kitchen track flights is below the sleeping track flights area and is basic. There are kerosene stoves and tarps around track flights the upper half that can be lowered if it gets windy. All kitchen utensils are supplied. Night lighting is from kerosene lamps and toilets are the composting kind. Showers use well water, which can be a bit murky, as it is salt water that has filtered through sand. On its journey from the ocean to the well, the water loses its salt but it gains some of the alkaline products from the roots of the palm trees. The Lomonts come in on Saturday and return to the mainland on the following Sunday. track flights

Once you have paid the foreigner s fee, the tax and the service charge, tipping is not necessary. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip. However, if you receive good service in a local restaurant, a tip is a nice gesture of appreciation. Ten-15% of your bill is a reasonable amount to tip.

eva air wiki 517; Caye Caulker, 486-487; Cayes, 441-443; certification, 443; etiquette, 442; Glover s Reef, 527;

517; Caye Caulker, 486-487; Cayes, 441-443; certification, 443; etiquette, 442; Glover s Reef, 527; Half Moon Caye, 516; Hat Caye, 512; Lighthouse Reef, 514; Placencia, 384, 390; recompression chamber, 443; St. George s Caye, 504; Serenade Island, 533; Sittee River, 373; Spanish Lookout, 507; Tobacco Caye, 519; Turneffe Islands, 508-510 Driving: at the border, 94-95; car rentals, 100-101, 103; tips, 101102

This is one of the best places in Placencia. Besides the daily happy hour there are other fun forms of entertainment, like a horseshoe competition (winner gets a bottle of rum). The owners are fun and their enthusiasm for their town spills over into the drinks.

cheap fursuits Another guide to look for is the Field Guide to Birds of Mexico and Adjacent Areas: Belize, Guatemal

Across North Front Street from the terminal building where there is now an empty lot, was the old Paslow Building. On September 29, 2002, a court clerk who had been falsifying cheap fursuits records for his own financial benefit set fire to the building in order to destroy any traces of his fraud. To date, there are no plans to rebuild.

The city originally started as a small farming community. As it grew, there was a need for a central market place. The civilization became more sophisticated, temples were added near the market, burial sites were created cheap fursuits and the need for a place of worship cheap fursuits (rituals) was satisfied.

The site, believed to have been occupied from 500 BC to AD 1000, has 25 plazas and numerous temples that stand 50 to 70 feet (1520 meters) above the plaza floors. The Wing Temple in Plaza Copal had eight plaza floors beneath it, indicating about 3,000 years of occupation. Some plazas are up to 1.5 acres in size and the north plaza, called Nohal Pilar, cheap fursuits has four pyramids and a ball court around it. There is a huge staircase on the north side leading to the plaza and a ramp on the south side.

Another guide to look for is the Field Guide to Birds of Mexico and Adjacent Areas: Belize, Guatemala and El Salvador by E.P. Edwards and E.M. Butler, cheap fursuits published by University of Texas Press. This book is a mere 209 pages and much better for carrying. A more practical and general cheap fursuits guide to the wildlife in Belize is Belize and Northern Guatemala: Ecotraveller s Wildlife Guide by Les D. Beletsky. It s published by Harcourt Brace and endorsed by the Wildlife Conservation Society. It has 80 pages on birds alone, but covers everything from environmental concerns to animals. Birds of Belize by Lee Jones, illustrated by Dana Gardener, University of Texas Press, is by far the best book I have seen. The paperback version can be purchased on the web for US $25 directly from the publisher. Otherwise, the cost is $60 for a hardcover. This book has 445 pages, 56 color plates and the illustrations make identification a breeze. Introduction

southwestern airlines flight status Island Expeditions Co., 1574 Gulf Road, #156 Point Roberts, WA 98281, 800-667-1630, www.islandexpedi

FEBRUARY One week before Lent the Fiesta de Carnival is held. The carnival has evolved into a costume party where people use paint and face makeup to hide their identity. There is usually southwestern airlines flight status lots of noise attached to this event.

Barnacle Bill s Beach Bungalows, 23 Maya Beach Way, 5238010, www.gotobelize.com/barnacle, $$$$, has two secluded bungalows with full kitchens. Actually, these are little houses, complete with everything except food and booze. Run by Bill and Adrian Taylor, these cabins can be rented for no fewer than three nights. They are good for honeymoon seclusion. southwestern airlines flight status

Island Expeditions southwestern airlines flight status Co., 1574 Gulf Road, #156 Point Roberts, WA 98281, 800-667-1630, www.islandexpeditions.com, US $100200 per day. Island Expeditions has been running specialized southwestern airlines flight status kayak tours into Belize for about 20 years, so they must be doing something right. Each year they offer trips ranging from seven to 12 days, and these can include hiking, sea kayaking, river rafting or exploring Maya sites. Trips are all-inclusive (except for airfare, departure taxes and diving costs) and accommodations are in either tents or lodges.

southwest boarding position If you wishtodriveor cycletotheMennonitesettlementof Blue Creek and then continue on to Gallon Jug,

Jaguar Creek, 820-2034, jagcreek@btl.net, is on the right-hand fork of this same secondary road that goes to the Jungle Lodge. It s a Christian-based ecological site attached to Target Earth and the Eden Conservation Program. Located on 10 acres of subtropical forest, Jaguar Creek offers lessons in conservation, and a strong religious tone is part of the philosophy. They can accommodate up to 40 people southwest boarding position in the eight dorms and wooden caba as.

If you wishtodriveor cycletotheMennonitesettlementof Blue Creek and then continue on to Gallon southwest boarding position Jug, you must backtrack from Indian Church 12 miles to San Filipe. At San Filipe, turn left (west) onto that road. Continue along the road (rather than going back to Orange southwest boarding position Walk) for about five miles and cross the Rio Bravo River Bridge. After 2.5 miles, turn left and you will be in the center of Blue Creek, by the Linda Vista Shopping Center. BLUE CREEK Blue Creek has gasoline available. The town is on the Rio Bravo Escarpment and on the confluence of the three waterways the Rio Bravo, the Rio Hondo and Blue Creek.

Mario s Fruit and Veggies, on Middle Street, has the motto, bueno, bonito y barrato (good, beautiful and cheap). This is where you will find the highest quality produce at the lowest prices. Fido s (see below) purchases produce from here. Mario s also has seasonal fruit juices for US $2.50 a half-gallon.

wn airlines Sunny Skies Adventures, TMM Bareboat Vacations, Coconut Drive, Ambergris Caye, Belize, 226-3026, www

ith its diverse landscapes, Belize presents a whole world of trees, flowers, shrubs, grasses and bromeliads. Those are the natural plants. There are also a number of domesticated plants, like corn, sugar cane and beans. It is impossible to describe all 4,000 plants and 700 trees, but this general overview covers the most dominant plants and animals you will encounter.

CAVES AT ROARING CREEK, XIBALBA AUTHOR NOTE: Even though wn airlines you could reach these caves on your own, you are not permitted to enter unless you have a guide. The reason for this is thatBelize wantsto preserve as much of this history as possible while still allowing visitors to get a sense of the Maya culture.

Pillar corals form cylinders or spirals up to 10 feet long (three meters). Boulder, knob or mound corals are the bases for the reef structures in Belize. While growing, wn airlines they resemble mountains, domes or knobs. Brain corals are usually cylindrical in shape with fissures like a brain. They are abundant in the waters of Belize. Staghorn and elkhorn corals look like their namesakes. They can be seen on the reef crests, the parts of the reef that are occasionally exposed. The back of the reef is the landward side and the fore reef is the side facing the ocean. Staghorn coral in Belize usually

Sunny Skies Adventures, TMM Bareboat Vacations, Coconut Drive, Ambergris Caye, Belize, 226-3026, www.sunny skyadventures.com, US $200 per person, per day. This company offers a bareboat (that means no crew and you do everything) catamaran that holds eight people comfortably or 10 people wn airlines if using the crew s quarters. To hire a captain or cook will cost another $100 per day. You supply all food and drinks plus personal wn airlines equipment. All boats have GPS, dinghy, outboard, wn airlines snorkel gear and some linen.

vivaaerobus The Art Box, on the road into town, before the circle, 822-2233, www.artboxbz.com, is a cooperative

DANGRIGA Dangriga, with a population of about 10,000, is at the end of the Hummingbird Highway and on the ocean. It s bordered by Stann Creek to the north and Havanna Creek to the south. Populated mostly by Creole and Garifuna, Dangriga becomes nicer the farther into the town you go.

The Art Box, on the road into town, before the circle, 822-2233, www.artboxbz.com, is a cooperative that sells the highest vivaaerobus quality (and quantity) of art made in the country. They also help promote local writers and singers by selling books and CDs. Be certain to stop here.

Martz Farms is 7.9 miles in on the Hydro Dam Road, 824-3742, www.martzfarm.com, $$. This is the most remote place to stay near San Ignacio and has been recommended by many travelers. Commonly called the Water Hole by ex chiclero farmers, the 200 acres are dotted with fish ponds, pasture land and jungle plants. There s also a spring-fed creek that has a 90-foot (27-meter) waterfall that drops into a natural bathing pool (see Vaca Falls, below). The two thatched-roof cabins overlook the Macal River. Both have porches, private bath and fans, but the most popular place now is the tree house set above the waterfall. This wooden structure, perched in a tree, is open all around. If you would like to stay in it, you must reserve early as it is the most popular spot along the road for adventurers. I love it!

southwest tech fennimore water trap on every one. The back nine holes have more variety and one is a 600-yard par 5. Sand is

Bacalar region near the border took control of the town of Tiper. The soldiers were hoping to use the town as a base to subdue the Maya in Pet n. But the Maya living on the lagoon rebelled and killed the Spanish invaders and started a huge rebellion southwest tech fennimore in Belize against the Spanish.

Garifuna are Catholic, but continue to tie many of the Afro-Indian rituals into church ceremonies. All religious southwest tech fennimore practices include a philosophy of balance and harmony southwest tech fennimore of the spirit. There are two types of holy men in the Garifuna tradition. The curandero is a healer of physical problems who uses herbs and natural products. A buyei is a spiritual healer, chosen by the spirit world. A curandero southwest tech fennimore and a buyei may be a man or a woman. Once selected, the buyei accepts the role of spiritual leader and lives in a hut for 15 days to meditate on the new life. He or she sees only one woman during that time, and she prepares anything the new buyei might need.

water trap on every one. The back nine holes have more variety and one is a 600-yard par 5. Sand is a hazard on all holes. The course is a good test of target golf, where your shots have to be accurate.

southwest tow operators Meals at Crystal Paradise are home-cooked and delicious. You may request traditional Maya dishes (in

arctic front usually forces itself down the continent between November and February, bringing colder temperatures and widespread heavy rains. It causes choppy seas and forces small fishing vessels southwest tow operators to hide in the mangrove swamps. But hiking in the rainforests is made more pleasant with the cooler southwest tow operators temperatures.

Meals at Crystal Paradise are home-cooked and delicious. You may request traditional Maya dishes (in advance) and Mrs. Tut, the mother of the family, will try to accommodate you. Meals are served family-style in the central southwest tow operators part of the lodge.

great lake airlines There are two fairly important Maya sites near Orange Walk. Lamanai is best reached by taking a boat

belize.com, $$, is operated by the family of Clive Garbutt. The family includes great lake airlines his mom, dad, wife, sisters, brothers, cousins, nephews and anyone else who would like to attach themselves to this gregarious man. Clive s is officially called the Sunset great lake airlines Inn, but everyone calls it Clive s Place. It has eight rooms situated off a porch on the second floor of a wooden building. Each has a fan and private bathroom with hot water. You can take all your meals at Clive s for another US $15 a day. The downstairs bar and restaurant often feature drummers and dancers. Clive and the men in his family would rather fish than play dominos, great lake airlines so if you re an angler, consider hiring one of the family members to take you.

There are two fairly important Maya sites near Orange Walk. Lamanai is best reached by taking a boat up the New River and Cuello is close enough to town that it can be reached by bicycle. Other attractions are the Rio Bravo Conservation Area and the Chan Chich Lodge. Both are exquisite for wildlife viewing.

The temple great lake airlines chambers at the top are corbel-vaulted. great lake airlines Interior wooden beams and the lintels are made of zapote, a rot-resistant wood. Inside, there are handprints on the wall, probably made by a bunch of kids fooling around after the city was abandoned (this is my opinion, not that of archeologists). Below the temple was a grave, and above the grave a pit filled with broken pottery, incense burners and animal bones left by those living in the area after the collapse of Tikal.

air tran air 422-3329. The restaurant is great if trying to escape the heat. It is clean to a sparkle and the sal

Davis Falls, Mile 15, close to the village of Alta Vista (there is a sign at the turn-off), are eight miles off the highway along a pretty rough road that winds through citrus farms. You need a good 4X4 to get through. The falls are the second-largest in the country and drop more than 300 feet over granite rocks into a pool that is good for swimming. It s a two-hour walk from the road to the falls, after you have driven the eight miles in.

422-3329. The restaurant is great if trying to escape the heat. It is clean to a sparkle and the salads are made with crisp fresh vegetables. One gentleman air tran air I spoke with enjoyed the rum punch far too much. He ended up staying in one of their rooms too. Hok ol K in offers bikes for rent at US $5 per day. Guests of the hotel get first dibs on the bikes. COROZAL TO SANTA ELENA

unitied airlines It is the southern section that is the most impressive. Here, archeologists found most of the stelae

TheCayes unitied airlines RANGUANA CAYE Ranguana Caye is 18 miles from Placencia, just outside the barrier reef. It is rumored that the Ranguana unitied airlines area has the best bonefish flats in Belize, but I ve heard that rumor about other areas. The island has three rustic cabins that stand on stilts along the shore.

Calabash trees can be identified by their white tubular flowers or gourd-shaped fruits that grow from their trunks. Up to 100 flowers or gourds can grow on one tree at any one time. It takes seven months after pollination for the fruit to ripen and fall from the tree. The people of Belize pick the gourds and, after they dry, paint colorful scenes on them. These souvenirs can be picked up in shops around the country.

It is the southern unitied airlines section that is the most impressive. Here, archeologists found most of the stelae and three royal tombs.Inside the tombs were 36 pottery vessels, some of which are in the visitor center.

top airlines 2011 uar s slender but strong body can weigh 250 pounds (115 kg). The jaguar is built to hunt, with stron

Many of the passages along this cave system are so low you have to squirm through on your belly. Inside, some of the chambers have plaster floors. Petroglyphs depicting human faces and pictographs of handprints are etched into the walls of the cave. The remains of 11 people have been found in this cave system. A similar cave, found in 1999 near this area, is called Actun Holal. It has two entrances and carved faces inside.

uar s slender but strong body can weigh 250 pounds (115 kg). The jaguar is built to hunt, with strong shoulders, sharp teeth, good eyesight and hearing, and claws that can rip the hamstring of a deer with one powerful swipe. The jaguar s short fur is usually

greater swiss 223-3888, www.chateaucaribbean.com, $$$$, is a colonial house that was once a hospital. It overlooks

water trap on every one. The back nine holes have more variety and one is a 600-yard par 5. Sand is a hazard on all holes. The course is a good test of target golf, where your shots have to be accurate.

223-3888, www.chateaucaribbean.com, $$$$, is a colonial house that was once a hospital. It overlooks the ocean and has recently been renovated. Each room has air conditioning, a tiled bathroom, cable TV and a good view. The wrap-around porch dotted with wicker furniture is a draw. The restaurant has a notably good reputation. I did not find the staff particularly friendly. Belize Biltmore Plaza (Best Western), Mile 3, Northern greater swiss Highway, greater swiss

THE CAYES PLACES TO STAY Coco Plum Island Resort (n/k) 520-2041; www.cocoplumcay.com Coconuts Caribbean Hotel ($$$-$$$$) 226-3500; www.coconutshotel.com Coral Bay Villas ($$$$) 226-3003; www.coralbaybelize.com De Real Macaw Guest House ($$) 226-0459; www.derealmacaw.com Diane s Beach House (n/k) 226-0083; www.staycayecaulker.com/beachhouse.html Essene Way 226-3258 Exotic Caye Beach Resort ($$$$$) 226-2870; www.belizeisfun.com Gallows Point Resort ($$$) 227-3054 Gaviota Coral Reef Resort ($$$) 509-5032 Glover s Atoll Resort ($$-$$$$) 520-5016; www.glovers.com.bz Ignacio s ($$) 610-2200 Iguana Reef Hotel ($$$) 226-0213; www.iguanareefinn.com International Zoological Expeditions 520-5030; www.ize2belize.com Isla Marisol Resort (n/k) 520-2056; www.islamarisol.com Journey s End Hotel ($$$$$) 226-2173; www.journeysendresort.com La Costa Maya ($$) 226-0122 Lazy Iguana ($$$) 226-0350; www.lazyiguana.net Lighthouse Reef Resort ($$$) 800-423-3114; www.scubabelize.com Lily s Caribbean Lodge ($$$) 226-2059 Loraine s Guest House ($) 206-0163 Manta Resort ($$$$) 888-271-3483; www.mantaresort.com Mara s Place ($) 226-0056 Marin s Guest House ($) 226-0110 Marta s Place ($$) 226-2053 Mata Rocks Resort ($$$$) 226-2336; www.matarocks.com Mayan Princess Resort ($$$) 226-2778; www.mayanprincesshotel.com Ocean s Edge ($$) 614-9633; oceansedge@btl.net Paradise Villas ($$$$) 226-2087; www.belizevilla.com Pelican s Pouch Beach Resort ($$-$$$) 520-3044 www.southwatercaye.com/home.html Pleasure Island Resort ($$$) 209-4020; www.stgeorgescaypleasure.bz Popeye s (n/k) 226-0032 Rainbow Hotel ($$) 226-0123 Ramon s Village ($$$$-$$$$$) 226-2071; www.ramons.com Reef s End Lodge 522-2419; www.reefsendlodge.com Ricardo s Beach Huts ($$$$$) 227-8469 Ruby s ($$) 226-2063 St. George s Lodge ($$$$) 220-4444; www.gooddiving.com Salamander Caba as ($$$$) 602-1713; www.salamanderbelize.com

evergreen airlines Non-water people should visit the lagoons on Ambergris, where the wildlife hangs out. Because the is

The Stork Club, 18 Buena Vista Drive, 822-2034, at the San Ignacio Hotel, is the place for a drink before you have your steak in the restaurant. The club has a happy hour every evening, but it is especially popular on Friday.

Non-water people should visit the lagoons evergreen airlines on Ambergris, where the wildlife hangs out. Because the island was once an extension of the mainland, many animals not normally seen on islands are found on Ambergris.

he little village of Santa Elena, Mile 70, is on the east side of the Macal River. It is quiet and non-imposing evergreen airlines as compared to San Ignacio on the other side of the Hawksworth Bridge, the only suspension bridge in Belize.

goindigo The central pyramid is 75 feet high (20 meters), surrounded by six buildings from the post-classic p

To provide us with a glimpse of what the building once was, one cell has been restored. A cell was originally built to hold one man; at the time of the prison s closing each cell held six to eight men. Among other things, the museum s exhibition shows how, in the 1870s, hard prison labor included chopping mangroves at Prisoners Creek. Another display shows how the prisoners soaked cocoa husks overnight and then beat them dry the following day. From these they made pillows and mattresses. If each man didn t reach his production quota, the missing amount was added to the next day s work, making it hard for the prisoner to ever catch up.

However, goindigo the bamboo stands around the area are worth taking a look at, especially if you have not been to the Orient. It will make you appreciate the reverence the Chinese have for this plant. Walk along any stretch goindigo of road and you will see them. You can also rent a kayak and paddle up or down the coast and up Boom Creek to spot some birds. The jungle trips are always spectacular. goindigo You can also cycle to Mayflower ruins or take a taxi for US $12.50 to the Jaguar Preserve and hike their trails (see page 376 for a full description of this unique preserve).

Before labor laws changed in the 1940s, a man could be forced into hard labor for three months if he left his job or broke his contract. Pay was low and days were long. Conditions didn t improve and the end of World War I left many men unemployed. Then came the Depression and more starvation for workers. In 1934 Soberanis organized and united workers to hold demonstrations goindigo against the government and wealthy merchants. Only after many workers were imprisoned and killed, did these demonstrations and riots lead to better goindigo working conditions for laborers.

The central pyramid is 75 feet high (20 meters), surrounded by six buildings from the post-classic period, and there are 25 large structures in all. Two tombs have been uncovered so far. Inside were two carved plaques made of jade and some hematite earrings. Obsidian blades were also uncovered indicating that the city traded with other communities living some distance away (there is no obsidian in this area).

tap games ACCOMMODATIONS DIRECTORY THE WEST PLACES TO STAY Aguada Hotel ($$) 804-3609; www.aguadahotel.com Alm

The Garcia sisters gather their slate from a secret location reached by a trek through the jungle, up and down streams, and through tap games mud and thick vegetation. The sisters believe that gathering the stone replenishes their soul and rejuvenates their artistic spirit.

ACCOMMODATIONS DIRECTORY THE WEST PLACES TO STAY Aguada Hotel ($$) 804-3609; www.aguadahotel.com Almond Hill Motel ($$) 225-1088; obsession@btl.net Banana tap games Bank Lodge ($$$$) 820-2020; www.bananabank.com Belize Jungle Dome ($$$$) 822-2124; www.belizejungledome.com Belmopan Hotel ($$$) 822-2130 Black Rock Lodge ($$$) 824-2341; www.blackrocklodge.com Blancaneaux Lodge ($$$$$) 820-3878; www.blancaneaux.com Bull Frog Inn ($$$) 822-2111; tap games bullfrog@btl.net Caesar s Place $$) 824-2341; www.belizegifts.com Cahal Pech Village Resort ($$$) 824-3740; www.cahalpech.com Casa Blanca Guest House ($$) 824-2080 Chaa Creek Resort ($$$$$) 824-2037; www.chaacreek.com Clarissa Falls Resort ($$$) 824-3916; www.belizereport.com/lodging/clarissa Crystal Paradise ($$$) 824-2014; www.crystalparadise.com DuPlooy s Resort ($$$$) 824-3101; www.duplooys.com Ek Tun ($$$$) 824-2002 or 303-442-6150; www.ektunbelize.com El Chicleroi Camp Resort ($$-$$$) 824-3132; www.elchicleroicampresort.com El Rey Inn ($) 822-2841 Five Sisters Lodge ($$$) 820-4005; www.fivesisterlodge.com Green Haven Lodge ($$$) 820-4034; www.ghlodgebelize.com Hibiscus Hotel ($$) 722-1418; www.hibiscus@btl.net Hidden Valley Inn ($$$$$) 822-3320; www.hiddenvalleyinn.com Hi-Et Hotel ($) 824-2828 Hummingbird Hills ($$) 614-4699; www.hummingbirdhills.com Jaguar Paw Jungle Resort ($$$$$) 820-2032 Log Cabins ($$-$$$) 824-3367; www.logcabins-belize.com Martha s Guest House ($$) 834-3647 Martz Farms ($$) 824-3742; www.martzfarms.com Maya Mountain Lodge ($$$) 824-2164; www.mayamountain.com Mopan River Resort ($$$$$) 823-2074; www.mopanriverresort.com Mountain Equestrian Trails ($$$$$) 820-4041; www.metbelize.com Nabitunich Lodge ($$$) 824-2096; www.nabitunich.com New Belmoral ($$) 824-2024 Pacz Hotel ($$) 824-4538 Parrot Nest ($$) 820-4058; www.parrot-nest.com Piache Hotel ($$) 804-2032 Pine Ridge Lodge ($$$$) 606-4557; www.pineridgelodge.com

AVERAGE DAILY TEMPERATURES JAN 73.0 F/22.8 C FEB 75.6 F/24.2 C MAR 78.1 F/25.6 C APR 81.0 F/27.2 C MAY 83.7 F/28.7 tap games C JUN 83.1 F/28.4 C JULY 81.2 F/27.7 C AUG 82.2 F/27.9 C SEPT 82.2 F/27.9 C OCT 80.6 F/27.0 C NOV 77.9 F/25.5 C DEC 75.6 F/24.2 C

The National tap games Handicrafts Center,2 South Park Street, 223-3636, bcci@btl.net, was established in 1992 to help local artists. It is a cooperative that has a wide range of goods such as zericote and mahogany carvings, slate sculptures, oil paintings and jippi jappa baskets. Jippi jappa is the green palm leaf you ll often see used in woven articles. There are a total of 550 artists in the cooperative and they all live in Belize. The coop takes goods on consignment and is presently working hard to export some of the works. tap games I encourage you to purchase pieces from a cooperative like this because more of the profits go directly to the artist. Also, it allows you to see first-hand the high quality of work available, as compared tap games to cheaper imitations.

print boarding pass ests, lagoons and karst hills. The main purpose of this sanctuary is to protect the manatee. The Nor

Return to the Western Highway and continue from Mile 70 at San Ignacio to the border. The road is good, the resorts first class and the rolling hills a pleasure to watch. PLACES TO STAY As you continue print boarding pass along the Western Highway, the road on the right (north) at Mile 71.2

ests, lagoons and karst hills. The main purpose of this sanctuary is to protect the manatee. The Northern and Southern Lagoons provide a safe environment. There is freshwater coming in from the Manatee River, Soldiers Creek and Corn House Creek and salt water through the Bar River. The salt water carries fresh food for the manatee. print boarding pass

little rock futbol club Theupsideof Hurricane Janet is that the town had to be rebuilt. The town council hired professional

the reserve little rock futbol club and a great place to stay. The caba as all have screens on the windows, fans, private baths with hot water and, from each balcony, a view of Antelope Falls. One caba a has two rooms that sleep three people each. Meals can be included or separate.

GettingHere.315 Money.316 Customs&Visas.317 InGuatemala.317 OvertheBorder.317 Destinations.318 ARound-UpofAccessibleMayaRuins.318 ElRemate.319 GettingHere.320 ThingstoDo.320 PlacestoStay&Eat.320 TikalNationalPark.322 RecentHistory.322 ExploringthePark.323 TheAncientCityofTikal.324 PlacestoStay.331 PlacestoEat.332 Directory.332

Theupsideof Hurricane Janet is that the town had to be rebuilt. The town council hired professional planners to design the new city. The rebuilding cost US $3.5 million and Corozal was the first town in Belize to have electricity, water and sewer

Home made hoodoot, a popular Garafuna dish, is offered on weekends. It consists of fresh fish boiled in coconut milk and eaten with mashed plantain. It may be popular, little rock futbol club but it certainly isn t my favorite. The cost is US $7 per serving.

fear of flying erica jong Tina s Backpacker s Hostel, 226-0351, www.staycayecaulker. com/hostel.html, $, has moved and is now

Buses going north and south pass along the New Northern Highway through Orange Walk every half-hour. Take a bus from the main terminal fear of flying erica jong in Belize City. An express bus will take half as long as a regular bus, but it isn t nearly as interesting. Regular buses can be caught anywhere along the highway. Flag one down and the driver will stop.

4:30 pm. Half Moon Caye, established in 1982, was the first marine preserve in the country. At one time, it had a lighthouse station, built in 1820, but it collapsed and a second was built in 1848 using the foundation stones from the first. This one didn t collapse, but it was eventually de-activated until, in 1931, the station was again put to use and a steel tower added. Today, the lighthouse is solar powered. It is not climbable because it is falling to pieces. fear of flying erica jong The lighthouse is located fear of flying erica jong at the southeast corner of the island.

Tina s Backpacker s Hostel, 226-0351, www.staycayecaulker. com/hostel.html, $, has moved and is now facing the water and near the central park. There are five dorm-style rooms that sleep six to a room. She also has two rooms that have a double bed in each. There are kitchen facilities and a pleasant sitting room. Lockers are available. fear of flying erica jong The gardens are a real draw where chairs are interspersed among the vegetation. Like all hostels, this is a great place to meet other travelers and socialize. Great place for the young!

INTHISCHAPTER Introduction105 History107 GettingAround110 Adventures&Sightseeing114 Shopping121 PlacestoStay&Eat123 fear of flying erica jong Nightlife133 DayTrips135 Directory139 BC, as the city is commonly called, is a collection of majestic colonial houses interspersed with clapboard shacks rigged with huge wooden vats that collect rain water from the tin roofs. Decorating the vats and roofs of these buildings are palm trees and flowering bougainvillea. Mosquitoes breed in the open sewers bordering the black-topped streets and in the swamps beyond the sea walls.

southwest ariline Dorm beds are available. They come with a fully equipped kitchen and cost US $149 a week, including

Dorm beds are available. They come with a fully equipped kitchen and cost US $149 a week, including transportation to and from Sittee River. The Lomonts also have camp sites for a mere US $99 a week, including the boat trip.

The most comprehensive tome available is the Field Guide to the Birds of Mexico and North Central America by Steve Howell and Sophie southwest ariline Wedd, published by Oxford Illustrated Press. It has both color plates and black and white drawings that cover 750 species. The book is 1,010 pages and heavy to carry.

Worms and parasites can be a problem anywhere in the tropics. To name and describe them all would be impossible. Keep your feet free of cuts or open sores so that worm larva or parasites cannot enter. Use sandals in the showers, especially if cleanliness is in question. Wear closed shoes (running shoes or hiking boots) when outdoors, especially in the jungle.

southwest signs Erva s Restaurant, Far West Street below Pacz Hotel, 824-2821, $. The food is gourmet, and this plac

Erva s Restaurant, Far West Street below Pacz Hotel, 824-2821, $. The food is gourmet, and this place remains a favorite for its seafood and pizzas. The coffee is good and the hash browns served with breakfast are second to none in all of Belize. The chicken Cordon Bleu, with mushrooms and a cream sauce, is highly recommended, as are the shrimp cooked southwest signs in butter and tons of garlic. There are also many vegetarian dishes from which to choose.

Located on a limestone ridge, Xunantunich was originally investigated in 1895 by Thomas Gann, the British Medical Officer who was the first to visit many of the Maya sites in Belize. The next one to stomp around the ruins was Teobert Mahler, who photographed El Castillo and turned the pictures over to the Peabody Museum at Harvard University. He also mapped the main plaza.

Anchorage Resort, 226-0304, anchorage@btl.net, $$$, has 18 double rooms with private baths and hot water, fans, two double beds, fridges, cable TVs and private balconies. I m not sure what to say about this place except that it was alright.

CAVES AT ROARING CREEK, XIBALBA AUTHOR NOTE: Even though you could reach these caves on your own, you are not permitted to enter unless you have a guide. The reason for this is thatBelize wantsto preserve as much of this history as possible while still allowing visitors to get a sense of the Maya culture.

southwest bag fees sail with a red flag waving. It could represent the British flag. The two upper sections of the inve

The armadillo, also known as the dilly, is an insect-eating mammal that has a bony-plated shell encasing its back. This shell is the animal s protection. Although of the same family as the anteater, the armadillo has teeth that are simple rootless pegs in the back of its mouth. Because of these teeth, the armadillo is able to eat snakes, chickens, fruit and eggs. It also likes to munch on the odd scorpion.

them so the budget crowd won t be disappointed. The rest of the seven wooden cabins are interspersed around the well-groomed gardens southwest bag fees so they are non-intrusive to others. southwest bag fees The cabins are spacious and well designed one even has a loft. All have porches, private baths with hot water, southwest bag fees

If leaving Corozal at Mile 79 on the New Northern Highway, go past theservicestationandbus terminal.Stayontheroad,butdonotgoto the Santa Rita ruins (up the hill). Instead, veer to the right and continue to the junction five miles beyond Corozal. Turn right. It is four miles to SantaElena and the Mexican border. From Corozal to the border takesabout half an hour and the crossing is usually non-eventful. There is a US $20 fee to leave Belize. There is no fee to enter Mexico. Belize buses cross the Mexican border and go as far as Chetumal. The money changers at the border are good. Get rid of your Belize dollars before crossing.

sail with a red flag waving. It could represent the British flag. The two upper sections of the inverted Y contain tools used in the timber trade. There is an axe on the right and a saw on the left. Behind the men is a mahogany tree and below them is the national motto. The entire design is circled with a wreath of green leaves.

swizz Diving Pelican Seaside Suites, 243-4591, www. thedivingpelican.com, $$$, have three suites with cera

Diving Pelican Seaside Suites, 243-4591, www. thedivingpelican.com, $$$, have three suites with ceramic tile floors, French doors opening onto the beach, private bath, fully supplied kitchens with fridge and stove, and cable TV with DVD players. This is a very well kept and clean establishment. There

Chocolate s Tours, Front St., 226-0151, chocolate@btl.com, has been heavily involved in promoting conservation to the area with a special interest in the protection of the manatee. Chocolate has been around for a long time; he was first made popular with tourists swizz by Lonely Planet way back in the late 1970s. Chocolate offers trips to other islands and to see manatee but he doesn t go every day. If you are intent on traveling with him, make your reservations early.

block 2 lofts Each of the participating countries Belize (the host), El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico h

Anchor in the sand only. Don t collect coral or purchase products made from coral. Don t move or touch any of the corals or plants, as this may damage block 2 lofts the coral and disturb the living creatures hidden within. Leave underwater caves and ledges within a short period of time as the air bubbles can become abrasive to delicate organisms. Have only one person enter the cave at a time to avoid crowding and coming in contact with some of the plants or corals. Be conscious of what you are doing. If you feel something touch you, don t panic and kick as this could possibly cause more damage. Move away carefully. Do not feed or ride with marine animals like rays or dolphins. Observe fishing laws and respect closed seasons. This includes avoiding lobster block 2 lofts or conch during the closed season. Do not disturb in any way the nesting and hatching grounds of the sea turtles. AUTHOR NOTE: Diving after flying is quite safe. However, you should stop diving at least 24 hours before flying to prevent decompression problems.

Each of the participating countries Belize (the host), El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico has a day when their cultural specialties are featured. This includes dress, food, music, dancing and story telling. The beauty pageant is held on Thursday and big name musicians (people like Andy Palacio, the Iligales and Santino s Messengers) come to entertain on Saturday. The parades feature exquisite floats, clowns and every noise-maker block 2 lofts imaginable. block 2 lofts There is also a greased-pole climb, fishing derbies, volleyball tournaments and, for the kids, foot races.

dl airlines the Venus Bus Station, veering half a block east at the station. Continue northwest along the Santa

the Venus Bus Station, veering dl airlines half a block east at the station. Continue northwest along the Santa Rita road. You ll pass the hospital and town reservoir before you reach the ruins and, just beyond them, is the New Northern Highway.

Each of the highways has its own set of attractions, from small coastal towns to large cities and nature preserves. dl airlines Most destinations can be reached by bus, although many travelers enjoy the flexibility of hiring a car and heading out independently to explore.

chenal pet palace The word tapir comes from a Brazilian Indian word meaning thick, which refers to the animal s hide (

The word tapir comes from a Brazilian Indian word meaning thick, which refers to the animal s hide (rather than its stature or brains). The hide is covered with short black/brown hair and a full- grown male will stand just over four feet (1.2 meters) at the shoulder and six feet (two meters) in length. The tapir is an odd-toed ungulate; the front hooves have four toes and the back legs have three. One large toe in the middle of each hoof carries most of the animal s weight.

BEKKOBekkoisaJapanesewordmeaningshell.Forcenturies, bekkohasbeenusedformakingjewelryanddecoratingthingslikecabinets,doorpostsandmirrors.Theshellofthehawksbillisconsideredthemostbeautiful,withscalescoloredorange,goldanddarkbrown. The loggerhead turtle chenal pet palace can grow up to three feet (one meter) and weigh up to 250 pounds (115 kg). Loggerheads are named for their large heads and short necks. They can be found in the coastal bays and estuaries of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. In the Western hemisphere, they can be found from the east and west coasts of Canada down to the tip of Argentina. They are carnivores

air one airlines and the entrance fee is US $5 per day for foreigners. Trained tour guides are available and they can

and the entrance fee is US $5 per day for foreigners. Trained tour guides are available and they can give you tons of information air one airlines about the area. There is also a confectionary, a gift shop and toilet facilities at the entrance. air one airlines

The Touch of Class Comfort Inn, Perez Street, 824-4006, air one airlines www. touchofclasscomfortinn.com, $$, is a two-storey motel-style building that has 10 rooms with access to the balcony, air conditioning or fans, cable TV, and private baths with hot water. There is a bar and restaurant on the premises. The rooms are clean, the hotel quiet, the walk to town not far. To get there, turn left at the first street past the La Loma Luz Hospital. Follow the signs. The hotel is about four blocks down Perez Street. They will arrange tours for you.

Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina, 2 Marine Parade, 2233333, 800-333-3333 air one airlines (US), www.radisson.com, $$$$$, has 102 rooms in two buildings. Each room has air conditioning, private bath, coffee maker, hair dryer, mini bar, radio, data port, direct- dial telephone air one airlines and cable TV. The rooms overlook either the Caribbean Sea or a well-tended garden. There is a restaurant, tavern, pool, dive shop, tour agency and gift shop. Even if you don t stay here, you should visit for a cocktail one evening.

TheSouth Systems Sealution kayaks, Seatwo closed-cockpit kayaks and Wilderness System open-cockpit kayaks. Life jackets are included with the rental. Chosen in year 2000 as the Tour Operator of the Year, they also won the National Tourism Award for Tour Guide that same year. A six- day, five-night island kayak trip costs US $965 per person, while a four- day, three -night jungle river journey costs US $538.

southwest pet INTHEEYEOFTHEBEHOLDERDuringthebeautycontest, Etoomaaga, meaning she stoothin inCreole,canbeheardofte

JMA Motors Ltd., 771 Bella Vista, Belize City, 223-0226, jmagroup@btl.net. If reserving a vehicle through this company, you may work through Budget (see above). southwest pet A small car costs US $90 per day for the first three days and the fourth day is free (except for the cost of insurance, about $14/day). This price includes unlimited mileage. JMA has vehicles southwest pet ranging from 4WDs and pickup trucks to 12-passenger southwest pet vans. The staff was helpful and supplied a car within an hour.

INTHEEYEOFTHEBEHOLDERDuringthebeautycontest, Etoomaaga, meaning she stoothin inCreole,canbeheardoftenasthebeautieslineupforthepageant. Manfi isthedesiredrequirement.Manfimeansshapelybustandhips.Be- sidesnotbeingtoothin,thebeautypageantcontestwin- nermustbealocalgirlwithgoodmoralconduct,topgradesathighschoolandapolitemanner. Overnight hiking can be arranged at Sam Tillett s, above. He will take you into the jungle where you can spot many inland birds and possibly see some animals. Prices can be negotiated and depend upon where you go, services required and the number of people in your group. Having your own equipment will save on rental fees.

ryan airlines Return to the Southern Highway at Mile 15. Continue south for 6.3 miles, over the South Stann Creek

Lauruni Cabins, $$, on the north side of the road, are also basic, but they are a good deal. The clean rooms come with a double and a three-quarter-sized bed, good for three people (four if two kids share the three-quarter-sized bed), private baths with hot water, fans and cable TV. If no one is there when you arrive, go to Innies Restaurant and ask for Marva.

In sum, Belize remains a poor country, but a proud and independent one proud especially of avoiding the ongoing horrors that occur in the rest of Central America. There s no great gap between rich and poor, and the mix of ethnic groups is easy. Britain still subsidizes the economy, and the US is the major source of investment dollars. The main objective of government now is to make the country self-sufficient in food; about a fourth of what Belize eats is imported. Through the first half of the 20th century, it had nothing much to sell but sugar, which provided about a third of the country s export income, but the sugar markets fell in the 1980s. Still, the country has the smallest foreign debt in Central America, and most of that debt is owed to international organizations and foreign ryan airlines governments rather ryan airlines than to private banks with high interest rates. Recently, too, a lot of foreign capital (mainly US) has gone into citrus, cocoa, seafood, tourism and non-traditional ryan airlines agriculture. The benefits are coming in. Citrus fruits and tourism are booming.

Return to the Southern Highway at Mile 15. Continue ryan airlines south for 6.3 miles, over the South Stann Creek River Bridge, until you come to the road to Placencia at Mile 22.2. PLACENCIA PENINSULA Placencia Peninsula is a 16-mile strip of sandy beach that has resorts all the way to the tip. Seine Bight is the only village. Placencia has replaced Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye as the most popular beach destination in Belize. For the most part, places along the coast here are less expensive ryan airlines and the services are better than they are at any other beach locale in Belize. Close proximity to the ocean gives you the opportunity to enjoy all water activities. Plus, you are closer to land destinations you may wish to visit, like caves and ruins.

air tran jungle river. However, her specialty is in customized tours of the more rugged type. If you have cam

Spanish Bay Resort, 220-4024, www.spanishbaybelize.com, $$, has housed many divers, fishers, shellers and marine scientists. Its 10 cabins have fans, hardwood paneling and private bathrooms. You can also rent an apartment with a kitchen for US $40 per day. You can cook for yourself or arrange to have food included in the price.

Sea Front Inn, Front Street, 702-2300, seafront@btl.net, $$$, is at the north end of town. It is a large three-storey building with a blue tin roof and some stone siding, which looks pretty hurricane- proof to me. The quiet hotel has 10 spacious rooms with private baths, air conditioning and cable TVs. The restaurant serves breakfast only.

jungle river. air tran However, her specialty is in customized tours of the more rugged type. If you have camping equipment and would like to camp on the cayes, Mary can get you there. You may camp only on Silk Caye, North East Caye on Glover s Reef and in the Punta Ycacos area near the Punta Ycacos Lagoon. Rates vary depending air tran on the type and length of your trip, but all details are provided on their website.