Established on August 23, 1996, Bacalar Chico is a result of community advocacy and lobbying by the fishermen of nearby Sarteneja Village. This site, located on the northern tip of Ambergris Caye houses a informative visitor center and a ranger station. Taking us on this adventure is Seaduced by Belize. Started 15 years ago, Seaduced is the brain child of Elito, our guide today. Elito was born on the island and knows these waters like the back of his hand. His wife Rebecca, manages and handles the day to day activities. One of the highlights of her day is meeting people. Their combined hard work earned them BTB’s 2008/09 Tour Operator of the Year award.

Elito begins our tour with a little briefing on what we can expect for the day. And just like that the sky starts clearing up as we make our way to the Boca del Rio cut and under the bridge. This gives us the first peak of the flora ahead. Mangroves line both sides of the boat and Elito points out some birds and reptiles on the trees. We immediately know that this will be an educational day as well. Nice! We are always eager to learn about the wonders that the country has to offer.

As we make our way out to the western waters we get to see a part of Ambergris Caye that we did not know even existed.  We had never been to this side of the island and were so excited to glide across the waters.  We see a grouping of poles sticking out of the water. Our knowledgable guide, Elito explains what these poles are which turn out to be fishing traps. These traps have been used through decades by local fishermen. We even find his nephew, Martin John in his fishing trap, cleaning it up. What a fantastic way of catching fish.

Bacalar National Park is so pristine and natural, we feel as though we are somewhere else. Beautifully landscaped, and extremely well maintained this is just nature at its very best. We meet the Ranger of Bacalar and head inside to check out the Visitor’s Center. The Visitor center showcases the unique history and landscape of the Island.

The beginning of the tour shows historical information about the Island, including our Belizean history and culture which I found so exciting and informative. Pieces of pottery are visible. All of which were gathered right on sight. Elito was great at explaining everything! He explained everything about our history, and considering his knowledge of the Island, and passion he gave an exceptional tour of the center, certainly one of the most informative tour guides. Once we are outside, he shows us some of the trees lining up the property. Once our eyes have gotten their fill we board the boat once more.

This time around we head out in search of manatees. The channel that we pass through brings us to the end of Belize. Mounds of salt were transported down Belize’s coastline for trading to other temples, such as Altun Ha and Lamanai. So we look for manatees … and we look … and we look …. Alas, our venture at the end of the channel produced no manatees but oh well. It’s snorkel time.

As we arrive at Barracuda Reef, everyone gears up … one by one everyone starts jumping in the water. Once we head off, the underwater world that opened up was truly amazing. The beautiful turquoise water is just so relaxing and just what I needed for this now hot day.

Beach side now, we get ready for some sun. And Elito sets up some hammocks that just beg to be used after a full morning like the one we’ve had. Seating areas have been arranged around the camp site …  This is the perfect place for a quick getaway … this is why we live and vacation in Belize. This is definitely Mother Nature’s Best Kept Secret.

Ricky helps bring in the fruit and our lunch is getting ready! Yum, because we are starving! As our clothes dry up in the Caribbean wind, we take some time to explore our surroundings. Some rum punch is definitely in order … along with some fruit. The grill gets prepared and boy oh boy I already know that we are in for a treat. Elito has stored his coconut husks safely from the elements. The husks used to light up the grill will give our food a delicious smokey flavor. Our guide has now turned into chef pepin all ready to whip us something delicious.

Chit chat chit chat chit chat is all we want to do after a tasty and filling lunch like the one we had. For sure, Seaduced is not only a great tour company but they are fantastic chefs as well. Some more punch and all that is left …  is too enjoy the beautiful afternoon and to clear up our campsite. Thanks Ricky! Sadly it is time to say goodbye to Robles Point and head back into town. But before we make it back to San Pedro Town, we stop at Mexico Rocks for yet another snorkel stop. And of course I am definitely going to get in again.

Refreshing, relaxing, educational and entertaining, this has definitely been a fantastic day.

Bacalar Chico Full Day BBQ is not the only tour that Seaduced by Belize offers. Cave tubing, zip lining, mayan ruins, and private charters are some of the tours available. Located on Tarpon Street, across from the San Pedro Primary School this is the place to go and set up your adventure.

At the Vilma Linda Plaza, you can also find a great restaurant, a nice spa and other businesses. Elito and Rebecca are also the founders of the San Pedro Lagoon – Reef Eco Challenge. Check out  this clip of their promo. You can find seaduced on www.seaducedbybelize.com Dont forget to like them on Facebook.

December 2011 – #4 Diamond Street

Welcome to #4 Diamond Street located on the tropical oasis of Ambergris Caye, Belize. This 2,300 square foot Caribbean home offers a classic Colonial appearance and features a sleek and contemporary interior making this an urban home owners dream.

Located just 1/2 mile from the center of San Pedro Town, and on a quiet no through street, just two rows back from the white sandy beach, this home offers an easy commute to both beach and town. Ideally situated right next door to a bird sanctuary offering over 100 species of tropical birds, this is truly a nature lovers dream.

This home offers solid concrete construction and within its walls features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. The open concept main floor offers a spacious living room with private balcony overlooking the sanctuary. The gourmet kitchen features granite counters, high end stainless steel appliances, including a Jenn air range, oversized refrigerator, dishwasher, and ice maker. This kitchen also features solidly constructed belizean hardwood cabinets, walk in pantry, breakfast bar and ample counter space.The bright and the airy dining room is perfect for entertaining, and offers lush tropical views.

The guest bedroom on this main level offers a 3 piece ensuite, and double french doors to the verandah overlooking the front yard.

The upper level offers the additional guest bedroom, presently being used as an office, and the master suite. The master offers a spacious walk through closet, cheater ensuite complete with stainless steel washer and dryer, and stunning views of the blue Caribbean waters. Awake each morning to your private balcony perched amongst the trees above the bird sanctuary, and enjoy your morning coffee in the sitting room that separates these bedrooms.

The split air conditioning means you can control each room, and either let the breeze flow through your new home through the hand crafted wooded louvered windows or take control of your level of comfort with the turn of a switch.

The oversized 50×100 lot leaves plenty of room for a pool, or additional landscaping within this fully fenced and private lot. The lower level of the house offers secured parking, oversized bodega, large enough to convert to a caretakers quarters, as well as houses the mechanicals including a 12,870 gallon cistern in addition to city water.

Built in 2006 by a reputable local builder, Graniel’s Construction, this house offers the home owner a true Caribbean feel. Including the lower level, this home boasts a total of 3,300 square foot of usable space. Perfect for entertaining, and plenty of room for friends and family.

For more information please feel free to contact us at gaytravelbelize.com or email direct local Coldwell Banker realtors, Kim and Kathy who will be more than happy to assist you with your home purchase here on Ambergris Caye.

Always innovative in their events, Ka’ana Boutique Resort invites you to step back in time and unto another realm. Come have dinner with them, come enjoy a delightful night, food is quite exquisite and this is one you sure don’t want to miss.

Ka’ana’s Physical Address:
Mile 69 ¼ Western Highway
Cayo District, Belize,
Central America

Phone: 1-(305)-735-2553
Free Phone: 1-(877)-522-6221
Belize: +1-(501)-824-0430

US Fax: 1-801-795-0881
E-mail: info@kaanabelize.com

Belize Action is taking its stand against UNIBAM and exposing some not so honest truths. Now they are taking on the “Born vs Bred” issue. One thing is for sure, everyone may have their own opinion but gay and lesbians know what is true.

Don’t make anyone change your mind, or intimidate the way you feel.

“The time is right! And we have found your new island best friends.”

Purchasing has never been easy and as Kim and Kathy say, “Belize is, of course, already a tourism hotspot with travellers drawn to the beautiful cayes, the beaches, the barrier reef and the flora and fauna but with the development of a luxury end tourist market place in Belize, the appeal of the country can only rise and rise. “

The ladies, who can be quoted as saying, “left corporate America to come to Belize,” have been through it all and can speak to you because of their own personal experience. “We have been through it all,” states Kathy, “so when we meet with clients, we are more than willing to talk to them about all their concerns.” Their meetings are not a hand shake and the client is sent on their way, they have four hour long conversations, giving their clients the overall island experience. “Buying property in a foreign country does not have to be scary! We understand the process thoroughly and will assist you in all aspects of your transaction. From finding the perfect property for you to moving your belongings (even your pets!) into your new home. Over the years we have worked in Residential Sales, New Construction, Banking, Lending, Title, Relocation and Asset Management. Our combined experience makes for a dynamic team with much to offer. We are full time residents of Ambergris Caye and have made this our home.”

The ladies started a blog (follow them now) where they hope to educate potential buyers and assist those who want to make Belize their home. Throughout this upcoming tourism season, gay TRAVEL belize will continue discussions with Kim and Kathy to help gay and lesbian hopefuls the perfect home in beautiful Belize. Not only will they share with us real estate advice and tidbits, but will showcase the Belizean lifestyle and some of the best listing on the island and countrywide.

So, if you are thinking of purchasing property or want to find out what your opportunities are, contact Kim and Kathy, they are your real estate friends in Belize.

]]> http://gaytravelbelize.com/gay-travel-belize-blog/real-estate-belize-101-with-kim-and-kathy/feed/ 0 http://gaytravelbelize.com/gay-travel-belize-blog/in-the-news-lesbian-among-13-recipients-of-citizens-medal/ http://gaytravelbelize.com/gay-travel-belize-blog/in-the-news-lesbian-among-13-recipients-of-citizens-medal/#comments Thu, 13 Oct 2011 22:14:46 +0000 info http://gaytravelbelize.com/?p=2384 Achievements reached by the LGBT community are important to highlight and congratulate. The following is a story of a lesbian who was denied access to her dying wife by hospital officials in Miami. Janice Langbehn, her partner Lisa Pond and three of their four adopted children were on vacation in Feburary 2007, in Miami and waiting to get on a cruise ship when Pond suddenly became ill and had to be rushed to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center. Hospital staff refused to allow Langbehn and the children in to see Pond, even after Langbehn had a copy of the legal documents giving her power of attorney faxed to the hospital within an hour of Pond being admitted. Pond, who had suffered a brain aneurysm, died 18 hours later without her wife and children having a chance to be by her side.

The story made headlines around the country and in June 2008, after the hospital refused repeatedly to apologize to Langbehn and her children, Langbehn, with the assistance of Lambda Legal, filed a lawsuit against the hospital, and she continued her crusade to bring attention to the injustices, highlighted by her story, that many same-sex couples face and continued to advocate for LGBT marriage and civil rights.

Read the full story here: DALLAS VOICE

In the news is a feature of gay TRAVEL belize where LGBT news will be highlighted. The fight for equality and love stretches through all the lengths of the world. This little piece of news will bring to light all the struggles from all the world making an effort to give equality to all. Have a news piece worth sharing, please send to gaytravelbelize@gmail.com (Accreditation to media houses will ALWAYS be given.)

Celebrating 40 Years of Family

You’re invited to join the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center
as we celebrate 40 years of services to the LGBT community!

40th Anniversary Gala & Auction
Saturday, November 12
6 p.m. — Cocktails & Silent Auction
8 p.m. — Dinner & Entertainment

Location — the Westin Bonaventure Hotel

Since 1971, the Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center has been building the health, advocating for the rights and enriching the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people.  The Center’s wide array of services includes: free HIV/AIDS care and medications for those most in need; housing, food, clothing and support for homeless LGBT youth; support and advocacy services for LGBT seniors and LGBT-parented families. The Center also offers low-cost counseling and addiction-recovery services; legal services; health education and HIV prevention programs; transgender services; a cultural arts program and much more. This November they are proudly celebrating 40 years of service. 40 years is no easy feat and through the Center, education and advocacy has continued to grow. Now its time to celebrate this momentous occasion and wish them the best in the following years to come. Through out the night, a series of raffles and auctions will be carried out.

In association with gay TRAVEL belize, Royal Belize, your caribbean private island of choice,  will be one of the featured raffles of the night. The night’s lucky winner will be vacationing Dangriga, Belize with a prize package valued at $8,400US and will include night stays at the all inclusive island.

Royal Belize prides itself in sharing with one lucky winner and his partner an entire Caribbean island exclusively for your pleasure. Spend the days soaking up the Belizean sun, enjoying Royal Belize’s full amenities and five star dining. This is a raffle prize you will certainly want to win. But as we say in Belize, “you got to be in it to win it.” So, buy your raffle tickets today!

Honorees of the night will include:

Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother) and his partner, actor and chef David Burtka, will be honored at the gala.
Since 1995, Harris has been a dedicated activist in the LGBT community, having served as a spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign and Entertainment Media Director for the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD).

Writer, actor, musician and transgender activist Chaz Bono (Dancing with the Stars) will also be honored at the Center’s 40th Anniversary Gala & Auction. A trailblazer in transgender activism, Bono has publicly shared his experience transitioning to male in the documentary Becoming Chaz.

The 40th Gala will be hosted by Leslie Jordan (The Help) and featuring Jane Lynch (Glee).

The LA Gay & Lesbian Center continues to educate and advocate for LGBT rights. To follow what they are doing and to keep in touch with the latest information visit their website at www.lagaycenter.org or follow them on Face Book (LA Gay & Lesbian page).

Follow this link to purchase your tickets for the gala: TICKETS

Follow this link to purchase raffle tickets: RAFFLE

Follow this link to donate a prize for the auction: DONATE

Around the world is a gay TRAVEL belize feature aimed at showcasing various events and happenings in the LGBT community around the world. Be it for taking a stand for what one truly believes in or to celebrate life, Around the world will show you how LGBT connects with the rest of the world in a social aspect. If you have a LGBT event that you want to promote, please send your information to info@gaytravelbelize.com

Located in the Cayo District, Ka’ana Boutique Resort always has fantastic events created to familiarize their guests with the Belizean culture. These events are educational, fun with a touch of elegance. The landscape created at the resort lends itself to romance, mystery, beauty and grace. Open to the general public, Ka’ana has made these events so educational that each and every Belizean could walk away knowing so much more about Belize. Knowing about your country allows for pride to shine through. And what better way to instill Belizean pride than by knowing where we’ve been, where we are, and where we are going.

Nevertheless. some of us have to do exactly that – be chained to a computer or at a workplace that allows us four walls everyday, the same four walls (ask Cori, she don’t like it very much). However, after a long day’s work there is no other place that we’d rather be that in San Pedro. After hours and at all hours this place has a way of lighting up. And what exactly have we been up to?

Hmm … let me see. We welcomed another couple who was looking for a fantastic sailing adventure. Ecologic Divers had just the catamaran to take them. They were heading back home the following day so what they wanted to indulge in was a trip to Belize City were they then would catch their international flight. What Shelly, Nigel and Analise arranged for them was an overnight sail to Cucumber Beach (at Old Belize). En route they would enjoy some snorkeling, fishing and a quick stop in Caye Caulker.

Guys enjoying their time at Lola's Pub

Part of the charm of the island is that there is always something going on. The Belize International Film Festival arrived in San Pedro Town in full blown Masquerade style. And how could we not partake in the event. A mask in hand (me) and a mask on the face (Cori) we headed to the event which took place at the sultry and very very very sexy Kama Lounge. When we say sexy, we mean sexy. Sheers in bold purple and fuchsia colors swaying in the Caribbean breeze, scantily clad go go dancers on top of lighted one man stages, glowing lights, and the full moon and stars shining brightly. This was a Film Festival event like I am sure no one had seen before. Cori and I headed up to the location, across the San Pedro Bridge about a mile down. I had the honor of being the red carpet host while Cori had the pleasure of meeting Hollywood actor Faizon Love of Couple’s Retreat fame.

(l-r) Cori & Kainie, Go go dancer for the Belize Film Festival at Kama Lounge, Cori & Faizon, Kainie interviewing Faizon Love

The slow season is upon us and things are moving a bit slower business-wise. The heat is still on although now you’ll get the occasional mid-day or afternoon or night shower (tends to come when you least expect). All in all, some businesses choice these months to conduct renovations so a call ahead to your restaurant or hotel of choice would be advisable.

Kindly follow the progress and show much love and support to Alexander Valencia Najarro who is the country’s first male competitor in a Male Pageant – Mr. Jade. Alex is a good friend of ours, a young and vibrant 24-year-old, who is full of life and ambition, with a history in modeling and pageantry. Originally from El Salvador, Alex has rooted himself in the community as a the choreographer for the San Pedro Dance Company but also conducts dance aerobic classes for the ladies and gentlemen of the island. The pageant is set to take center stage in Guatemala City in December. Be sure to follow him on Face Book.

More to come soon, after all there is so much to do. The International Costa Maya Festival is early August (the first weekend) so keep a look out for more info.

Ambergris Caye has a wide array of accommodations and it is guaranteed that you will find exactly what you are looking for, be it tranquil and quiet, a condo, a house or right in the center of Town. Terry and Igor’s specification? To be close to town, a nice little cozy place similar to Blue Tang Inn. Caye Casa proved to be what they were looking for sans, the constant activity. San Pedro is a town after all, and like Terry described, “there is always something going on … kids going to school, somebody selling ice-cream, fruits …” Ain’t that the truth, San Pedro Town is a bustling little town and there is always something new and fun going on. Needless to say, “Caye Casa was great,” states Terry.

Throughout their stay Terry and Igor got the opportunity to make friends and enjoy little hangouts like Ambergris Brewing, Wet Willy’s, Lola’s Pub and Banh Mi Belize.

Caye Caulker was their second stay, enjoying the comforts of Seaside Cabanas. This was necessary because the following leg of their journey would take them overseas for three days- a journey from Caye Caulker down south to South Water Caye. For this, the experts of Raggamuffin Tours took over. Raggamuffin has been offering overnight sail tours to Placencia. Meals, beverages and tents are provided. “The 3 day sailing trip was really cool. We were lucky and had a fun crew and people on board. The boat was a bit old though and did not provide a lot of comfort. Randezvous Caye was a great experience, the smallest Island I have ever spent a night on. Camping was lots of fun,” the couple recounts.

Once arrived at South Water Caye, the couple stayed at Pelican Beach Resort. Secluded, Pelican Beach is the only resort on the caye. Talk about sheer privacy. Terry said,”South Water Caye was amazing, but only our resort actually … Pelican’s Pouch. It was heaven on earth. They took such a good care of us and we relaxed a lot… nothing much you can do except relaxing ”

For sure this was one trip that the two enjoyed and since they loved it soo much they do want to return. We hope you do. Next time around we’ll hit the Maya Mountains on a road trip.

Plan your vacation today too. Belize is very gay friendly and people are respectful to your lifestyle. Part around the country vary as to their friendliness but one thing is for sure, Belize is the friendliest place you’ll know. So come on over to our “neck of the woods” and let us help you plan your next vacation.