Belize is double the size of Jamaica, but smaller than the state of Massachusetts, and slightly larger than Wales. The country covers a land area of 8,803 square miles (22,800 square km) and with a population of only 327 700, it is relatively small. Below are two pictures that will give you an interesting visual perspective on Belize’s size. The first one is the handy Tropic Air Belize map that comes inside their Tropic’s View magazine (available at the airport), and the second is unique photo comparison of my Nexus 5 phone compared to the Belize phone directory – that one really puts it in perspective.
In spite of its small size, the country has a large amount of very talented artisans. If you are one of those island types that never seem to get much further than Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker while on vacation, you can now shop the Country of Belize on Ambergris Caye at 12 Belize store.
Owner Lara Goldman wanted to showcase the country’s talents and give Belizean artists, especially those from smaller villages to give them an opportunity to increase their income and have their talent marketed to locals and tourists in one place. She searched the country via Tropic Air, word of mouth and Facebook to find the most beautiful and functional arts and crafts. As a result, 12 Belize store is a place where you will find an eclectic mix of handmade hidden gems.
12 Belize offers a wide range of Belizean crafts and products from stylish wood carvings, pottery, food items, and so much more. They also custom embroidering and a wide range of gift baskets, perfect destination weddings, and corporate shopping needs. Visit 12Belize.com website or Romantic Travel Belize Facebook page to see more.
Areas of the country that 12 Belize store carries handmade Belize crafts from are:
- Cayo
- Toledo
- Punta Gorda
- Stann Creek
- Placencia
- Dangriga
- Caye Caulker
- San Pedro,
- Belize City
12 is still searching for talent from Corozal and Orange Walk. If anyone knows any great artists that should be in her store from those areas or otherwise, please shoot Lara an email with a picture (if you can get one) and let her know – lara@romantictravelbelize.com
Ambergris Caye style directions: Look for the large purple building (Vilma Linda Plaza) on your left as you are heading towards Front street in town. 12 Belize store is above Seaduced by Belize tours and is a 3 minute walk from the San Pedro Airport, making it perfect for multitasking. You can book a snorkel trip to Hol Chan at the same time or do your last min souvenir shopping on your way out. Hours of Operation – Mon – Friday – 8:00 am – 4:00 pm and Saturday – 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.
There is an awesome artist in Corozal by the name of Carlos. He does beautiful birds and seascapes.