Sargassum is becoming a major (smelly) issue for most of the Caribbean islands, as well as Mexico and the southern US. Mexico is taking a hit with tourists over the huge influx onto their eastern beaches. But at the end of the day, the issue cannot truly ruin a Belize vacation as walking the beach is just a small part of the experience. It is an obvious imperfection but expecting perfection on vacation is a recipe for unhappiness.
I agree, Chuck. Wabi Sabi appreciating the perfection in imperfection. While it has definitely had a negative impact, I would still rather live with or vacation in a place sargasso than snow.
That looks like a gorgeous place! You took some great photos. My only complaint is that I wish they were clickable as they are so teeny. I remember seeing a couple of Blue-Crowned Mot Mots on the mainland there. Amazing birds!
Love your souvenirs! When living on an island, practical souvenirs are a must. When we visited San Ignacio, we came home to Ambergris Caye with a huge bag of multi-colored habenero chilis from the local market. We paid $1 for the entire bag!
I totally understand about strange souvenirs. We just got back from a trip to Aruba and came back with a 8 position shower head for our home in Belize. Now every time we take a shower we think about Aruba. Who needs a t-shirt or a magnet, we’ve got a shower head.
We will be over on the west side of Belize in Benque in Jan, but I want to make a little time to fly over to Ambergris Caye for a few days. We were they last Nov, and we took a golf cart ride out to Secret Beach, made sure our lots were marked, and just to have a look-see around. I noticed an off grid home model that you can see from the side of the road going out to SB. Will Mitchell is a San Pedro realtor working on that project. Do you know any other planned projects or developments in that area? With the growing popularity of Secret Beach, I would venture to guess that there would be more things planned.
Nice, a good idea to check it out while here. Not heard of anymore planned projects recently, there are more individuals building up there now. I bet a small Tienda (store) or two in the area is not long to follow. Currently, Beach Basket Belize, Captain Morgans, and Mata Grande Grocery are still the closest shopping options as far as I know.
My partner and I have two side by side lots that he purchased 10 years ago at the Grand Belizean Estates lots. Our plans are to build something there in 8-10 yrs. From Secret Beach you can see Blackdore Caye, which is also supposed to be developed for an eco resort, but I haven’t heard when it’s supposed to be completed.
Nice Micheal, hopefully, you and your partner will get to plan a visit soon to see your lots. Not heard anything on Blackdore Caye, development lately.
Is this considerably less than you would pay in a grocery store? Would like to have some rum and coke’s in our room, was going to hit up a grocery store but sounds like this may be cheaper? Thanks!
It is cheaper if you use a lot Erin as the distributor is by the case. Be sure and hit up Travellers Liquors on Middle Street for local rum choices. Many also use flight code (for a cause) horizon and code vacation starter in Premier duty-free at Philip Goldson International Airport will save you 15% on alcohol. See alcohol savings a comparison chart.
I am so sad to hear about all the development going on. I will be visiting Placencia in September/ October for a month. Then I plan on moving to Placencia, in January 2020, I just pray that I don’t find out that it has changed due to development. I have bee planning this since 2014, so I would love to find small village near Placencia and an Episcopal Church.
Congrats on planning a month in Placencia Dale. I have friends who own a condo here on Ambergris Caye and in Placencia. They both feel similar to you and feel like Placencia is a good fit and not going quite as crazy development wise right now.
My wife and I visited in March of 2017 and fell in love with Ambergris Caye and enjoyed Secret Beach immensely. On our return trip this February, (we stayed on Caye Caulker this time), we looked forward to a water taxi ride to San Pedro and quick jaunt back to Secret Beach. It felt as though the population and number of vehicles had doubled in that short time, and Secret Beach was hardly recognizable. We still love Belize and would love to spent some retirement time there.
Wonderful blog post, Laurie. One of your very best because of its honesty.
Although we discovered Ambergris Caye & San Pedro later than you, even in just the couple of years between our discovery (2010) and leaving the island for good (2013), we saw far too many changes for our liking. When we found the “Secret Beach”, it was simply the backside of Grand Belizean Estates, a wonderful and near-deserted spot to ride our cruiser bikes. There was a friendly couple who built an off-grid blue house on the lagoon side, the first house along what would later become the Secret Beach, and we met them and their five dogs on one of our rides. Hard to imagine what it looks like there now, though I have seen photos. Seeing it in person would be a shock, I am sure. I understand that development and progress are inevitable, but still, it pains me to see so much of what was unique about Ambergris Caye now gone, changed, or in the process of doing so.
Thanks for the compliment. I agree Emily, way too many changes for such a small place and not all good ones either loosing out uniqueness is hard. I think seeing it in person would be a shock too. It has likely been around 2016 last time I was there, just before the permanent businesses hit. A friend was up there on a date and his report was that it was really trashy. That made me not want to go back. I am glad though that the businesses that moved in up there are keeping it clean now from what I hear and see in the odd picture.
Wow does your blog resonate! And we’ve no particular interest in BZ other than a handful of visits to Placencia a few short years ago. We’ve gone back three times in less than 5 years and we have no “right” to say a darn thing…But then why on earth were we so ‘saddened’ to learn about all the development, the paved road, the new streets laid out, the skyrocketing price of real estate?…
I guess this is the where the phrase ‘victim of success’ hails from?
We had hoped to retire in a local village…now, meh. Maybe. Will still visit and support the good people of BZ though, for sure!
Thanks, Greg. I think worldwide it is a challenge to keep the charm in unique places as they get “discovered.” Hopefully, we can still find the balance before it is too late.
Thanks, and sorry if I sounded kinda mean…wish nothing but the best for the people of BZ. Fell in love with the easy-going Creole and local folks .. can only want the best life possible for all!
So sad and so happy for Ambergris and Belize at the same time…we came for the first visit in 2012 for our honeymoon and absolutely fell in love. San Pedro is so wonderful and we have made so many friends. I want all our friends and everyone in Belize to be full, rich, happy, successful, and healthy, but it is selfishly so hard to see all the things that made San Pedro special start to be subsumed by the Cancun-ization of the island. I am hoping we can all find a way to help Belizeans be successful while keeping all the things that make Belize wonderful. Losing the turtle grass and the mangroves will be the final blow in Becoming Cancun and I sincerely hope it does not happen.
I feel the same, Jennie. Hopefully, mangroves and turtle grass will not disappear. Another concern is water quality, that is something that is getting damaged by improper growth.
I’m guessing that it may still be in the proposal stage, but it makes me wonder if it is a done deal already because I do know that the 4 lots next to our lot have accepted the offers that were presented to them. We were also presented an offer but were not sure if it’s just a way for someone to pick up properties and then resell at a increased price, or if it is real, hate to be pressured. Appreciate anything you may hear.
Hi Lori, we’ve heard that Cayo Rosario has been approved and I also heard that they will be putting in a water treatment plant, generator, housing for workers fuel station and a large dock in Sea View park which is just up the beach from the secret beach bar and grill.
Have you heard anything about this? It would be nice to know for sure as we own one of the lots next to the other lots that have already been bought up. Anything you hear please let us know
Where did you hear that Bruce? As far as I know it is still in court and still unsettled. Will keep you posted if I read anything new about approval. (Hopefully not.)
Hi thanks so much for the information. Im wondering if you or anyone thinks an expat nursing home would be beneficial there in Ambergris Caye? I’ve been in the business most of my life and my husband and I are planning to move there and have a business as well that will provide service to expats mainly but give work to locals. Any thoughts?
Thanks for the blunt truth even though somewhat sad but a fact of life. I got here in 1980 so remember the old days and the “. Magical 90s “ sometimes with a tear in my eye .
Bill Toonen
I too remember secret Beach way before development. And I too now have regrets with my years and years of ranting and raving about this island.
Too many pristine water sanctuaries have been destroyed to make way for development.
Now I hear that life-saving mangroves might be destroyed. Unbelievable that safety could be replaced by greed. ?
I agree. AC is slowly losing/changing what we have come to love about Belize. It’s our special place. We got married there. We want it to stay that way! We will continue to come but we know we will continually see progress toward being a Popular Tourist Caribbean location”. Money always changes things, doesn’t it?
And yes, thanks for keeping us in the know I always look forward to reading your posts.
My husband and I first came to Ambergris Caye in 1990 when British troops were still stationed in Belize. The streets were made of sand. We stayed at Lilly’s where he served family style meals to his hotel guests. At mealtime, guests would share their plans for the day of who would be taking people out in their boat for a day of snorkeling at the reef. I asked a fellow traveler what I should do with my valuables while snorkeling, he replied, “Leave it in the boat, no one is going to steal anything.” Our first snorkeling trip to the reef was magical. Ignacio and his son, Tulu, took us out. Ignacio was a Grey-haired man with light skin and blue eyes…seemed filled with joy. His son, Tulu, had the darkest skin and magnificent blue eyes with a smile that seemed with joy and love. How they loved to share their home treasures with us.
While Ambergris Caye has undergone numerous changes and growth, I like to focus on what has been done right – saying no to offshore drilling, establishing Hol Chan, and more recently Mexico Rocks to name a few.I
Having grown up in Southern California, I understand the pains of “progress” and “growth”. Let’s hope Belize can learn from the mistakes of other places.
I too remember the “good old days” of no development on the back of the island. We took our kids to those beaches when they were learning to swim at 1 and 3 years old (they are now 24 and 26). We named one of those beaches after our dog because she loved to frolic in the water. Yes, development will happen but at what cost?
As much as I love Belize, my concern (and I’m casting no stones at you; I appreciate your love of Ambergris Caye and the whole of Belize) is that it will lose its “old world” charm in the face of the growing tourism trend and become just another Caribbean resort destination. To me, it’s inevitable, particularly on Ambergris — Secret Beach being one example — but also in places like Placencia, which is getting a lot of attention.
I agree with you Paul (and did not feel like your comment was throwing stones at me.) I know growth is inevitable, I just wish more people would do it with more respect and consideration to where we are and what makes Ambergris Caye and Belize special. Thanks for the compliment.
Laurie, I too remember the simple things like the dirt streets and the hand ferry. It was a true adventure “back in the day” to get beyond Sweet Basils. The biggest thing we miss is the smell of chicken stewing from the many local food vendors lined up at Central Park every evening. When you WALKED into town that smell was intoxicating! We fell in love with Ambergris Caye and all it simplicity. Nightly entertainment was Wii bowling at Pedro’s and the town except for the Blue Iguana closed down by 9:00. It has definitely lost its Old World Charm and every year when we return we are saddened by all the growth and Hotel chains that are building and blocking the view of the Ocean. This year we are bringing family with us that have never been and we are sad that they will not get to experience the old Ambergris Caye. It is true the times they are a changing and unfortunately it has not all been for the good. Oh, and the coconut pork chops on the secret menu at Hungry Grouper are now one of my favorite things to order! We have followed you since the very beginning of your blog and love your insight and perspective on Ambergris Caye.
Great job, Laurie! I remember seeing you in your bikini a few times in 2011-2012 and thinking how amazing you looked. My abs are long gone at almost 58 years old (though my quads are still kickin’ from all the cycling – lol!), so I admire anyone in their 40s or 50s who still has ’em. Hope the juice cleanse helped you find them again! 🙂 It’s definitely hard to give up sweets and other bad for you stuff, so I admire your persistence. Not sure I could do it!
Jordana follow the link to Juide Dive facebook page and they can answer any questions you have on the cleanse. As far as weight loss goes an overall healthy eating change would be needed otherwise weight lost on a cleanse comes back fast if you go back to bad habits.
Hi Tacogirl,
We have been getting more and more serious about escaping the cold here in Alberta. I have been researching and found some great info on your site. We are wanting to invest in a property now and eventually move to San Pedro permanently. Do you now much about buying condos in the resorts? This is what appeals to us for now. The rental income can offset the cost of still living in Canada. Do real estates agents normally take care of these types of properties or does the resort handle the selling? Is there a reputable real estate agent that you recommend that handles this type of property?
Thanks for the help and keep up the great site.
Morning Dean, shoot me an email at tacogirlbelize@gmail.com and I can answer all your questions in an easy to track place. I have a few friends that own condos here and do part of the year in the rental pool and then they get a large chunk of time there every year. Agents definitely come across these types of investments. I can put you in touch with an agent.
Hi Tacogirl, My wife and I are ready to trade in our 2 short term rental homes in Colorado for a place in Belize. Its not clear to me if someone on QRP status can legally run an AirBnb place in Belize. Can you help clarify? Thanks!
QRP means retired status so no business allowed when you are here under that Gregg. I do know people that came down as both, one came QRP and one came legally able to run a business which she did successfully until she decided to stop.
Just want to add a thank you to who ever published this article. I contacted the guide, Genny Reyes from the email provided in the article. Couldn’t have been happier with his service. Very pleasant articulate and knowledgeable! While the article above was written in 2016 and our trip was recent, January 2019, his price only increased $20.00. Still a great deal at $90.00 per person compared to the $150.00 I was quoted from other tour operators.
I really like your website, what would you recommend for a fairly affordable
rental close to the beach? what towns etc? I have 2 dogs and this may be difficult
( long term) also i have been in property management most of my life
and would love to find something managing a small complex or resort on the beach.
How would i go about that? what are the work requirements etc?
Morning Glenn, thanks for the compliment on my site. Starting your own business (with proper paperwork) or finding someone to sponsor you for a work permit and job because of your skills, or going it on your own and applying a work permit are all ways you could go about it. Your best bet is to plan a scouting trip and see what it would cost you to live here and if you see possible opportunities. It is a very dog-friendly island. Long term here counts as 6 months or more anything less falls under short term rentals.
I’ve been researching a family vacation to Belize towards the end of July. Our passports are in the process of being renewed and our two daughters are getting new ones. Do you know if Belize allows entry for U.S. citizens if their passports have not been valid for atleast 6 months?
Secondly, I want to split the trip up and stay at a Jungle resort and then stay at a beach resort. For the jungle resort, if we want to do cave exploring or hiking, will this get cancelled if there is a lot of rain?
I always love to see your pictures! You’re always talking about the growth of SMA, due to some issues the past 5 years I haven’t been able to get back down. Can you tell us more about just HOW MUCH growth there has been done in some pictures? I am really worried that it will not be the quaint place we were looking for still. I’m starting to look for someplace still a little quaint. I left Cozumel for that reason, never been back. I LOVE the fact you have been able to keep the cruise ships out. OMG so many people on then it looks like cattle coming thru the chutes!
Thanks for the compliment Allene. We are stressed to the limit and all further growth should be suspended till the environment gets cleaned and all waters test at an acceptable level. All infrastructure needs to be done properly as well. Bottomless septic tanks in low laying areas are not acceptable.
Thanks for the compliment Allene. We are stressed to the limit and all further growth should be suspended till the environment gets cleaned and all waters test at an acceptable level. All infrastructure needs to be done properly as well. Bottomless septic tanks in low lying areas are not acceptable.
Gregg, you may get sprinkled on a bit but definitely expect longer sunny periods as well. Tomorrow’s post a weather one offering some good suggestions.
Is the “Gilligan Island” picture in a cove almost exactly 1 mile north of Secret Beach? That peninsula of trees jutting out into the water looks very familiar. If it is where I think it is, you owe me “Beach Use Fees” for parking your boat on my land. LOL! Well…OK, you don’t really owe me money (you already knew that tho!)….I just saw an opportunity to brag because a picture of my lot made it into your blog!
Not sure exactly where that one was shot Eric. We used to do gas share and potluck boating adventures. Traveling up the back side of the island around 2007. This post was one of my last ones in the area https://tacogirl.com/the-cave-beyond-secret-beach/ before the area got largely popular and developed business wise. You might see close to your property there and there is a good fence pic for a guide marker and of course the underwater cave.
Hello Dear,
I filled this application because I love experience and challenges. Know that my spouse will come really to take me and to visit me from time to time. My baby boy might just come to visit me during vacations. Really none is coming with me to stay full time. Thanks in advance for the opportunity to grow in education.
Thank you mr Russell for your kind words and it was pleasure and honor for us to meet you, we are so proud of providing the best service that our visitors deserve..,
We really appreciate your advices to keep our island better and nicer
This is wonderful but am missing the teacher experience but if you like to give me a try am welcome to join on bored because we all start from small and grow up but I don’t have the money to continue my education level to start teaching I love kids and I know working with kids will be easy for me I appreciate it
Moring Jaminie. It is the people who are taking applications you need to be asking that question. I am helping people learn about the opportunity, I have nothing to do with the application or selection process.
Our family was on Ambergris Caye for Christmas as well. Christmas Wve we had a snorkeling trip scheduled but the Lady Leslie Crew were kind enough to reschedule for Christmas Day! always a great time on the island even when Mother Nature trues to stir things up a bit!
Great your family got rescheduled Mary, hope you had a great time on Lady Leslie Catamaran, it is a nice boat. Mother Nature was stirring it up again for the New Year, we had some good winds last night and today.
Great timing Mike. All the places in this post will likely do parties again this year. Check out my updated https://tacogirl.com/ambergris-caye-belize-nightlife/ page for links to facebook local and google maps which will help you search for events closer to the time. Belize bars are still getting through the holiday season and do not have super bowl 2019 events up just yet.
Hi, arriving in San Pedro tomorrow. Are you aware of any fun holiday events coming up over the next week? Or, are there some great sites, decorations that we should visit? Thanks for sharing your pictures.
I want to appreciate you for taking a picture of my grandmother, my mom, and my little brother all in one picture on the trampoline!! I found this absolutely hilarious.
Thanks for the appreciation, Sarah. That is hilarious that I randomly got them all in and cool you found it. A similar thing happened before, I realized I had pics on my blog of my old neighbors before I knew them and on a different island – Caye Caulker.
Hi Tacogirl: my husband & I cant wait to visit Belize next month. We will be at Pelicans Reef for part of our journey. I know we can bike Into the town of San Pedro if we wish, but can you recommend a taxi service that you think has a great reputation along with competitive prices that will take us to&fro up to multiple x daily over the course of our four day stay at PR? The other questions I have are what time do the restaurants serve up until in the evening & 2. do any take a reservation or are they all pretty casual all the way around? Many thanks, really appreciate it. Sincerely, Cathy
Hi Cathy, what a great way to start your new years. For taxi south email: manolocontreras21@yahoo.com and see if you can make an arrangement in advance, he and his son both drive. As for prices due to where you are staying it will be a bit costly for a cab I have only ever used him to go as far as Sunset beach and that was about $15-$20 bzd cab ride. Depending on what price Manolo offers you for your location, consider a golf cart for a day or so as well. Restaurants are not late night here so many kitchens close around 9 ish. You can always get late night street food in Central Park and dotted around town.
I will be put out an Eco Friendly Belize supply list page in the store section on my site Ann. We have a location and are going to start stocking for future cleanups. The Phoenix Resort does a weekly peach clean up as well for another way to participate.
Great job with the cleanup and water testing! Obviously there is a long way to go, but it’s refreshing to see proactive people like you taking such an active interest in the environment of Ambergris Caye. It is too precious to ignore.
Thanks, Emily. I agree to precious to ignore and finally, this big move made by the BTIASP has really started a ripple effect. I hope it keeps going and a next big entity steps in to do a cleanup campaign in 2019.
Thanks for putting together this blog, It is so helpful! Suya tours is offering a full day of snorkeling with three stops and a BBQ lunch. We really wanted to go to Shark Ray Alley, but to do this, we would have to book a different excursion that does not include the full day and BBQ. What do you think? Is there a big difference between shark ray alley and three other three snorkeling stops. Would appreciate your opinion.
Glad you like my blog, Jeanne and find it helpful.
I like shark ray and done it many times and will again but beach bbq would come out in the lead cause I am such a foodie ha ha.
You can also try someone who will customize it for you. Eric Henkes at uprising tours 662 – 7413 Eric Henkis – He does snorkeling, fishing, picnics, beach bbq, private charters, and sunset cruises. Not sure if he does outside the reef will check for a guy who does. He will easily customize so just ask him for a quote on your preferred adventure combination.
Hi Laurie, on Wednesday I tried (like so many times) to withdraw money from the Heritage Bank ATM in Benque. It didn’t work and I went inside the branch. They took my complaint and asked to try a lower amount, which I did – it still didn’t work. I left and the next day 3 x 400 BZ$ had been deducted from my European account. I contacted the bank immediately on Thursday, took a taxi to go into the branch Friday morning and nobody there seems interested to do anything about it. I insisted to have the video footage controlled for the time they claim the deduction had been made, so that they could see that I did not get any money – they’re not interested – extremly ignorant service, not one answer to my emails and 1200 BZ$ not available for me. The same issue happened already 7 or 8 months ago – there seem to be permanent issues with Heritage Bank
So sorry you were faced with that Marie. I have my Canadian card eaten at Heritage a couple years back cause it was not a Belizean card, thankfully I got it back before they sent it to Canada. I have found Atlantic Bank is the best one for foreign card use Scotia good too and sometimes Belize Bank although for a while they were having a hard time reading cards with chips.
Hi Taco Girl, I am moving to Belize from Texas. I am there on a scouting trip next week and planning to be living there the first of December. I am in the process of buying Casa Picasso Restaurant. I have two questions for you. Is it possible for you to visit with me in person next week between November 15th – 19? And can you tell me a good way to send a few boxes of my personal items to the Island?
Let me know if you can, Thanks, Ande Woods
I get what you are saying Jordan, that anyone can go there if they have a boat. It was pretty private when we were there, just our group enjoying the place to ourselves. I will check in with Xsite about their plans to make sure it stays that way for their tours.
I was always skeptical it was not good to bury Sargasso without cleaning the first Tom. Maybe not good to bury period even if cleaned well. I liked how Mexico is turning it into art and houses.
Ocean Conservancy is a great organization that promotes all of the ideas that were offered by Carol. Another is Reef. We all need to get involved to secure our healthy oceans for future generations to enjoy.
Great feedback Don and Sue, thanks. I agree we all need to get involved especially here, because of the color of the water people do not think it could be unsafe in some areas.
And please don’t forget that your Happy Birthday, etc. balloons you let into the air ends up in the ocean and into a turtle’s mouth. And monofilament line wraps around manatees flippers and eventually cuts off their flippers. So many of our manatees at my marina had clubs for flippers. And there are so many more.
Hi, 2 years ago my wife and I received a coupon for the plane ride from Belize City to San Pedro. We want to fly Feb 1, 2019. Can you help me? Thanks, John
horizon is the current tacogirl flight code John. I emailed you with pdf and a link for on flight code details as well as info on saving 15% a Premier Duty-Free.
horizon is the current tacogirl flight code, John. I emailed you with pdf and a link for on flight code details as well as info on saving 15% a Premier Duty-Free.
Hello!! Great site and useful information all around. Wish we had found this site sooner. We are going back next month and want to invest in some property. Can you suggest a reputable real estate agent?
It is possible but hard to say as I am not a banana expert and not sure how far along your bananas were in the growing stage when they got knocked out by the storm. Hopefully, that is the only amount of damage you experienced.
Yes so true John. Even when it is busy they manage to take care of everyone well. We did the princess and the pea thing as we started at the bar, moved to a seat and ended up at the outside table we would have taken from the start had it not been so busy. They never skipped a beat in keeping up with us.
They are a random island occurrence Iris. Your best bet is to make friends with the people that host them occasionally and ask for one, or you could easily do it if you have a group of friends. I have done many swaps at my apartment over the years. CG Esthec Salon also does them when she does a fundraiser event.
We just had a cop tell us that we (as Canadians) need to carry our passports or a copy at all times in Belize. He said it was a law but didn’t know the code. Said we had to buy the law book. We have never been asked before. Is this true? I can’t find any info on it.
Hi, Taco Girl! My husband and I are coming to Belize for our 1 year anniversary. We are staying at Coco Beach Resort. For the day of our anniversary, any suggestions on fun things to do during the day and something romantic at night? Thanks!
Coco Beach is a great place and you can certainly have a romantic dinner right there for that evening.
Wow – It’s a loaded question for the daytime fun… really depends on what you like. You could literally spend a day just lounging around their pool area, swim up bar, pool with a (smallish but fun) waterslide and jumping platform. I recommend downloading facebook local if you use it as it is a great way to find out events, restaurants, and points of interest where ever you are traveling. You can search places in advance too.
An excursion to “Secret Beach” (on the west side of the island) might be in order because from Coco Beach, you’re about 1/2 to 3/4 of the way closer than you would be if you were staying in town.
Guest services at CB will be able to help you with anything you want to do – If you’re avid divers then, of course, the Blue Hole is something you don’t want to miss. If not, snorkeling is always a favorite and highly recommended. I can also help you save a few dollars on tours and have some food and shopping discount coupons and flight code as well email me at tacogirlbelize@gmail[dot]com
Hello! I have been following this website for a few months now since my husband and I decided to go to Belize this December. It’s very interesting and helpful….so thank you. I have a few questions that I hope you can answer. We were planning on going to Ambergris Caye for a week but I am now second guessing that decision because I have read a ton of recent reviews saying the stench from the rotting sea grass is unbearable. Is this true? If so, do you think it would be gone by December 2018? I have also read there are not really any real beaches in Ambergris Caye except Secret Beach? About how far from downtown San Pedro is Secret Beach? We were planning on staying at Sunbreeze Suites so if you know where that is, would you know the distance to Secret Beach from Sunbreeze Suites? Lastly, due to my concerns, do you feel a different island would be better suited for us? We will likely go snorkeling but also want a beach within walking distance that we can go to on most days. Thanks in advance for taking the time to respond to these questions….I really appreaciate it!
Thanks for enjoying the benefits to my site Nicole.
Just like weather sargasso is pretty impossible to predict, anyone’s guess what it will be like in December. The smell can be unbearable depending on the wind and sometimes surprisingly you smell very little when you would think you would smell it a lot. End of day is worse usually as it is the plant rotting that smells. – https://tacogirl.com/difference-sargasso-seagrass-in-belize/
Secret beach or any west side one accessible by boat (there are people who will do that for a day or half day trip)
Sunbreeze Suites is right in town and secret beach a few miles north-west it is a 30-40 min drive, keep in mind you will likely doing 15 mph on a golf cart.
Hit or miss on issue Dan. Not all banks still accept chip cards here. Mine always did, a couple of months back I started having trouble getting my Canadian bank card to read but something invisible happened and it is back to normal.
Side note. . Yesterday afternoon I rode a bicycle into town all the way from Caribe Island. Being aware of the recent study I decided to wave to everyone, as I wouldn’t want Italians to get a bad rap. In doing so, the rain started to fall making it difficult to control the bike. With wreckless abandon I waved anyway. As I swerved in and out of traffic, I am happy to report that EVERYONE waved back, albeit, only one finger, but it was waved at me with such passion. I’m happy to report that we are improving 1 finger at a time. . Have a great day. !!
I know it’s great for the country Laurie, but dang I hate to see it growing so big and fast. Please PLEASE put a cap limit on the # of cruise ships coming. And PLEASE do NOT let them onto the island!!! You guys re the reason I quit going to Cozumel!
Last time i was there i watched them unload people like cattle down chutes in a packing company!!
If you’re a Californian and Belize is a favorite destination First Republic Bank refunds all foreign ATM fees with some minimum bank account requirements.
I have been researching a move to Belize at retirement, which has came and gone. I now have a date to make the great move. I have read your blog in an email for a few weeks now and love it. I plan on moving to Placencia area somewhere. So keep up the great work so I can get all your wonderful suggestions
One of my favorite BZ memories was made of this…. I was walking down a road in the middle of nowhere. We had seen something interesting and stopped the car and I was walking down the road to look get a closer look at a pretty plant. An old couple was coming up the road toward me and as they approached I smiled and said hello. The old woman was kind of startled and didn’t know what to do and she suddenly just threw her arms open and said “WELCOME TO OUR COUNTRY, HELLO!” and they kept walking. It was the cutest most genuine thing ever.
Yes Stephen, if you meet the requirements then apply to the organization asap as this application period is only for the month of July and I do not know when the next one will be.
Oh my goodness, you have made my mouth water! These all sound amazing. I am guessing that the chefs at these restaurants are going to be inundated with special secret requests…hope they are ready! 🙂
Hello tacogirl
my friends and I are looking for a nice fun little Beach Bar Grill in Belize … I am looking to move there as soon as we find something … you have any ideas?
Dino
Awesome. Looked like a great time. I was just invited to a local lobster fest celebration tomorrow with a couple new found friends here in Placencia Belize. Gotta love it. Glad you had fun. I can’t wait to head up to Ambergris Caye in the beginning of July to try out the sushi. I’m a sucker for good sushi.
Hope you had a great time at Placencia Lobster Festival Tommy. if you are a sucker for good sushi then definitely hands down Jyoto a must for you. Another good recommendation is the Ahi Poke salad at Blue Water Grill.
Thanks for the great info. 8 of us are flying into Belize City then on to Placencia and will stock up at the airport and stuff it into our luggage. Do you know if we will have to pay Customs fees on our purchases?
Tax and duty-free Carla. Thanks to your group for using the duty-free promo code and the flight code for a cause to benefit BWG and the Dangriga Cancer Center.
Hi Tacogirl .
I enjoy reading your blog I just moved to Placencia on June 2nd and I love Belize. 30 years ago when I was stationed in Hawaii I saw a photo of Belize in a magazine and swore to move here one day . I visited San Pedro the last 2 years and absolutely loved it. I chose Placencia Belize because I got a great deal on a house right on the water to rent . Although I love it, I think my place is in Ambergris Caye. Thanks for your blog, hope to see you soon.
Glad you enjoy reading my blog Thomas, congrats on your move to Placencia. Maybe you will end up visiting Ambergris Caye more and have the best of both worlds.
Hello. I have been reading your blog and have a few questions. Are the following items available Caye Caulker? Hellman’s Real Mayonnaise, raw fresh chicken, potatoes for BBQ, heavy duty aluminum foil, celery, and cucumbers. I will be in Caye Caulker June 29-July 5, and then San Pedro July 5-11. In Caye Caulker I do have a kitchen where I am staying and a BBQ outside and would like to do some cooking. In San Pedro there is no where to cook where I am staying. Would you recommend staying loner in Caye Caulker, say 10 days and only go to San Pedro for the last 3 days? I have read that San Pedro is not that nice, more expensive than Caye Caulker, lots of golf cart traffic, and dusty and dirty. Please advise. Thank you for your wealth of info on your blog.
Morning Peter. You can find most of what you are looking for on Caye Caulker, just ask your accommodations people if you have trouble finding it and they will point you in the right direction. As for the length of stay that depends if you want busy then more time on Ambergris Caye if you really want to relax and unwind more days on Caye Caulker.
Moring Lou flight code is ongoing and each month at no extra cost to anyone using code horizon, a portion is donated and split between Blue Water Grill Community and Dangriga Cancer Center which serves countrywide Belize.
I have a touring Bon Jovi tribute out of Boston. We’d love to perform down there. http://www.facebook.com/tributetobonjovi Let me know if you think there’s a venue that would have interest.
Flight code is horizon Albert and the current cause that using it will benefit (at no extra cost to you) is a Hematology Analyzer for the San Pedro Poly Clinic.
Hi Laurie, just wanted to let you know that this Q & A is still relevant for us too! Coco Loco’s and Ambergris Caye were amazing first steps in our continuing life of adventure abroad, and we still have zero regrets! Sue
So great that owning Coco Locos beach bar in Belize was a good stepping stone for you and Steve to your new adventure of running Casa Dos Lirios Boutique Bed & Breakfast in Merida – http://www.casadoslirios.com/. It looks like a great place, can’t wait to see it in person one day.
Hi,
I’m coming to the Placencia Peninsula in late April. I was wondering how bad the sargasso is? Have you heard much about that area recently? Thanks!
Afternoon Wendy. my friend Sue who lives there said that Placencia is getting hit with sargasso too this t=year, as to what the situation will be like in April will be anyone’s guess. MUch like the weather sargasso is very hard to predict.
I am writing about unit 10B . Is this unit open ? If not , do you have any aval. and the price . I will be comeing in around July , 2018 , and would like at least a 6 mo .rent . Thank you very much ,
Danny Haymans
As stated in the post Danny that is old and no longer available at that price or through that real estate company. Check with the new Isla Bonita Yacht Club (Name changed along with management) and see if they are doing any long term rentals (6 months or more) http://islabonitayachtclub.com/
I have enjoyed reading your posts, and only discovered your site once we were already in Belize, a few weeks ago. The trip was a last minute decision, but I am so glad we went! We only had 10 days, but it was enough to make me realize that Belize made me feel better than I have in many years – especially when I was sailing a Catamaran for the last two days. I am very near retirement, and ready to make changes necessary to travel more, and live at least part time somewhere like Belize. I am interested in how you made the transition, and how often you return to Canada? We live on Vancouver Island, which is also a wonderful place to live, especially in the summer. Are you concerned about medical coverage in Belize, or do you maintain Canadian coverage? So many questions… Thanks!
So glad you have enjoyed the read, Shawn. What a great vacation experience. Mine was similar, I came here on a vacation and by the end of 3 weeks was planning a move. Vancouver Island is great, I moved from downtown Toronto. I do not maintain Canadian coverage as I have been gone so long (12th year).
Technically it is not a specific season, I refer to it that way more so as a long period of time. Exactly how long it will last is absolutely unpredictable as it is nature in charge.
Almost worse than the stink of rotting sargasso is the trash that washes up with it. Bits of plastic, from tiny to large, are captured in its mats and are so ugly. The plastic makes it much less tolerable to me than just the natural phenomenon of sargasso.
Hi Lori, we’re going to be there in April and we were thinking of maybe spending an extra week and staying at Mara Laguna, what are your thoughts on this place. We’ve heard the horror stories from owners there but what’s it like just to stay there. you won’t hurt my feelings so give it to me straight Yes or No explain. thanks again and thanks again for you posts
Bruce Pfeiffer
Hi Bruce. As far as Mara Laguna goes staying there you are likely fine and will enjoy your stay. The couple of units I have seen the inside of looked nice and I know several people that live there. Now owning there is a whole other kettle of fish for various reasons, mostly construction and ownership titles from what I have heard.
Nice Carol, you will find it has changed a good bit in 13 years. You can still find some of the charming old San Pedro if you look in the right places. Taking a recent picture of a front carrier pedal bike with a golf cart rood on it reminded me of that.
Thanks for the help. Contacted a few places yesterday but they don’t allow pets. I have a cat so can you tell me how hard it is to find a place to live with a cat?
I am considering the move to Belize, sooner than later I expect and would be interested in the Red Cross. I have been employed as an Environmental Inspector for the Govt. and also have a background in Firefighting, and hold a degree in “Emergency Management”. I would be interested in volunteering but am also curious on actual job prospects in and around these fields. Thanks for your time…Cheers TC
Thanks for your inquiry. The answer to your question really depends on what part of Belize you like to make your new home.
The Red Cross HQ is located in Belize City they can provide information on other branches. The San Pedro Branch is involved in Emergency Management as well as CPR/First Aid training and Blood Drives.
B.E.R.T. is probably the closest to anything (emergency medical wise) from the US – Assuming that is where you would be coming from – but it is only on the mainland.
NEMO is another site you can take a look at. I really do not know about the job prospects, however, there is an issue of a work permit to consider (possibly easier to get if you have an offer).
While we do have 24h medical options, there is no hospital or working ambulance on Ambergris Caye.
Hi – is it best to take a cab from the water taxi area to our house at Mara Luguna or is it best to have the cart rental company just drop our cart off by the water taxis? Just worried about our luggage…
Hi Taco Girl, my husband and I are coming to Belize next week for our 10th anniversary. I want to surprise him and renew our vows…super simple, no decor, just us and a person to do the short ceremony …do you recommend anyone for this?
What a nice surprise Julie. Try contacting Iraida Gonzalez iraida@elviskitchen.com or Eiden Salazar reefradio@btl.net hopefully one of them will be available to help you with a vow renewal. You can also make contact with wedding planner Lara at lara@romantictravelbelize.com, she is great for wedding/renewal help.
Thanks for all the info. I’ve been to Ambergris and love it. Currently living in the Florida Keys and plan on coming for another visit in May, I hope. Looking to find a 6 month rental (I’ve been in touch with Sally(real estate agent) who’s been great with some condo listings. Would love to sit down with you and get more scoop on moving there. I’ve recently looked at Caye Caulker and see that it’s cheaper there to live. Any other info on that? Thanks.
Feel free to email me closer to the time to work out a sit-down. You can also try Ana Lausen she and her husband Erik do property management ambergrisvacations@yahoo.com
I like Caye Caulker a lot although some people find it too slow. I would say it is worth looking into as it is a very cute colorful island. Since it is closer to the mainland some things would be cheaper there. People often forget to factor in for pricing, when everything comes to an island by barge or plane that transport cost increases pricing.
Laurie,
When you book online with Tropic Air use the promotion code horizon and a portion of your flight purchase will be included as a donation to the charity/cause choice of the month
Will this code be ok to use in May ? or are they changing it. Have a travel company booking.
We are looking at relocating to Central America from South Africa. We are looking at agricultural land 20-30 ha if possible for essential oils Aloe Vera, snails etc. With your knowledge, which country would be best suited for us please. We are even looking at Ecuador, we just wanna get away from the crime in South Africa and get on with our lives.
Rietha Crafford rietha-c@ophrah.co.za
Sharon no longer lives in Belize due to medical reasons. I can only speak more so for Belize as I have not lived anywhere else in Central America. Mainland Belize has lots of farming and you would be able to buy land and start something yourself or I have seen existing land for sale that has some degree of options such as fully grown fruit trees already in existence.
I am looking to check out Belize for retirement and I am not sure where area to start. I need to be close to good healthcare, so I was thinking of corozal area. I want to be able to kayak easily, hike and live in nature, but not isolated. I would want some protection from hurricanes and flooding. Can you suggest other areas to look at? Thank you for your time and blog.
Afternoon Loretta, another area would be Cayo. Lots of outdoor activities options there and it is nice and hilly so a higher ground place there would help in regards to flood protection. Placencia also a popular destination.
The Farmers Market is a wonderful new addition to the island. Sure wish it had been there when we lived on AC. My mouth is watering just reading about your foodie scores! 🙂
Hello TacoGirl: Just planning our first trip, so exciting! I read that you sometimes have a discount code for Tropic Air, which will be flying from San Pedro back to the international airport on our departure day. If you still have it could you please provide…?
Also hoping for some advice…Flight to US is at noon…do you think the 9:00 am from San Pedro allows sufficient time? We will be flying on Weds, July 4th if that helps determine your answer…Thanks very much!
You should be fine with that amount of time Lauren, however, I will tell you the official word and you can decide. When booking your Belize Flights, allow 1 h to clear customs (often it takes less but you never know) Returning they ask you to be at the airport 3 h in advance. The reasoning behind the 3h rule and why Tropic Air advises you follow it. Technically airlines flying back to the states are supposed to close their manifest 1h ahead of time so that everyone can be checked against the no fly list. Overall 335 days of the year 2h is more than enough. However there are those random 30 days that it will not be, such as a busy Saturday in March. There are popular annual travel times when Tropic is always extra busy at which ever airport you are flying out of. This can generate minor delays to BZE and increased potential for long lineups at Philip Goldson International Airport check in.
As of New Year, a couple of us that were doing a 10% discount are no longer able to offer it due to a change in because Tropic’s system. From now on for every flight booked with CFC flight code, a portion of your ticket price goes to a very worthy organization on Ambergris Caye; the Blue Water Grill Belize Community effort. A portion of all previous month flights will go towards current month cause in support the monthly chosen organization receiving help. More information available on the Code for a Cause page https://tacogirl.com/code-for-cause-tacogirl-flight-code/
Good day. I have just begun to research Belize, and have run across your article on Voluntourism and must say that it is more than interesting. Thank you for the information you provided, however I saw no ‘How To’ in your article. Is it possible for you to provide me with some additional information and possibly a point of contact? I am not sure at this point what skills I have to offer beyond being able to ‘bring down supplies’ donating time and muscle, but am more than willing and able to participate. I want to help, visit, explore and research for possible permanent move to Belize. Just to give you a brief on my background, to perhaps help you understand what you may be able to provide to me, in re this request;
57 y/o male, recently widowed, retired from U.S. military, Have worked in various capacities both prior to and after military life, from menial labor to administration supervisor, to security,,, and many more positions. If you require more information I will gladly provide it. Any response you may give will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your time and consideration in this request.
Sincerely,
Dennis R. Strope
I am happy to be able to provide you with a few options albeit you kind of hit the nail on the head when you mentioned bringing down supplies. There is always a need for school supplies for that matter, pretty much anything. Don’t underestimate the time/ muscle donation either.
Life here is very slow paced, so just be prepared. 🙂
Belize Red Cross. They run blood drives and First Aid./CPR training. You can contact the Branch Coordinator at: branchcoordinator.brcsp@gmail.com or the FB page Belize Red Cross – San Pedro
Hope Haven – Belize is a Children’s shelter just getting going.
Sagebrush Church is always looking for volunteers at their “Pit Stop” ministry – where they fix bikes for kids and single moms (usually once per month) – They are also trying to start a transportation ministry (so golf carts and drivers are needed) to help folks actually get to the services on Sunday mornings. The Campus Pastor is Rafael Torrez – FB page Sagebrush Belize Campus
Just to list a few more… The Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye Belize, San Pedro Lions Club, Belize, San Pedro Cancer Society.
My husband and I are trying to plan a trip to San Pedro for our 10 year anniversary next year. We are looking at sometime around the last week of May. Is that a good time of year to visit? I don’t mind it being a little off season (less crowded), but I also don’t want to go when half the shops/restaurants are closed. Also, how is the weather normally around that time of year? We’re hoping it’s early enough in the season to not have too much rain.
Thanks so much for your great articles. They have been really helpful in trying to plan our trip!
Thanks for reading my blog and congratulations on your upcoming milestone Stephanie. May is still okay for most places being open, and the weather is generally quite nice.
Hey tacogirl, me and my family will be travelling to San Pedro Jan-26-feb-9. There will be 4 adults and a 15 month old baby. What is the best method to get a flight from Belize city to the island to ensure we can all fly together? and also get the best rates. is it worth taking a taxi to TZA and flying from there to the island?
This trip is kind of a scouting trip, we have been thinking about investing there and possibly even moving there at some point in time. You seem like the kind of person that would have a lot of knowledge on this as you are also from Canada.
It’s always nice to hear from fellow Canadians. It’s not hard to ensure that group flies together. Tropic Air is really great for getting people on the same flight. It is more convenient from the International With the little one in mind, that is what I’d recommend after a long day travel.
Tropic Air will be changing flight discount structure, so if you want to ensure you get the best price, book no later than the end of this year. October – turtle, November – reef and December – cenote. Always use current month code no matter when you plan to fly.
I am undecided between spending my 2 nights in San Pedro or Caye Caulker (the rest being in San Ignacio/Guatemala). Which do you recommend for me, a solo female traveler? I would like to do a snorkeling tour (which is prettier, day or night?) And sightseeing/taking pics in general. I’d like to make the most of the 2 days, do as much as I can. Preferably solo-friendly. I’d really appreciate it if you could provide a some advice!
Either place is okay for a solo female, both easily accessed by Tropic Air. San Pedro is a bit bigger with a little more action and the beach walk is great for pictures. Caye Caulker is very cute and colorful, Lazy Lizard also known as the “the split” is great for pics as well.
You’d get much better (prettier) experience snorkeling during the day although nighttime snorkel is very cool if you plan to do more than once.
Hi, i keep seeing the questions; but want to ensure i read this correctly. We will be flying and visiting Belize in November 2017, however, booking the flight(s) this Month August 2017; will the code be iguana?
You read right Leslie. Always use current month code to book when no matter what the date you plan to fly. Thanks for using my tacogirl coupon code for your Tropic Air flight discount.
Thanks for your site! Nice job…
We are arriving Aug7 and staying until the 12th. Any activities to look out for? Any changes on the “getting around” topic? We are a family of 5 with three teenagers and I’m trying to figure out the best way to allow them independence (bikes?) vs convenience (water taxi passes?) vs comfort (golf cart?).
Oh, and deals will be appreciated also. Thanks!
No real changes to getting around Ambergris Caye. Where are you staying? Bikes are a great idea for teens, cart good for family time and touring the island. Water taxi is fin but I would not want it for sole transport option. Worth a trip for fun though, you could do a Coastal Xpress for lunch somewhere or San Pedro Belize express and Ocean Ferry both go to neighboring Island of Caye Caulker which is a great day trip. As for discounts just shoot me an email to tacogirlbelize[at]gmail.com, I can do flights, tours, accommodations, food and shopping.
November code is reef Amy. If you are booking now you need to use current month code which is August – iguana. September – jungle and October – turtle. That should have you covered.
Code changes monthly Tony and always current month code is needed to book online. July is lamanai. Thanks for coming for a Tropic Air tacogirl flight discount.
I just checked and code is working the yellow promo box shows up that indicated discount has been given. Were you typing it in all lower case as your comment has the L capitalized.
Have you tried all the tech fixes listed in the pdf? Refreshing your browser a few times, trying a different browser or a different computer will often cure what ever is causing the issue. Please email me me if you still experience trouble accessing discount after trying tech gremlin fixes.
lobster is the current month code that you need to be using for it to work Frank. The way the system is set up by Tropic Air, current month code is always the one to use no matter when you plan to fly.
Hi Taco Girl, we are trying to book an August flight one way from Merida to Belize City. Tried “sunset” both in lower and upper case but no luck. Any ideas on what could be going wrong? Thanks for your help and the great articles
‘tacogirl, appreciate all this information! I think I sat next to your daughter Kelly on the plane into Belize. She shared this site with me and maybe we’ll meet this Sunday at crazy canucks!
Hi Tacogirl,
This is my first time to check out your blog. I was really impressed as you provide us with a lot of useful information for our trip! Keep on your great work!
I lead a group of students down to Belize every year and every year we use Tropic Air to take us from San Pedro back to Belize International. I am currently trying to purchase 22 tickets from San Pedro to Belize International. Can you help me out with this? Does the tacogirl discount code apply to groups? Thanks, Corey.
Got your email Corey,if you still need further help please let me know. Are the kids willing to bring donations with them? If so I have school wish lists with easy items on there.
Hello tacogirl! I would like to start by saying I have followed you for a few years now and really enjoy reading your stuff – so thank you. We have a house in San Pedro and visit a few times a year. We are from Canada and used to have to take United Air through to Houston. the BZ. We recently flew with Westjet which was fantastic; fantastic not having to go through Houston any more! Unfortunately, Westjet’s flights are seasonal. We want to come down in June but do not want to go through the USA so we are considering flying to Cancun and then from Cancun to San Pedro. We ordinarily wouldn’t mind taking the bus to Chetemal but I will have just had foot surgery and won’t be able to walk well so trying to determine the best route possible. My question to you is, what information or knowledge do you have about taking the route from Cancun to San Pedro, is it possible to do this and is it super expensive? I am suspecting that we would have to fly Cancun to Belize City then BZ to San Pedro; would that be right? Thanks in advance!
Morning Edie, you have a few options to get from Cancun to Belize. The current flight price I have is flight is $291 usd one way. You can also opt to bus to corozal (usually with an overnight in Cancun or Playa Del Carmen) and then fly over. There is also a bus running from Cancun Airport to Belize City – Belize Bus website is a good resource for those that are looking cheap travel https://belizebus.wordpress.com/
We arrive on Friday for 5 days. 2 adults and 2 kids (12 & 10). We would love to swim with manatees, fish, snorkel and golf cart rental. San Pedro. Thank you for the 10% off for tropic air too.
We have a trip planned for May however we have received warnings about the Sargasso in the water and on the beaches. In doing some research it looks like there was a big issue back in 2016 as well. what are your thoughts on the sargasso? Is it better to come a different time of year to avoid it?
Courtney Sargasso levels are heavier right now. Just like the weather it is impossible to predict it will be like in May. I really cannot tell you regarding picking a different time of year to avoid it. All I can say is personally Sargasso is something I would not change a date over if I was planning to go somewhere where it was an issue.
FIRST OF ALL, THANKS FOR YOUR VERY HELP FULL BLOG.
ME AND MY WIFE WILL BE VISITING THE ISLAND FROM 22 APRIL TO 2 MAY THIS YEAR. WE WOULD LIKE TO MEET UP WITH YOU AS WE HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS.
WE ARE ACTUALLY COMING TO THE ISLAND TO SEE IF MY WIFE WILL BE HAPPY TO LIVE ON THE ISLAND PERMANENTLY.
Most people prefer hopping on a Tropic Air flight for the convenience and the view Stacey. Golf Cart Cabs are easily available at tha Caye Caulker Airport and if there is not one waiting they have a list of cabs to call. The other main option used is a $25 cab ride to the water taxi then take the boat.
My wife and I have visited Ambergris Caye twice in the last 9 months and we love it. We are considering buying a piece of waterfront land on the WEST side of the island, north of Secret Beach. I’m looking for reliable info sources that might be able to give me insight into the plans for GBE and the area around it with regards to roads, electricity, etc. Even if we buy now, we wouldn’t be looking to move for at least 5 years. But I’m still concerned that there will be little to no progress on development of the west side over that period of time.
Any guidance you can provide will be much appreciated.
The west side while remote is still a very cool area Eric. While development may be slower in that area, the popularity of Secret Beach is helping it move along. Got your email answering it now.
taco is the code from Jan – Mar 2017 Lorie. You will find the following post of interest it has some good international seat sales and 2 great ways to find cleap flights among other things.
I emailed you the info pdf, the frequent flyer version, Belize food and shopping coupons and some useful Tropic Air information. Happy Planning and thanks for using tacogirl Tropic Air flight discount.
For ATM that is a full day tour and it is best done when staying on mainland. I do not know any companies that offer doing it starting from Ambergris Caye.
I emailed you info for 10% cart rental discount along with current food and shopping travel coupon codes.
Fly or water taxi are your options Jim. Tropic Air flight from International airport round trip is $315.50 return and water taxi about $50 pricing in Belize Dollars. While boat is cheaper most people opt to fly after a long day of travel and the view is priceless.
If I may also add that you can also think about renting a golf cart (50-65 per day). That will save you a lot of money in water taxis and land taxis and allow you to come and go as you please. It is also a fun and adventurous way to see the island. We rented from Mata Granda store in April for $50 US per day and they delivered and picked up to our resort. We also used C & J carts this past trip as well. Have a blast! We love Ambergris and just returned a few days ago from our 2nd trip in 8 months. 🙂
I agree Laura renting a golf cart is a good way to go when you are staying north, that way you are on your own time and free to explore. I do offer a 10% Carts Belize rental discount for those that a better rate on their rentals.
My partner and I are headed to Ambergris Caye next week, and due to life circumstances causing us to book last minute, options were pretty limited by the time we were ready to commit. We’re going to be staying at the Sapphire Beach Resort, which is further north than your map goes to, and have been told that a taxi there from the ferry would cost $85USD. Does that sound accurate to you?
I am assuming you mean land taxi Yulla. Coastal Xpress water taxi will be a cheaper option for you and they may still offer weekly passes. Cabs charge a lot to go north because there is a toll bridge.
Thank you for putting this blog together, I really like the flow and ease of it!
Do you have any suggestions on how to find a short term rental, other than AirBnB or VRBO. Nothing against them, it just seems that there isn’t that many choices for our price range.
We are not looking for anything super extravagant. Safe area, 1 bedroom, 1 bath, close to the water and near the necessities like a market, and preferably under $1,000 for about four weeks. Is that a realistic request?
We’re hoping to travel between January and March.
We haven’t settled on any one specific spot, but we are looking at doing a vacation slash retirement home search.
Part of the trouble is long and short term rentals have different classifications tax wise. Short term rentals tend to all be hotel type places or the kind that get listed on AirBnB or VRBO. It is easier to find a deal on a long term rental which is 6 months or more. Check your email Angel, I will send you an option.
If you are booking now please use December code Shelagh. If you are booking in the new year then click link to Jan – March Tropic code and information about the new use friendly quarterly style versus monthly codes http://tacogirl.com/an-early-christmas-present-for-the-world-tacogirl-travel-coupon-codes/ . It also has info on the new food and shopping coupon codes.
Laurie,
Just wanted to say A BIG THANK YOU for your blog and all the info you provide. I was there in May 2016 with my wife to celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary. She had no idea where we were going till we landed in Houston and went to the gate for Belize. Because of all the info you provide I was able to plan several things for us to do.
We plan on coming back next year with the entire family so everyone can enjoy the beauty of Belize and the friendly people.
Hopefully one day we can retire down there, ( I’m working on that) but in the mean time we will just have to visit.
Have a happy holiday and Boxer Day. I really appreciate all that you do to keep us informed about what is going on down in paradise.
I appreciate that Tom. I am glad you found my blog useful. That is such a great story, I bey your wife loved the surprise. If you have not seen them already check out my new food and shopping travel coupon codes. They will be useful for your net trip. Retirement sounds good 🙂
Evening Ginger the glitch has been fixed and monkey code is working. I tried to email you but it bounced back. If you need further help please email me at tacogirlbelize@gmail[dot]com
Thanks again for all of the help. I’m trying to book now for flights in January… I’ve tried a few of the codes and none seem to be working. (lizard, monkey, crab, taco, frigate).
Keven always use the current month code no matter when you fly as it changed monthly. Please follow the tech steps in the pdf and if you still need help email me at tacogirlbelize@gmail[dot]com
My better half and I visited Ambergris last year on our honeymoon and LOVED it! We’re captivated!
We are planning on coming back in June 2017 and bringing our “accumulated children”, ages 21, 20, 17, 15. (We were both widows when we met.)
The 20 year old loves fishing. Bringing fishing gear from Ohio may be challenging, so I was wondering if you might have any references or ideas for renting or borrowing fishing gear for him while we’re there?
Moring Chip. I do not know of any rental places off hand. Fishing guides do have pols available for their tours and Captain Sharks in town does sell them. That is a good item to donate to a local if it is easy and cost effective for you to get one at home and bring it down. Not sure the luggage restrictions on items like that now days. A good friend always brought boxes of hooks for his favorite Ambergris Caye fishermen when he vacationed.
Site is a huge help! Heading down to San Pedro with 18 friends January 11-17th. We’re putting together an itinerary now and already have a catamaran trip on the schedule… Any other “must-do’s” for a big group? Thanks!
Glad my site is a huge help to planning your group trip to Belize Kevin. Sending you an email to get more of an idea on what your group is interested in to help give you must do recommends. For now check out Sightseeing in San Pedro (http://tacogirl.com/sightseeing-in-belize/) for a few popular ideas.
Heading to San Pedro Dec 1 via the Chetumal Corozal route , planning on tropic air, love a discount.
And some suggestions on where to stay in san pedro area for honeymoon
Thanks
Thanks for using my tacogirl travel coupon codes for your flight. As for where to stay for honeymoon can you please specify a bit more about what you are looking for? Just shoot me an email with a few more details at tacogirlbelize@gmail[dot]com
HI there. I’m trying to book a flight from Belize City to Placencia return leaving Belize City November 2nd and returning April 17th using the ‘crab’ promo code and it’s not working:( Is it because April is too far off?!
Thanks!
Afternoon Amanda, crab code will not work till November you always need to use current month code to book no matter when you plan to fly. Octobers code is frigate.
Hi TacoGirl. We are travelling to Ambergris Caye in early December, staying at Xanadu. We will have three children with us (ages 5-9). Can you recommend kid-friendly restaurants within walking distance (one picky eater, one adventurous and one in between). Also, will we be able to find breakfast options nearby (I see a cafe called The Baker very nearby), or would we be best to get some breakfast basics delivered? We expect to eat most lunches and dinners out.
Can you also recommend kid-friendly snorkelling/boat tours? We were looking at the Reef Runner glass bottom boat tour, in case our youngest doesn’t want to get in the water. Any others we should consider?
Very close to you but not an eat in place is Sun UP Chinese restaurant and they have great chicken fingers and fries which is a perfect kid meal. The Baker which is in your area is a good spot for breakfast pastry type foods (both sweet and savory options) Mr Deli Just south of Tropic Air and North of Wings dept store has really good breakfast hash brown burritos. Also not far from you Crazy Canucks does great wings, fries and panini sandwiches.
A bit further of a walk easily done on the beach – in town Blue Water Grill, Wild Mangos and Estel’s for breakfast on the beach.
Seaduced by Belize great for snorkeling, I can save you 10% with them if you like. Feedback I recieved on Reef Runner was that it was a fun time, however boat was a bit slow. I would make sure to pack water and a small snack for that one.
I just did a test of lizard for December Ivy and it worked. Try any or all of the simple tech steps listed in PDF to reboot everything and then it should work for you.
want to go to Orange walk to Nahil Mayab can I catch a bus from BC ferry terminal and back to catch a ferry to SP in one day, food looks out of control!!
Depending on your start time and place it is possible Jack. Consider overnight if you can swing it unless you really just want to eat and run. Orange Walk is about 87.2Â km away from Belize City drive time by car about an hour and 20 min according to google. Add time for the for bus. I am not sure if there is an express or not as I have only flown. Belize Bus website can help you in planning the land travel part of your trip. https://belizebus.wordpress.com/
I have heard Nahil Mayab is a great place to eat. Unfortunately it was closed when my friend Kendall and I were there. Try some tacos while you are there – Orange Walk has bragging rights on them because of how they make their corn tortillas.
How has the clean up gone? We will be there at the end of September. We are planning on staying near the split so I am curious. Also, will restaurants and bars be open since that is the off season in addition to the recent hurricane? Thanks!
Clean up still going on, lots of old docks that need to be dealt with. Some businesses do closures during low season to have time off and do repairs Nikki.
We are due to spend a week on Caye Caulker beginning Friday, August 12th. This has me concerned. Are the restaurants open? Is there fresh food available? Should we stay home? Any more information would be helpful.
In our foreign travels we’ve discovered some countries that will refuse to take USD’s that are wrinkled or are not in pristine shape. What is Ambergris Caye’s take on this? Are there USD denominations thare easier for the Belizean entrepreneur to accept and make change for?
Correct Jeannie US currency must be in good shape. Asong as you do it try to cash big bills at smaller places you should be fine. Before long you will build a stock of Belize money.
Thanks Emily. So far so good not heard of anyone canceling their trip as of yet. A Guest post by Meandering Fool on Caye Caulker after the storm going on shortly.
Thanks so much for all of the information and pix. So sad to see the devastation and know that our new found friends are suffering….wishing all the best to them and the beautiful island.
Thanks Lori………. I’ve shared on my page asking anyone that can to help.
What is the outcome for the kids for school? I know that may sound a bit funny to some, but I remember the board planks and kids having to walk across them to get into school at times. Also books etc.?
So wishing there was so much more i could do to help…….
Prayers!
Anytime Aileen. Thanks for sharing. Depends which school, areas like San Mateo and San Pedrito will fare a lot worse than town and south area schools and neighborhoods where the kids live.
Thanks for the great info on donation options! I had been looking for that. Shared on my page.
Wish I could be there to help, but looking forward to being back in Belize next month.
Argh! I wish I had known this 6 months ago, when this happened to me. My card (mastercard) was first swallowed by the Scotia Bank ATM in San Ignacio, but I was able to get it back and was told it was a machine error. Then I tried the Belize Bank ATM in Benque, which also swallowed my card. I was told it was because my card had been reported stolen, and was unable to get it back– and since I hadn’t reported it stolen, it was confusing for all. I ended up with the hassle of having to cancel the card and get a new one– from the US. So add that to your list- the Scotia Bank ATM in Cayo and the Belize Bank ATM in Benque.
Please let your readers know that the airport on caye Caulker does not handle foreign credit or debit cards.
We were rescued by a lovely American woman who payed cash for tickets for my wife and myself and wished us a Happy Thanksgiving. We were able to pay her back in Belize City and just made our international connections.
I would be willing to bet it would be a similar situation country wide if all bank branches are standardized on the sane kind of machines at each bank Rebs.
There are still two good banks to use ATM cards at right now Janelle. I would say that a mix is not a bad idea, though personally I might not do travelers checks and just go with American money and bank and a credit card, Any money you get here is usually going to be Belize Currency from ATM or your change when spending. It is really up to the individual though as what works best for them.
For paypal cards I I am guessing it would depend if the cards have a chip on them or not in regards to the Belize Bank ATM. Paypal cards should work fine at Atlantic and Scotia Bank.
Glad you found it useful Moose. Trying to save as many people as I can from the card eating machine – similar to the Kite eating tree that always got Charlie Brown in the Peanuts comics 🙂
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kite-Eating_Tree)
dan-eileen……..selling out….?
geeeszzzzzzzzzz.
i hope this is going to be total retirement.
good luck….to yah both.
thanks for the blk-chry sorbet….[the best]
thanks for the fun
Eileen thanks for your commitment to the creatures less fortunate.
The winds of change are blowing strong Moose. I just hope who ever buys the shop has as good a version of the custard dream as Dan and Eileen did. They have made thousands of people happy campers over the years.
thanks laurie for posting stuff like this. I am in the process of doing Barbi tours on word press.. but they are presently on trip advisor, and are getting a lot of hits. especially my last trip to gran porto playa del Carmen. if you would like to view them.
Hi! we have been in Holidays in mayan riviera last year with my wife and my 2 kids, and I would like to report a very useful travel services agency based in Playa del Carmen called Cheel-Beh. I really recommend it, if you are looking for some luxury accommodation, concierge service or even to rent a nice boat hourly for such unique experiences as yachting or sport fishing.
Thank you very much,
This is Tammy Lemus.
I am Faith Noel’s mom. I am very proud of her and her thoughts for her fellow students here. She has been raised here since she was four years old and considers herself a local San Pedrana. She had a goal of 80 back packs and raised 89. She donated 19 to the children that were victims of the fire with the school supplies she also received and 70 for the 66 students that high school had determined needed them.
She also took the donation from the Phoenix and got the families of the fire victims all gift certificates to Linos to feed their families.
She has taken on new lunch palapas at the high school that Mr.Alex suggested was a need of the high school. Presently there are only three that over 600 kids are to have lunch and break under every day (two have seats the other doesn’t even have seating to sit at). She has raised money for 5 more palapas (not seating as we were originally told) and they will be being assembled over the next month before school starts for 2016/2017.
Faith also has a school project that will start and is very creative once school is back in session and includes many kids. I personally am very excited for this part!
Please continue your support of the high school students and Faith as Miss SPHS. You can follow her on Facebook on Miss San Pedro High a page she started to show all she is trying to accomplish. The high school kids are the near future of Ambergris Caye and sometimes not always remembered as much as even the Primary school.
Laurie (Taco Girl) is correct. There is no government high school to attend for free. Parents work very hard to send their kids to high school and it is not cheap. They have to pay for books, uniforms as well as tuition and fees.
I am travelling to san pedro on july 4 for 8 days if you know of anything to do during this time frame please send me an e-mail and if you have any discount coupon it would be appreciated.
Emailed Scott. Dia De San Pedro fair still on in old football field in town. A few regular local things – Tues and Thurs good music at Palapa Bar, Fidos live music nightly, Sunday Jam and Crab races at Crazy Canucks.
Michelle. I would say household items you could get lots at a dollar store type shop for the price compared to here. Another option would be food and groceries here to be handed out. They were also putting a call for Lino’s gift certificates (our local meat shop) so that all the affected families were able to get help in that area.
South Ambergris Caye link to one already set up see in post above. Donations can also be made at any USA Lions Den. All NGO’s here will do their part and turn over to Lions Den.
Hi Laurie, We will be coming back in town next week. We go Southwest and can check two bags free. I typically don’t use that and just pack lightly with a carryon. But in these circumstances, I could pack clothes and shoes for the kids in those extra bags. I’m going to let our renters know and suggest they do the same.
Let me know if there are certain items, otherwise clothes and shoes.
Shoes would be great Pepper, lots of clothing getting donated. Any general house hold items are good too please.they are starting from Scratch. It can all be brought to Lions Den in town.
I will be traveling to and from the states and will absolutely bring some bags back!
I agree, the people of the island are so sweet, such a treasure.
Happy to help!
hopefully…all who paid to see/hear those old musicians…had an enjoyable time…and, felt that it was well worth it.
also…
big up to all who try to assist with the safety of the southern residents…when the police , don’t.
Laurie, sadly, this disease, CRPS, has progressed to the point where travel is no longer a possibility. However, I do have the thousands of images that I managed to collect prior. I use them to travel now. As well, I use them to promote awareness of invisible disabilities, in my own little way. Believe me, I’d be chillin’ on the cayes if I could! I expected that my last trip to Belize would be the final adventure of my life, so I picked the country I liked best. After spending months stumping around the land, meeting so many new friends, and seeing beauty everywhere, I could not have made a better choice!
Keep up the great work promoting invisible disabilities. That is sad but at the same time it is cool you did what you did and made the trip of a lifetime. Glad you can use your pics to travel, I know it is not quite the same but still it must bring back the “Belize feeling” inside. After my first trip here in 2004 I made a picture album from our trip and carried it everywhere to keep me focused on, moving here.
While I now have very limited mobility, my time in Belize is following me in unexpected ways.
RareArtist.org is an organization that promotes awareness of artists who live with rare diseases. Last evening, as a part of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) International Convention in San Francisco, RareArtist held a reception to share disabled artists’ submissions from around the world.
One of the featured images was a beautiful Great Egret that I shot on Caye Caulker!
Thank you so much for the wonderful maps and information. Is there something I need to do to get a discount on golf carts? I didn’t see any info on that..
Anytime Debbie. Conrad Villanueva is also good diverconrad@gmail.com He does general boat tours a PADI certified dive instructor and his boat is fully licensed and insured as well. His brother operates same from Placencia both under Pelican Tours. I emailed you cart info which explains reservation process.
What wonderful information!
I emailed you earlier about some discounts on carts. Do you have some for flights as well? Also, I will be staying at Captian Morgans. Would like to take a view of the island from the sea. Can you recommend someone to hire for a day trip to show me around on water?
Thank you
I got your email Debbie. As for a water guy, Eric at uprising tours 662 – 7413 Eric Henkis – He does snorkeling, fishing, picnics, beach bbq, private charters and sunset cruises. I know Captain Morgans used to do a sunset cruise night on Ecologic Divers Catamaran – front desk or tours will be able to arrange it for you.
I tried May’s puma code Shad, and it is working fine. Did you try all the tech steps listed in the coupon code pdf? Please let me know if you need further assistance.
The only thing that stays the same is change – wish The Squirrels Nest hadn’t been enlarged and turned into a marshmallow, wish Pete was still there so my sister could borrow his pants, wish the boys from Journey’s End still visited Crazy Canucks to dance with the tourist ladies but as my dear old aunt used to say ‘If wishes were horses beggars would ride”. Those were the days my friends we hoped they’d never end, but we knew they would. Started visiting San Pedro in 1984. Only guide we ever had was Tulu. Tulu – only the best. Now we visit him in Placencia.
For future, please mail me at tacogirlbelize@gmail to get it Danna. I sent you an email with code and other useful Tropic Air information as well as my new San Pedro Town Map.
Buffet is not for everyone. I enjoyed choosing how much and what I wanted on my plate. As for no wifi in the room, I had it on my phone to keep up with emails but I was in heaven not to have an in room connection. It made me conscious to stay as unplugged as I could and enjoy where I was. That in itself was much needed and very wonderful. I agree staff is great, so were the other guests while we were there. We met the most interesting people and all really nice not one thorn in the bunch 🙂
Hi – Great site.. Tried to obtain the discount code for Tropicair using your site but kept coming back with an unknown error.. If you could email me the code I would appreciate it! Thanks
Also, I’ll add that I’ve worked in the restaurant business here in my hometown of Washington, DC for 10 years now. So I am not without experience to the very competitive world of restaurants/bars.
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Sargassum is becoming a major (smelly) issue for most of the Caribbean islands, as well as Mexico and the southern US. Mexico is taking a hit with tourists over the huge influx onto their eastern beaches. But at the end of the day, the issue cannot truly ruin a Belize vacation as walking the beach is just a small part of the experience. It is an obvious imperfection but expecting perfection on vacation is a recipe for unhappiness.
I agree, Chuck. Wabi Sabi appreciating the perfection in imperfection. While it has definitely had a negative impact, I would still rather live with or vacation in a place sargasso than snow.
Been cold as hell in Chicago. I can’t wait until July, tell Maria we are coming.
Mike and Deb
I bet that can’t come fast enough for you Michael. Will do when I see her next, I do not get there often these days.
That looks like a gorgeous place! You took some great photos. My only complaint is that I wish they were clickable as they are so teeny. I remember seeing a couple of Blue-Crowned Mot Mots on the mainland there. Amazing birds!
Love your souvenirs! When living on an island, practical souvenirs are a must. When we visited San Ignacio, we came home to Ambergris Caye with a huge bag of multi-colored habenero chilis from the local market. We paid $1 for the entire bag!
I totally understand about strange souvenirs. We just got back from a trip to Aruba and came back with a 8 position shower head for our home in Belize. Now every time we take a shower we think about Aruba. Who needs a t-shirt or a magnet, we’ve got a shower head.
I Love it, Dave. Hardware stores and grocery stores are two of my fav places to look for souvenirs while on vacation.
We will be over on the west side of Belize in Benque in Jan, but I want to make a little time to fly over to Ambergris Caye for a few days. We were they last Nov, and we took a golf cart ride out to Secret Beach, made sure our lots were marked, and just to have a look-see around. I noticed an off grid home model that you can see from the side of the road going out to SB. Will Mitchell is a San Pedro realtor working on that project. Do you know any other planned projects or developments in that area? With the growing popularity of Secret Beach, I would venture to guess that there would be more things planned.
Nice, a good idea to check it out while here. Not heard of anymore planned projects recently, there are more individuals building up there now. I bet a small Tienda (store) or two in the area is not long to follow. Currently, Beach Basket Belize, Captain Morgans, and Mata Grande Grocery are still the closest shopping options as far as I know.
My partner and I have two side by side lots that he purchased 10 years ago at the Grand Belizean Estates lots. Our plans are to build something there in 8-10 yrs. From Secret Beach you can see Blackdore Caye, which is also supposed to be developed for an eco resort, but I haven’t heard when it’s supposed to be completed.
Nice Micheal, hopefully, you and your partner will get to plan a visit soon to see your lots. Not heard anything on Blackdore Caye, development lately.
La Fonda Tacos is delighted to hear your enjoyed our Mexican Tacos. Thank you for the support and we are happy to satisfy our customers. Come again!
Is this considerably less than you would pay in a grocery store? Would like to have some rum and coke’s in our room, was going to hit up a grocery store but sounds like this may be cheaper? Thanks!
It is cheaper if you use a lot Erin as the distributor is by the case. Be sure and hit up Travellers Liquors on Middle Street for local rum choices. Many also use flight code (for a cause) horizon and code vacation starter in Premier duty-free at Philip Goldson International Airport will save you 15% on alcohol. See alcohol savings a comparison chart.
I am so sad to hear about all the development going on. I will be visiting Placencia in September/ October for a month. Then I plan on moving to Placencia, in January 2020, I just pray that I don’t find out that it has changed due to development. I have bee planning this since 2014, so I would love to find small village near Placencia and an Episcopal Church.
Congrats on planning a month in Placencia Dale. I have friends who own a condo here on Ambergris Caye and in Placencia. They both feel similar to you and feel like Placencia is a good fit and not going quite as crazy development wise right now.
My wife and I visited in March of 2017 and fell in love with Ambergris Caye and enjoyed Secret Beach immensely. On our return trip this February, (we stayed on Caye Caulker this time), we looked forward to a water taxi ride to San Pedro and quick jaunt back to Secret Beach. It felt as though the population and number of vehicles had doubled in that short time, and Secret Beach was hardly recognizable. We still love Belize and would love to spent some retirement time there.
Wonderful blog post, Laurie. One of your very best because of its honesty.
Although we discovered Ambergris Caye & San Pedro later than you, even in just the couple of years between our discovery (2010) and leaving the island for good (2013), we saw far too many changes for our liking. When we found the “Secret Beach”, it was simply the backside of Grand Belizean Estates, a wonderful and near-deserted spot to ride our cruiser bikes. There was a friendly couple who built an off-grid blue house on the lagoon side, the first house along what would later become the Secret Beach, and we met them and their five dogs on one of our rides. Hard to imagine what it looks like there now, though I have seen photos. Seeing it in person would be a shock, I am sure. I understand that development and progress are inevitable, but still, it pains me to see so much of what was unique about Ambergris Caye now gone, changed, or in the process of doing so.
Thanks for the compliment. I agree Emily, way too many changes for such a small place and not all good ones either loosing out uniqueness is hard. I think seeing it in person would be a shock too. It has likely been around 2016 last time I was there, just before the permanent businesses hit. A friend was up there on a date and his report was that it was really trashy. That made me not want to go back. I am glad though that the businesses that moved in up there are keeping it clean now from what I hear and see in the odd picture.
Wow does your blog resonate! And we’ve no particular interest in BZ other than a handful of visits to Placencia a few short years ago. We’ve gone back three times in less than 5 years and we have no “right” to say a darn thing…But then why on earth were we so ‘saddened’ to learn about all the development, the paved road, the new streets laid out, the skyrocketing price of real estate?…
I guess this is the where the phrase ‘victim of success’ hails from?
We had hoped to retire in a local village…now, meh. Maybe. Will still visit and support the good people of BZ though, for sure!
Thanks, Greg. I think worldwide it is a challenge to keep the charm in unique places as they get “discovered.” Hopefully, we can still find the balance before it is too late.
Thanks, and sorry if I sounded kinda mean…wish nothing but the best for the people of BZ. Fell in love with the easy-going Creole and local folks .. can only want the best life possible for all!
So sad and so happy for Ambergris and Belize at the same time…we came for the first visit in 2012 for our honeymoon and absolutely fell in love. San Pedro is so wonderful and we have made so many friends. I want all our friends and everyone in Belize to be full, rich, happy, successful, and healthy, but it is selfishly so hard to see all the things that made San Pedro special start to be subsumed by the Cancun-ization of the island. I am hoping we can all find a way to help Belizeans be successful while keeping all the things that make Belize wonderful. Losing the turtle grass and the mangroves will be the final blow in Becoming Cancun and I sincerely hope it does not happen.
I feel the same, Jennie. Hopefully, mangroves and turtle grass will not disappear. Another concern is water quality, that is something that is getting damaged by improper growth.
One vote for the Vape Mat. It simply works for me at 14 hours. This is for the original FumaKilla. Other generics last 10 hours max.
I’m guessing that it may still be in the proposal stage, but it makes me wonder if it is a done deal already because I do know that the 4 lots next to our lot have accepted the offers that were presented to them. We were also presented an offer but were not sure if it’s just a way for someone to pick up properties and then resell at a increased price, or if it is real, hate to be pressured. Appreciate anything you may hear.
Thanks again
Bruce Pfeiffer
Makes sense. Agreed feeling pressured on your land not good.
Hi Lori, we’ve heard that Cayo Rosario has been approved and I also heard that they will be putting in a water treatment plant, generator, housing for workers fuel station and a large dock in Sea View park which is just up the beach from the secret beach bar and grill.
Have you heard anything about this? It would be nice to know for sure as we own one of the lots next to the other lots that have already been bought up. Anything you hear please let us know
Regards,
Bruce Pfeiffer
Where did you hear that Bruce? As far as I know it is still in court and still unsettled. Will keep you posted if I read anything new about approval. (Hopefully not.)
I feel very blessed to know my friend Eileen .its great she had such a wonderful day ! Filled with so much joy and love .
GREAT!! Thanks so much. I can see how it would be useful. Have a wonderful weekend in paradise!
Anytime Deanna. You might want to consider checking in with local Doctors and the Poly Clinic too for assessing need.
Hi thanks so much for the information. Im wondering if you or anyone thinks an expat nursing home would be beneficial there in Ambergris Caye? I’ve been in the business most of my life and my husband and I are planning to move there and have a business as well that will provide service to expats mainly but give work to locals. Any thoughts?
Nursing home has been a long talked about idea Deanna. Worth researching to see if it would be feasable.
John Carr on the mainland was going to do an assisted living facility but it never quite got off the ground.
Thanks for the blunt truth even though somewhat sad but a fact of life. I got here in 1980 so remember the old days and the “. Magical 90s “ sometimes with a tear in my eye .
Bill Toonen
I too remember secret Beach way before development. And I too now have regrets with my years and years of ranting and raving about this island.
Too many pristine water sanctuaries have been destroyed to make way for development.
Now I hear that life-saving mangroves might be destroyed. Unbelievable that safety could be replaced by greed. ?
I agree. AC is slowly losing/changing what we have come to love about Belize. It’s our special place. We got married there. We want it to stay that way! We will continue to come but we know we will continually see progress toward being a Popular Tourist Caribbean location”. Money always changes things, doesn’t it?
And yes, thanks for keeping us in the know I always look forward to reading your posts.
My husband and I first came to Ambergris Caye in 1990 when British troops were still stationed in Belize. The streets were made of sand. We stayed at Lilly’s where he served family style meals to his hotel guests. At mealtime, guests would share their plans for the day of who would be taking people out in their boat for a day of snorkeling at the reef. I asked a fellow traveler what I should do with my valuables while snorkeling, he replied, “Leave it in the boat, no one is going to steal anything.” Our first snorkeling trip to the reef was magical. Ignacio and his son, Tulu, took us out. Ignacio was a Grey-haired man with light skin and blue eyes…seemed filled with joy. His son, Tulu, had the darkest skin and magnificent blue eyes with a smile that seemed with joy and love. How they loved to share their home treasures with us.
While Ambergris Caye has undergone numerous changes and growth, I like to focus on what has been done right – saying no to offshore drilling, establishing Hol Chan, and more recently Mexico Rocks to name a few.I
Having grown up in Southern California, I understand the pains of “progress” and “growth”. Let’s hope Belize can learn from the mistakes of other places.
I too remember the “good old days” of no development on the back of the island. We took our kids to those beaches when they were learning to swim at 1 and 3 years old (they are now 24 and 26). We named one of those beaches after our dog because she loved to frolic in the water. Yes, development will happen but at what cost?
That is a great memory, Janice. So true, generally there is a price for development.
As much as I love Belize, my concern (and I’m casting no stones at you; I appreciate your love of Ambergris Caye and the whole of Belize) is that it will lose its “old world” charm in the face of the growing tourism trend and become just another Caribbean resort destination. To me, it’s inevitable, particularly on Ambergris — Secret Beach being one example — but also in places like Placencia, which is getting a lot of attention.
Thanks for what you do so well.
I agree with you Paul (and did not feel like your comment was throwing stones at me.) I know growth is inevitable, I just wish more people would do it with more respect and consideration to where we are and what makes Ambergris Caye and Belize special. Thanks for the compliment.
Laurie, I too remember the simple things like the dirt streets and the hand ferry. It was a true adventure “back in the day” to get beyond Sweet Basils. The biggest thing we miss is the smell of chicken stewing from the many local food vendors lined up at Central Park every evening. When you WALKED into town that smell was intoxicating! We fell in love with Ambergris Caye and all it simplicity. Nightly entertainment was Wii bowling at Pedro’s and the town except for the Blue Iguana closed down by 9:00. It has definitely lost its Old World Charm and every year when we return we are saddened by all the growth and Hotel chains that are building and blocking the view of the Ocean. This year we are bringing family with us that have never been and we are sad that they will not get to experience the old Ambergris Caye. It is true the times they are a changing and unfortunately it has not all been for the good. Oh, and the coconut pork chops on the secret menu at Hungry Grouper are now one of my favorite things to order! We have followed you since the very beginning of your blog and love your insight and perspective on Ambergris Caye.
Great job, Laurie! I remember seeing you in your bikini a few times in 2011-2012 and thinking how amazing you looked. My abs are long gone at almost 58 years old (though my quads are still kickin’ from all the cycling – lol!), so I admire anyone in their 40s or 50s who still has ’em. Hope the juice cleanse helped you find them again! 🙂 It’s definitely hard to give up sweets and other bad for you stuff, so I admire your persistence. Not sure I could do it!
Thanks, Emily. You look great for 58. I got lucky it is in my genes, my mom looks way younger than 79 and set a great example for staying in shape.
Really interested in the healthy juice challenge and healthy eating patterns to loose weight …any input on this would be highly appreciated…
Jordana follow the link to Juide Dive facebook page and they can answer any questions you have on the cleanse. As far as weight loss goes an overall healthy eating change would be needed otherwise weight lost on a cleanse comes back fast if you go back to bad habits.
Hi Tacogirl,
We have been getting more and more serious about escaping the cold here in Alberta. I have been researching and found some great info on your site. We are wanting to invest in a property now and eventually move to San Pedro permanently. Do you now much about buying condos in the resorts? This is what appeals to us for now. The rental income can offset the cost of still living in Canada. Do real estates agents normally take care of these types of properties or does the resort handle the selling? Is there a reputable real estate agent that you recommend that handles this type of property?
Thanks for the help and keep up the great site.
Morning Dean, shoot me an email at tacogirlbelize@gmail.com and I can answer all your questions in an easy to track place. I have a few friends that own condos here and do part of the year in the rental pool and then they get a large chunk of time there every year. Agents definitely come across these types of investments. I can put you in touch with an agent.
Hi Tacogirl, My wife and I are ready to trade in our 2 short term rental homes in Colorado for a place in Belize. Its not clear to me if someone on QRP status can legally run an AirBnb place in Belize. Can you help clarify? Thanks!
QRP means retired status so no business allowed when you are here under that Gregg. I do know people that came down as both, one came QRP and one came legally able to run a business which she did successfully until she decided to stop.
Just want to add a thank you to who ever published this article. I contacted the guide, Genny Reyes from the email provided in the article. Couldn’t have been happier with his service. Very pleasant articulate and knowledgeable! While the article above was written in 2016 and our trip was recent, January 2019, his price only increased $20.00. Still a great deal at $90.00 per person compared to the $150.00 I was quoted from other tour operators.
That is great Nada, so glad this was useful to you and that you were happy with Genny Reyes service.
Hi Tacogirl,
I really like your website, what would you recommend for a fairly affordable
rental close to the beach? what towns etc? I have 2 dogs and this may be difficult
( long term) also i have been in property management most of my life
and would love to find something managing a small complex or resort on the beach.
How would i go about that? what are the work requirements etc?
Thank you!
Glenn Gallagher
Morning Glenn, thanks for the compliment on my site. Starting your own business (with proper paperwork) or finding someone to sponsor you for a work permit and job because of your skills, or going it on your own and applying a work permit are all ways you could go about it. Your best bet is to plan a scouting trip and see what it would cost you to live here and if you see possible opportunities. It is a very dog-friendly island. Long term here counts as 6 months or more anything less falls under short term rentals.
Hello Taco Girl,
I’ve been researching a family vacation to Belize towards the end of July. Our passports are in the process of being renewed and our two daughters are getting new ones. Do you know if Belize allows entry for U.S. citizens if their passports have not been valid for atleast 6 months?
Secondly, I want to split the trip up and stay at a Jungle resort and then stay at a beach resort. For the jungle resort, if we want to do cave exploring or hiking, will this get cancelled if there is a lot of rain?
Really appreciate any advice.
I always love to see your pictures! You’re always talking about the growth of SMA, due to some issues the past 5 years I haven’t been able to get back down. Can you tell us more about just HOW MUCH growth there has been done in some pictures? I am really worried that it will not be the quaint place we were looking for still. I’m starting to look for someplace still a little quaint. I left Cozumel for that reason, never been back. I LOVE the fact you have been able to keep the cruise ships out. OMG so many people on then it looks like cattle coming thru the chutes!
Thanks for the compliment Allene. We are stressed to the limit and all further growth should be suspended till the environment gets cleaned and all waters test at an acceptable level. All infrastructure needs to be done properly as well. Bottomless septic tanks in low laying areas are not acceptable.
Thanks for the compliment Allene. We are stressed to the limit and all further growth should be suspended till the environment gets cleaned and all waters test at an acceptable level. All infrastructure needs to be done properly as well. Bottomless septic tanks in low lying areas are not acceptable.
Hi taco girl,flying into San Pedro tomorrow the 9th till 16th the weather says rain all week just wandering if that’s a good forecast,gregg
Gregg, you may get sprinkled on a bit but definitely expect longer sunny periods as well. Tomorrow’s post a weather one offering some good suggestions.
Is the “Gilligan Island” picture in a cove almost exactly 1 mile north of Secret Beach? That peninsula of trees jutting out into the water looks very familiar. If it is where I think it is, you owe me “Beach Use Fees” for parking your boat on my land. LOL! Well…OK, you don’t really owe me money (you already knew that tho!)….I just saw an opportunity to brag because a picture of my lot made it into your blog!
Not sure exactly where that one was shot Eric. We used to do gas share and potluck boating adventures. Traveling up the back side of the island around 2007. This post was one of my last ones in the area https://tacogirl.com/the-cave-beyond-secret-beach/ before the area got largely popular and developed business wise. You might see close to your property there and there is a good fence pic for a guide marker and of course the underwater cave.
Hello Dear,
I filled this application because I love experience and challenges. Know that my spouse will come really to take me and to visit me from time to time. My baby boy might just come to visit me during vacations. Really none is coming with me to stay full time. Thanks in advance for the opportunity to grow in education.
Wishing you the best of luck with your application process Elcedia.
Thank you mr Russell for your kind words and it was pleasure and honor for us to meet you, we are so proud of providing the best service that our visitors deserve..,
We really appreciate your advices to keep our island better and nicer
William
This is wonderful but am missing the teacher experience but if you like to give me a try am welcome to join on bored because we all start from small and grow up but I don’t have the money to continue my education level to start teaching I love kids and I know working with kids will be easy for me I appreciate it
Moring Jaminie. It is the people who are taking applications you need to be asking that question. I am helping people learn about the opportunity, I have nothing to do with the application or selection process.
Our family was on Ambergris Caye for Christmas as well. Christmas Wve we had a snorkeling trip scheduled but the Lady Leslie Crew were kind enough to reschedule for Christmas Day! always a great time on the island even when Mother Nature trues to stir things up a bit!
Great your family got rescheduled Mary, hope you had a great time on Lady Leslie Catamaran, it is a nice boat. Mother Nature was stirring it up again for the New Year, we had some good winds last night and today.
Hey TacoGirl we will be down to SP over SuperBowl 2019… do you know of anything yet for parties, specials or best places to watch the game???
Great timing Mike. All the places in this post will likely do parties again this year. Check out my updated https://tacogirl.com/ambergris-caye-belize-nightlife/ page for links to facebook local and google maps which will help you search for events closer to the time. Belize bars are still getting through the holiday season and do not have super bowl 2019 events up just yet.
Hi, arriving in San Pedro tomorrow. Are you aware of any fun holiday events coming up over the next week? Or, are there some great sites, decorations that we should visit? Thanks for sharing your pictures.
Jeanne, a drive around the island is a great way to see all the tropical Christmas decorations.For an easy way to find places, download facebook local on google play it lets you advance search locations and events this is a good way to watch for the parties – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.facebook.Socal&hl=en or iTunes – https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/facebook-local/id1153443320?mt=8
Glad you enjoy my pictures 🙂
Very concise information
Thanks Russell 🙂
I want to appreciate you for taking a picture of my grandmother, my mom, and my little brother all in one picture on the trampoline!! I found this absolutely hilarious.
Thanks for the appreciation, Sarah. That is hilarious that I randomly got them all in and cool you found it. A similar thing happened before, I realized I had pics on my blog of my old neighbors before I knew them and on a different island – Caye Caulker.
Hi Tacogirl: my husband & I cant wait to visit Belize next month. We will be at Pelicans Reef for part of our journey. I know we can bike Into the town of San Pedro if we wish, but can you recommend a taxi service that you think has a great reputation along with competitive prices that will take us to&fro up to multiple x daily over the course of our four day stay at PR? The other questions I have are what time do the restaurants serve up until in the evening & 2. do any take a reservation or are they all pretty casual all the way around? Many thanks, really appreciate it. Sincerely, Cathy
Hi Cathy, what a great way to start your new years. For taxi south email: manolocontreras21@yahoo.com and see if you can make an arrangement in advance, he and his son both drive. As for prices due to where you are staying it will be a bit costly for a cab I have only ever used him to go as far as Sunset beach and that was about $15-$20 bzd cab ride. Depending on what price Manolo offers you for your location, consider a golf cart for a day or so as well. Restaurants are not late night here so many kitchens close around 9 ish. You can always get late night street food in Central Park and dotted around town.
This is a wonderfully written great adventure story. Entertained all the way! Love you all – every character in here!
I just want to know what poor soul will have to keep those chandeliers clean.
That will be a massive detail job for sure.
Thanks for sharing the additional information with us, belize real estate
How can tourists help? We will be in for 5 days in december and would love to do what we can, at least for a few hours.
I will be put out an Eco Friendly Belize supply list page in the store section on my site Ann. We have a location and are going to start stocking for future cleanups. The Phoenix Resort does a weekly peach clean up as well for another way to participate.
Great job with the cleanup and water testing! Obviously there is a long way to go, but it’s refreshing to see proactive people like you taking such an active interest in the environment of Ambergris Caye. It is too precious to ignore.
Thanks, Emily. I agree to precious to ignore and finally, this big move made by the BTIASP has really started a ripple effect. I hope it keeps going and a next big entity steps in to do a cleanup campaign in 2019.
Thanks for putting together this blog, It is so helpful! Suya tours is offering a full day of snorkeling with three stops and a BBQ lunch. We really wanted to go to Shark Ray Alley, but to do this, we would have to book a different excursion that does not include the full day and BBQ. What do you think? Is there a big difference between shark ray alley and three other three snorkeling stops. Would appreciate your opinion.
Glad you like my blog, Jeanne and find it helpful.
I like shark ray and done it many times and will again but beach bbq would come out in the lead cause I am such a foodie ha ha.
You can also try someone who will customize it for you. Eric Henkes at uprising tours 662 – 7413 Eric Henkis – He does snorkeling, fishing, picnics, beach bbq, private charters, and sunset cruises. Not sure if he does outside the reef will check for a guy who does. He will easily customize so just ask him for a quote on your preferred adventure combination.
Thanks for sharing the additional information with us.
Hi Laurie, on Wednesday I tried (like so many times) to withdraw money from the Heritage Bank ATM in Benque. It didn’t work and I went inside the branch. They took my complaint and asked to try a lower amount, which I did – it still didn’t work. I left and the next day 3 x 400 BZ$ had been deducted from my European account. I contacted the bank immediately on Thursday, took a taxi to go into the branch Friday morning and nobody there seems interested to do anything about it. I insisted to have the video footage controlled for the time they claim the deduction had been made, so that they could see that I did not get any money – they’re not interested – extremly ignorant service, not one answer to my emails and 1200 BZ$ not available for me. The same issue happened already 7 or 8 months ago – there seem to be permanent issues with Heritage Bank
So sorry you were faced with that Marie. I have my Canadian card eaten at Heritage a couple years back cause it was not a Belizean card, thankfully I got it back before they sent it to Canada. I have found Atlantic Bank is the best one for foreign card use Scotia good too and sometimes Belize Bank although for a while they were having a hard time reading cards with chips.
Hi Taco Girl, I am moving to Belize from Texas. I am there on a scouting trip next week and planning to be living there the first of December. I am in the process of buying Casa Picasso Restaurant. I have two questions for you. Is it possible for you to visit with me in person next week between November 15th – 19? And can you tell me a good way to send a few boxes of my personal items to the Island?
Let me know if you can, Thanks, Ande Woods
Better to work out meetings and such in email Ande sent you one. As for shopping Belize Freight is a popular option.
Goff caye is not a private island by any means.
I get what you are saying Jordan, that anyone can go there if they have a boat. It was pretty private when we were there, just our group enjoying the place to ourselves. I will check in with Xsite about their plans to make sure it stays that way for their tours.
Burring Sargassum underground pollutes the ground table water with arsenic and it doesn’t change into sand!
I was always skeptical it was not good to bury Sargasso without cleaning the first Tom. Maybe not good to bury period even if cleaned well. I liked how Mexico is turning it into art and houses.
Ocean Conservancy is a great organization that promotes all of the ideas that were offered by Carol. Another is Reef. We all need to get involved to secure our healthy oceans for future generations to enjoy.
Great feedback Don and Sue, thanks. I agree we all need to get involved especially here, because of the color of the water people do not think it could be unsafe in some areas.
And please don’t forget that your Happy Birthday, etc. balloons you let into the air ends up in the ocean and into a turtle’s mouth. And monofilament line wraps around manatees flippers and eventually cuts off their flippers. So many of our manatees at my marina had clubs for flippers. And there are so many more.
Great addition to the list Carol.
Hi, 2 years ago my wife and I received a coupon for the plane ride from Belize City to San Pedro. We want to fly Feb 1, 2019. Can you help me? Thanks, John
horizon is the current tacogirl flight code John. I emailed you with pdf and a link for on flight code details as well as info on saving 15% a Premier Duty-Free.
horizon is the current tacogirl flight code, John. I emailed you with pdf and a link for on flight code details as well as info on saving 15% a Premier Duty-Free.
Amazing recount chock full of sites and experiences to take up. Bravo!
Thanks Felicia.
Hello!! Great site and useful information all around. Wish we had found this site sooner. We are going back next month and want to invest in some property. Can you suggest a reputable real estate agent?
Morning Bruce, I can please email me at tacogirlbelize@gmail.com with a bit more on what you are looking for and I can put you in touch with an agent.
Hi. The hurricane in Florida made the branch with bananas growing snap and break. Do i have a chance at the bananas continuing to ripen?
It is possible but hard to say as I am not a banana expert and not sure how far along your bananas were in the growing stage when they got knocked out by the storm. Hopefully, that is the only amount of damage you experienced.
And great staff too Laurie.
Yes so true John. Even when it is busy they manage to take care of everyone well. We did the princess and the pea thing as we started at the bar, moved to a seat and ended up at the outside table we would have taken from the start had it not been so busy. They never skipped a beat in keeping up with us.
Hi! How do you find out when and where these are happening?
They are a random island occurrence Iris. Your best bet is to make friends with the people that host them occasionally and ask for one, or you could easily do it if you have a group of friends. I have done many swaps at my apartment over the years. CG Esthec Salon also does them when she does a fundraiser event.
Love this! Such a cool idea
Such a great way to shop Michelle. I used to do this with my friends when I lived in Canada too.
We just had a cop tell us that we (as Canadians) need to carry our passports or a copy at all times in Belize. He said it was a law but didn’t know the code. Said we had to buy the law book. We have never been asked before. Is this true? I can’t find any info on it.
I do have a license and passport pics on my phone always and it has come in handy before, but never once have I heard it was mandatory.
This is great – thanks so much! I am always on the hunt for great stew chicken!
Anytime Jennie. Try El Fogon too for stewed chicken, they also do great Belikin beer battered fried chicken on Tuesdays.
Hi, Taco Girl! My husband and I are coming to Belize for our 1 year anniversary. We are staying at Coco Beach Resort. For the day of our anniversary, any suggestions on fun things to do during the day and something romantic at night? Thanks!
Morning Sarah.
Congratulations on your #1!
Coco Beach is a great place and you can certainly have a romantic dinner right there for that evening.
Wow – It’s a loaded question for the daytime fun… really depends on what you like. You could literally spend a day just lounging around their pool area, swim up bar, pool with a (smallish but fun) waterslide and jumping platform. I recommend downloading facebook local if you use it as it is a great way to find out events, restaurants, and points of interest where ever you are traveling. You can search places in advance too.
An excursion to “Secret Beach” (on the west side of the island) might be in order because from Coco Beach, you’re about 1/2 to 3/4 of the way closer than you would be if you were staying in town.
Guest services at CB will be able to help you with anything you want to do – If you’re avid divers then, of course, the Blue Hole is something you don’t want to miss. If not, snorkeling is always a favorite and highly recommended. I can also help you save a few dollars on tours and have some food and shopping discount coupons and flight code as well email me at tacogirlbelize@gmail[dot]com
Hello! I have been following this website for a few months now since my husband and I decided to go to Belize this December. It’s very interesting and helpful….so thank you. I have a few questions that I hope you can answer. We were planning on going to Ambergris Caye for a week but I am now second guessing that decision because I have read a ton of recent reviews saying the stench from the rotting sea grass is unbearable. Is this true? If so, do you think it would be gone by December 2018? I have also read there are not really any real beaches in Ambergris Caye except Secret Beach? About how far from downtown San Pedro is Secret Beach? We were planning on staying at Sunbreeze Suites so if you know where that is, would you know the distance to Secret Beach from Sunbreeze Suites? Lastly, due to my concerns, do you feel a different island would be better suited for us? We will likely go snorkeling but also want a beach within walking distance that we can go to on most days. Thanks in advance for taking the time to respond to these questions….I really appreaciate it!
Thanks for enjoying the benefits to my site Nicole.
Just like weather sargasso is pretty impossible to predict, anyone’s guess what it will be like in December. The smell can be unbearable depending on the wind and sometimes surprisingly you smell very little when you would think you would smell it a lot. End of day is worse usually as it is the plant rotting that smells. – https://tacogirl.com/difference-sargasso-seagrass-in-belize/
Secret beach or any west side one accessible by boat (there are people who will do that for a day or half day trip)
Sunbreeze Suites is right in town and secret beach a few miles north-west it is a 30-40 min drive, keep in mind you will likely doing 15 mph on a golf cart.
As far as alternatives, have you considered Caye Caulker? Here is a post with a good video in it to show you more of that island.- https://tacogirl.com/jesse-james-style-adventure-caye-caulker/
See you in November!
See you in Nov chuck, enjoy your countdown 🙂
Is this still an issue or have things changed in the last few years?
Hit or miss on issue Dan. Not all banks still accept chip cards here. Mine always did, a couple of months back I started having trouble getting my Canadian bank card to read but something invisible happened and it is back to normal.
Side note. . Yesterday afternoon I rode a bicycle into town all the way from Caribe Island. Being aware of the recent study I decided to wave to everyone, as I wouldn’t want Italians to get a bad rap. In doing so, the rain started to fall making it difficult to control the bike. With wreckless abandon I waved anyway. As I swerved in and out of traffic, I am happy to report that EVERYONE waved back, albeit, only one finger, but it was waved at me with such passion. I’m happy to report that we are improving 1 finger at a time. . Have a great day. !!
😀
I know it’s great for the country Laurie, but dang I hate to see it growing so big and fast. Please PLEASE put a cap limit on the # of cruise ships coming. And PLEASE do NOT let them onto the island!!! You guys re the reason I quit going to Cozumel!
Last time i was there i watched them unload people like cattle down chutes in a packing company!!
I am with you on cruise cap. While I know they are not going away anytime soon I have mixed feelings about cruise ships.
That’s great news. Thanks for the update
Anytime Tommy.
Also, Capital One doesn’t charge any foreign exchange or bank fee’s on any foreign transactions.
Capital One also has a 1,000 usd daily atm limit and you are not required to call or notify them when or where you go in or out of the country.
Good to know Thanks Tommy.
If you’re a Californian and Belize is a favorite destination First Republic Bank refunds all foreign ATM fees with some minimum bank account requirements.
Great additional info thanks Frank.
Great info. Thank you
Thanks Laurie. Valuable information. Only have Atlantic Bank here in Caye Caulker.
Anytime Carol. Thankfully Atlantic is the bank on Caye Caulker.
Do you sell sim cards for iphone 5s?
Can hou make the switch for me when i arrive? Ambergris Caye
Hi Al, Belize Telemedia is the business you want to set you up with an iphone sim card. Make sure you come with an unlocked phone.
Awesome. Thank you
I assume all the prices mentioned are Belizean dollars. Yes ?
Thanks for the info. Have a great weekend Tacogirl.
Correct, all pricing is in Belize dollars Tommy.
I have been researching a move to Belize at retirement, which has came and gone. I now have a date to make the great move. I have read your blog in an email for a few weeks now and love it. I plan on moving to Placencia area somewhere. So keep up the great work so I can get all your wonderful suggestions
Congrats on your date Dale, happy planning for your move and thanks for the compliment.
I agree with this post . LOL.
One of my favorite BZ memories was made of this…. I was walking down a road in the middle of nowhere. We had seen something interesting and stopped the car and I was walking down the road to look get a closer look at a pretty plant. An old couple was coming up the road toward me and as they approached I smiled and said hello. The old woman was kind of startled and didn’t know what to do and she suddenly just threw her arms open and said “WELCOME TO OUR COUNTRY, HELLO!” and they kept walking. It was the cutest most genuine thing ever.
What a great memory Connie, thanks for sharing.
What about black tourist do the wave back? When i was in San Pedro i always waved back,sometimes i was first.
I think you may have missed the intended humor to the post Peter.
Very sad
Awesome. Great job.
Thanks, Tommy 🙂
Absolutely.
At Cayo Inland Expeditions, we offer high-quality Mayan Tours, Belize inland Tours and Belize Jungle and Beach Packages.
I am interested, Is this real?
Yes Stephen, if you meet the requirements then apply to the organization asap as this application period is only for the month of July and I do not know when the next one will be.
Excellent. Im interested
Good Luck Daniel.
Oh my goodness, you have made my mouth water! These all sound amazing. I am guessing that the chefs at these restaurants are going to be inundated with special secret requests…hope they are ready! 🙂
Hello tacogirl
my friends and I are looking for a nice fun little Beach Bar Grill in Belize … I am looking to move there as soon as we find something … you have any ideas?
Dino
Hi Dino, you already got me in Fb messenger, just waiting for your email.
Awesome . Beautiful ladies enjoying the lobster fest . We had a great time here in Placencia as well. Party on ladies. Great photos! !
Thanks Tommy 🙂
Absolutely
Awesome. Looked like a great time. I was just invited to a local lobster fest celebration tomorrow with a couple new found friends here in Placencia Belize. Gotta love it. Glad you had fun. I can’t wait to head up to Ambergris Caye in the beginning of July to try out the sushi. I’m a sucker for good sushi.
Hope you had a great time at Placencia Lobster Festival Tommy. if you are a sucker for good sushi then definitely hands down Jyoto a must for you. Another good recommendation is the Ahi Poke salad at Blue Water Grill.
Excellent. Hopefully when I visit July 3rd to the 5th I’ll squeeze in some time to tantalize my taste buds. Placencia lobster fest was awesome.
Excellent. Awesome information. I hope this also means lower fares for flights within Belize. 🙂
Thanks, Tommy. Hopefully, lower fares will be a trickle-down effect.
Thanks for the great info. 8 of us are flying into Belize City then on to Placencia and will stock up at the airport and stuff it into our luggage. Do you know if we will have to pay Customs fees on our purchases?
Tax and duty-free Carla. Thanks to your group for using the duty-free promo code and the flight code for a cause to benefit BWG and the Dangriga Cancer Center.
Hi Tacogirl .
I enjoy reading your blog I just moved to Placencia on June 2nd and I love Belize. 30 years ago when I was stationed in Hawaii I saw a photo of Belize in a magazine and swore to move here one day . I visited San Pedro the last 2 years and absolutely loved it. I chose Placencia Belize because I got a great deal on a house right on the water to rent . Although I love it, I think my place is in Ambergris Caye. Thanks for your blog, hope to see you soon.
Glad you enjoy reading my blog Thomas, congrats on your move to Placencia. Maybe you will end up visiting Ambergris Caye more and have the best of both worlds.
Can you give me an update on the current situation?
Sargasso is still currently an issue for many right now depending on where you are staying.
Hello. I have been reading your blog and have a few questions. Are the following items available Caye Caulker? Hellman’s Real Mayonnaise, raw fresh chicken, potatoes for BBQ, heavy duty aluminum foil, celery, and cucumbers. I will be in Caye Caulker June 29-July 5, and then San Pedro July 5-11. In Caye Caulker I do have a kitchen where I am staying and a BBQ outside and would like to do some cooking. In San Pedro there is no where to cook where I am staying. Would you recommend staying loner in Caye Caulker, say 10 days and only go to San Pedro for the last 3 days? I have read that San Pedro is not that nice, more expensive than Caye Caulker, lots of golf cart traffic, and dusty and dirty. Please advise. Thank you for your wealth of info on your blog.
Morning Peter. You can find most of what you are looking for on Caye Caulker, just ask your accommodations people if you have trouble finding it and they will point you in the right direction. As for the length of stay that depends if you want busy then more time on Ambergris Caye if you really want to relax and unwind more days on Caye Caulker.
Is this still available? If it is please contact me at jennsing25@yahoo.com
I emailed you a contact name to see if that or another apartment is available in that building Jennifer.
Is this still ongoing? Is there a current code available for use?
Moring Lou flight code is ongoing and each month at no extra cost to anyone using code horizon, a portion is donated and split between Blue Water Grill Community and Dangriga Cancer Center which serves countrywide Belize.
I have a touring Bon Jovi tribute out of Boston. We’d love to perform down there. http://www.facebook.com/tributetobonjovi Let me know if you think there’s a venue that would have interest.
Facebook message with Palapa Bar Ken and see if they are interested. They do live music weekly.
Hi Tacogirl is there a code for April?
Flight code is horizon Albert and the current cause that using it will benefit (at no extra cost to you) is a Hematology Analyzer for the San Pedro Poly Clinic.
Tacogirl, I’ll be there April 20-24. Meeting with a friend to look for places to rent. I hope we can get a chance to meet while I’m there.
Sounds good Carol, just keep in touch.
Hi Laurie, just wanted to let you know that this Q & A is still relevant for us too! Coco Loco’s and Ambergris Caye were amazing first steps in our continuing life of adventure abroad, and we still have zero regrets! Sue
So great that owning Coco Locos beach bar in Belize was a good stepping stone for you and Steve to your new adventure of running Casa Dos Lirios Boutique Bed & Breakfast in Merida – http://www.casadoslirios.com/. It looks like a great place, can’t wait to see it in person one day.
Hi,
I’m coming to the Placencia Peninsula in late April. I was wondering how bad the sargasso is? Have you heard much about that area recently? Thanks!
Afternoon Wendy. my friend Sue who lives there said that Placencia is getting hit with sargasso too this t=year, as to what the situation will be like in April will be anyone’s guess. MUch like the weather sargasso is very hard to predict.
I am writing about unit 10B . Is this unit open ? If not , do you have any aval. and the price . I will be comeing in around July , 2018 , and would like at least a 6 mo .rent . Thank you very much ,
Danny Haymans
As stated in the post Danny that is old and no longer available at that price or through that real estate company. Check with the new Isla Bonita Yacht Club (Name changed along with management) and see if they are doing any long term rentals (6 months or more) http://islabonitayachtclub.com/
Hello,
I have enjoyed reading your posts, and only discovered your site once we were already in Belize, a few weeks ago. The trip was a last minute decision, but I am so glad we went! We only had 10 days, but it was enough to make me realize that Belize made me feel better than I have in many years – especially when I was sailing a Catamaran for the last two days. I am very near retirement, and ready to make changes necessary to travel more, and live at least part time somewhere like Belize. I am interested in how you made the transition, and how often you return to Canada? We live on Vancouver Island, which is also a wonderful place to live, especially in the summer. Are you concerned about medical coverage in Belize, or do you maintain Canadian coverage? So many questions… Thanks!
So glad you have enjoyed the read, Shawn. What a great vacation experience. Mine was similar, I came here on a vacation and by the end of 3 weeks was planning a move. Vancouver Island is great, I moved from downtown Toronto. I do not maintain Canadian coverage as I have been gone so long (12th year).
How long does the Sargasso season last? Or is this all the time? Will be visiting San Pedro May 1st? Just want to be prepared? Thanks
Technically it is not a specific season, I refer to it that way more so as a long period of time. Exactly how long it will last is absolutely unpredictable as it is nature in charge.
I see many posts of previous years .I am looking for a place as early as 1 April. Is your place available?
Seth Bryant
Seth this place has changed owners and is rented as far as I know.
Almost worse than the stink of rotting sargasso is the trash that washes up with it. Bits of plastic, from tiny to large, are captured in its mats and are so ugly. The plastic makes it much less tolerable to me than just the natural phenomenon of sargasso.
I agree Emily the garbage it collects is very unsightly.
Hi Lori, we’re going to be there in April and we were thinking of maybe spending an extra week and staying at Mara Laguna, what are your thoughts on this place. We’ve heard the horror stories from owners there but what’s it like just to stay there. you won’t hurt my feelings so give it to me straight Yes or No explain. thanks again and thanks again for you posts
Bruce Pfeiffer
Hi Bruce. As far as Mara Laguna goes staying there you are likely fine and will enjoy your stay. The couple of units I have seen the inside of looked nice and I know several people that live there. Now owning there is a whole other kettle of fish for various reasons, mostly construction and ownership titles from what I have heard.
hi, is there a code for march? Thanks!
horizon is the correct flight code to use Heather.
See How Big is Ambergris Caye? post for more info – https://tacogirl.com/how-big-is-ambergris-caye-bigger-than-you-think/
Thanks. Looking to come in May for about 4 days to check out places. Can’t wait to get back there and see how much it’s changed in 13 years.
Nice Carol, you will find it has changed a good bit in 13 years. You can still find some of the charming old San Pedro if you look in the right places. Taking a recent picture of a front carrier pedal bike with a golf cart rood on it reminded me of that.
Thanks for the help. Contacted a few places yesterday but they don’t allow pets. I have a cat so can you tell me how hard it is to find a place to live with a cat?
I do not have pets but many of my friends that rent do so there are places that allow pets, you just have to keep watching for one Carol.
I am considering the move to Belize, sooner than later I expect and would be interested in the Red Cross. I have been employed as an Environmental Inspector for the Govt. and also have a background in Firefighting, and hold a degree in “Emergency Management”. I would be interested in volunteering but am also curious on actual job prospects in and around these fields. Thanks for your time…Cheers TC
Morning TC,
Thanks for your inquiry. The answer to your question really depends on what part of Belize you like to make your new home.
The Red Cross HQ is located in Belize City they can provide information on other branches. The San Pedro Branch is involved in Emergency Management as well as CPR/First Aid training and Blood Drives.
B.E.R.T. is probably the closest to anything (emergency medical wise) from the US – Assuming that is where you would be coming from – but it is only on the mainland.
NEMO is another site you can take a look at. I really do not know about the job prospects, however, there is an issue of a work permit to consider (possibly easier to get if you have an offer).
While we do have 24h medical options, there is no hospital or working ambulance on Ambergris Caye.
Hi – is it best to take a cab from the water taxi area to our house at Mara Luguna or is it best to have the cart rental company just drop our cart off by the water taxis? Just worried about our luggage…
Hi Taco Girl, my husband and I are coming to Belize next week for our 10th anniversary. I want to surprise him and renew our vows…super simple, no decor, just us and a person to do the short ceremony …do you recommend anyone for this?
What a nice surprise Julie. Try contacting Iraida Gonzalez iraida@elviskitchen.com or Eiden Salazar reefradio@btl.net hopefully one of them will be available to help you with a vow renewal. You can also make contact with wedding planner Lara at lara@romantictravelbelize.com, she is great for wedding/renewal help.
Thanks for all the info. I’ve been to Ambergris and love it. Currently living in the Florida Keys and plan on coming for another visit in May, I hope. Looking to find a 6 month rental (I’ve been in touch with Sally(real estate agent) who’s been great with some condo listings. Would love to sit down with you and get more scoop on moving there. I’ve recently looked at Caye Caulker and see that it’s cheaper there to live. Any other info on that? Thanks.
Morning Carol
Feel free to email me closer to the time to work out a sit-down. You can also try Ana Lausen she and her husband Erik do property management ambergrisvacations@yahoo.com
I like Caye Caulker a lot although some people find it too slow. I would say it is worth looking into as it is a very cute colorful island. Since it is closer to the mainland some things would be cheaper there. People often forget to factor in for pricing, when everything comes to an island by barge or plane that transport cost increases pricing.
Laurie,
When you book online with Tropic Air use the promotion code horizon and a portion of your flight purchase will be included as a donation to the charity/cause choice of the month
Will this code be ok to use in May ? or are they changing it. Have a travel company booking.
Morning Tom.
Thanks for wanting to fly with a purpose. The flight code horizon will still be good in May. Thanks for using it.
Sharon Hiebing
We are looking at relocating to Central America from South Africa. We are looking at agricultural land 20-30 ha if possible for essential oils Aloe Vera, snails etc. With your knowledge, which country would be best suited for us please. We are even looking at Ecuador, we just wanna get away from the crime in South Africa and get on with our lives.
Rietha Crafford
rietha-c@ophrah.co.za
Afternoon Reitha.
Sharon no longer lives in Belize due to medical reasons. I can only speak more so for Belize as I have not lived anywhere else in Central America. Mainland Belize has lots of farming and you would be able to buy land and start something yourself or I have seen existing land for sale that has some degree of options such as fully grown fruit trees already in existence.
I am looking to check out Belize for retirement and I am not sure where area to start. I need to be close to good healthcare, so I was thinking of corozal area. I want to be able to kayak easily, hike and live in nature, but not isolated. I would want some protection from hurricanes and flooding. Can you suggest other areas to look at? Thank you for your time and blog.
Loretta
Afternoon Loretta, another area would be Cayo. Lots of outdoor activities options there and it is nice and hilly so a higher ground place there would help in regards to flood protection. Placencia also a popular destination.
Thanks for appreciating my blog.
What is the code for Feb 2018?
horizon is the new flight code David, thanks for flying with a purpose.
The Farmers Market is a wonderful new addition to the island. Sure wish it had been there when we lived on AC. My mouth is watering just reading about your foodie scores! 🙂
You would have loved Market Days Emily. So glad Truckstop got them going monthly.
Hey Taco girl what about the superbowl?
Superbowl got a post to itself Wendy – tacogirl.com/eleven-2018-super-bowl-parties-in-san-pedro/
Hello TacoGirl: Just planning our first trip, so exciting! I read that you sometimes have a discount code for Tropic Air, which will be flying from San Pedro back to the international airport on our departure day. If you still have it could you please provide…?
Also hoping for some advice…Flight to US is at noon…do you think the 9:00 am from San Pedro allows sufficient time? We will be flying on Weds, July 4th if that helps determine your answer…Thanks very much!
You should be fine with that amount of time Lauren, however, I will tell you the official word and you can decide. When booking your Belize Flights, allow 1 h to clear customs (often it takes less but you never know) Returning they ask you to be at the airport 3 h in advance. The reasoning behind the 3h rule and why Tropic Air advises you follow it. Technically airlines flying back to the states are supposed to close their manifest 1h ahead of time so that everyone can be checked against the no fly list. Overall 335 days of the year 2h is more than enough. However there are those random 30 days that it will not be, such as a busy Saturday in March. There are popular annual travel times when Tropic is always extra busy at which ever airport you are flying out of. This can generate minor delays to BZE and increased potential for long lineups at Philip Goldson International Airport check in.
As for the flight code, it still works and you can find downloadable pdf instructions at this link, http://tacogirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Tropic-Air-tacogirl-coupon-code-and-instructions.pdf
As of New Year, a couple of us that were doing a 10% discount are no longer able to offer it due to a change in because Tropic’s system. From now on for every flight booked with CFC flight code, a portion of your ticket price goes to a very worthy organization on Ambergris Caye; the Blue Water Grill Belize Community effort. A portion of all previous month flights will go towards current month cause in support the monthly chosen organization receiving help. More information available on the Code for a Cause page
https://tacogirl.com/code-for-cause-tacogirl-flight-code/
Thanks, since we are coming off season in july I feel fairly confident that we will make it…unless July 4th is a big travel day in Belize…?
Good day. I have just begun to research Belize, and have run across your article on Voluntourism and must say that it is more than interesting. Thank you for the information you provided, however I saw no ‘How To’ in your article. Is it possible for you to provide me with some additional information and possibly a point of contact? I am not sure at this point what skills I have to offer beyond being able to ‘bring down supplies’ donating time and muscle, but am more than willing and able to participate. I want to help, visit, explore and research for possible permanent move to Belize. Just to give you a brief on my background, to perhaps help you understand what you may be able to provide to me, in re this request;
57 y/o male, recently widowed, retired from U.S. military, Have worked in various capacities both prior to and after military life, from menial labor to administration supervisor, to security,,, and many more positions. If you require more information I will gladly provide it. Any response you may give will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your time and consideration in this request.
Sincerely,
Dennis R. Strope
Hello Dennis,
I am so sorry for the loss of your wife.
I am happy to be able to provide you with a few options albeit you kind of hit the nail on the head when you mentioned bringing down supplies. There is always a need for school supplies for that matter, pretty much anything. Don’t underestimate the time/ muscle donation either.
Life here is very slow paced, so just be prepared. 🙂
Belize Red Cross. They run blood drives and First Aid./CPR training. You can contact the Branch Coordinator at: branchcoordinator.brcsp@gmail.com or the FB page Belize Red Cross – San Pedro
Hope Haven – Belize is a Children’s shelter just getting going.
Sagebrush Church is always looking for volunteers at their “Pit Stop” ministry – where they fix bikes for kids and single moms (usually once per month) – They are also trying to start a transportation ministry (so golf carts and drivers are needed) to help folks actually get to the services on Sunday mornings. The Campus Pastor is Rafael Torrez – FB page Sagebrush Belize Campus
Just to list a few more… The Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye Belize, San Pedro Lions Club, Belize, San Pedro Cancer Society.
My husband and I are trying to plan a trip to San Pedro for our 10 year anniversary next year. We are looking at sometime around the last week of May. Is that a good time of year to visit? I don’t mind it being a little off season (less crowded), but I also don’t want to go when half the shops/restaurants are closed. Also, how is the weather normally around that time of year? We’re hoping it’s early enough in the season to not have too much rain.
Thanks so much for your great articles. They have been really helpful in trying to plan our trip!
Thanks for reading my blog and congratulations on your upcoming milestone Stephanie. May is still okay for most places being open, and the weather is generally quite nice.
Hey tacogirl, me and my family will be travelling to San Pedro Jan-26-feb-9. There will be 4 adults and a 15 month old baby. What is the best method to get a flight from Belize city to the island to ensure we can all fly together? and also get the best rates. is it worth taking a taxi to TZA and flying from there to the island?
This trip is kind of a scouting trip, we have been thinking about investing there and possibly even moving there at some point in time. You seem like the kind of person that would have a lot of knowledge on this as you are also from Canada.
look forward to hearing from you.
Brandon
It’s always nice to hear from fellow Canadians. It’s not hard to ensure that group flies together. Tropic Air is really great for getting people on the same flight. It is more convenient from the International With the little one in mind, that is what I’d recommend after a long day travel.
Here is a good post on the price difference of International airport versus Municipal Airport https://tacogirl.com/best-belize-airfare/
Tropic Air will be changing flight discount structure, so if you want to ensure you get the best price, book no later than the end of this year. October – turtle, November – reef and December – cenote. Always use current month code no matter when you plan to fly.
Is there a code for this month?
turtle is the October code Tracy.
Thanks for this blog. Truly helpful.
I am undecided between spending my 2 nights in San Pedro or Caye Caulker (the rest being in San Ignacio/Guatemala). Which do you recommend for me, a solo female traveler? I would like to do a snorkeling tour (which is prettier, day or night?) And sightseeing/taking pics in general. I’d like to make the most of the 2 days, do as much as I can. Preferably solo-friendly. I’d really appreciate it if you could provide a some advice!
Either place is okay for a solo female, both easily accessed by Tropic Air. San Pedro is a bit bigger with a little more action and the beach walk is great for pictures. Caye Caulker is very cute and colorful, Lazy Lizard also known as the “the split” is great for pics as well.
You’d get much better (prettier) experience snorkeling during the day although nighttime snorkel is very cool if you plan to do more than once.
If you stay in San Pedro – Seaduced by Belize is great for snorkeling option. http://seaducedbybelize.com/half-day-hol-chan-and-shark-ray-alley-snorkeling/
Hi, i keep seeing the questions; but want to ensure i read this correctly. We will be flying and visiting Belize in November 2017, however, booking the flight(s) this Month August 2017; will the code be iguana?
You read right Leslie. Always use current month code to book when no matter what the date you plan to fly. Thanks for using my tacogirl coupon code for your Tropic Air flight discount.
Thanks for your site! Nice job…
We are arriving Aug7 and staying until the 12th. Any activities to look out for? Any changes on the “getting around” topic? We are a family of 5 with three teenagers and I’m trying to figure out the best way to allow them independence (bikes?) vs convenience (water taxi passes?) vs comfort (golf cart?).
Oh, and deals will be appreciated also. Thanks!
Evening Ashley.
No real changes to getting around Ambergris Caye. Where are you staying? Bikes are a great idea for teens, cart good for family time and touring the island. Water taxi is fin but I would not want it for sole transport option. Worth a trip for fun though, you could do a Coastal Xpress for lunch somewhere or San Pedro Belize express and Ocean Ferry both go to neighboring Island of Caye Caulker which is a great day trip. As for discounts just shoot me an email to tacogirlbelize[at]gmail.com, I can do flights, tours, accommodations, food and shopping.
Hello – is there a code available for November yet?
November code is reef Amy. If you are booking now you need to use current month code which is August – iguana. September – jungle and October – turtle. That should have you covered.
Hi taco girl – is there a code for September?
Afternoon Donna September code is jungle. Happy Travels.
Hi Miss Taco Girl! Is there a new code for the Month of July or is it still Lobster?
Code changes monthly Tony and always current month code is needed to book online. July is lamanai. Thanks for coming for a Tropic Air tacogirl flight discount.
I am trying to use Lobster for June and it just says “Try again”
Hi Chris and Molly
I just checked and code is working the yellow promo box shows up that indicated discount has been given. Were you typing it in all lower case as your comment has the L capitalized.
Have you tried all the tech fixes listed in the pdf? Refreshing your browser a few times, trying a different browser or a different computer will often cure what ever is causing the issue. Please email me me if you still experience trouble accessing discount after trying tech gremlin fixes.
can’t seem to get the augest code, iguana, to work. Have I got the correct code
lobster is the current month code that you need to be using for it to work Frank. The way the system is set up by Tropic Air, current month code is always the one to use no matter when you plan to fly.
Hi Taco Girl, we are trying to book an August flight one way from Merida to Belize City. Tried “sunset” both in lower and upper case but no luck. Any ideas on what could be going wrong? Thanks for your help and the great articles
Current code for May 2017 is fishing Laura. Current month code must always be used no matter when you are flying.
‘tacogirl, appreciate all this information! I think I sat next to your daughter Kelly on the plane into Belize. She shared this site with me and maybe we’ll meet this Sunday at crazy canucks!
Thanks for the compliment John. I do not have kids and likely never will unless they come ready made in a future relationship 🙂
I will not be at Canucks Sunday as I will be sailing to Roatan with the two Ecologic Catamarans for a short getaway.
Kelly if you are reading this thanks for sharing.
Hi Tacogirl,
This is my first time to check out your blog. I was really impressed as you provide us with a lot of useful information for our trip! Keep on your great work!
Thanks Jeremy.
Thanks!
Hello tacogirl!
I lead a group of students down to Belize every year and every year we use Tropic Air to take us from San Pedro back to Belize International. I am currently trying to purchase 22 tickets from San Pedro to Belize International. Can you help me out with this? Does the tacogirl discount code apply to groups? Thanks, Corey.
Got your email Corey,if you still need further help please let me know. Are the kids willing to bring donations with them? If so I have school wish lists with easy items on there.
Hello tacogirl! I would like to start by saying I have followed you for a few years now and really enjoy reading your stuff – so thank you. We have a house in San Pedro and visit a few times a year. We are from Canada and used to have to take United Air through to Houston. the BZ. We recently flew with Westjet which was fantastic; fantastic not having to go through Houston any more! Unfortunately, Westjet’s flights are seasonal. We want to come down in June but do not want to go through the USA so we are considering flying to Cancun and then from Cancun to San Pedro. We ordinarily wouldn’t mind taking the bus to Chetemal but I will have just had foot surgery and won’t be able to walk well so trying to determine the best route possible. My question to you is, what information or knowledge do you have about taking the route from Cancun to San Pedro, is it possible to do this and is it super expensive? I am suspecting that we would have to fly Cancun to Belize City then BZ to San Pedro; would that be right? Thanks in advance!
Morning Edie, you have a few options to get from Cancun to Belize. The current flight price I have is flight is $291 usd one way. You can also opt to bus to corozal (usually with an overnight in Cancun or Playa Del Carmen) and then fly over. There is also a bus running from Cancun Airport to Belize City – Belize Bus website is a good resource for those that are looking cheap travel https://belizebus.wordpress.com/
FYI- taco does not work for me.
taco code for march is working on my laptop Gigi, please email me with details at tacogirlbelize@gmail.com and I can assist you to get it working.
Tacogirl,
Is there a promo code for March? Trying to book flight from bze to ambergris and cannot find a current promo code.
Thanks!
Gigi
We arrive on Friday for 5 days. 2 adults and 2 kids (12 & 10). We would love to swim with manatees, fish, snorkel and golf cart rental. San Pedro. Thank you for the 10% off for tropic air too.
Mike I sent you an email to get started on your transportation needs. Once we settle that then I can help you work out tours.
We have a trip planned for May however we have received warnings about the Sargasso in the water and on the beaches. In doing some research it looks like there was a big issue back in 2016 as well. what are your thoughts on the sargasso? Is it better to come a different time of year to avoid it?
Courtney Sargasso levels are heavier right now. Just like the weather it is impossible to predict it will be like in May. I really cannot tell you regarding picking a different time of year to avoid it. All I can say is personally Sargasso is something I would not change a date over if I was planning to go somewhere where it was an issue.
Never mind Tacogirl! I typed in code taco and it worked! Thanks a bunch!
Anytime Carmen. Always ude current month code no matter when the flight date is.
In an effort to provide better customer service, Tropic Air made flight coupon codes quarterly as of January 2017.
Hi Tacogirl, we are traveling to Belize April 1. Do you have a code for April yet? Thanks so much! It’s awesome that you do this!
Just use March code taco, Carmen. April code will not work until April and will be valid to the end of June.
HI TACOGIRL.
FIRST OF ALL, THANKS FOR YOUR VERY HELP FULL BLOG.
ME AND MY WIFE WILL BE VISITING THE ISLAND FROM 22 APRIL TO 2 MAY THIS YEAR. WE WOULD LIKE TO MEET UP WITH YOU AS WE HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS.
WE ARE ACTUALLY COMING TO THE ISLAND TO SEE IF MY WIFE WILL BE HAPPY TO LIVE ON THE ISLAND PERMANENTLY.
CHEERS LOUIS BRITZ
Cheers Louis. Just shoot me an email closer to time.
waiting for February code?
taco is the current code from Jan – March Gail
glad to have found your blog, making our first trip to Belize June 1st.
Suggestions on best way to get from airport to Caye Caulker?
Thanks
Most people prefer hopping on a Tropic Air flight for the convenience and the view Stacey. Golf Cart Cabs are easily available at tha Caye Caulker Airport and if there is not one waiting they have a list of cabs to call. The other main option used is a $25 cab ride to the water taxi then take the boat.
Hi Tacogirl,
My wife and I have visited Ambergris Caye twice in the last 9 months and we love it. We are considering buying a piece of waterfront land on the WEST side of the island, north of Secret Beach. I’m looking for reliable info sources that might be able to give me insight into the plans for GBE and the area around it with regards to roads, electricity, etc. Even if we buy now, we wouldn’t be looking to move for at least 5 years. But I’m still concerned that there will be little to no progress on development of the west side over that period of time.
Any guidance you can provide will be much appreciated.
-Eric
The west side while remote is still a very cool area Eric. While development may be slower in that area, the popularity of Secret Beach is helping it move along. Got your email answering it now.
This post has some video footage and pictures of the area north of Secret Beach. http://tacogirl.com/2-tickets-to-paradise-on-seas-d-day-boat-charter-belize/
Could I please get coupon code for 10% off tropic air to san pedro?
taco is the code from Jan – Mar 2017 Lorie. You will find the following post of interest it has some good international seat sales and 2 great ways to find cleap flights among other things.
2017 Travel Coupon Codes Flight Sales and 3 Month Calendar
http://tacogirl.com/2017-travel-coupon-codes-flight-sales-and-3-month-calendar/
I emailed you the info pdf, the frequent flyer version, Belize food and shopping coupons and some useful Tropic Air information. Happy Planning and thanks for using tacogirl Tropic Air flight discount.
Emailed you info PDF for current flight discount code Lorie.
Do you have any info on atm golf cart rental
For ATM that is a full day tour and it is best done when staying on mainland. I do not know any companies that offer doing it starting from Ambergris Caye.
I emailed you info for 10% cart rental discount along with current food and shopping travel coupon codes.
Wat are the option to get to the island from Belize city do you know the cost
Thanks
Fly or water taxi are your options Jim. Tropic Air flight from International airport round trip is $315.50 return and water taxi about $50 pricing in Belize Dollars. While boat is cheaper most people opt to fly after a long day of travel and the view is priceless.
I trying to book a flight for Jan 5, 2017 and the code Taco is not working.
Give the system time to kick in as the code may take a short bit to get active since it is holiday.
All the best
Laurie
If I may also add that you can also think about renting a golf cart (50-65 per day). That will save you a lot of money in water taxis and land taxis and allow you to come and go as you please. It is also a fun and adventurous way to see the island. We rented from Mata Granda store in April for $50 US per day and they delivered and picked up to our resort. We also used C & J carts this past trip as well. Have a blast! We love Ambergris and just returned a few days ago from our 2nd trip in 8 months. 🙂
Feel free to reach out with any other questions.
I agree Laura renting a golf cart is a good way to go when you are staying north, that way you are on your own time and free to explore. I do offer a 10% Carts Belize rental discount for those that a better rate on their rentals.
The info here is great!
My partner and I are headed to Ambergris Caye next week, and due to life circumstances causing us to book last minute, options were pretty limited by the time we were ready to commit. We’re going to be staying at the Sapphire Beach Resort, which is further north than your map goes to, and have been told that a taxi there from the ferry would cost $85USD. Does that sound accurate to you?
I am assuming you mean land taxi Yulla. Coastal Xpress water taxi will be a cheaper option for you and they may still offer weekly passes. Cabs charge a lot to go north because there is a toll bridge.
Thank you for putting this blog together, I really like the flow and ease of it!
Do you have any suggestions on how to find a short term rental, other than AirBnB or VRBO. Nothing against them, it just seems that there isn’t that many choices for our price range.
We are not looking for anything super extravagant. Safe area, 1 bedroom, 1 bath, close to the water and near the necessities like a market, and preferably under $1,000 for about four weeks. Is that a realistic request?
We’re hoping to travel between January and March.
We haven’t settled on any one specific spot, but we are looking at doing a vacation slash retirement home search.
Thanks for any suggestions!
Part of the trouble is long and short term rentals have different classifications tax wise. Short term rentals tend to all be hotel type places or the kind that get listed on AirBnB or VRBO. It is easier to find a deal on a long term rental which is 6 months or more. Check your email Angel, I will send you an option.
I got the coupon code for Dec and Jan but we are flying in Feb. Is there a code for Feb yet? Thanks.
If you are booking now please use December code Shelagh. If you are booking in the new year then click link to Jan – March Tropic code and information about the new use friendly quarterly style versus monthly codes http://tacogirl.com/an-early-christmas-present-for-the-world-tacogirl-travel-coupon-codes/ . It also has info on the new food and shopping coupon codes.
Laurie,
Just wanted to say A BIG THANK YOU for your blog and all the info you provide. I was there in May 2016 with my wife to celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary. She had no idea where we were going till we landed in Houston and went to the gate for Belize. Because of all the info you provide I was able to plan several things for us to do.
We plan on coming back next year with the entire family so everyone can enjoy the beauty of Belize and the friendly people.
Hopefully one day we can retire down there, ( I’m working on that) but in the mean time we will just have to visit.
Have a happy holiday and Boxer Day. I really appreciate all that you do to keep us informed about what is going on down in paradise.
Tom
I appreciate that Tom. I am glad you found my blog useful. That is such a great story, I bey your wife loved the surprise. If you have not seen them already check out my new food and shopping travel coupon codes. They will be useful for your net trip. Retirement sounds good 🙂
The promo code “Monkey” for December is showing invalid on the Tropic Air page
Is there another I should be using?
Thank you in advance……
Evening Ginger the glitch has been fixed and monkey code is working. I tried to email you but it bounced back. If you need further help please email me at tacogirlbelize@gmail[dot]com
Hello,
Thanks again for all of the help. I’m trying to book now for flights in January… I’ve tried a few of the codes and none seem to be working. (lizard, monkey, crab, taco, frigate).
Thanks!
Keven always use the current month code no matter when you fly as it changed monthly. Please follow the tech steps in the pdf and if you still need help email me at tacogirlbelize@gmail[dot]com
OK, thanks! I never thought about the donation angle – interesting.
We’re counting the day until we get back again!
Chip
Often there are more angles to consider Chip, glad you found that interesting. Enjoy your countdown to becoming repeat offenders 😉
Silly question, but……
My better half and I visited Ambergris last year on our honeymoon and LOVED it! We’re captivated!
We are planning on coming back in June 2017 and bringing our “accumulated children”, ages 21, 20, 17, 15. (We were both widows when we met.)
The 20 year old loves fishing. Bringing fishing gear from Ohio may be challenging, so I was wondering if you might have any references or ideas for renting or borrowing fishing gear for him while we’re there?
Thanks!
Chip
Moring Chip. I do not know of any rental places off hand. Fishing guides do have pols available for their tours and Captain Sharks in town does sell them. That is a good item to donate to a local if it is easy and cost effective for you to get one at home and bring it down. Not sure the luggage restrictions on items like that now days. A good friend always brought boxes of hooks for his favorite Ambergris Caye fishermen when he vacationed.
Site is a huge help! Heading down to San Pedro with 18 friends January 11-17th. We’re putting together an itinerary now and already have a catamaran trip on the schedule… Any other “must-do’s” for a big group? Thanks!
Glad my site is a huge help to planning your group trip to Belize Kevin. Sending you an email to get more of an idea on what your group is interested in to help give you must do recommends. For now check out Sightseeing in San Pedro (http://tacogirl.com/sightseeing-in-belize/) for a few popular ideas.
Heading to San Pedro Dec 1 via the Chetumal Corozal route , planning on tropic air, love a discount.
And some suggestions on where to stay in san pedro area for honeymoon
Thanks
Hi Darrin.
Thanks for using my tacogirl travel coupon codes for your flight. As for where to stay for honeymoon can you please specify a bit more about what you are looking for? Just shoot me an email with a few more details at tacogirlbelize@gmail[dot]com
All the best
Laurie
HI there. I’m trying to book a flight from Belize City to Placencia return leaving Belize City November 2nd and returning April 17th using the ‘crab’ promo code and it’s not working:( Is it because April is too far off?!
Thanks!
Afternoon Amanda, crab code will not work till November you always need to use current month code to book no matter when you plan to fly. Octobers code is frigate.
Hi TacoGirl. We are travelling to Ambergris Caye in early December, staying at Xanadu. We will have three children with us (ages 5-9). Can you recommend kid-friendly restaurants within walking distance (one picky eater, one adventurous and one in between). Also, will we be able to find breakfast options nearby (I see a cafe called The Baker very nearby), or would we be best to get some breakfast basics delivered? We expect to eat most lunches and dinners out.
Can you also recommend kid-friendly snorkelling/boat tours? We were looking at the Reef Runner glass bottom boat tour, in case our youngest doesn’t want to get in the water. Any others we should consider?
Thanks!
Very close to you but not an eat in place is Sun UP Chinese restaurant and they have great chicken fingers and fries which is a perfect kid meal. The Baker which is in your area is a good spot for breakfast pastry type foods (both sweet and savory options) Mr Deli Just south of Tropic Air and North of Wings dept store has really good breakfast hash brown burritos. Also not far from you Crazy Canucks does great wings, fries and panini sandwiches.
A bit further of a walk easily done on the beach – in town Blue Water Grill, Wild Mangos and Estel’s for breakfast on the beach.
Seaduced by Belize great for snorkeling, I can save you 10% with them if you like. Feedback I recieved on Reef Runner was that it was a fun time, however boat was a bit slow. I would make sure to pack water and a small snack for that one.
Hope that helps.
Flight code for October not working yet..
I just tried frigate code Melanie and the message I got appears Tropic is working on their site. It should be working by tomorrow.
Ah- I missed the step where I had to first select the flight. It works! Thanks so much!
Great Ivy, happy to help 🙂
Tried using lizard to book a December flight but it’s still showing up as regular price :S
I just did a test of lizard for December Ivy and it worked. Try any or all of the simple tech steps listed in PDF to reboot everything and then it should work for you.
Wow thanks for the code, i’ll be booking flights from BZE to san pedro, and san pedro to placencia and back to BZE and you just saved me $75.
want to go to Orange walk to Nahil Mayab can I catch a bus from BC ferry terminal and back to catch a ferry to SP in one day, food looks out of control!!
Depending on your start time and place it is possible Jack. Consider overnight if you can swing it unless you really just want to eat and run. Orange Walk is about 87.2Â km away from Belize City drive time by car about an hour and 20 min according to google. Add time for the for bus. I am not sure if there is an express or not as I have only flown. Belize Bus website can help you in planning the land travel part of your trip. https://belizebus.wordpress.com/
I have heard Nahil Mayab is a great place to eat. Unfortunately it was closed when my friend Kendall and I were there. Try some tacos while you are there – Orange Walk has bragging rights on them because of how they make their corn tortillas.
Congrats Laurie.
Thanks Peter 🙂
Code worked! thanks
Anytime Sharyn.
Hi tacogirl,
Will you have a September code available for Tropic Air?
Thank you!
September code is lizard Hannah. Please email me for code pdf and instructions on using it.
How has the clean up gone? We will be there at the end of September. We are planning on staying near the split so I am curious. Also, will restaurants and bars be open since that is the off season in addition to the recent hurricane? Thanks!
Clean up still going on, lots of old docks that need to be dealt with. Some businesses do closures during low season to have time off and do repairs Nikki.
Just made my flight plans with tropic air. Thanks for the code tacogirl.
Anytime Amy. Safe and Happy Travels 🙂
Please send tropic air discount code. Booking San Pedro to Placencia round trip. Thanks.
Sent you an email with Current Code Cherie.
Would they make a few skirts for me?
Sew What does not do closing Bernadette. Elsa has moved and I am not sure exactly where other than DFC area.
Hope you all are ok after Earl!! We will be in AC for Independence Day! Where do you suggest we go or do? (This is our first trip to Belize)
The big annual Independence day parade on the 21st and party in park after is a must do Lindsay.
We are due to spend a week on Caye Caulker beginning Friday, August 12th. This has me concerned. Are the restaurants open? Is there fresh food available? Should we stay home? Any more information would be helpful.
Things we still be open Lydia. The best way to help us after the hurricane is to come down and have a great vacation.
In our foreign travels we’ve discovered some countries that will refuse to take USD’s that are wrinkled or are not in pristine shape. What is Ambergris Caye’s take on this? Are there USD denominations thare easier for the Belizean entrepreneur to accept and make change for?
Correct Jeannie US currency must be in good shape. Asong as you do it try to cash big bills at smaller places you should be fine. Before long you will build a stock of Belize money.
Great blog post, Laurie, and amazing photos. Glad that Ambergris Caye seems to have weathered the worst of Earl. Hope the visitors keep on coming!
Thanks Emily. So far so good not heard of anyone canceling their trip as of yet. A Guest post by Meandering Fool on Caye Caulker after the storm going on shortly.
kieth…..even my solid concrete house…was shaking.
That must have been a scary feeling.
Thanks so much for all of the information and pix. So sad to see the devastation and know that our new found friends are suffering….wishing all the best to them and the beautiful island.
Sure thing Mary. The island and it’s people are working hard to return to normal as best we can.
Thanks Lori………. I’ve shared on my page asking anyone that can to help.
What is the outcome for the kids for school? I know that may sound a bit funny to some, but I remember the board planks and kids having to walk across them to get into school at times. Also books etc.?
So wishing there was so much more i could do to help…….
Prayers!
Anytime Aileen. Thanks for sharing. Depends which school, areas like San Mateo and San Pedrito will fare a lot worse than town and south area schools and neighborhoods where the kids live.
Thanks for the great info on donation options! I had been looking for that. Shared on my page.
Wish I could be there to help, but looking forward to being back in Belize next month.
Anytime Lily.
Thinking about y’all. Stay safe my friend. xo
Thanks I will.
Argh! I wish I had known this 6 months ago, when this happened to me. My card (mastercard) was first swallowed by the Scotia Bank ATM in San Ignacio, but I was able to get it back and was told it was a machine error. Then I tried the Belize Bank ATM in Benque, which also swallowed my card. I was told it was because my card had been reported stolen, and was unable to get it back– and since I hadn’t reported it stolen, it was confusing for all. I ended up with the hassle of having to cancel the card and get a new one– from the US. So add that to your list- the Scotia Bank ATM in Cayo and the Belize Bank ATM in Benque.
Sorry, that happened Cathleen, I have only ever had Heritage swallow a foreign card from me.
Please let your readers know that the airport on caye Caulker does not handle foreign credit or debit cards.
We were rescued by a lovely American woman who payed cash for tickets for my wife and myself and wished us a Happy Thanksgiving. We were able to pay her back in Belize City and just made our international connections.
Good to know Arthur. I am glad there was a good karma person near by to help you get where you needed to go.
prepare to be safeif you have good neighbours…..assist them.
Thanks for the helpful information. Do you know how ATMs down south are? ie Punta Gorda?
I would be willing to bet it would be a similar situation country wide if all bank branches are standardized on the sane kind of machines at each bank Rebs.
So, would you suggest travellers cheques or US dollars or Belizian Bucks as an alternative?
There are still two good banks to use ATM cards at right now Janelle. I would say that a mix is not a bad idea, though personally I might not do travelers checks and just go with American money and bank and a credit card, Any money you get here is usually going to be Belize Currency from ATM or your change when spending. It is really up to the individual though as what works best for them.
Yikes! Is this only for Canadian Card holders or Americans too? Do you think it affects Paypal debit cards issued in the US?
For paypal cards I I am guessing it would depend if the cards have a chip on them or not in regards to the Belize Bank ATM. Paypal cards should work fine at Atlantic and Scotia Bank.
great info laurie….thanks.
Glad you found it useful Moose. Trying to save as many people as I can from the card eating machine – similar to the Kite eating tree that always got Charlie Brown in the Peanuts comics 🙂
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kite-Eating_Tree)
dan-eileen……..selling out….?
geeeszzzzzzzzzz.
i hope this is going to be total retirement.
good luck….to yah both.
thanks for the blk-chry sorbet….[the best]
thanks for the fun
Eileen thanks for your commitment to the creatures less fortunate.
The winds of change are blowing strong Moose. I just hope who ever buys the shop has as good a version of the custard dream as Dan and Eileen did. They have made thousands of people happy campers over the years.
thanks laurie for posting stuff like this. I am in the process of doing Barbi tours on word press.. but they are presently on trip advisor, and are getting a lot of hits. especially my last trip to gran porto playa del Carmen. if you would like to view them.
I will look them up Barb. Glad you are finding my posts useful.
Is this golf course still open? How do I get in contact with them?
Caye Chapel is not officially open at the moment Merideth. As for contact as far as I know Evan who ran it for years is no longer there.
I love this post and completely agree about the “Go Fund Me” pages.
So sorry to hear about this, Lauri. I will be donating asap.
Thank you for helping the cause Hilary.
Hi! we have been in Holidays in mayan riviera last year with my wife and my 2 kids, and I would like to report a very useful travel services agency based in Playa del Carmen called Cheel-Beh. I really recommend it, if you are looking for some luxury accommodation, concierge service or even to rent a nice boat hourly for such unique experiences as yachting or sport fishing.
Thank you very much,
This is Tammy Lemus.
I am Faith Noel’s mom. I am very proud of her and her thoughts for her fellow students here. She has been raised here since she was four years old and considers herself a local San Pedrana. She had a goal of 80 back packs and raised 89. She donated 19 to the children that were victims of the fire with the school supplies she also received and 70 for the 66 students that high school had determined needed them.
She also took the donation from the Phoenix and got the families of the fire victims all gift certificates to Linos to feed their families.
She has taken on new lunch palapas at the high school that Mr.Alex suggested was a need of the high school. Presently there are only three that over 600 kids are to have lunch and break under every day (two have seats the other doesn’t even have seating to sit at). She has raised money for 5 more palapas (not seating as we were originally told) and they will be being assembled over the next month before school starts for 2016/2017.
Faith also has a school project that will start and is very creative once school is back in session and includes many kids. I personally am very excited for this part!
Please continue your support of the high school students and Faith as Miss SPHS. You can follow her on Facebook on Miss San Pedro High a page she started to show all she is trying to accomplish. The high school kids are the near future of Ambergris Caye and sometimes not always remembered as much as even the Primary school.
Laurie (Taco Girl) is correct. There is no government high school to attend for free. Parents work very hard to send their kids to high school and it is not cheap. They have to pay for books, uniforms as well as tuition and fees.
Thanks. Your coverage of the island is wonderful;. Keep up the great work.
Thanks for the nice compliment Thomas. More great writeups to come.
Good article
I am travelling to san pedro on july 4 for 8 days if you know of anything to do during this time frame please send me an e-mail and if you have any discount coupon it would be appreciated.
Emailed Scott. Dia De San Pedro fair still on in old football field in town. A few regular local things – Tues and Thurs good music at Palapa Bar, Fidos live music nightly, Sunday Jam and Crab races at Crazy Canucks.
We are coming in two weeks and would love to bring donations to help. Anything specific? We’d hate to bring things that aren’t most needed.
Michelle. I would say household items you could get lots at a dollar store type shop for the price compared to here. Another option would be food and groceries here to be handed out. They were also putting a call for Lino’s gift certificates (our local meat shop) so that all the affected families were able to get help in that area.
lauri….u r a jem.
I donated on South Ambergris Caye Neighborhood Watch website and it was super easy! I know they will decide where to best use the funds.
It all goes to the Lions to get distributed Debbie. Many groups working together but they will handle the final counts.
This is heart breaking. Can someone set up an online donation web site for people to go and donate cash?
South Ambergris Caye link to one already set up see in post above. Donations can also be made at any USA Lions Den. All NGO’s here will do their part and turn over to Lions Den.
Hi Laurie, We will be coming back in town next week. We go Southwest and can check two bags free. I typically don’t use that and just pack lightly with a carryon. But in these circumstances, I could pack clothes and shoes for the kids in those extra bags. I’m going to let our renters know and suggest they do the same.
Let me know if there are certain items, otherwise clothes and shoes.
Shoes would be great Pepper, lots of clothing getting donated. Any general house hold items are good too please.they are starting from Scratch. It can all be brought to Lions Den in town.
My family is coming down to San Pedro next week from Los Angeles . What is most needed that we could bring? So sorry to hear about this .
Any household items Mary and shoes. Lots of clothing being donated.
brings tears….to be sure…!!
Sounds like fun.
I am coming to Belize in July; read this post so I just bought 2 back packs & have asked go workers to throw some in, too.
Where can we drop them off?
Great initiative that will be beneficial and help some needy children.
I will be traveling to and from the states and will absolutely bring some bags back!
I agree, the people of the island are so sweet, such a treasure.
Happy to help!
Excellent Rebecca and much appreciated. I tried to surf your back pack it up and go site but it would not load on my phone.
hopefully…all who paid to see/hear those old musicians…had an enjoyable time…and, felt that it was well worth it.
also…
big up to all who try to assist with the safety of the southern residents…when the police , don’t.
Laurie, sadly, this disease, CRPS, has progressed to the point where travel is no longer a possibility. However, I do have the thousands of images that I managed to collect prior. I use them to travel now. As well, I use them to promote awareness of invisible disabilities, in my own little way. Believe me, I’d be chillin’ on the cayes if I could! I expected that my last trip to Belize would be the final adventure of my life, so I picked the country I liked best. After spending months stumping around the land, meeting so many new friends, and seeing beauty everywhere, I could not have made a better choice!
Keep up the great work promoting invisible disabilities. That is sad but at the same time it is cool you did what you did and made the trip of a lifetime. Glad you can use your pics to travel, I know it is not quite the same but still it must bring back the “Belize feeling” inside. After my first trip here in 2004 I made a picture album from our trip and carried it everywhere to keep me focused on, moving here.
Here’s a little update!
While I now have very limited mobility, my time in Belize is following me in unexpected ways.
RareArtist.org is an organization that promotes awareness of artists who live with rare diseases. Last evening, as a part of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) International Convention in San Francisco, RareArtist held a reception to share disabled artists’ submissions from around the world.
One of the featured images was a beautiful Great Egret that I shot on Caye Caulker!
Amazing Ric, congratulations. Your work deserves recognition – so beautious. Any plans for a next trip?
Thank you so much for the wonderful maps and information. Is there something I need to do to get a discount on golf carts? I didn’t see any info on that..
Thank you again!!!!
I can’t wait to see Belize!!
Anytime Debbie. Conrad Villanueva is also good diverconrad@gmail.com He does general boat tours a PADI certified dive instructor and his boat is fully licensed and insured as well. His brother operates same from Placencia both under Pelican Tours. I emailed you cart info which explains reservation process.
What wonderful information!
I emailed you earlier about some discounts on carts. Do you have some for flights as well? Also, I will be staying at Captian Morgans. Would like to take a view of the island from the sea. Can you recommend someone to hire for a day trip to show me around on water?
Thank you
I got your email Debbie. As for a water guy, Eric at uprising tours 662 – 7413 Eric Henkis – He does snorkeling, fishing, picnics, beach bbq, private charters and sunset cruises. I know Captain Morgans used to do a sunset cruise night on Ecologic Divers Catamaran – front desk or tours will be able to arrange it for you.
Hi Tacogirl,
I tried entering the May promo code but it did not work, the price stayed the same. Is there another code I can try?
Thank you,
Shad
I tried May’s puma code Shad, and it is working fine. Did you try all the tech steps listed in the coupon code pdf? Please let me know if you need further assistance.
Thank you so much.
The only thing that stays the same is change – wish The Squirrels Nest hadn’t been enlarged and turned into a marshmallow, wish Pete was still there so my sister could borrow his pants, wish the boys from Journey’s End still visited Crazy Canucks to dance with the tourist ladies but as my dear old aunt used to say ‘If wishes were horses beggars would ride”. Those were the days my friends we hoped they’d never end, but we knew they would. Started visiting San Pedro in 1984. Only guide we ever had was Tulu. Tulu – only the best. Now we visit him in Placencia.
Need discount code. Thanks
Please mail me at tacogirlbelize@gmail to get it Danna
For future, please mail me at tacogirlbelize@gmail to get it Danna. I sent you an email with code and other useful Tropic Air information as well as my new San Pedro Town Map.
i didn’t like the buffet style food situation….
i didn’t like the no wi-fi in the room..
the resort for sure ..is wonderful.
and the staff was way too nice…
Buffet is not for everyone. I enjoyed choosing how much and what I wanted on my plate. As for no wifi in the room, I had it on my phone to keep up with emails but I was in heaven not to have an in room connection. It made me conscious to stay as unplugged as I could and enjoy where I was. That in itself was much needed and very wonderful. I agree staff is great, so were the other guests while we were there. We met the most interesting people and all really nice not one thorn in the bunch 🙂
Hi – Great site.. Tried to obtain the discount code for Tropicair using your site but kept coming back with an unknown error.. If you could email me the code I would appreciate it! Thanks
Emailing you code Steve sorry for any inconvenience.
Also, I’ll add that I’ve worked in the restaurant business here in my hometown of Washington, DC for 10 years now. So I am not without experience to the very competitive world of restaurants/bars.