Everything you need to know about Belize: news, reviews, in-depth analysis, opinion and more
Belize: Central American Country under British Control
Belize had been under the control of Mayan Empire and till date it preserves the important sites of Mayan civilization such as that of late postclassical ceremonial constructions and at places like Caracol, Lamanai, Altun Ha and many others. Its modern history dates back to 1638-40 when it came under British control. Britain still retains control over Belize’s Defence, Foreign relations and Internal Security. Belize with capital Belmopan is a melting pot of cultures consisting of Mestizos, Creoles, East Indians, German Mennonites, Lebanese and others. Despite the diversity, English is its official language though Spanish is the most popular one. Belize has many pristine white, sandy beaches and famous towns like Caye Caulker, San Pedro, San Ignacio and Ambergris.
Belize fast-facts:
The climate of Belize is generally tropical in nature characterized by hot and humid temperature along with the rainy season, which lasts from May to February. The average temperature ranges from 24 degree to 27 degree Celsius in the month of July. The northeast trade winds have a moderating effect on the climate, which originates from the Caribbean coast.
Belize’s economy is largely based on agriculture and it produces bananas on large scale along with Cane sugar, citrus, seafood and fish products and exports the same. Besides this, the country’s economy is also supported by Tourism as it offers numerous islands, exotic wildlife and rich architectural ruins of Mayan Empire.
Culture and Cuisine of Belize:
Belize comprises motley of different ethnicities such as Creoles, Garifuna, Mayans and a blend of Chinese and Lebanese. Another cultural aspect consists of mystical healing and Obeah, which is associated with evil Shaman practices. Moreover, the natives are known for their love of indigenous as well as modern music such as Punta genre of Garifuna music and Brukdown related to Calypso.
Belize has a varied cuisine corresponding to different ethnicities. The seafood forms an important part of Belizean meal besides bread, flour tortillas or fry jacks. Lobster, shrimp and conch are the easily available foods in Belize. The Mayan’s favourite dish is called Caldo and they also use recado and corn. While the Garifuna’s are particularly fond of cassava and seafood.
Tourist Attractions in Belize:
Belize has a lot more to offer in terms of ecological diversity and archaeological sites. The major archaeological sites are at Lubaantun, Caracol and Xunantunich. Besides this its Cayo district has the most magnificent scenic sites offering lush green forests, mystery abounded caves, mesmerizing waterfalls and enchanting hillsides. Then there is a Cockscomb Basin which homes the endangered species of Jaguar. The Ambergris Caye Marine reserve is a must visit for anyone wanting to travel to Belize.
Some other Places to Visit in Belize are:
Guatemala City, April 30 (IANS/EFE) A time capsule that will not be opened until 2065 has been created by officials in Guatemala who drew their inspiration from the ancient Mayan civilization.
New Delhi, March 27 (IANS) The sounds of Indian drums and music resounded in Belize during a cultural festival held earlier this month to commemorate the arrival of Indians in the Central American country more than 150 years ago. Indians were taken to Belize in the mid-19th century to work on the sugarcane and banana plantations and in the logging industry.
Port of Spain (Trinidad), March 8 (IANS/CMC) Trinidad and Tobago will play two Central American opponents later this month as they continue preparations for the CONCACAF Gold Cup in July.
Belize City (Belize), Feb 17 (IANS) India has presented 50 computers to a college in Belize City, the largest city in this Central American nation, a "timely gesture", a college official said, that would help the institution realise its dreams of becoming the premier educational institution in the country.
London, Jan. 15 (ANI): Hollywood will bring the bizarre story of technology pioneer John McAfee, who fled his luxury home in Belize after his neighbour was found murdered, on the big screen.
London, Dec. 22 (ANI): Anti-virus software pioneer John McAfee has revealed how he wants to start a new life in the UK with his two young girlfriends.
London, Dec. 13 (ANI): Anti-virus software pioneer John McAfee has arrived in the United States after being deported by Guatemala.
Guatemala City, Dec 13 (IANS/EFE) US software guru John McAfee, who fled here last week from neighbouring Belize where authorities want to question him about a murder, was deported to the US Wednesday, a Guatemalan official said.
London, Dec. 12 (ANI): British-born computer software pioneer John McAfee has said that he is expecting to be released from his Guatemala City cell.
Washington, Dec. 12 (ANI): Anti-virus software pioneer John McAfee, who has been on the run in Central America, has sold the intellectual rights of his life story to TV production company in Montreal, Impact Future Media.
Sydney, Dec. 10 (ANI): Anti-virus software pioneer John McAfee has said that he wanted to return to the United States and 'settle down to whatever normal life' he can.
London, Dec 8 (ANI): Popular viral video 'Charlie bit my finger' has hit half a billion views on the Google-owned YouTube.
Washington, Dec. 8 (ANI): Anti-virus software pioneer John McAfee has been granted a stay on his deportation to Belize, where authorities want to question him about the killing of a neighbor, his lawyer has confirmed.
London, Dec. 7 (ANI): Anti-virus software pioneer John McAfee was reportedly rushed to a Guatemala hospital after his request for political asylum in the country was rejected.
Founder of anti-virus company McAfee, John McAfee was hospitalized in a hospital in Guatemala after a chest pain complain.
Guatemala City, Dec 7 (IANS/EFE) US software guru John McAfee was hospitalized here Thursday after complaining of chest pain as Guatemalan authorities prepared to deport him to neighbouring Belize, where police want to question him in connection with a murder.
London, Dec. 6 (ANI): The creator of the McAfee anti-virus software, John McAfee, who was wanted by authorities in Belize in connection with the murder of his neighbour, has been arrested in Guatemala, accused of entering the country illegally.
Guatemala City, Dec 6 (IANS/EFE) US software tycoon John McAfee Wednesday, via his attorney, presented a formal asylum request to Guatemala arguing that he is being "politically persecuted" by the government of Belize, the country where he settled in 2008.
Wellington, Dec. 5 (ANI): Anti-virus software pioneer John McAfee, who is wanted by authorities in Belize in connection with the murder of his neighbour, has said that he is planning to seek for asylum in Guatemala because he fears persecution in Belize.
Sydney, Dec. 4 (ANI): Anti-virus software pioneer John McAfee, who was wanted by authorities in Belize for his neighbour's murder, has claimed that he escaped the country by using an elaborate plan involving a body double.
Sydney, Dec. 2 (ANI): Anti-virus software pioneer John McAfee, who was wanted by authorities in Belize for his neighbour's murder, has been captured after weeks on the run, according to his blog.
Washington, November 27 (ANI): A new species of hermit crab recently discovered on the barrier reef off the coast of Belize has been named Areopaguristes tudgei - after the American University biologist who first found it.
London, Nov 23 (ANI): The creator of the McAfee anti-virus software, John McAfee, claims to have a recording of a former employee plotting to kill him by planting a bomb at his beachside villa in Belize.
Washington, Nov. 18 (ANI): The creator of the McAfee anti-virus software, John McAfee, wanted by Belize Police for questioning in connection with the murder of a neighbour and fellow American expatriate, has revealed where he has been hiding for the past six days - his own compound.
Washington, Nov 13 (ANI): The creator of the McAfee anti-virus software, John McAfee, is wanted by Belize Police for questioning in connection with the murder of a neighbour and fellow American expatriate.
Washington, Nov 10 (IANS/EFE) Climate change contributed to the decline of the Maya people, according to an article in the latest issue of Science magazine based on studies by a team of archaeologists investigating rainfall levels in southern Belize.
Washington, Nov. 9 (ANI): The collapse of the Maya is one of the world's most enduring mysteries, but new findings suggest that decades of extreme weather crippled, and finally decimated, first, the political culture and later ancient Maya's human population.
Washington, Oct 5 (IANS) Effective teamwork at the top management (TMT) level makes employees happier and more productive, with positive benefits accruing to the organisation, says a study.
Bad News for Delhiites and those who are willing to visit the national capital of India, as according to a latest survey, New Delhi has been ranked amongst the most hated cities for tourists owing to having a high number of cons and endless incidents of travelers and locals at everywhere.......
Washington, Sep 4 (ANI): India's capital New Delhi has been declared the eighth 'most hated city' in the world for having a high number of cons and endless incidents of travelers as well as locals being fleeced at airports, train stations, hotels and everywhere else, a recent survey has revealed.
London, Aug 9 (IANS) The wedding day is termed as the "happiest day" in one's life and you can't ever have enough of happiness. A British couple is celebrating their wedding by having 22 ceremonies in different countries -- and they still have eight more to go.
Washington, Aug 9 (IANS) Turkey, one of the most widely consumed birds worldwide, was domesticated by the ancient Mayans, more than 1,000 years earlier than previously believed.
Melbourne, June 18 (ANI): If you are planning for a holiday and want to ensure it a happy one, Costa Rica could be the best place to go.
Washington, June 2 (ANI): Children who are exposed to open-fire cooking in developing countries experience difficulty with memory, problem-solving and social skills, a new study has revealed.
New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) St Vincent and the Grenadines, a string of small islands in the Caribbean, celebrated its Indian heritage on a grand scale Friday. A commemorative function and an international conference on the Indian diaspora were held on what is officially recognised as Indian Arrival Day, according to the organisers.
London, May 25 (ANI): Kate Upton's breasts came dangerously near to escaping in a new promo for a bikini chain.
New York, May 24 (ANI): Kate Upton has shot a series of sexy images for the swimwear brand Beach Bunny.
Monterrey (Mexico), May 13 (IANS/EFE) At least 49 mutilated bodies were found on the side of a highway in Cadereyta, a city in the northern Mexican state of Nuevo Leon, police said.
London, Mar 5 (ANI): Nancy Dell'Olio, who participated in the latest season of 'Strictly Come Dancing', has flown out to Jamaica to meet Prince Harry as he conducts his Caribbean tour.
London, Mar 5 (ANI): Nancy Dell'Olio, who participated in the latest season of 'Strictly Come Dancing', has flown out to Jamaica to meet Prince Harry as he conducts his Caribbean tour.
London, Mar 4 (ANI): Prince Harry, who was hoping to shed his playboy prince image on his first solo royal tour to the Caribbean, drank cocktails and danced with local lovelies as he attended a street party in Belmopan, the capital of Belize.
London, Mar 4 (ANI): Prince Harry, who was hoping to shed his playboy prince image on his first solo royal tour to the Caribbean, drank cocktails and danced with local lovelies as he attended a street party in Belmopan, the capital of Belize.
London, Feb 2 (ANI): Prince Harry, who plans to meet Usain Bolt during his Diamond Jubilee tour of the Caribbean and Central America next month, will also be travelling to Brazil to take part in a beach volleyball tournament.
London, Feb 2 (ANI): Prince Harry, who plans to meet Usain Bolt during his Diamond Jubilee tour of the Caribbean and Central America next month, will also be travelling to Brazil to take part in a beach volleyball tournament.
London, Feb 1 (ANI): Prince Harry, who is set to meet Usain Bolt in Kingston during his first solo foreign tour next month, wishes to face the 100m world record holder for a race on the tracks.
London, Feb 1 (ANI): Prince Harry, who is set to meet Usain Bolt in Kingston during his first solo foreign tour next month, wishes to face the 100m world record holder for a race on the tracks.
London, Dec 15 (ANI): The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are all set to visit South Pacific during a world tour by the Royal Family to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.
London, Nov 8 (ANI): The scientists have revealed how Maya lowlands, which were one of the most densely populated areas in the world during ancient Maya Classic period (250 - 900 AD), sustained its population.
Nevada (US), Oct 29 (ANI): Hindus have applauded the decision of granting girls equal rights to British throne succession.
London, Sept 16 (ANI): Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff and Jason Gardiner have starred in Discovery Channel's new series 'Alone In The Wild'.
Washington, Mar 6 (ANI): Abraham Lincoln had told freed slaves that they should found a colony in Latin America, and also urged Britain's help in proving land to these slaves in British Honduras, now Belize, a new book has claimed.
London, Mar 6 (ANI): Abraham Lincoln made contact secretly with the British to help found a colony in the then British Honduras, now Belize, for freed slaves, reveals a new book.
London, Feb 12 (ANI): Late President of the United States Abraham Lincoln, who is revered as the great champion of America's slaves, had wanted to deport slaves to toil in British colonies in the Caribbean, reveals a new book.
Washington, Feb 5 (ANI): Using modern genetic analysis, combined with traditional examination of morphology, scientists at the Smithsonian Institution and the Ocean Science Foundation have discovered that what were once thought to be three species of blenny in the genus Starksia are actually 10 distinct species.
London, Dec 22 (ANI): LittleGossip.com, a website that allows students to spread malicious rumours about fellow pupils' looks, sex lives and drug habits, has become a big hit in Britain.
London, Nov 05 (ANI): Just days after getting out of rehab, Charlie Sheen spent three days off his face at a holiday villa - with six bikini-clad babes he flew in by private jet.
New York, Nov 4 (ANI): A new report has claimed that Charlie Sheen allegedly had a booze-filled binge in Belize in early October, before his coke-and-booze fueled bender at the Plaza Hotel last week.
Washington, July 27 (ANI): Sharks' finely serrated teeth and their ability to smell blood is fearsome enough, and now scientists have claimed that one can even get harmed by touching the skin of a shark-by bacterial infection.
Washington, July 23 (ANI): A team of divers mapping some of the 25 freshwater pools of Cara Blanca, Belize, has found fossilized animal remains, bits of pottery and - in the largest pool explored - an enormous underwater cave.
Washington, April 21 (ANI): Illiterate Maya people had a novel way of recording their histories - they buried family items and even relatives under their homes.
Washington, Feb 10 (ANI): In a new study, scientists have determined that bats have no trouble flying under the influence of alcohol.
Washington, Nov 13 (ANI): A new cross-cultural study has shown that societal and technological changes do affect children's thinking skills.
Kolkata, Oct. 24 (ANI): An exhibition of wildlife coins in Kolkata is proving to be a major attraction for wildlife enthusiasts.
Kolkata, Oct. 24 (ANI): An exhibition of wildlife coins in Kolkata is proving to be a major attraction for wildlife enthusiasts.
London, October 14 (ANI): Remarkable slow-motion footage has revealed two lizards walking on water, which is a seemingly impossible feat.
Washington, October 6 (ANI): Scientists have discovered seven new glow-in-the-dark mushroom species, increasing the number of known luminescent fungi species from 64 to 71.
Washington, September 14 (ANI): A team of expert divers, a geochemist and an archaeologist is all set to become the first to explore the sacred pools of the southern Maya lowlands in rural Belize.
Washington, July 22 (ANI): A new study has shown that bleached corals bounce back to normal growth rates more quickly when they have clean water and plentiful sea life at their side.
Washington, June 24 (ANI): A new scientific study has found that as global warming whips up more powerful and frequent hurricanes and storms, the world's coral reefs face increased disruption to their ability to breed and recover from damage.
Washington, June 20 (ANI): In a new study, a scientist and her team have explored various means by which individuals and communities are responding to weather and climate change.
London, June 6 (ANI): A study of the giant trees and beautiful flowers depicted in Maya art has identified which plants they held sacred.
Tegucigalpa, May 28 (DPA) At least one person was killed and scores of others were injured when a 7.1-magnitude quake hit Honduras early Thursday, radio reports said.
Tegucigalpa, May 28 (DPA) A strong quake measuring at least 7.1 on the Richter scale struck offshore from the Central American country of Honduras early Thursday.
Balancan (Mexico), May 28 (EFE) Archaeologists have discovered an ancient Maya river port dating back to 600 B.C. in southeast Mexico.
Guatemala City, May 15 (EFE) At least six people were killed when a small plane crashed into a house in the Guatemalan capital, authorities said.
Havana, April 21 (DPA) Cuban leader Fidel Castro Monday complained that the weekend Summit of the Americas in Trinidad and Tobago was held in 'secret'.
Port of Spain, April 19 (EFE) Latin American leaders who gathered here for the Fifth Summit of the Organisation of the Americas (OAS), Sunday favoured the return of Cuba into the grouping and urged the US to end its economic blockade on the island nation.
Mexico City, March 31 (DPA) Mexico plans to begin construction of a space port to send satellites in space this year, an official said Monday.
Washington, February 16 (ANI): Gwyneth Paltrow and hubby Chris Martin may have shown their support for the green campaigns, but a recent survey claimed that their London mansion was "leaking" energy.
London, Dec 31 (IANS) Harrison Ford starrer 'Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull' has topped the 2008 poll of the most gaffe-filled movies.
Washington, Nov 13 (ANI): Archaeologists have discovered a labyrinth filled with stone temples and pyramids in 14 caves, some of which are underwater, on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, which according to Maya myth, might be the portal to hell.
Washington, Oct 9 (ANI): Scientists have obtained geochemical clues about the composition of volcanic ash used in Maya pottery between the 7th and 10th centuries, which could also help them determine where potters obtained their raw materials.
Washington, August 2 (ANI): Scientists have discovered a new Manta Ray species that is a highly migratory animal wandering the world's seas.
London, July 21 (ANI): The over-stretched and under-manned British Army is all set to spread its wings to enrol more Caribbean youngsters.
London, July 6 (ANI): Stuffed toy Dai has travelled nearly 200,000 miles around the world - and met stars like Westlife and Lemar.
Washington, June 26 (ANI): A new Queen's University-led study has shown that migrating songbirds take their survival cues from local winged residents when flying through unfamiliar territory.
