GUATEMALA, "LAND OF ETERNAL SPRING"

 

By Clay Larroy

A vacation can soothe the soul and leave you renewed, refreshed, and invigorated. Whether you are just now starting to plan your next vacation, or are merely looking for travel ideas and suggestions, read all the articles about travel. So take away some of the stress of making travel plans, and get started thinking about the fun and relaxing times you will soon be having on your next trip! When you are ready to plan an exciting vacation contact me!

 

Travel to Guatemala

Overview

 

The heart of ancient Mayan culture lives on in Guatemala, with a Spanish influence that blends ancient, colonial and modern eras together seamlessly. From the classical Spanish-Baroque architecture in Antigua, exemplified bysuch pieces as the famous fountain, Fuente de Pescado, to the legendary structural wonders of the Mayan temple complex Tikal, each step along Guatemala's quaint cobbled streets and jungle trails leads further into the distant past.

As with many of its Central American neighbors, Guatemala has held onto local customs and cultures while developing its urban hubs to meet modern tourist standards. Party in Guatemala City's business district duringwarm evenings, then travel to the markets in Chichicastenango on a Sunday, a meeting place for traditional artisans and hub for local produce that is bound to entice all travelers with the sensory delicacies of Guatemala's verdant forests, farms and plantations.

Adventurous travelers can hike up Volcan San Pedro, just behind the famous picturesque resort village of San Pedro La Laguna but should note that a local guide is considered essential to conquering the dormant volcano's peak. While the adrenaline junkies are relishing Guatemala's many peaks, other travelers can enjoy a spate of urban sightseeing. The country is also home to a wealth of ancient artefacts and numerous historical sites so history buffs will be in their element. The country has a strong tourism industry and travelers looking for an in-depth and immersive experience into authentic Central American culture should lace up their boots and pack their bags, for they need look no further than Guatemala.

 

Climate in Guatemala

 

Guatemala's climate is lovely year-round and is generally hot throughout the county, making travel possible at any time. The rainy season is generally from May to November, with average temperatures of 72°F (22°C). Climate varies more due to altitude than season; however, it is easier to see the country in the dry season, which runs from November to April and is an ideal time to explore the mountains, rainforests and volcanoes in the country. There are some regional variations, with the highlands, including Guatemala City and Antigua, experiencing less rainfall than the coast, and slightly colder temperatures at night.

 

Health Notes when travelling to Guatemala

 

There are a number of health risks associated with travel to Guatemala and travelers are advised to take the latest medical advice at least three weeks prior to departure. Malaria is prevalent in the low-lying areas outside Guatemala City. Dengue fever is endemic and the Zika virus can be contracted, so strict insect-bite protection measures must be taken. A yellow fever certificate is required from travelers entering the country from infected areas. Hepatitis A and B, and typhoid vaccinations are recommended, as well as an MMR (Measles, mumps and rubella) update. Visitors should be careful what they eat and stick to bottled water, or boil all water before drinking if bottled water is unavailable. Guatemalan hospitals are unlikely to give medical treatment unless the patient has medical insurance or can pay up front. Good travel insurance is therefore essential. State-funded hospitals are best avoided and travelers should only use private clinics where possible. All medication should be accompanied with a signed and dated letter from a doctor explaining what the medication is and why it is needed.

 

Safety Notes when travelling to Guatemala

  

The rate of violent crime in Guatemala is exceptionally high. There has also been a relatively high rate of violent attacks on tourists, especially in remote places and in the capital, Guatemala City, specifically after dark. Visitors need to be particularly vigilant in the central Zone 1 of Guatemala City where most of the cheap hotels and bus terminals are, and in all parts of the city at night. Tourists arriving at Guatemala City airport and travelling to hotels in the business districts have been targeted, so visitors should be extremely alert when leaving the airport. Protest may arise without warning and should be avoided if possible. Pick-pocketing and petty theft are common in tourist areas and market places.

 

Many robberies take place on the cheaper buses when travelling on the tourist routes from Guatemala City to Antigua, and from Antigua to Panajachel, keep all belongings close at hand. There has been reported incidents of attacks, including the sexual assault of female passengers on buses during the day on main routes. Hold-ups by armed gangs occur frequently on city and long distance public buses. Visitors are advised to avoid them if possible. Armed robberies on minor roads around Lake Atitlan have taken place and visitors are advised to use the boat services between towns on the lakeshore. There have also been armed attacks on tourists at Tikal and on the approach road from Flores to Tikal.

 Guatemala's rainy season between April and November usually brings about heavy rain and flooding, mudslides and hurricanes. These mudslides have claimed the lives of many people in recent years and it is best to exercise extreme caution when travelling to areas known for heavy rains and mudslides. Guatemala has active volcanoes, so it is important to always be aware of any volcanic activity

 

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Live a Better Life Travel Often!

        

        

 

GUATEMALA, "LAND OF ETERNAL SPRING"

 

By Clay Larroy

There is nothing more exciting than traveling. Whether you are going for a road trip to see something new in your own state, or heading off to somewhere for the very first time to visit a city you have always dreamed of, there are some travel basics that you should know. Travel in the off seasons from November to April, to avoid crowds, save money and enjoy temperate weather. In those months, many families with children cannot travel due to school commitments, making many tourist attractions much less crowded. This may also result in lower costs for airfare and hotels.  When you are ready to plan a vacation contact me!

 

Overview of Guatemala

 

Guatemala is a small country, lush and mountainous, that is graced with beautiful scenery, a rich indigenous culture, colonial history and important archaeological ruins. The country lies at the heart of the Mayan culture in

Central America with remarkable Mayan sites scattered throughout the land, none more so than the magnificent ruins of the ancient city of Tikal, set deep within the jungle.

The Mayan villages of the highlands are spread amid the breathtaking scenery of smoking volcanoes and spectacular lakes, where ancient customs and traditions persist despite five centuries of European domination.

Their culture is expressed through vibrant weekly markets, bright traditional clothing, fabulous handicrafts, different languages and colorful religious festivals. Lake Atitlán, a beautiful deep lake ringed by volcanoes and Mayan
villages, is a remarkable place combining astounding scenery with traditional culture.

Guatemalan society is split between the traditional and the modern, each following their own path in a country sprinkled with remnants of a colonial past. Nowhere is the Spanish legacy more evident than in the charming city of Antigua with its cobbled streets, plazas and elegant fountains, and towering volcanoes as a backdrop. Interrelations between the Spanish and the native population produced a mixed population, the Ladinos, who have
embraced their European heritage and are typically city folk.

A rough past provides a troublesome background to the country and its people. Inequalities between the Spanish-speaking Indians and indigenous cultures, as well as between rich and poor, have been a source of
tension and discord throughout the years. The violence caused by political differences has left thousands of dead, while the devastation caused by earthquakes has left people homeless and in need of world aid. Despite this,
travelers are drawn to the intriguing mix of cultures and history set amid dramatic scenery, and they generally find the locals friendly, considerate and justifiably proud of their country.
 

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Live Life, Have Fun and Travel Often!

        

        

 

BELIZE, “NATURES EXTRAORDINAIRE”

 

By Clay Larroy

Do you feel like it is time for a short vacation? Once you decide to travel, how good you plan the trip will help you feel comfortable and be comfortable at your destination. Not only will you feel less anxiety before the trip, but you can rest assured that once you arrive where you're going you will have a good understanding of what's going on there.  When you need to plan a vacation contact me!

 

Attractions in Belize City, Belize

Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is the largest island off the coast of Belize, and it's a popular destination for holidaymakers looking for sun and activities in the sparkling Pacific Ocean. The 25-mile-wide (40km) island is long and slender, averaging only one mile (1.6km) in width, and is ringed by white sand beaches with mangrove swamps taking up much of the middle.

The most popular attraction in Ambergris Caye is its lovely beaches, drawing visitors for activities like snorkeling and scuba diving, deep sea fishing, and sail boating. The island is conveniently situated for those wanting to dive at
the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the longest reef in the Western Hemisphere. Hol Chan Marine Reserve is located just south of San Pedro Town, while the Bacalar Chico Reserve is in the north.

Ambergris Caye has a lovely, laid back feel with a notable absence of high-rise resorts, and traffic jams are more likely to be from golf carts than anything else. The largest settlement on Ambergris Caye is San Pedro Town, the only real town on the island with a population of just over 12,000 people. The town is a jumble of small hotels, dive companies and souvenir shops, and there are a few bars and restaurants. While food and drink are notoriously expensive, tourists can travel to nearby Caye Caulker for the annual July Lobsterfest.

 

Mayan Ruins

A little-known fact about Belize is that its central lowlands were the original home of the ancient Maya world - and to this day, travelers to the region can visit the fascinating ruins of ancient Mayan cities, dating back more than 2,000 years. The region's lush, steamy tropical jungle - where the screams of howler monkeys fill the air - is a spell-binding, other-worldly setting in which to view the Ruins, which themselves offer astonishing insights into one of the most famous and most revered of all ancient cultures.

Modern-day Belize contains (among others) the sites of Caracol, Cerros, and Cahal Pech - all of which are significant archaeological locales in the history of Mesoamerican culture.

The ruins at Altun Ha are popular with tourists due to their easy distance from Belize City; the pyramids are well-preserved and feature the unique jade sculpture of the sun god, Kinich Ahau. Lamanai, located in Northern Belize, is the site of some especially picturesque and interesting pyramids, as well as an ancient ball court and other structures. Other popular sites include Tikal, El Pilar, and Xunantunich.

Glovers Reef Atoll

 

A World Heritage Site located just 28 miles (45km) from mainland Belize, Glover's Reef Atoll is one of only four atolls (ring-shaped reefs made of coral) in the western hemisphere, and a truly mesmerizing place to visit. The

partially-submerged coral island, which is also a marine reserve, is 20 miles (about 32km) long, and is home to the richest variety of sea life in the Caribbean. The atoll is ringed with white sand beaches, dotted with coconut trees, and its interior lagoon boasts more than 800 coral patches with pinnacles rising above the water's surface. While Middle Caye and North Caye are uninhabited, there are luxury resorts along Southwest, Northwest, and Long Cayes. Active types can spend all day diving, swimming, snorkeling, and fishing in the turquoise-blue water; Glover's Reef is ideal for scuba diving, and visitors can catch a glimpse of abundant marine life that includes eagle rays, bonefish, groupers, brightly-colored reef fish, and even whale sharks (usually seen between April and June).

If you're not in the mood to be active, the atoll is also the perfect place to just lie on the sand and do nothing at all. One thing is for sure: with its pristine setting, and relative obscurity, Glover's Reef is an undiscovered gem and a honeymoon destination to put all others to shame.

Website: www.glovers.com.bz

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Live Life and Travel Often!

 

BELIZE, “NATURES EXTRAORDINAIRE”

By Clay Larroy

 

When you choose to travel, whether it is for business or pleasure, it is important to plan your trip well before hand. Here are some tips to help you. Don't be afraid to cash in your airline miles. Many travelers let their miles accumulate and never bother using them. Reap the rewards of your traveling and spend the miles you've earned! Miles have expiration dates, so be sure to use them before they expire. Travelling is a great way to use your airline miles.  When you need to plan a vacation contact me!

Overview of Belize City

In Belize nearly, all journeys begin and end in Belize City, the country's biggest urban enclave and port of entry, although in truth not a very enticing tourist destination in itself. Belize City sits in a swamp that stretches across

Haulover Creek at the mouth of the Belize River, crisscrossed with narrow streets and rather smelly canals which are lined with a jolly jumble of buildings, some little more than dilapidated shacks and others attempts at rather pretentious modern stores. In between are some pretty wooden houses and colonial landmark buildings.

 

The city has clung tenaciously onto its muddy roots since it was abandoned as a Mayan fishing camp in the 1600s and taken over by pirates and buccaneers as a logging camp. Late in the 17th century, along came the Spanish, who cut down the mahogany upriver, floated the logs downstream and exported them from the motley little encampment at the river mouth. Later the British established Belize Town, which began the city's formal, rather tragic, passage into modern times. Three times devastated by fires, scourged by disease epidemics, flattened by hurricanes and tidal waves, the city somehow survived and today, in the new millennium, it subsists on tourism and fishing, remaining the cultural, commercial, and social center of Belize despite the capital having been moved to Belmopan in 1969.

Most visitors to Belize City come ashore on tenders from dozens of luxury cruise liners which include the city in their itineraries, mainly to allow passengers to take adventure excursions to see and experience the wonderful natural attractions of the interior and coastline of Belize. Cruise passengers are welcomed at the showpiece Belize Tourism Village, where courtyards and attractive buildings contain a variety of restaurants, souvenir shops, craft stalls, and other facilities to cater for their needs. It is the departure point for numerous land and marine tours.

 Independent visitors to Belize also generally start their exploration of the country in Belize City, and can find some sights of interest to fill a few days layover in the town, including the world's only manually operated swing bridge, some colonial architectural treasures like the Paslow Building, the novel St John's Cathedral built by slaves from bricks brought as ballast in ships from Europe, and the art gallery at the Bliss Institute, bequeathed to the city by British Baron, Henry Bliss, who died on his yacht in the harbor. Also well worth a visit are the Maritime Museum and Museum of Belize.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Live, Love and Travel to create memories that will last a lifetime!

        

 

 

BELIZE, “NATURES EXTRAORDINAIRE”

By Clay Larroy

 

Travel is so much more that simply hopping on a flight to a new destination. If you plan it correctly, it could be a thrilling time you'll never forget. Planning a trip is fun as there are tons of things to do and see. Do you know how to plan a trip effectively? Packing light is key to making your travels as easy and free of stress as possible. Bring one carryon bag that includes everything you need, not necessarily everything you want. Your smart packing will pay off when you are happily carrying one bag around on vacation instead of lugging around multiple bags. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Overview of the Attractions in Belize

 

Belize is an under-the-radar travel destination that's growing in popularity, with more and more tourists drawn to the exotic locale by its many attractions. Sandwiched between the steaming jungles of the Amazon and the sparkling coastline of the Pacific, there are plenty of attractions in Belize to tempt travelers. Belize is home to a number of ancient ruins from the Mayan civilization, and touring these sites is a popular activity. Ranging from mysterious pyramids to ancient ball courts and ornate temples, there are a few sites that are within easy distance of the major cities and are worth visiting. These areas are also great for activities like hiking and horseback riding.

The coast of Belize is another kind of paradise, with sparkling beaches and the world's second-longest barrier reef. Scuba diving is a popular activity in Belize and gives visitors the chance to come face to face with marine life like stingrays, whale sharks, sea turtles, and colorful reef fish.

Port of Call - Belize Harbor

Belize City, the largest city in the nation of Belize, is also the main port, attracting cruise liners to its rugged jungle backdrop and amazing array of sights under surrounding tropic waters. Top attractions are divided between the sea and land and include snorkeling or diving over the beautiful Barrier Reef, the second largest reef in the world, and a visit to the Altun Ha, an excavated Mayan temple.

Belize Harbor itself is too shallow for cruise liners to dock at the city pier so ships anchor a surprising distance away from the city. Fast tenders transport passengers from the cruise liners to the Fort Street Tourism Village located directly in downtown Belize where most amenities can be found within three terminals.

Shopping in Belize Harbor

Most the shopping is limited to the Front Street Tourism Village where a crafts market and shops spread over three terminals. There are a few shops downtown although many of the same goods are available in the Tourism Village.

Best Buy: The shopping is limited, but there are great local crafts on offer. Avoid items made from coral and sea turtle shell.

Dining in Belize Harbor

The Jerk Shack - Simple and delicious local jerked chicken. Belamari at Seashore - International cuisine with a great view. Taka Kitchen - Popular sushi spot, with a variety of Asian dishes.

Best Dish: Jerked chicken.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Live Life and Travel to create marvelous memories!

        

BELIZE, “NATURES EXTRAORDINAIRE”

By Clay Larroy

 

Traveling can be a great way to meet new people and experience other cultures. New friends are waiting to meet you in places you have only dreamed of traveling. It can be a wonderful way to see all that the world has to offer. Travel can be a hobby and an adventure that will lead you to unexpected places.  When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

 

Safety Notes when travelling to Belize

Although most visits to Belize are trouble-free, there have been incidents of tourists falling victim to violent crime. Muggings have been reported in San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Placencia, and in parts of Belize City. Visitors

should take sensible precautions to minimize the risks. These would include not wearing expensive jewelry, keeping valuables out of sight, staying in groups, avoiding dark alleys, and not walking alone on the beach at night.
It is also advisable to use qualified guides for exploratory trips off the beaten track. The country is prone to hurricanes between June and November.

Customs in Belize

 

Homosexuality is illegal and considered to be socially unacceptable.

Duty Free in Belize

Travelers over 18 years do not have to pay customs duty on 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250g tobacco; wines or spirits not exceeding one liter and personal goods or souvenirs to the value of 200 BZD. Restricted items include plants, meat and meat products, live animals and processed food items.

Doing Business in Belize

Belize has a fairly informal business style, although punctuality and politeness are appreciated. Handshaking, the exchanging of business cards and some small talk is expected before getting down to business. Dress is usually casual, but neat, with men in short-sleeved, collared shirts without a tie; however, government-related business is more formal. Business hours are usually 8am to 12pm and 1pm to 5pm Monday to Friday.

Communication in Belize

The international dialing code for Belize is +501. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). The area code for Belize City is (0)2. International Direct Dialing is available.

Mobile telephone coverage is available throughout most of the country with the Belize Telemedia Ltd GSM 1900 network, and cellphone rental is available. There are two Internet service providers in Belize, with Internet cafes in urban centers and tourist areas. Postal services are reliable.

Tipping in Belize

Tipping in Belize is voluntary but as in any country, good services should be rewarded with a 10 percent tip. Upscale hotels and resorts may add a 10 percent service charge to guests' bills and this usually goes to the porter

and maid who assisted you. Tour guides should be tipped a few extra dollars for their effort and taxi drivers should be tipped only if they help carry your bags or take you on a guided tour.

Passport/Visa Note

All visitors to Belize (except cruise ship passengers) must produce a passport valid for at least the period of their intended stay. We recommend, however, that passports be valid for six months after departure from holiday

destinations. All visitors should also have return tickets and documents for onward travel, and funds amounting to US$50 per person per day. Visas are usually granted on arrival for 30 days but extensions are usually possible for
a fee.

 

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Travel to create marvelous memories for you and your family or friends!

        

 

 

BELIZE, “NATURES EXTRAORDINAIRE”

By Clay Larroy

 

In the world of traveling, there are plenty of great resources available to both new and experienced travelers alike. There are many websites, guides, books, videos, and other resources available. By writing this blog I hope that I am providing valuable information about wonderful vacation destinations. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

 

Travel to Belize

 

Overview

Belize is an under-the-radar travel destination that's growing in popularity, with more and more tourists drawn to the exotic locale by its many attractions. Sandwiched between the steaming jungles of the Amazon and the sparkling coastline of the Pacific, there are plenty of attractions in Belize to tempt travelers.

Belize is home to a number of ancient ruins from the Mayan civilizations, and touring these sites is a popular activity. Ranging from mysterious pyramids to ancient ball courts and ornate temples, there are a few sites that are within easy distance of the major cities and are worth visiting. These areas are also great for activities like hiking and horseback riding.

The coast of Belize is another kind of paradise, with sparkling beaches and the world's second-longest barrier reef. Scuba diving is a popular activity in Belize, and gives visitors the chance to come face to face with marine life like stingrays, whale sharks, sea turtles, and colorful reef fish.

Climate in Belize

Belize weather features a temperate climate marked by two distinct seasons, the rainy and the dry. There is a notable transition from the one to the next. Rainfall during the rainy season occurs between June and November

with rainfall averages ranging between 60 inches (1,524mm) in the north to 160 inches (4,064mm) in the south. Except for the southern regions, the rainfall is variable from year to year. Average temperatures range from 81°F
(27°C) along the coast to 69°F (21°C) in the hills. The coldest month is January and the warmest temperatures are experienced in May.

 

Health Notes when travelling to Belize

No vaccinations are required for entry to Belize. Travelers arriving from a yellow-fever infected area require a vaccination certificate. Cases of dengue fever have occurred, and seem to be on the increase, so insect repellent is

strongly advised. Malaria prevention is recommended for those travelling outside Belize City. Potable water is available in most areas of Belize but it is advisable, if in doubt, to drink bottled or boiled water. Medical facilities are
poor in the city, and almost non-existent elsewhere. Cases of severe illness or injury usually require expensive medical evacuation. Adequate medical insurance is therefore vital. For divers there is a hyperbaric chamber at
Ambergris Caye.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Travel  have fun and create wonderful memories for your family!

        

BELIZE, “NATURES EXTRAORDINAIRE”

By Clay Larroy

Across the America many couples are having wonderful wedding after months of planning. The bride and groom will need a honeymoon to rest and recuperate.  Vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with each other in a stress free relaxed environment. Couples that take vacations together build memories that will last a lifetime. Couples vacations and travel can be a most rewarding experience. When you wantto plan a vacation contact me!

 

Belize

Belize is a small country of roughly 8,000 square miles (20,000km sq). It is located on the Caribbean coast between Mexico and Guatemala: an exotic, English-speaking, adventurer's paradise, just a couple of hours away from three major United States cities. Almost half the country has been preserved as nature parks and reserves, including tropical forests teeming with wildlife and hiding mysterious Mayan ruins, and 174 miles (280km) of coastline featuring the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere.

The reef and the country's numerous offshore cays, or atolls, have made this one of the world's most desirable destinations for scuba divers and marine researchers. They come to explore unique features like the famous 'Blue Hole', a collapsed submerged cave 1,000 feet (305m) in diameter and 412 feet (126m) deep.

Archaeologically Belize is fascinating too, having been the site of mighty Mayan cities from around 1,000 BC until the inexplicable disintegration of that great civilization around 900 AD. There are believed to be thousands of Mayan ruins in Belize, of which about 600 have been discovered and excavated, many now open to tourists. Like most Caribbean countries Belize was occupied by British and Spanish colonialists over the centuries before gaining independence (only lately recognized by neighboring Guatemala which laid claim to the territory) in 1981.

Today it is a happy-go-lucky multi-ethnic nation of warm, friendly people, very welcoming of the tourists on whom the country's economy relies heavily. The main urban city (although not the capital) is Belize City, which offers some attractions like a zoo, museum, historic buildings and the Maya site of Altun Ha. Mainly, Belize is a destination for the outdoor enthusiast and active traveler and visitors should not expect urban adventure. There are not many nightclubs, expensive shopping venues or fancy restaurants, but there is plenty of scope for diving, snorkeling, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, and exploring.

 

Currency

The unit of currency is the Belize Dollar (BZD), which is fixed against the US$ as BZ$2 = US$1. Most tourist resorts, hotels, restaurants and tour operators accept US currency. Credit cards are also accepted, and most banks in Belize City and Belmopan will advance cash against Visa or MasterCard. When using credit cards most establishments will add a five percent service charge to the bill. First Caribbean International Bank has several ATMs in Belize City. Always make sure you understand which dollar rate is being quoted, either Belize Dollars or US Dollars.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Travel  and create magnificent memories for your family!