Tag: Belize

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Xunantunich

This ancient Mayan site is 70 miles west of Belize City located atop a ridge on the Mopan River within proximity of the Guatemala border. The first modern explorations of the area were conducted in the mid-1890’s, and according to our guide [Jerson] excavations are still taking place. They have revealed small family-based villages [residential groups] and farms that spread out over the landscape.

Xunantunich was built as a ceremonial center at the end of the Late Classic Maya Period around 600 AD, but the site has a long settlement history dating to the Early Pre-Classic [1300-1000 BC] period. The property encompasses 22 acres with the center being relatively small in comparison to the overall structure. Our guide barely touched on the specific rituals that took place, but indicated sacrifices were amongst the protocols.

Though the area is steeped in history, it was breathtaking to be able to hike and climb the ruins or see archeologist tucked into a space unearthing finds for the day.
For additional information pop over to Yoair Blog for more travel information on Central America.

Travel safely,
Kathleen

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Island LIving

Rainbow after the storm.
Colorful houses along the streets were most intriguing.
Watching the wind pick up through the palm trees.
Swimming with our Niki de Saint Phalle float, while the winds from Hurricane Elsa literally made my hair stand on end!!
A wonderfully refreshing chocolate shake from the “Belize Chocolate Company” on those 83 degree days with 85% humidity…..whew! They press their own cocoa butter from beans to create a 70% dark Kakaw Belizean chocolate, and let me say it’s delicious!

The days appear to be passing by but there is still time to get out and enjoy summer! I don’t necessarily treasure the long days and sunshine like I did in my youth, the thought of being in direct sunlight gives me the “willies”, but it is important to take time for yourself.

Our recent trip to Belize presented an opportunity for each of us to reset, unwind and just enjoy the spectacular opportunities offered, such as snorkeling, hiking the jungle or relaxing on the beach. Walking through the town of San Pedro or in Belize City you observe a diverse society that’s composed of many cultures and languages ….reflecting the countries rich history.

While at “Secret Beach” on Ambergris Caye we found a quiet spot with very few people, excellent food, and crystal blue waters with no sargassum [sea grass].

It was great seeing people travel again after being cooped up due to the pandemic. We all deserve to get away and with safety precautions in place it can be accomplished. Don’t let packing and traveling feel foreign, I surprised myself by keeping up with the patterns of the airport!!!

Enjoy,
Kathleen

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