THE SAN PEDRO SUN VISITOR GUIDE - Ambergris Caye · December 30 , 2004 Visitor Guide Page 3 Celebrate the New Year! Dance The Night Away to the Awesome Beat of DJ Lucky!! Feast! Scrumptious

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December 30, 2004

THE SAN PEDRO SUNTHE SAN PEDRO SUNTHE SAN PEDRO SUNTHE SAN PEDRO SUNTHE SAN PEDRO SUN

VISITOR GUIDEVISITOR GUIDEVISITOR GUIDEVISITOR GUIDEVISITOR GUIDETHE SAN PEDRO SUNTHE SAN PEDRO SUNTHE SAN PEDRO SUNTHE SAN PEDRO SUNTHE SAN PEDRO SUN

VISITOR GUIDEVISITOR GUIDEVISITOR GUIDEVISITOR GUIDEVISITOR GUIDEHappy New Year!Happy New Year!Happy New Year!Happy New Year!Happy New Year!

Reservations: 501-226-2012Fax: 501-2262338Email: [email protected]

www.tropicair.com

Adventures inabundance fromSan PedroVisitors to San Pedro have no prob-lem finding adventure. Many arriveon the docks at sunrise, ready for thelocal guides to wisk them away on anew adventure. Whether the outing isjust a two-hour trip to the MarineReserve, or a 12-hour excursion tothe mainland, tourists seldom run outof new sites to see and journeys toexplore. Our Visitor Guide providesinformation about these many tripsand prepares you so that you willhave the best experience possible.

Page 2 Visitor Guide December 30, 2004

Where do you read your San Pedro Sun?

Don McKenna and his wife Lorraine enjoy subscribing to TheSan Pedro Sun. Recently they took their paper along on a trip tothe Horseshoe Falls, which are on the Canadian side of NiagaraFalls. Don says when the photo was taken, the temperature wasa cool minus 11 degrees celcius. He said they are looking for-ward to coming back to San Pedro in March.

Where did you take your San Pedro Sun & Visitor Guide?Take a photo of you and the paper and send it to us at:[email protected]. Photos taken in unique and unusualplaces are preferred. Be sure to identify who is in the photo andwhere the photo was taken.

The Mayor, Councilors and people of SanPedro Town take this opportunity to wel-come you with open arms to this beautifuljewel of ours. May your stay here with us be a pleas-ant one, filled with enjoyment and delight-ful memories. May you experience the best of what SanPedro has to offer. We hope that duringyour stay you’ll find San Pedro to be yourhome away from home. Feel free to ex-plore “La Isla Bonita” and see the genuine beauty and warm hospi-tality we have to offer. We are more than happy to have you visiting us, may the memoryyou will hold of this place be an everlasting and cherishable one. Once again welcome and please enjoy your stay.

Elsa Paz, Mayor, San Pedro Town

Mayor Elsa Paz

Greetings to my visiting friends,

Publisher .............................................................The San PedroPublisher .............................................................The San PedroPublisher .............................................................The San PedroPublisher .............................................................The San PedroPublisher .............................................................The San PedroSun Ltd.Sun Ltd.Sun Ltd.Sun Ltd.Sun Ltd.Editor .......................................Ron SnifEditor .......................................Ron SnifEditor .......................................Ron SnifEditor .......................................Ron SnifEditor .......................................Ron Snif fin: fin: fin: fin: fin: [email protected] .............................TEditor .............................TEditor .............................TEditor .............................TEditor .............................Tamara Snifamara Snifamara Snifamara Snifamara Snif fin: fin: fin: fin: fin: [email protected] Wf Wf Wf Wf Writer ...................... Kainie Manuel: riter ...................... Kainie Manuel: riter ...................... Kainie Manuel: riter ...................... Kainie Manuel: riter ...................... Kainie Manuel: [email protected] ......... TheMail ......... TheMail ......... TheMail ......... TheMail ......... The San Pedr San Pedr San Pedr San Pedr San Pedro Suno Suno Suno Suno Sun , P, P, P, P, P.O. Box 35, Amber.O. Box 35, Amber.O. Box 35, Amber.O. Box 35, Amber.O. Box 35, Ambergris Caye, Belizegris Caye, Belizegris Caye, Belizegris Caye, Belizegris Caye, BelizeTelephone ....................................................011-501-226-2070Telephone ....................................................011-501-226-2070Telephone ....................................................011-501-226-2070Telephone ....................................................011-501-226-2070Telephone ....................................................011-501-226-2070Fax ..............................................................011-501-226-2905Fax ..............................................................011-501-226-2905Fax ..............................................................011-501-226-2905Fax ..............................................................011-501-226-2905Fax ..............................................................011-501-226-2905

E-Mail ...... [email protected] ...... [email protected] ...... [email protected] ...... [email protected] ...... [email protected] or [email protected] net/WEB .....................................net/WEB .....................................net/WEB .....................................net/WEB .....................................net/WEB .....................................www.SanPedroSun.netMain OfMain OfMain OfMain OfMain Office .................................#1 Firfice .................................#1 Firfice .................................#1 Firfice .................................#1 Firfice .................................#1 Fir e Coral Stre Coral Stre Coral Stre Coral Stre Coral Str eet, San Pedreet, San Pedreet, San Pedreet, San Pedreet, San Pedrooooo

Receive Receive Receive Receive Receive The Sun The Sun The Sun The Sun The Sun weekly in your mailbox. 26 ISSUES (six months)weekly in your mailbox. 26 ISSUES (six months)weekly in your mailbox. 26 ISSUES (six months)weekly in your mailbox. 26 ISSUES (six months)weekly in your mailbox. 26 ISSUES (six months)InterInterInterInterInternational: $40 U.S. Domestic: $40 Bz.national: $40 U.S. Domestic: $40 Bz.national: $40 U.S. Domestic: $40 Bz.national: $40 U.S. Domestic: $40 Bz.national: $40 U.S. Domestic: $40 Bz.

The San PedrThe San PedrThe San PedrThe San PedrThe San Pedro Sun o Sun o Sun o Sun o Sun & Visitor Guide & Visitor Guide & Visitor Guide & Visitor Guide & Visitor Guide

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More foreign subscribers than any newspaper in Belize!More foreign subscribers than any newspaper in Belize!More foreign subscribers than any newspaper in Belize!More foreign subscribers than any newspaper in Belize!More foreign subscribers than any newspaper in Belize!

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Visitor Guide Page 3 December 30, 2004

Celebrate the New Year!Celebrate the New Year!Celebrate the New Year!Celebrate the New Year!Celebrate the New Year!Dance The Night AwayDance The Night AwayDance The Night AwayDance The Night AwayDance The Night Away

to the Awesome Beat ofDJ Lucky!!DJ Lucky!!DJ Lucky!!DJ Lucky!!DJ Lucky!!

Feast!Feast!Feast!Feast!Feast!Scrumptious Buffet at the Magic Mambo Restaurant

including: *Salsa Catalina *Skewered Sautéed Chickenin Papaya Salsa *Seafood Lasagna with BéchamelSauce * Penne with a white wine garlic sauce and

served with clams and mussels *Gorgonzola Salad withNuts & Raisins *Whole Roasted Pig *Banana

Guacamole *Assorted Breads *Shrimp – Steamed inBelikin Beer *Curry Fish with Potatoes *Caviar with

Bellinis *Ice Cream Covered in Hot Fudge

$100US per person includes aWelcome Champagne Cocktail!

Pick-up at Island Ferry -Fido’s Dock – 8:00 p.m.

$20BZ Per Person RoundtripRSVP at 220-5011

PartyPartyPartyPartyPartyAll Night!!!All Night!!!All Night!!!All Night!!!All Night!!!


Tomorrow night, partygoers will be looking for a happening place to“ring in” the New Year. “La Isla Bonita” is considered by many as notonly the tourist destination of Belize but ... as “Party Central” of Belize,as well.

Such as it is, allow us to present the hot spots on this beautiful islandfor the upcoming New Year’s Eve parties.

First, a disappointment! Due to unforeseen circumstance, the annualparty at Ramon’s Village’s The Purple ParrotBar will not be happening. It has been a tradi-tion for the past decade but unfortunately, itwill not be taking place this year.

But do not despair, ... there are other placesto shout your “3...2...1 countdown!”

Featured as Foder’sChoice for 2005, CasaPicasso will prepare exquisite dishes to beginyour New Year’s Eve. Creamy shrimp bisqueteases your taste buds for the tastes that follow– Maple glazed pork tenderloin or/and broiledCaribbean lobster tails can be enjoyed withmashed potatoes and freshly sautéed gardenvegetables. The perfect conclusion to your mealcould be the Amaretto almond chocolate truffleor whipped cream and raspberry coulis – afterall, how will you enjoy a few cocktails with-out having a proper meal to begin with? But,do not forget, Casa Picasso offers amazing andtasty concoctions to go with your meal – theirspectacular martinis are the absolute best. Notto mention their fabulous drinks inspired bySpain, Italy and the Caribbean. So, this seasonmake it sparkle at Casa Picasso.

Or, you could enjoy a memorable evening and gourmet meal at thequaint Stained Glass Pub before ringing in the New Year. Begin yourdinner with a delicious shrimp cocktail and a Caesar salad. Then, haveyour choice of Filet Mignon au Poivre, broiled Caribbean Lobster Tailwith Citrus Butter or Grilled Salmon with Dill Cucumber Sauce. Eachmeal is served with Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Fresh Garden Salad &Baked Breads. No dinner would be complete without a tasty dessert andthe evening will be topped with a champagne toast and party favors atmidnight.

Or, should you want to ring in the New Year a tad early – do so at theSan Pedro Family Fitness Club. Be in bed by midnight and still enjoy thefestivities of a New Years count down. A potluck dinner will be servedand everyone is invited to bring his or her favorite dish, or don’t bring adish and pay a minimal cover charge. Members and non-members are allinvited to join the fun at the San Pedro Family Fitness Club.

Or, take a short trip north, under the stars to Capricorn Resort, Res-taurant and Bar. Join in their New Year’s Eve Extravaganza along withthe Mango Jam Band playing lively tunes aimed at making you danceyour way to 2005. The bar will offer full service and delicious appetizerswill be served. Call for transportation at 226-2809 or simply take theIsland Ferry up. Jazz your way to ’05 at Capricorn.

Or, hang around the Hammock House. A “bunch” of musicians willbe on hand to play a blend of music. Tap your feet or dance till you’reweak on their top floor – the best view on the island. Scrumptious snackswill be served throughout, free champagne and have fun with a hundredgallons of confetti. A perfect hangout to start the year – the HammockHouse!

Or, take it easy and enjoy a delightful evening over the water at WetWilly’s. Take part in an early dinner with a champagne toast at midnight.Join the staff for the countdown, then kick your shoes off, and dance thenight away at Wet Willy’s.

Or, bash it up at the Pier Lounge. New Year’s Eve Bash – Bar andBeach Celebration. Party down with music from DJ Tracks. Free partyfavors, champagne toast at midnight and a delicious breakfast buffet at 1a.m. (what a GOOD idea!). So, come inside the Spindrift Hotel whereyou will find The Pier Lounge and take part in their New Year’s Eve

San Pedro offers many choices to ring in the New YearBash.

Or, celebrate, celebrate, the New Year at Mata Chica Beach Resort.Dance into the New Year to the awesome beats of DJ Lucky. Feast –Feast – Feast a scrumptious buffet at the magic Mambo Restaurant withdelectable dishes including salsa Catalina, skewered sautéed chicken inpapaya salsa, seafood lasagna, penne with a white wine garlic sauce,banana guacamole, caviar with bellinis, ice cream covered in hot fudge

and much, much more. Party – Party – Party thenight away. Take a short boat ride north, pick upat the Island Ferry at 8:00 p.m.

Or, join the extravaganza at the San PedroHoliday Hotel. The party continues in the heartof San Pedro. Party favors, complimentary cham-pagne and dynamic music provided by music DJHabo. Why stay at home when the party is at theSan Pedro Holiday Hotel?

And of course, the Lions are holding theirannual New Year’s Eve party. Everyone is in-vited to join in the fun. Music, dance, laughterand raffles for glorious prizes, all held at the SanPedro Lions Den. Dance until 8:00 a.m. on Janu-ary 1st, 2005. Come and take part in a tradition atthe San Pedro Lions Den.

There you have it, but these are not ALL thehappening places for New Year’s Eve, there aremany more! You just need to get out there andcheck it out! As they say, these are just previewsof coming attractions!!!

Have a fun, safe and Happy New Year fromThe San Pedro Sun & Visitor Guide!!!


You don’t have to be teetotaler (a non-drinker) to avoid a hangover.Follow our wine expert’s tips and drink your way to a clear head It’s happened to us all. You open your eyes the morning after a heavynight and the pain in your head and stomach tells you that you drank toomuch. So, was it too much of the wrong thing, or just too much, full stop? Of course, the best cure for a hangover is not to drink in the first place.But short of being teetotal, here is how you can help yourself.Drink water One of the main reasons for a hangover is dehydration. Therefore, if youdrink at least as much water as wine, you’re off to a good start. Lots of waterjust before going to bed is also a good plan. Eating while drinking massivelyreduces the absorption of alcohol, and milk really does line the stomach.Do particular drinks or wines make it worse? In essence, the answer to this is yes, but it varies from person to person.With wine, if people are particularly headache-prone, many will report thatthey suffer far worse headaches from red wines than white. This isn’t justanecdotal; there is a scientific reason - the headaches are caused by a reactionto certain chemical substances found in black grape skins. However, it doesn’tapply to everyone. Certain people are also particularly sensitive to sulphurdioxide, an anti-oxidising agent added to just about all wines in an attempt tokeep them fresh. Whilst all wines sold within Europe have a regulated maxi-mum sulphur level, organic wine producers tend to use reduced levels ofsulphur; so you could argue that drinking organic wine is less likely to giveyou a hangover. Sulphur smells like bad eggs and will often make the bridgeof your nose itch. While all this sounds a bit technical, a general rule of thumb (not infallible)is that the more palatable the wine, the less likely the hangover, althoughquantities drunk obviously affect this rule. Experience suggests (sadly) thatwines that are more expensive tend to be less hangover inducing. So, if youhave a choice, drink less of a lower quality of wine.Mixing drinks A sure way to worsen your hangover. Mixing grape and grain (i.e. wineand whisky or other spirits) is not a good idea. Port, which is naturally high inalcohol, always gets a bad press. But, this is because people tend to blame

their hangover on their final drink– often port – failing to mentionthe gin and tonic, champagne,white and red wine that pre-ceded it.Other factors The rate at which one ab-sorbs alcohol can dependmassively on mood –increased adrena-line pushes al-cohol throughthe systemmuch faster.Therefore,feeling deeplydepressed orecstaticallyhappy makes youdrunk faster. Women have anadded problem in that just before a pe-riod and at ovulation (i.e. every two weeks) the hormones in our bodies meanwe absorb alcohol at an accelerated rate.Great hangover cures “Hair of the dog.” Of course, a health consultant would not suggest this,but hey, sometimes it’s the only way. Preferred hangover cures include asimple Bucks Fizz (champagne with fresh orange juice), a Bloody Mary(tomato juice, vodka and spice), or a Black Velvet (half-and-half stout andchampagne) to up your iron count. Sex. This really does work. Exercise. See above. Exercise helps you sweat the alcohol out of thesystem faster. Food. Complex carbohydrates such as bread and pasta will raise the bloodsugar level. Other well-known cures are a fried breakfast, and herring, if youcan face them (The Swedes swear by them). Bananas are amazing as theycontain complex carbohydrates, potassium and Vitamin C. Vitamin supplements. Alcohol destroys Vitamin C and Vitamin B complex.Try taking a B complex before drinking, while drinking and before going to bed.

Make hangovers history


The San Pedro Sun’s Virtual Taste Trip

Submitted by theculinary staff at Azul

New Year’s eve worldwide is anight of celebration. It’s an eveningof many traditions, be it standing inthe throngs of a crowd watching theball drop in NYC’s Time Square ordancing on the beach at Ramon’s inSan Pedro. Chances are, when wefinish counting down to mid-night,most of us want to find ourselves inthe arms of someone we love (or atleast an attractive person we justhappen to be standing next to!) andmost of us will make resolutions thatwill not last until the light of morn-ing. Some of us will attempt to sing“Auld Lang Syne” even though wedon’t know any of the lyrics …andluckily for most of us, the followingday, January 1st, is a holiday. There are also a number of culi-nary traditions that accompany NewYear’s Eve. In Japan people eat asoup called Ozoni to bring good for-tune in the coming year, in Greecepeople eat a cake called Vasilopita,in hopes of achieving good luck, andas many of the Texas and South-erner expats in San Pedro will tes-tify, no News Year’s day would becomplete without making a dish thathas black-eyed peas. In the South-ern US, everyone knows that if youeat black-eyed peas on New Year’sDay, it will bring you good luckthroughout the year. Black-eyed peasare a legume and can becooked much like other le-gumes (kidney beans,pinto beans, etc.)“Texas caviar” is apopular black eyedpea salad, though forfear of arousing thewrath of Texans inSan Pedro who nodoubt have theirOWN special recipesfor the dish (the major-ity of which seem to bebased on large amounts ofWishbone Italian Salad Dressing) wewill not give our recipe for that!Rather, here is the New Year’s Dayequivalent of “rice and beans”, adish called Hoppin’ John.

1 cup dried black-eyed peas1 medium onion, chopped fine1 small smoked ham hock, sliced in chunksby the butcher1 small dried hot red chile or pinch or two ofcayenne pepper1 teaspoon saltFreshly milled black pepperSprig of fresh thyme or 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoondried thyme, optional1 cup uncooked riceHot pepper sauce, such as Marie Sharps!!!

Combine the black-eyed peas with 6 cups ofwater in a large saucepan. Add the onion, hamhock, chile, salt, a good grinding of pepperand, if you wish, the thyme. Bring to a boilover high heat, reduce the heat to a simmer;and cook until the peas are soft but not mushy,about 1-1/2 hours.

Drain the cooking liquid from the peas into alarge measuring cup. You will need 2 cups ofliquid to cook the rice. Discard any extra liquidor, if necessary, add hot water to equal 2 cups.Pour the liquid back into the peas. Add the riceto the pot, give it a quick stir; then cover andcook over low heat for 20 minutes. Withoutlifting the lid, set the hoppin’ John aside to steamfor 10 to 15 additional minutes. Fluff the mix-ture and serve immediately with hot pepper sauceor pepper vinegar.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Hoppin’John

Hoppin’ John

7:00am - 10:00am11:30am - 10:00pm

Boca del RioPhone 226-2047

Open Daily

Papi’s DinerFiner Food atDiner Prices


RaymondYou have this negative

www.ambergriscaye.com/birdsbelize

ORANGEGallery - Gift Shop

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slate carvings

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wood turningswood turningswood turningswood turningswood turningssculptures

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On CoconutDrive,San Pedro South226-4066

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San Pedro’s Largest Gift Shop

In the world of Avian there is anorder known as Apodiformes, andwithin that order there is a familynamed Trochiladae. They are themost aerial of all birds. This is tosay they continue rapid flightthroughout life. They eat, drink,collect nesting material, andeven mate in the air. Tax-onomy is goingthrough some revi-sion due tomodern tech-nology andBubba said“hummingbirdswill soon be in theirown order.” For now,the Bumblebee Hum-mingbird, “B.B. Hummer”, is clas-sified as Atthis heloisa (formerySelasphorus heloisa) of Trochilidaein the order of Apodiformes. Bubbaasked me to try and not get hung upon taxonomy because “the times theyare a changing!” The B. B. Hummer is new to Be-lize; and if you believe what all thebird books say, it just isn’t here.However, Ambergriseans seem tosight it regularly, north and south.It is the smallest bird in the worldand usually mistaken for an insect.The books on Bubba’s shelf say it’sendemic to Cuba and endangered.In Cuba they call it the “Zunzuncito”or loosely translated, if you can,“little buzz.” Why is it on Amber-gris? Well, look at a map - theNortheast trade winds would blowthe little bird right here. I askedBubba, “why it would leave Cuba?”(It is always chancy asking Bubba

this kind of question.) He said, “100years ago 90% of Cuba was cov-ered with forest. However, due tothe raising of cattle and sugar cane,this has been reduced to 18%, and

of coursehumming-birds needa very spe-

cific flora andfauna.” This

area had containedthe “solandria grand

flora” and harbored ex-tremely unique biodiversity.

Bubba feels they were forcedout by hunger, not communism,

like many of Ambergris’ other Cu-

ban inhabitants. I think its mismomigration, which is definite in North-ern Hummingbird species. Hum-mingbirds in the tropics have sea-sonal movements only related to theabundance and distribution of flow-ers. Cuba is proud of its largest andsmallest species of flora and faunaand the B. B. Hummer is sometimesmistakenly thought to be its nationalbird. Not true! The Cuban Trogon is the nationalbird because of its red, white andblue colors, like the flag. Little isknown about the nesting habits ofthe B. B. Hummer, certain assump-tions can be made. What is knownis that all hummingbirds lay twowhitish eggs and typically the maleplays no part in nesting. Nests areoften found hanging under bananaleaves or coconut fronds. They aresmall cups of finely woven plant fi-ber and sometimes contain spider

silk, collected by the female, to bondthe nest to the leaf. The Ambergris sightings have allhad one common first reaction. Theythought it was an insect, possiblythe Rhinoceros Beetle. The B. B. Hummer is coloredsimilar to most hummingbirds,greenish cinnamon with a rufous tailand violet blue highlights. However,iridescent colors are referred to as“glittering” in the accounts, and asthey are produced by refracted lightrather than pigmentation, often ap-pear blackish unless seen in the“right light”. The fact is, with its small size (twoand one half inches), it is easily mis-taken for an insect. Bubba had a help-ful hint in field identification...findout what kind of flower it likes andwatch for something buzzing that hasthe ability to hover and fly backwards.Good Luck!

The Bumblebee Hummingbird


Emergency 911Crimestoppers 922Police 226-2022Fire 226-2372Wings of Hope - Medical emer-gency air ambulance. Phone:223-3292.Lions Health Clinic - 226-4052;emergencies 603-1755 or 602-6383. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8am to8pm; Sat., 8am - noon.Hyperbaric Chamber - 226-2851, Dr. Otto Rodriguez - 600-0287 or 226-2854. AntoniaGuerrero - 600-5475 or 206-2152. Eleazar Portillo - 610-4560or 226-3195.San Pedro Health Center - 226-2536. 8-12 and 2-5, Mon. toFri. Emergencies 226-2555/2918or 606-3864.

US Embassy - 227-7161

Canadian Consulate - 223-1060

Mexican Embassy - 223-0193

Guatemalan Embassy - 223-3150

Honduran Embassy - 224-5889

IMPORTANT #s

Realtors...BELIZE REAL ESTATE - Your country-widecompany. Guaranteed clear title. Call 226-2090 forinformation or appointment.

SUNRISE REALTY - Land, homes, businesses,condos and investment properties. Call 226-3737, fax226-3379 or E-mail: [email protected]

SOUTHWIND PROPERTIES - For all your RealEstate needs. Call 226-2005 or 226-2060 for informa-tion or E-mail: [email protected] for current listings.

PELICAN PROPERTIES LTD. - Fine properties onAmbergris Caye. E-mail: [email protected] orphone 226-3234.

CASA CAYO REAL ESTATE - Serving Belizefrom the mountains to the reef. Phone 226-2791.www.casacayo real estate.net

ISLAND FERRY SERVICE & WATER TAXI –Scheduled ferry service & water taxi for AmbergrisCaye. Phone 226-3231.

MONCHO’S GOLF CART RENTALS - Four & Sixseater golf carts available. Open daily 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.We deliver to your room. 226-3262 or 226-4490.

JOE’S BIKE RENTALS - Located on middle street.Offers bicycles of all sizes, kids to adults.

T H E S A N P E D R OT H E S A N P E D R OT H E S A N P E D R OT H E S A N P E D R OT H E S A N P E D R O S U NS U NS U NS U NS U N VVVVVI S I T O R ’ S G U I D EI S I T O R ’ S G U I D EI S I T O R ’ S G U I D EI S I T O R ’ S G U I D EI S I T O R ’ S G U I D E

AMIGOS del MAR DIVE CENTER – Simply the BESTin * Diving - local, night, Blue Hole & Turneffe *PADI Certification *Rentals *Snorkel Trips.Phone 226-2706. Email: [email protected]

SEARIOUS ADVENTURES – Up for some adven-ture? Mayan ruins, manatee watching and more toursavailable. Make your reservations today. 226-4127.

CAYE CHAPEL GOLF RESORT – Play a round ofgolf on this beautifully landscaped island. This place isabove par! Set up T-time now. 226-8250.

SAILSPORTS BELIZE – Windsurfing, kite sailingand sailing. The latest equipment and expert instruc-tion makes it easy to learn. [email protected].

SEADUCED – River cave tubing, snorkel excur-sions, Mayan ruins and more adventures. 226-2254.

Water, Sports & Tours

Transportation...

KRYSTAL SHIPPING CO./MASH CO. - Wedeliver construction supplies all the way to RoblesPoint! Phone 226-2089 or E-mail: [email protected]

CASTILLO’S HARDWARE - Storm supplies,electronics, household appliances, tools, home repairitems and a wide variety of paints, stains and var-nishes. Pescador Drive. Phone 226-2302.

WALLY’S ELECTRICAL SERVICE AND SUPPLY- Air conditioning, electrical and plumbing, parts andservice. Phone 226-2408.

VARELA CONSTRUCTION SUPPLIES & MATE-RIALS - Quality construction materials and supplies.We stock what we sell! 226-2215 or 226-2808.

Belize Tourism Board - 223-1910.

Belize Tourism IndustryAssociation (BTIA) - 227-5717.

San Pedro Tourist GuideAssociation 226-2391.

Church ServicesSan Pedro Roman CatholicChurch Sun. Mass: 9 a.m. English;11 a.m. Children’s; 7:30 p .m.Spanish; Sat.: Confessions 5-7 p.m;Mass or Communion Service ev-ery night at 7:30 p.m.

Living Word Church Service Sun.10:45 a.m. Bible study Mon. 7:30p.m. We do Christian charity work.226-2950.

Assembly of God Church on An-gel Coral St. Marriage Counseling/Prayer Line. Call 226-3767/2913 -Services T-W-Sat.-Sun. at 7:30p.m. Christian Radio FM 101.3.

Services...The Lions Club of San Pedrorelies on income from its Friday andSaturday Night BBQ to support theneedy community. Help a great cause-have dinner with us!

Green ReefA non-profit organization dedicated tothe promotion of sustainable use andconservation of Belize’s marine andcoastal resources. [email protected]

Saga SocietyA non-profit “humane society” toaddress the stray cat and dog popula-tion in San Pedro. Phone 226-3266.

Tourist Information

Miscellaneous

Mata ChicaAzulPortofinoCapricornRendezvousCaptain Morgan’sJourney’s End

Travel North of the cut for tovisit these great businesses.

Banana Beach

CentralPark

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San Pedro Sun

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Phoenix

Island Ferry

Sunrise Realty


ISLAND MINI GOLF & ICE CREAM -Sea Grape Drive (1 block W of BarefootIguana). Open Mon.–Thurs. 12 – 9 p.m.;Fri. – Sun. 12 – 10 p.m.

CAYE COFFEE – Take a taste of our localground fresh coffee back home. A wonderfulcup of coffee makes such a great difference inyour day. Try it and ask for more. 226-3568.

DALIA’S STORE – Fresh meats, and vegetables,groceries, liquors, and hardware items. Boca delRio Area. Phone: 226-3286 Fax: 226-4074

WINE de VINE - Fine imported wines andcheeses. Olive oils, vinegars and specialty items.Located in the Vilma Linda Plaza on Tarpon St.Phone 226-3430.

BIG TREE PRODUCE – Fresh Local & Im-ported Fruits & Vegetables. Seafood, meats,juices & milk shakes. Pescador Dr. 226-2322.

JUBILAND GIFTS & PARTY SHOP – PartyFavors, Invitations, Piñatas, Holiday Decorations& More! Barrier Reef Drive – Phone 226-3400.

MATA CHICA - Mambo Cuisine - for foodlovers. Homemade pasta, shrimp paté,bruschetta, charbroiled seafood and much more!Call 220-5010/5011.

ROJO LOUNGE - Enjoy tropical lounge cui-sine in one of the most beautiful beachfront set-tings in all of Belize - Azul Resort. 226-4012.

CELI’S RESTAURANT ON THE BEACH -Next to the San Pedro Holiday Hotel, open11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 9:00p.m. Beach BBQ every Wednesday night.

LILY’S TREASURE CHEST RESTAURANT- On the beach behind Lily’s Hotel. Join us fora cool breeze and the best seafood or USDAbeef on our veranda by the sea. 226-2650.

JADE GARDEN RESTAURANT - DeliciousCantonese cuisine, steaks, seafood and vegetariandishes. 226-2506. Coconut Drive. Take-outavailable. Closed Tuesday.

SWEET BASIL GOURMET CAFÉ - Fabu-lous salads & sandwiches, imported wines &cheeses, fresh baked breads. Just across theriver cut. Phone 226-3870.

RAMON’S VILLAGE - Enjoy breakfast, lunchand dinner in a Mayan atmosphere or on theveranda overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Coco-nut Drive. Phone 226-2071.

LUNA at Journey’s End Resort - Experiencefine dining on the beach north of San Pedro.Visit our tropical bar featuring karaoke, danceand fun music. Phone 226-2173.

STAINED GLASS PUB – Only British–American Pub in Belize! Home-cooked andgourmet specials. Serving lunch and dinnerMon. – Sat. starting at 11 a.m. Closed on Sun-days. Phone 226-4147.

Unique Offerings...

T H E S A N P E D R OT H E S A N P E D R OT H E S A N P E D R OT H E S A N P E D R OT H E S A N P E D R O S U NS U NS U NS U NS U N VVVVVI S I T O R ’ S G U I D EI S I T O R ’ S G U I D EI S I T O R ’ S G U I D EI S I T O R ’ S G U I D EI S I T O R ’ S G U I D E

Dining Out...RICO’S SURFSIDE RESTAURANT – A trulyunique dining experience on the beach at Ban-yan Bay. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinnerdaily. Phone 226-3739 ext. 135.

MICKEY’S PLACE - Open daily 6:30 a.m. -10 a.m. for breakfast, 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.for lunch and 6 - 10 p.m. for dinner. Burritoson Wednesdays. Pescador Drive. Call 226-2223.

BLUE WATER GRILL – Island cuisine with atwist! Wood-fired Oven Pizzas, Sushi & more!Open daily. Happy Hour 4 to 6 p.m. 226-3347.

EL DIVINO RESTAURANT at BANANABEACH - Serving breakfast, lunch and dinnerfrom 6 a.m - 10 p.m. Book your party or ban-quet today! Phone 226-2444.

CASA PICASSO – Tapa Bar – Classic Pastas –After Dinner Desserts. Open at 5:30 p.m. Mar-tini Lounge is open until 11 p.m. Call 226-4507.

PORTOFINO’S own “LE BISTRO” - One ofthe newest & most talked about restaurants onthe island. Meet our boat at 6:30 p.m. at Fido’sDock for a complimentary ride to one of thebest culinary experiences you will have while inparadise. For reservations, call 220-5096.

OVA DI WATA RESTAURANT – At CaribeIsland Resort. Fine dining on the sea. The bestSeafood & USDA Beef. 3 miles south of SanPedro. FREE transportation for 6 or more. Phone226-3635.

CARAMBA RESTAURANT - Local Mexican& Caribbean dishes. Located on Pescador Dr.Phone 226-4321. Closed Wednesday.

CAPRICORN RESTAURANT & BAR - Enjoyour magical menu by sun or starlight. Brunch &lunch 10 a.m.-2 p.m. dinner 6-9 p.m. Reserva-tions suggested. 226-2809. Closed Wednesdays.

GEORGE’S KITCHEN – Breakfast Served Any-time! Scrumptious Steaks & Seafood. Open 7a.m. – 3 p.m. & 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. CoconutDrive. Call 226-2974.

RENDEZVOUS RESTAURANT AND BAR -Thai and French fusion cuisine on the beach.Try our Rendezvous Estate house wine and ex-traordinary homemade bread. Phone 226-3426.

CAPTAIN MORGAN’S RETREAT – Savor ataste of Temptation Island. Underneath a starrynight enjoy the exquisite meals prepared by ourexpert chefs. A small boat ride takes you to oneof San Pedro’s guilty pleasures.

FIDO’S – Newly renovated it is set on the beachunder a giant palapa with a spectacular view ofthe Caribbean Sea. Enjoy your favorite drink orcocktail in this unique setting. Open seven daysa week for lunch and dinner.

PAULY’S PIZZA – The best pizzas in town. Alsogreat subs, calzones, chicken wings, cinnamon andgarlic sticks. Seven days a week. 226-2651.

ELVI’S KITCHEN - Whether you’re cravingcrab claws, lobster, calamari, scallops, mussels,fresh water lobster, shrimp, conch, or fish, Elvi’sis “Di Place” for seafood. Call us at 226-2176.

VICTORIA HOUSE - International and Island-Style cuisine by Executive Chef Amy Knox.Open for breakfast, lunch & dinner. Reserva-tions recommended, call 226 2067.

THE GREENHOUSE - Offering quality Bel-izean & imported fresh produce. A/C locale onBarrier Reef Drive. Phone 226-2084.

THE SAUSAGE FACTORY - Largest selec-tion of smoked meats and sausage on the island.One mile south of town. 226-2655.

CAYE INTERNATIONAL BANK - OfferingDemand Deposit Accounts, Loans, Savings Ac-counts, etc. [email protected] or phone 226-2388.

Pan Dulce – A delightful way to start your day.Our fresh sweet breads and wonderful cakes makeyou want more. Call 226-3242.

ISLAND INTERNET CAFE – Write home,browse the web, or simply call your friends andrelatives. Visit us. 226-3777.

TROPICAL TOUCH DAY MASSAGE –Relax and let the vacation begin. For appoint-ments call us at 226-4666.

PROVIDENT BANK & TRUST - Offering afull range of International Banking Services.phone 223-5698 services@prov identbank.bz

THE HOLIDAY HOTEL - Every Wednes-day, live music and a fabulous Beach Barbeque6:30 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. Barrier Reef Dr. 226-2014.

THE HAMMOCK HOUSE - is the perfect“hangout.” Live music, barbeques and more. Justnorth of the cut. 226-2940

PIER LOUNGE - Home of the “World FamousChicken Drop” every Wednesday. Daily drinkspecials and two-for-one happy hour. Locatedbeachfront in the Spindrift Hotel. Phone 226-2002.

Party...Party...Party

Note to AdvertisersWe hope that you will agree that this

revised Visitor Guide is a great way toreach those visiting “La Isla Bonita.”Free copies of the Visitor Guide willbe offered to guests arriving to theisland through the airlines and the

resorts. Of course it will also beincluded in The San Pedro Sun.

We will be contacting you to provideadditional information about advertis-

ing, or feel free to contact us.This section will continue to growand improve, thank you for your

support and patience.Be part of the

San Pedro SunVisitor Guide

Contact The San Pedro Sun226-2070 [email protected]

for ad rates and availability


Mango’sMango’sMango’sMango’sMango’sCajun &Cajun &Cajun &Cajun &Cajun &

CaribbeanCaribbeanCaribbeanCaribbeanCaribbeanstyle dishes!style dishes!style dishes!style dishes!style dishes!

Open 10-10 daily, Closed Wednesdays$3 beer $4 premium 2 for 1 local rum drinks

We look forward to serving you!42 Barrier Reef Drive Next to the library

226-2859

Happy Hour Every day 3-6

Clip andbring in thiscoupon for freecerviché withdinner purchase.

Reef BriefReef BriefReef BriefReef BriefReef Brief by Green Reef Peace CorpVolunteer, Kristen Stelljes

This time of year many people haveput up lights on their house and haveChristmas trees decorated to celebratethe holidays. Well, how does the reefdecorate for Christmas? With ChristmasTree Worms of course! Christmas Tree Worms aretubeworms that have spiraling radioles(small, feathery structures) that makethem look like Christmas trees. Theycome in many colors such as brown,orange, maroon, and white. These wormscan grow to be up to four inches long.They are often found attached to corals.These worms are in the class Polychaetaand the phylum Annelida. All segmentedworms belong in this phylum. They phy-lum got this name from the bristles, orsetae, that are found in each segment ofthe worms. The word polychaeta means

ChristmasTree Worms

226-4204Lamanai & Altun Ha Jungle Adventures

Cave Tubing & Belize ZooManatee & Snorkeling Adventure

Fishing, Snorkeling & Beach Bar-B-Que

Over 18 Years Experience with Willie Leslie, Local Licensed Guide

GREAT Ambiance...and Exquisite Meals!!!

RRRRRestaurantestaurantestaurantestaurantestaurant

Phone 226-4321Phone 226-4321Phone 226-4321Phone 226-4321Phone 226-4321or 603-1652or 603-1652or 603-1652or 603-1652or 603-1652

LLLLLocated on Middle Street (Pocated on Middle Street (Pocated on Middle Street (Pocated on Middle Street (Pocated on Middle Street (Pescador Drive)escador Drive)escador Drive)escador Drive)escador Drive)E-mail: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]

wwwwwwwwwwwwwww.ambergriscaye.com/caramba.ambergriscaye.com/caramba.ambergriscaye.com/caramba.ambergriscaye.com/caramba.ambergriscaye.com/caramba

Closed onClosed onClosed onClosed onClosed onWWWWWednesdayednesdayednesdayednesdayednesday

Local, Mexican &Local, Mexican &Local, Mexican &Local, Mexican &Local, Mexican &Caribbean CuisineCaribbean CuisineCaribbean CuisineCaribbean CuisineCaribbean Cuisine

“many bristles.” Christmas Tree Worms use a methodof feeding called Suspension Feeding.They use their radioles to collect foodand oxygen from the water. They don’tmove themselves, so they use theirbristles and currents to bring the food tothem. The radioles are covered withmucus that particles stick to. When itcatches something it wants to eat, itpasses it down the radioles into theworm’s mouth. These worms can be very sensitive tomovements in the water and can with-draw their radioles into their tube for pro-tection. So, next time you are snorkelingor diving, wait a little bit and see if youcan see the Christmas Tree Worms comeout for the holidays or any other time ofthe year.


On Sea Grape Drive

Open Mon. – Th.12 – 9 p.m.Fri - Sun.

12 – 10 p.m.Closed New Year’s Day

Adult - $8 Children - $5(one block West ofBarefoot Iguana)

New Year’s Eve BLASTUnlimited golf all day!

Merry Christmas and aHappy New Year

Soft Serve Ice Cream,Tropical smoothies

Shakes, Flurriesand MORE!!!

We offer 4-seater &6-seater golf carts

Tel: 226-3262 or 226-4490

Located at the Airport& on Sea Star Street

GolfGolfGolfGolfGolfCarCarCarCarCartststststs

WWWWWe delie delie delie delie delivvvvverererererto your room!to your room!to your room!to your room!to your room!

Open Daily 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

The San Pedro Sun Visitor Guide features regular stories about the many activi-ties available to tourists and visitors and the people who provide them. The Cave Tubing excursion is one of many adventures available to visitors ofSan Pedro. While most “day trips” involve sun and sea, cave tubing takes youdeep into the mountains of Belize, where you float on a pristine river atop an old-fashioned inner tube.

Our trip starts at 7 a.m.when we arrive at the dock infront of Tropica Resort, wherewe await the arrival of ourguide, Willie Leslie, and one ofthe many boats from SEAriousAdventures. The boat is alreadyhalf full of passengers as Williepulls along side the dock. Aneasy step down into the boat, andwe’re off to pick up the last pas-sengers – a family of four wait-ing at Victoria House. Once everyone is on board,

Willie and his crew explains the day’s itinerary. Because the water is a littlechoppy, and the wind is blowing from the west, we travel along the eastern sideof Caye Caulker, getting a close look at beaches dotted with resorts and thepicturesque town village. The air is brisk and the wind howls through our ears asthe 200-horse power motor pushes the boat through the turquoise water. A few “bumps” over slightly choppy water wraps up the 70 minute trip asCaptain Willie aims his boat for the mouth of the Belize River. We travel upriver for a short distance, docking at the Manatee Lagoon Restaurant. Here, wedisembark and the crew offers the passengers tasty Johnny Cakes, fresh fruitand juice to enjoy for breakfast, while many take advantage of the restroomfacilities. From here, the passengers load a sturdy old school bus and off we go on theWestern Highway. The landscape turns rural as we leave the bustle of the city.We pass shrimp farms and wineries. Laundry is seen drying on cloths lines as wepass brightly colored farmhouses. Mountains in the distance gradually loom largeras the silhouette of the Sleeping Giant mountain formation passes on our left.The bus ride allows time forWillie to share with us his enor-mous knowledge about the cul-ture and history of the area. Hetells us about the geography andthe climate and about the floraand fauna. “There are 4,200 dif-ferent species of trees,” he tellsus. “It is beautiful when manyflower from February throughMay,” he explains with a smile. We then pass “Her RoyalMajesty’s Hotel,” or betterknown as the Belize Prison. Forpractically everything we see,Willie has a story to tell. Alongthe way, we stop at the BelizeZoo. Willie leads the tour, where

Cave Tubing is SEArious Fun!he seems to be the “Dr. Dolittle” of Belize, exchanging bizarre noises withmany of the animals. His howler monkey rendition is hair-raising! (Pleasewatch future Visitor Guides for a full story on our visit to the zoo.) After the zoo, we board the bus again and soon we’re on a bumpy gravelroad that tests the suspension of the bus. Shortly we arrive at Jaguar Paw, anexotic resort nestled in the dense rainforest of the Sibun Caves Branch area.Here, a traditional meal of stewed chicken, rice and beans fills our belliesbefore we walk to the changing rooms and prepare for the adventure that awaitsus. Once we have changedinto swimwear, and wear-ing comfortable sandals orold tennis shoes, we followWillie and guides to theshore of the Caves BranchRiver at a point where theriver emerges from the sideof a jungle-coveredmountainside. We wait,looking at each other, won-dering if this is where ourvoyage on the river begins.We quickly learn we mustfirst cross the river, thenhike up a moderate trailthrough the jungle. Thewell-groomed trail mean-ders under the canopy fornearly a mile. Finally, weemerge to see the crystalclear river flowing out of amountainside cave. WithWillie’s assistance, one by one we back our rear ends into our floating innertubes, all the while holding onto a knotted rope. Slowly, the current pulls ustowards the mouth of another cave. As we flow deeper into the crevasse, the


LocatedLocatedLocatedLocatedLocatedjustjustjustjustjust

acrossacrossacrossacrossacrossthethethethethecutcutcutcutcuti ni ni ni ni n

BocaBocaBocaBocaBocadel Riodel Riodel Riodel Riodel Rio

Phone 226-2940Phone 226-2940Phone 226-2940Phone 226-2940Phone 226-2940

Open 11 a.m. -11 pOpen 11 a.m. -11 pOpen 11 a.m. -11 pOpen 11 a.m. -11 pOpen 11 a.m. -11 p.m..m..m..m..m.“““““Where the locals go to get out of townWhere the locals go to get out of townWhere the locals go to get out of townWhere the locals go to get out of townWhere the locals go to get out of town ”””””

24-hour24-hour24-hour24-hour24-hour

Ferry Ferry Ferry Ferry FerryServiceServiceServiceServiceService

for yourfor yourfor yourfor yourfor yourPartyPartyPartyPartyParty

Pleasure!Pleasure!Pleasure!Pleasure!Pleasure!

Free champagne at midnightFree champagne at midnight

Roof top barwill be open!

Rock &Roll

Live Music

The NewestNewestNewestNewestNewest New Year Party is atThe Hammock House

All night!

Roof top barwill be open!

We at Southwind Properties specialize in the listing & sale of fine islandproperties - Homes, Condos, Hotels, Commercial, Income-ProducingProperties & Land for homes or large parcels for development. Be sure tomeet with Marianne, Lori or Claudio to discuss your particular needs.Southwind Properties prides itself in being there full-time for full serviceand full disclosure for all your real estate needs. Call 226-2005/2060 orE-mail [email protected] for more information.

Serving San PServing San PServing San PServing San PServing San Pedredredredredrooooosince 1980!since 1980!since 1980!since 1980!since 1980!

Condos/Homes & Commercial PropertyRoyal Palm (R44)Unit 6B–1 bdrm condo on the upper level. Ocean & poolview. Fully Furnished. $175,000.00 US.Caribe Island Resort (L16) Unit 13 – 1 Bdrm Condo on the beach. Fullyfurnished $139,900.00US.Caribe Island Resort (H28) 1 bdrm, 1 bath right on the beach! Fullyfurnished. $170,000.00 US – terms possible.Exclusive opportunity! (M47) Beachfront property at Palm Bay Clubconsists of a 16’x 20’wooden house which offers all the amenities for acomfortable, yet rustic life in a unique setting among a tropical jungle andblue Caribbean waters. $125,000.00 US.Water front home! (R41)San Pedrito, Wooden 2BR/1Bath house. Fullyfurnished . $200,000.00US.Rental property in San Juan! (V15) 50’ x 75’ lot with three woodenbuildings with (9) rental rooms. Very fairly priced at only $95,000.00 BZ or$47,500.00 US.

Raw LandHoliday Lands – lots off the beach starting at $60,000.00 USAmbergris Bay (G26) 60’ of beach front and 80’ of lagoon front on the westcoast of Ambergris Caye. Price $60,000.00 USPunta Bajo (J24) 2.5 acres with 280’ of beach front, western coast ofAmbergris Caye. Price $150,000.00 USPalmero Point (W19) Lot 50, 95’ x 120’ - $20,000.00 US Terms AvailablePalm Bay Club (M49) Lot #94 – 3rd row lot, 100’ x 90’. $16,000.00 US.Punta Bajo (J24) 2.5 acres with 280’ of beach front, western coast ofAmbergris Caye. $150,000.00 USSpanish Reef – lots off the beach starting at $13,000.00 USClub Caribbean - beachfront lots starting at $60,000.00 USClub Caribbean - off the beach lots starting at $18,000.00 US.Boca Del Rio (P42) 3 lots on the waterway before crossing river cut.$210,000.00 US.

Local licensed tour guide, WillieLeslie, works hard to ensure eachvisitor’s satisfaction when they partakein a SEArious Adventure day trip. Cus-tomers are treated with the utmost pro-fessionalism and greeted with uniqueBelizean hospitality. Willie was born and raised in SanPedro. His four older brothers were allinvolved in the tourism industry, so natu-rally Willie developed a keen interest inthis business. When he was only 15 yearsold, Willie received his PADI OpenWater Scuba Certification. He then wentto work with one of his brothers as anassistant in their diving expeditions andeventually led divers into the azure wa-ters of Belize. Only a year after receiv-ing his first scuba certification, Willie wascertified as a Dive Master. Over the years, Willie would accom-pany his brother on inland tours, spe-cifically to Altun Ha Maya ruins. The

breathtaking beauty and mystique of thisplace immediately captured the attentionof young Willie who decided to studymore about the surrounding flora andfauna. Willie was a “natural” when itcame to dealing with people, and theknowledge and experience he gained tour-ing these areas soon made him a “pro”in this business. Throughout the ten yearshe worked for his brother’s tour com-pany, Willie was most often put in chargeof visiting travel writers, filmmakers andother distinguished guests, because of his“one-of-a-kind” skills as a tour guide. It was only a matter of time before heestablished a reputation for his personaltours, which included manatee watching,and river tours to Altun Ha and Lamanaisites. Tourism continued to grow inAmbergris Caye, and in 1999 Willie andwife Sandy decided to open their own touroffice, which they christened SEAriousAdventures Tour Center.

Today SEArious Adventures, locatedon the beach in front of Ruby’s Hotel,offers the best in Belizean tours. Williedoes the guiding and gives all custom-ers “the royal treatment.” “I try to beas informative as I can from the begin-ning to the end of the tour. I emphasizethe ecology of Belize and pride myselfin saying that I have intensely re-searched all the information I providemy clients,” Willie told the San PedroSun. In addition to the exclusive tours

Willie Leslie Offers SEArious Fun!Excerpts from Our Community, Vol.11 #44

offered by this charismatic guide,SEArious Adventures always packsfresh “treats” and drinks for their cus-tomers on all their tours. In recogni-tion of his hard work, Willie has theendorsement of the Belize TourismBoard (BTB) who recommends him fortravel groups from abroad. “The posi-tive e-mail and postal correspondencethat we receive, almost on a daily ba-sis, is what keeps me going,” com-mented Willie.

Willie Leslie is a licensed tour guide and an owner of SEArious Adventures.


So you want to own a piece of paradise?Contributed by Sunrise RealtyQuestion: What is the process for purchasing a property in Belize?

light from our head lamps begin tooverpower the dwindling sunlight fad-ing from behind us. The blackness of the cave envelopsthe group as we experience the completesensation of meandering on a river in-side the vastness of a mountain. Ourheadlamps flicker, as we gently flow onthe cool stream. The beam of our lightscast shadows across stalactites and thecave walls. Gradually, a light glows in the direc-tion of the water’s flow. An opening ap-proaches and light again fills the mouthof the cavern. As we emerge, we see

this is just a respite, about midway downour journey. Small rapids push us fasterinto yet another cave that honeycombthe landscape. The cave is even moreimmense than the first. The cathedralceilings loom above us, with the distancefrom the waters surface apparently al-lowing refuge from the waters rampageduring rainy season. Here the guides share stories of an-cient Mayan ceremonies. They explainthat many Mayan artifacts and burialmounds were discovered here. En-trances to side caves can be seen as weimagine what may have occurred herecenturies ago. Our group ultimately emerges at afamiliar place. After about an hour anda half, we’ve come full circle and ex-citedly walk back to the changing area

to dawn dry clothes, enjoy a cold bev-erage, and settle in for the voyagehome. We again travel by land and sea,arriving back at Ambergris Cayearound 6:30 p.m. Weary from the day’s travels, and with

Cave TubingContinued from page 10

our taste for adventure well satiated, it isan early night to bed for all. In our sleepwe float, suspended in the cool mountainwater of the Caves Branch River, anddream of ancient Mayans and the Sistine-like caverns of the Sibun Caves.

Answer: 1. The first step is to submita binding offer to the seller. Offersare normally submitted with a 2% ear-nest money deposit to the broker’s es-crow account.2. Upon acceptance by the seller, thepurchaser will then retain a local at-torney to perform the necessary duediligence. Once satisfactory title re-search is completed, a recordable Pur-chase Agreement, or original titletransfer instrument will then be drawnup based on the particulars of the origi-nal purchase offer.3. Upon closing, the executed docu-ments will subsequently be processedat the Lands Registry and an originaltitle or certified copy of the PurchaseAgreement will then be delivered tothe purchaser by his attorney in duecourse.Question: How long does it take toclose a sale?Answer: Typically 30 to 60 days.Question: How do I ensure the prop-erty that I want to buy has clear title?Answer: By having your legal repre-sentative research the title and issuea title opinion. The title is researchedin the Lands Registry, the Courts ofBelize, and in the Companies Regis-try if the land is held under a com-pany. Liens, judgments and other en-cumbrances are valid only if properlylodged for record.Question: What are typical closingcosts?Answer: This is very straightforward.In Belize, we do not have a capitalgains tax so the Government assessesa 5% ‘stamp tax’ on the purchase priceof the property at the time of transferof title. There is an additional tax of5% for foreigners and persons whohave resided in Belize for less thanthree years. On autright purchase, le-gal fees for title research and titletransfer typically run at 1-2% of thepurchase price. Legal fees for draft-ing and recording a Purchase Agree-ment run between $US 300-750. It iscustomary that the purchaser pays forall closing costs in Belize transactions.


At Journey’s End ResortReservations: 226-2173

R E S T A U R A N TR E S T A U R A N TR E S T A U R A N TR E S T A U R A N TR E S T A U R A N TEXPERIENCE FINE DININGNEXT TO THE PIER AT

CARIBE ISLAND RESORTCARIBE ISLAND RESORTCARIBE ISLAND RESORTCARIBE ISLAND RESORTCARIBE ISLAND RESORTBREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNERBREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNERBREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNERBREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNERBREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER

PHONE 226-3635 3 MILES SOUTH OF TOWNPHONE 226-3635 3 MILES SOUTH OF TOWNPHONE 226-3635 3 MILES SOUTH OF TOWNPHONE 226-3635 3 MILES SOUTH OF TOWNPHONE 226-3635 3 MILES SOUTH OF TOWN

Dinner Reservations RecommendedDinner Reservations RecommendedDinner Reservations RecommendedDinner Reservations RecommendedDinner Reservations Recommended

Huevos MotuleHuevos MotuleHuevos MotuleHuevos MotuleHuevos MotuleñosososososEggs BenedictEggs BenedictEggs BenedictEggs BenedictEggs Benedict

OmelettesOmelettesOmelettesOmelettesOmelettes

Eggs SardouEggs SardouEggs SardouEggs SardouEggs SardouBanana PancakesBanana PancakesBanana PancakesBanana PancakesBanana Pancakes

French ToastFrench ToastFrench ToastFrench ToastFrench ToastHam Steak with EggsHam Steak with EggsHam Steak with EggsHam Steak with EggsHam Steak with Eggs

All dishes above served with a pastry and a mimosa.

and Featuringand Featuringand Featuringand Featuringand Featuring

SUNDAY BRUNCHSUNDAY BRUNCHSUNDAY BRUNCHSUNDAY BRUNCHSUNDAY BRUNCH10 a.m. - 2 p.m.10 a.m. - 2 p.m.10 a.m. - 2 p.m.10 a.m. - 2 p.m.10 a.m. - 2 p.m.


Trivia Tidbits

All prices are in US dollars and subject to change without notice. Forfurther details on these properties and much more call your

AMBERGRIS CAYE SPECIALISTS

DEVELOPED PROPERTIES

Changes in Latitudes Bed & Breakfast – $395,000 – Sold.Popular Front Street Bar & Grill!! Inquire.Banana Beach Resort: Condos, Suites and rooms with 2 Pools, beach,restaurant and bars. All Banana Beach properties have guaranteedrental incomes!4 bed, beachfront condos $347,500.3 bed, beachfront condo $290,000.Oceanfront, 1 bedroom $175,000.Courtyard, 1 bedrooms $123,500.Balcony Suites $57,500.Eden Park Villas luxury 2,000 ft2 , 2 bedroom, beachfront. Now Selling!Palms $450,000.Paradiso $495,000.Imperial $595,000.

Penthouse $1.0 M.Mi Casa. Rental suites with spacious top floor owner’s quarters and loftapt. $650,000.The Villa Turquesa at Mata Grande designer 3 bedroom beach homewith pier and optional adjoining beach lot $975,000.Caye Villas – Beach villas with pool.3 beds, 4 baths, fully furnished $490,000.2 beds, 2 baths, fully furnished $394,000.2 beds, 3 baths, fully furnished $395,000.Beach Cabin on 60ft x 106ft lot, 5 miles north - $199,000 – undercontract.Casa Flores Income producing triplex on double lot. $395,000.

UNDEVELOPED PROPERTIESIN TOWN BEACH LOT! Commercial or residential, $490,000.Near Mexico Rocks 178f t beachfront, 2.4 acres $534,000.Mata Chica area 2 acres on the beach, 132 ft frontage $396,000.Mata Grande 100ft x 200ft beachfront, $225,000 – under contract.Boca Ciega beach lot, 75ft x 130 ft, $150,000.Punta Arenas 200ft beachfront, 3 acres, $425,000 – under contract.Mata Chica area 132 ft beachfront, $396,000.Playa Blanca beach lot, 60ft x 106ft, $140,000.Rocky Point 2 x1250ft, 15-acre, beachfront parcels.Boca Ciega 4.5 acres 170ft beachfront. $350,000.Buena Vista Point ocean view, 75ft x 150ft, $94,000.Palm Bay Club beach lot, 50ft x 100ft. $35,000 terms.Laguna Estates Oceanfront, 60ft x 100f t, terms.Laguna Estates Ocean view lots from $20,000.Caribbean Coves 300f t Oceanfront $50,000.2 adjoining Alta Mar 100ft x 100f t lots $65,000 each.

www.SunriseBelize.comTEL 501-226-3737 / FAX 501-226-3379

E-mail: [email protected]

*BEACHFRONT HOMES *CONDOS *VILLAS *LAND*COMMERCIAL PROPERTY *HOTELS *ISLANDS

YOUR ISLAND SPECIALISTS!

SUNRISERealty

Seaside Seaside Seaside Seaside Seaside at Lily’s Hotelat Lily’s Hotelat Lily’s Hotelat Lily’s Hotelat Lily’s Hotel

FreshFreshFreshFreshFresh

Seafood DailySeafood DailySeafood DailySeafood DailySeafood Daily

Open 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. DAILY

A True IslandA True IslandA True IslandA True IslandA True Island

Dining ExperienceDining ExperienceDining ExperienceDining ExperienceDining Experience

byDennis Wolfe

Wolfe’s Woofers

SAMEPicture

*A stack of one-dollar bills one-mile high would be worth morethan $14 million dollars.

*When a snail hatches from an egg, it is a miniature adult, shelland all. The shell grows with the snail, and the snail never leavesthe shell.

*The first baseball game to be televised was not in the UnitedStates. It was in Tokyo, Japan.

*No two-spider webs are the same.

*The average elephant produces 50 pounds of dung each day.

*Queen Elizabeth II wore three different crowns on her corona-tion day in 1953.

*If you are hedenophobic, you have a fear of pleasure.

*On a bingo card of 90 numbers, there are approximately 44million ways to make B-I-N-G-O.

“Marie, I’m out of cigarettes,” Frank said.

“Here, take one of mine,” Marie said. “You’re smoking way toomuch.”

Frank muttered something under his breath and then said, “Carlos,let me have another Belikin beer.”

“You’re drinking too much, too,” Marie said.

“Aw, give him a break, Marie,” Dulce said. “At least he bringshome plenty of fish.”

“Yeah. He spends all of his free time fishing,” Marie said. “Evenwhen he’s wasting his time fishing, he’s drinking and smoking toomuch.”

Frank and I went back to the corner of the bar and Paisano camehobbling up on his cane.

“You got one dollar?” he asked me.

“Sure,” I said. “Do you want a cigarette, too?”

“No. I don’t got time for smoke cigarette.”

“How about a beer?” Frank asked him.

“No more. I don’t drink beer,” Paisano said.

As he started to hobble off on his cane, Frank said, “Wait aminute, Paisano. Do you like to fish?”

Paisano looked at him like he was crazy.

“I don’t got time for fish,” he said. “I don’t like to go fish.”

“Hey, Marie!” Frank yelled.

“What is it now?” she called from the end of the bar.

“See this man?” Frank said, pointing to Paisano. “This is whathappens to somebody who doesn’t smoke, drink or go fishing.”

See WhatHappens?


Date: December 31, 2004Time: 7:00 PMPlace: Maruba Resort Jungle Spa.

Theme: Mermaids in the Jungle / Glow PartyAttire: Mermaid & Neptune MasqueradeGet Junglized! Glow Party

Entertainment: world re known Punta Rockartist Andy Palacio and his band. Beatingtribal drums which vibes transform you intoa trance and DJ Silk

escape and attend our New Years Eve Celebration Mermaidin de Jungle - Open your soul and be lured into the jungle

Ticket Price: $135 bz / $70 us / peson

Includes: 5 course nouveau jungle cuisinedinner. dancing. dj. entertainment. party.glass of champagne for the toast.

R.S.V.P (Reservations Required)

For reservations call: (Belize)501.322.2199 (US) [email protected] [email protected]

Featured on Temptation Island

Maruba Resort Jungle Spa

escape and attend our New Years Eve Celebration Mermaidin de Jungle - Open your soul and be lured into the jungle

Ticket Price: $135 bz / $70 us / peson

Includes: 5 course nouveau jungle cuisinedinner. dancing. dj. entertainment. party.glass of champagne for the toast.

R.S.V.P (Reservations Required)

For reservations call: (Belize)501.322.2199 (US) [email protected] [email protected]

Featured on Temptation Island

Maruba Resort Jungle Spa

Date: December 31, 2004Time: 7:00 PMPlace: Maruba Resort Jungle Spa.

Theme: Mermaids in the Jungle / Glow PartyAttire: Mermaid & Neptune MasqueradeGet Junglized! Glow Party

Entertainment: world re known Punta Rockartist Andy Palacio and his band. Beatingtribal drums which vibes transform you intoa trance and DJ Silk

Documents

THE SAN PEDRO SUN VISITOR GUIDE - Ambergris Caye · December 30 , 2004 Visitor Guide Page 3 Celebrate the New Year! Dance The Night Away to the Awesome Beat of DJ Lucky!! Feast! Scrumptious