Central America Ian Caves - Ambergris Cayeage you to explore the Caribbean Sea and find Belize’s...

Visitor Guide December 29, 2007

Reservations: 501-226-2012Fax: 501-226-2338Email: [email protected]

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The Island NewspaperThe Island NewspaperThe Island NewspaperThe Island NewspaperThe Island NewspaperAmberAmberAmberAmberAmbergris Caye, Belizegris Caye, Belizegris Caye, Belizegris Caye, Belizegris Caye, Belize

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December 29, 2007December 29, 2007December 29, 2007December 29, 2007December 29, 2007FREEFREEFREEFREEFREE

IanAnderson’s

CavesBranchLodge

AnAdventurer’s

Paradise!

VVVVVol. 17 #50ol. 17 #50ol. 17 #50ol. 17 #50ol. 17 #50


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Photos taken in unique and unusual places arepreferred. Be sure to identify who is in the photoand where the photo was taken. Don’t forget toinclude your names and what you were doing.

Publisher The San Pedro Sun Ltd.Editor Ron Snif fin [email protected] Tamara Sniffin [email protected] Editor Kainie Manuel [email protected] f Writer/ Mary Gonzalez [email protected] DesignStaf f Reporter Maria Novelo [email protected] Assistant Nathalie Manuel [email protected] The San Pedro Sun,

P.O. Box 35,San Pedro TownAmbergris Caye, Belize

Telephone 011-501-226-2070US Telephone (307) 460-4114Fax 011-501-226-2905E-Mail [email protected]/WEB www.sanpedrosun.netMain Office #63 Barrier Reef Drive, San Pedro

Receive Receive Receive Receive Receive The San PedrThe San PedrThe San PedrThe San PedrThe San Pedro Sun & Visitor Guideo Sun & Visitor Guideo Sun & Visitor Guideo Sun & Visitor Guideo Sun & Visitor Guide weekly in weekly in weekly in weekly in weekly inyour mailbox. your mailbox. your mailbox. your mailbox. your mailbox. 26 ISSUES (six months) US, Canada: $60 U.S.26 ISSUES (six months) US, Canada: $60 U.S.26 ISSUES (six months) US, Canada: $60 U.S.26 ISSUES (six months) US, Canada: $60 U.S.26 ISSUES (six months) US, Canada: $60 U.S.Domestic: $60 BZ. 52 ISSUES (one year) US, Canada: $100 U.S.Domestic: $60 BZ. 52 ISSUES (one year) US, Canada: $100 U.S.Domestic: $60 BZ. 52 ISSUES (one year) US, Canada: $100 U.S.Domestic: $60 BZ. 52 ISSUES (one year) US, Canada: $100 U.S.Domestic: $60 BZ. 52 ISSUES (one year) US, Canada: $100 U.S.Domestic: $100 BZ.(OtherDomestic: $100 BZ.(OtherDomestic: $100 BZ.(OtherDomestic: $100 BZ.(OtherDomestic: $100 BZ.(Other locations vary.)

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Greetings to my visiting friends On behalf of thepeople of San PedroTown, I extend a warmwelcome to all visitorsarriving to our shores.I assure you that yourtrip to “La Isla Bonita”will be no ordinary va-cation. Our island is fa-mous for its rich cul-tural diversity, whereMestizos, Creole andGarinagu blend to forma unique encounter.While here, I encour-age you to explore theCaribbean Sea and findBelize’s abundant trea-sures. Hol Chan Marine Reserveand Shark-Ray Alley are just twoof the many spots where you canenjoy our coral reef formation andabundant and breathtaking sea life.San Pedro is also home to world-class fishing and scuba diving. For the more adventurous, “LaIsla Bonita” offers a wide array ofwater sports and for those lookingto get a glimpse of the mysticalworld of the Maya, these historicalruins are just a short expeditionaway. You will also be able to dis-cover Belize’s vast cave systems and

many natural sanctuaries that arehome to our country’s unique floraand fauna. Whether you are spending yourhoneymoon at an exclusive resortor looking for an adventurous, yetromantic escape, San Pedro issurely the place to be. I invite youto explore our home and see themany wonders it has to offer. We welcome you with openarms. Bienvenidos a San Pedro!

Elsa Paz, Mayor,San Pedro Town

Darren and Wendy Casson are in Alberta, Canada, visitingfamily and doing some Christmas shopping! The Caye Caulkerresidents and owners of Habaneros Restaurant are standing in frontof a train bridge that is the longest train trestle of its type in theworld, in minus 10 degrees Celsius weather, with snow on theground! Brr! Good thing they have The San Pedro Sun to keepthem warm company!

Language canlink us with othercultures, no matterhow foreign thetongue may be.In an effort toshare this form ofcommunication withour audience, The San PedroSun proudly presents –Words of the Week. This

week, we willpresent a couple ofwords in Creole,and translate it toEnglish, using theCreole/ EnglishDictionary released

through the Kriol Coun-cil. Special thanks to SylvanaWoods for our copy of thedictionary. Enjoy!!!

Creole: Advans Advance, move forward – Geh yu ejukayshansoh yuk u advans yuself. (Get your education so you can advance yourself.)

Creole: Afoadabl Affordable – Ah di luk fi wahn nyoo hows, botah noh fain notn weh afoadabl yet. ( I’m looking for a new house, but Ihaven’t found anything that’s affordable yet.)


Belize is a mega diverse country andtreasure trove that always maintains itsdoors open to welcome all people thatwant to learn a little bit more about ourculture, traditions, and the flora and faunathat have so much to offer. If you have athirst for adventure, a longing to go toplaces beyond the road ahead, to experi-ence fascinating indigenous cultures and

magnificent wildlife, then look no fur-ther. Of the countless places to visit whilstimmersing yourself in the country, IanAnderson’s Caves Branch Jungle Lodge,is among Belize’s best. Caves’ Branchdoesn’t just scratch the surface, the lodgegoes deeper to offer an understanding ofthe local residents, inspiring journeys andexhilarating landscapes that you simply

Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch - An Adventurer’s Paradise!won’t find with any other travel company. Situated on Mile 41 ½ on the winding HummingbirdHighway in San Ignacio, Cayo, Caves Branch JungleLodge and Adventure company makes sure you get toenjoy nature at all its expression. And, unlike the milieuyou get at a luxury hotel, Ian Anderson’s Jungle Lodgelets you dwell in a jungle ambience that gives you an as-tounding view of the exotic and innumerable flora andfauna. You certainly have the feeling that you are loung-ing in the lap of nature as you step into a lush green won-derland and immerse yourself in 58,000 acres of verdantsubtropical forest and amazing wildlife. The Lodge seemsas much a part of this rainforest setting as do the jungle’sfauna, frequently seen scampering within the jungle un-dergrowth or ascending through the rainforest canopy. Caves Branch offers the adventure seekers unique and

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You certainly have the feeling that you are lounging in the lap of nature as you stepinto a lush green wonderland and immerse yourself in 58,000 acres of verdant sub-tropical forest and amazing wildlife.


stylish accommodations featuring: ro-mantic jungle tree houses, jungle bunga-lows, suites, and jungle cabañas that allhave a unique rustic design. At night, theboard walkways are lit with tiki torchesthat show you the way to your tee house.The romantic tree houses carry greatviews of the rainforest and the CavesBranch River. Each tree house has a re-laxing sitting area, elegant furniture, kingposter bed, spacious stonework bathroomand outdoor balcony. The rustic junglesuites are exquisitely detailed with realthatched roof, king bed, private bath-room, living room area complimentedwith an artistic touch. Or why not stay inthe jungle cabañas that are rustically opento the symphony of nature. They say sim-plicity is the best luxury and the junglecabañas is just that, simple yet warm andinviting which comes with outside bath-rooms and jungle showers. The bunga-lows capture the jungle theme in perfectwall detail; every room has its ownunique motif that varies from reef torainforest plus, they are accentuated withorigami towels that resemble animals ofthe wild. The bungalows are completedwith Terra Cotta tile floors and tropical

Caves Branch Continued from Page 3

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The staff pays close attention to everdetail at the lodge, even the towels(right) are folded just so!


We at Southwind Properties specialize in the listing & sale of fine island properties -Homes, Condos, Hotels, Commercial, Income-Producing Properties & Land for homesor large parcels for development. Be sure to meet with Marianne, Edwardo or Claudioto discuss your particular needs. Southwind Properties prides itself in being there full-time for full service and full disclosure for all your real estate needs. Call 226-2005/2060 or e-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!

Commercial/Condos/HomesDowntown Commercial Property (R47) Best commercial location on the market right now. Corner propertyon ‘Front Street’ in down town San Pedro. The property presently contains 3 businesses & 2 privateresidences, but has the perfect location for ocean view hotel, office building or condos. Seller may accept BelizeDollars. Price $994,500.00 USBeachfront Home (A10) 1st level- 6 apts. 1 bdrm/1bath each; 2nd level-3 bdrm/1-1/2 bath; 3rd level-2 bdrm/1 bath penthouse apt. Enjoy your view of the reef & the ocean breezes from your own Palapa or snorkel &sun off your 100’ dock. $975,000.00 US.San Telmo Villa (R52) Hidden pearl in San Telmo only one lot off the beach. Two bedroom, one bath villa withexquisite finishing. $475,000.00 US cash only!San Pedrito Residential (G42) Two storey house located at San Pedrito consisting of 3 bedroom 1 bathowner’s quarters and two apartments on the ground floor. Building sits on lot measuring 50’ x 75’. Asking price:$159,000.00 US.

Raw LandMata Grande Beachfront (B42)-Gorgeous beachfront on prime location only 4.5 miles north of town center.The property has beautiful foliage, high elevation & is within electricity, telephone & road access. Lot measuresapprox. 100’ x 200’, enough space for a large house, swimming pool & backyard. $465,000.00 US.Holiday Lands (M53) Approx 78’ x 72’, 2 rows off the beach. $70,000.00 US.San Mateo Waterfront (R52) 3 side by side water front lots facing the San Pedro lagoon, selling separatelyor together. Each lot measures approx. 50’ x 100’. Price: $37,500.00 US each or buy all three! Make anoffer!Ambergris Bay (P55) Gorgeous beach front parcel measuring approx. 75’ x 100. $100,000.00 US.Beach front lot at Palm Bay Club, 60’ x 130’. Price only $70,000.00 USBacalar Chico (E15)- Beautiful beachfront property located right next to the Bacalar Chico national park &marine reserve. Take pleasure in amazing snorkeling or scuba diving in the pristine coral reef located at yourdoorstep! Lot measures approx.100’ beachfront by 425’ depth. Great price at only $240,000.00 US.Mata Grande Lot (P52) Ocean view lot-80’ x 150’- 2 rows off the beach within electricity, telephone & roadaccess. $50,000.00USSpanish Reef (B35) Corner lot 2 rows off the beach! One of the largest lots in the subdivision with a size of 93’x 100’ x 50’ x 109. Price reduced to $37,000.00USCorozal Town Center (R31) 7 ½ Acres of prime real-estate, road accessible on 3 sides, beautiful maturetrees, cleared & ready to develop all amenities available.$110,000.00USCaye Caulker (H34) 1000’ of water frontage (2 acres) just across the Split. Prime location and a gorgeouspiece of property. Asking $1.2 million USD.


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hardwoods, king beds, private bathroomand showers, sitting area and a wraparound veranda with inviting hammocks.Settle down for a nap on your privateveranda, or unwind with fellow travel-ers in one of the lodge’s hammocks andexperience the camaraderie that adven-ture travel invariably provokes. After getting settled into one of the fourstyles of accommodations, you mightwant to fill up on some good soul food.All the meals provided are served buffetstyle with family seating. Enjoy a greatmeal in a beautiful main dining area,complete with gorgeous Belizean hard-wood ceilings and an atmosphere thatreflects and compliments the jungle para-dise surrounding it. The staff is extremelyamiable and caters to your every need.Why not escape from the confines of yourdaily life and spend some time with theCaves Branch family in the peaceful andrelaxing atmosphere of the Jungle Lodge?Before you know it you will be drawndeeper into this exotic wonderland andbe looking forward to the great adven-

crets of a lost underworld. The San Pedro Sun tagged along withthe lodge’s most trusted guides for anunforgettable trip to the Black Hole Drop,where we got to defy gravity and rappelinto a 300 foot ancient sinkhole. Woo hoo!What an adrenaline rush! But, getting tothe top of the cave is no easy task, asthese tours are designed for the extremeadventure seeker and nature lovers. Wetrek through the thick, dense jungle whilst

ture tours that lie ahead. Caves Branch Jungle Lodge is not onlyan adventure company that caters to ex-treme adventurers, but to families withchildren, looking for the perfect esca-pades to capture the hearts of young, rest-less minds and souls. With qualifiedguides, you can follow the path of somany before – a path that will lead youthrough thick jungle paths and intricatelabyrinths of beautifully formed wet anddry limestone caves that reveal the se-

The jungle suites are exquisitely detailed and offera chance to interact one on one with nature.

There is an array of wild critters thatplay on the tree tops and jungle floorsboth day and night.


Caves BranchContinued from Page 6

Caves BranchContinued from Page 6

taking in the pristine, moist evergreenforest that abounds with wildlife andfascinating plants. The exuberance ofthe flora and fauna stagger yoursenses and urge you on to discovermore of this hidden wonder that isthe Caves Branch. “Necko”, our able guide, assureseveryone that they will be well caredfor and that safety is their numberone priority. One fact to note is thatthese guides are founding membersof the Belize Disaster and RescueResponse Team (BDARRT), theBritish Army Certified AdventureTrainers, and Adjust Trainers for theBelize Institute of Wilderness Tropi-cal Medicine and Search and Res-

cue and are, hands down, some of the best tour guides in the country. Raised ashunters and gatherers, they know the ways Continued on Page 8


CH

of the jungle, and are highly skilled inusing their eyes, ears, and smells forinterpreting nature’s signs. As we meander about the awe-inspir-ing verdant forest, delighting in itsmyriad of fragrances, sounds and col-ors, you cannot help but marvel at thebounty Mother Nature has provided.After about an hour’s trek, or depend-ing on how fast the group moves, we

The Party Hopper’s Guideto North Ambergris Caye

arrive at our drop off destination wheretwo more guides are getting the equip-ment ready in order for the awaiteddrop. At first glance, the depth of thecave is frightening to the amateur ad-venturer, but after your fears arewashed away by Necko’s reassurance,the jump is more rewarding than chal-lenging. At the site, you will be giveninstruction on how to harness yourselves,

with guides to help you, of course. Yourguides then teach you how to rappel veryeasily into the 300 foot deep hole. Al-though it seems difficult you will be de-lighted to find out that this is actuallyvery easy to do! Space and time seem


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It’s a great idea, and the business owners who have committed to this funfeature should be commended for their innovation and for bringing this as anincentive for our visitors. There’s so much to be said for working with eachother rather than against, and with the obvious camaraderie amongst the fourbusinesses, Sweet Basil, Coco Locos, Palapa Bar & Grill and Beach ‘n’ Kitchen,there’s lots of fun in store for those who take up this offer! What the party guide is essentially about is: You have a coupon, which guar-antees you a free bridge pass when you visit them all and collect your dollar,adding up to the cost of the bridge pass. Do take a walk on the wild side, and seehow much fun you can have, while saving for a bridge pass (which of course youcan enjoy in the form of a snack or libation!) Either way, you get to enjoy northAmbergris Caye, you discover four beautiful spots in which to have fun, and yousave some $$$$! What more could you want? Start clipping and start savingNOW!

Necko (left) will take you to a journeyback in time where you will get to ex-perience some of nature’s most breath-taking formations.


Secret Belgian Recipesby Rebati la Luna

WWW.SANPEDROSUN.NET

to stand still as you enter the depths ofthe 300 foot ancient cave; visitors areamazed on the incredible sense of tran-quility and closeness to nature. What athrill ride! At the bottom of the hole, weawait for our guide Necko to come downfrom atop. Once we have all safely made our waydown, Necko quickly unfolds a table clothover a large stone and starts preparingour scrumptious lunch. We eat and takein the sounds, smells and sights of trulyBelizean beauty. Then we take a shorthike to the site of a massive cave entrancewhere Necko explains nature’s mostbreath-taking and virtually untouched for-mations, which took millions of years tocreate. Our journey winds down as wereturn to hike down the jungle mountainand return to the lodge in good shape. Ian Anderson’s Lodge offers a diverse

list of other packages specially designedfor adventure seekers. These include:River of Caves and Zipline, WaterfallCave Expedition, Mayan ceremonialGrave, Overnight caving expedition,jungle treks, river kayaking, junglesafari’s after dark, Jungle survival ex-pedition, trips to the ruins of Tikal,Xunantunich, bird watching, horse backriding, and many more exciting and dar-ing tours. Ian Anderson’s Cave Branch and Ad-venture Company has come a long waysince its birth 14 years ago. The San PedroSun got the privilege to sit down over



Jungle showers arethe best!


breakfast and have a one on one conver-sation with the owner and adventurerextraordinaire, Ian Anderson. Ian hailsfrom Canada, where he worked in theFood and Beverage Department in thePacific Hotels before he made the dar-ing leap to change area codes and settlein Belize. He has been a visitor to Belizefor 18 years now and fondly reminisceson his 14 years of business. He statesthat he has grown and expanded signifi-


cantly over the years, “We started offsmall; back then it was referred to asCaves Branch Company, and we had onecabaña, one bunk house and we used tobathe in the river. At that time, we hadno electricity or water and I rememberthe first four to five years how it wastremendously difficult. Nowadays, I haveone the best caving business in Belize anda phenomenal staff that we consider fam-ily.”

Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch isvery eco-friendly and conservation ori-ented. In Ian’s words, “we want tominimize our impacts of our imprintsin the jungle so we try to maintain itsnatural setting. We firmly discouragewildlife killings, and logging. We arealways expanding and right now work-ing on our Orchid Gardens whichcarry over 120 species of orchids inall sizes, colors, and fragrances andover 1,600 tropical plants and brome-liad.” In the future, Ian plans to con-tinue with his expansion of the lodgeand provide even better service tothose that frequent the lodge. “I per-sonally guarantee that your vacationwith us will be the most memorable

experience of your life! The adven-ture begins now!” ended Ian. Caves Branch Jungle Lodge and Ad-venture Company is the ideal locationfrom which to explore this unique andmagical area, surrounded by tower-ing trees and exuberant vegetation andare adorned with tropical designs.What better place to have your jungleadventure experience than at IanAnderson’s Caves Branch JungleLodge. Visit their website for moredetails, www.cavesbranch.com or calldirect at 822-2800 or toll free 1-866-357-2698, and book your stay today. Come, discover and experienceCaves Branch and get a taste of whata true adventure vacation is all about!!

The lodge sits beside the trickling Caves Branch River.


Located at Journey’s End Resort, NorthAmbergris Caye, Luna features Palm TreeCuisine, a fusion of Central American and

Caribbean specialties.

Daily specials are prepared by our awardwinning chef;

Calbert Santiago, Taste of Belize, Chef of theYear 2007

For the best truly island dining experience youmust visit Luna, open air dining, surrounded by

candlelight with stunning views of the Carib-bean. You’ll want to tell your friends back home

about the food, the view, the experience.

Join us for Friday Night Beachside BBQ, anisland tradition. For reservations call 226-2173.

Open seven days a week, serving breakfast,lunch and dinner.


The San Pedro Sun& Visitor’s Guidewww.sanpedrosun.net

[email protected]

In marine environments such asthose found in Belize, many brightlycolored and uniquely shaped plants andanimals often overshadow other, lessostentatious creatures, such as the seacucumber. Closely related to the seastar and sea urchin, this generally non-descript creature is found throughoutthe coral reef environment, as well asalong rocky shorelines and sandycoasts. Despite an appearance thatwould lead most to believe that all thesea cucumber does is occupy space,this creature, in fact, plays more than

Reef BriefReef BriefReef BriefReef BriefReef BriefSea Cucumbers:

Vacuuming up the Ocean Floor

one important role in the world’soceans. Like the sea star, the spiny skinnedsea cucumber is equipped with tubefeet, located on its underside, that al-low it to slowly (3 inches/hour) movealong the ocean floor sucking up sandand debris. Incredibly, over the spanof a year, this creature can vacuum upto 200 pounds of sand! In addition toingesting sand, the sea cucumber pri-marily feeds on sea grass and algae.To grab onto food, the sea cucumber


Sea cucumbers play more than one important role in the world’s environment.


produces mucus, which causes sand andplant debris to stick to its body. At thatpoint, the creature brings its tube feetto its mouth and sucks off the food. Another situation in which the seacucumber takes advantage of an adhe-sive property is when it defends itself.When it senses a threat, this uniqueanimal has the ability to push part of itsintestines out of its body and onto itsattacker. The presence of these intes-tines, which can be very sticky, tendsto deter predators. After the sea cu-cumber has used this defense mecha-nism, its intestines have to be regener-ated, a process taking approximatelysix weeks to complete. It is a good thing that the sea cucum-ber has evolved such a mechanism be-cause the population of this creaturetends to increase very slowly and needs

The Sea Cucumber Continued from Page 13

all the help it can get. Sea cucumbershave two sexes that reproduce bybroadcast spawning, in which eggs andsperm are released into the surround-ing water and fertilized. Consequently,a larva is created, which will eventu-ally grow into an adult species that canrange in size from 10 to 30 centime-ters. In Belize, the sea cucumber currentlydoes not experience any major threats.However, in other parts of the world,the sea cucumber is considered a gour-met delicacy, thus increasing the demandon this creature. During the mid-90s,sea cucumbers of the Galapagos Islands

(in South America) expe-rienced a significant popu-lation decline due to over-harvesting; currently seacucumbers are a protectedspecies in that region. In addition to the valueof sea cucumbers as afood source for humans,these invertebrates alsoplay an important role infiltering sediments and re-cycling nutrients backinto the food web. Likewise, the eggsof sea cucumbers provide nutrients formany marine species. For these andother reasons, the significance of thesecurious looking creatures cannot be un-

derestimated. If you have a topic you would likefeatured in Reef Brief, or would just liketo help us, please call 2833, or E-mail:- [email protected].


byDennis Wolfe

Wolfe’s Woofers

Theexplains it

Trivia Tidbits... * The only country in the world that has a Bill of Rights for Cows is India. * The Bledowska Desert, in Poland is the only true desert in Europe. * Monkeys will not eat red meat or butter. * The Manhattan cocktail — whiskey and sweet vermouth — was inventedby Jennie Jerome, the beautiful New Yorker who was the toast of the townuntil she went to England as the wife of Lord Randolph Churchill, in 1874,and gave birth to Winston. * Winston Churchill was born in a ladies’ cloakroom in the ancestral castleof Blenheim. His mother was attending a formal ball there when she prema-turely delivered. * Honey bees have shown a preference for yellow and blue flowers. * In Pakistan, goats are often sacrificed to improve the performance of thestock market. * According to purist Italian chefs, ingredients that should never appear onan authentic Italian pizza include bell pepper, pepperoni, or chicken. * More diamonds are purchased at Christmas-time (31 percent) than dur-ing any other holiday or occasion during the year.

DEVELOPED PROPERTIES Grande Caribe Beachfront Condos 1 mile north of the bridge on

500 ft of coconut grove. 1,2 & 3 bedrooms. San Pedro’s most excitingnew project 3 pools & marina. Under construction. Inquire! Casa Blanca on ½ acre beach Mata Grande. Extensive new rental

home complex. $1,950,000. Oasis Del Caribe Fully furnished 2nd floor ocean front 2 bedroom

$335,000 Miramar new 3rd floor beachfront unfurnished 2 bedroom condo with

4th floor penthouse suite unfurnished – any reasonable offer considered Miramar new completed 2nd floor beachfront 2 bedroom furnished

condos from $ 375,000. Beach villa - Caye Villas Mata Grande 2 Bed 3 bath fully furnished

pool rental management program $429,900 bring offers! Caye Casa - Beachfront condo in finishing phases of construction,

quiet, in town, pool, pier, thatch porches, furnished, with on site propertymanagement. Living the dream. Inquire! Royal Palm Villas pool side on the beach 1 bedroom $ 205,000. Banana Beach 1-3 bedroom ocean front condos with 2 Pools,

beach, restaurant and bar from $130,000 to $185,000 with guaranteedrental incomes. Boca Ciega ocean and lagoon view 3 bedroom home, turnkey and

tasteful. Inquire. Tres Cocos 2 bed/2 bath garden home with swimming pool $ 495,000. Vista Del Mar – Attractive Holiday Lands home. 2 bedroom 2 bath-

room spacious owners level with 4 immaculate one bed, one bath rentalapartments. $589,900. Tres Cocos large beach home Inquire $1,500,000 Tres Cocos beachfront commercial/residential venture $1,200,000 St Georges Caye private island large beach home $1,150,000 Resort Properties available – Inquire.

UNDEVELOPED PROPERTIES West Bay LAST OF ITS KIND private sandy cove 260 ft frontage

ONLY $350,000. Cash offers West Bay oceanfront 100 ft x 500 ft $250,000. Mata Grande 100 x 200 ft prime beach lot with pier permit $445,000. Mata Grande 100 x 200 ft residential beach lot $465,000. Esperanza 1.5 acres beach 150 ft x 460 ft $1,000,000. Esperanza 4.6 acres beach 300 ft x 460 ft $2,000,0000. Boca Ciega 4.5 acres 170ft beach front. $350,000. Palmeros 70 x 350 ocean view lot $ 110,000. Acreage available on Lagoon side Inquire. Commercial sized Islands in the lagoon Inquire. Laguna Estates ocean view lots from $60,000.

TEL 501-226-3737 / FAX 501-226-3379www.SunriseBelize.com

E-mail: [email protected]

YOUR ISLAND SPECIALISTS!

All prices are in US dollars and subject to change withoutnotice. For further details on these properties and much more

call your AMBERGRIS CAYE SPECIALISTS

“Hello.” “Is this the Lands Department for the country of Belize?” “Yes.” “Well, why don’t you say so?” “Huh?” “Listen,” I said, into the phone. “You work in one of the most important offices in thecountry and you always answer the phone by just saying ‘Hello.’ Don’t you think youshould at least . . .A.r.r.g.h! Never mind. I’m calling to see if the title papers are readyfor my land.” “Did you call about the papers for the land today?” Dulce asked, when she got home.. “Of course,” I said. “I’ve called every day for the last three months and they still don’thave the papers ready.” “They’ve had the surveys and information for over three months,” she said. “This isgetting ridiculous,” “You’re telling me,” I said. “We need those papers,” she said. “We can’t build anything on the lot without title.We can’t even fence it.” “I found out who is in charge of the office,” I told her. “I’m making a special trip toBelmopan tomorrow and I’m going to track him down and find out why things are soslow coming out of that office.” In Belmopan, I found out that the boss was out to lunch. I got a description of him andwaited outside the building to ambush him when he returned. When I saw a man answering his description, I said, “Excuse me. Are you in charge ofthis office?” “Are you Mr. Wolfe?” he asked. “I recognize your voice.” “You should,” I told him. “We’ve talked every day for the last three months about thetitle to my property in San Pedro. I’m here to find out why it takes your office so long toget things done.” “Pardon me for a moment, Mr. Wolfe,” he said. He turned to a girl who was leaning against the wall reading a magazine and enjoyingthe sunshine. “Maggie, why aren’t you upstairs working?” She flipped the page in her magazine and said, “Somebody was using the pencil.”


The Lions Club of San Pedro relieson income from its Friday and Satur-day Night BBQ to support the needycommunity. Help a great cause -havedinner with us!Green Reef A non-profit organizationdedicated to the promotion of sustain-able use and conservation of Belize’smarine and coastal [email protected] /226-2833San Pedro AA - 226-4464, 600-9061Saga Society A non-profit “humane so-ciety” to address the stray cat and dogpopulation in San Pedro. Phone 226-3266.CARE BELIZE - Children’s Special-ist, San Pedro. 622-8200SP Town Library - 206-2028

SEASIDE REAL ESTATE – Many listings, from raw landto beautiful beachfront homes. We can help you own a pieceof paradise. Call 226-4545 or E-mail [email protected] REALTY - Land, homes, businesses, condos andinvestment properties. Call 226-3737, fax 226-3379 or E-mail: [email protected] PROPERTIES - For all your Real Estateneeds. Call 226-2005 or 226-2060 for information or E-mail:[email protected] for current listings.SUEÑO DEL MAR - Paradise has a new address! Locatedon Barrier Reef Drive (Front Street), across from Fido’sRestaurant. 8:30AM to 5PM, www.dreambelize.com,Phone: (US #) 719-302-5398, (Belize #) 011-501-226-4001.INVEST IN BELIZE - Call for Appointments and pick-ups.226-4000 or www.investinbelize.comRE/MAX Isla Bonita, 1ocated at 10 Coconut Drive, SanPedro. 226-4400 e-mail: [email protected] or visit ourwebsite at www.owninbelize.comCORAL BEACH REALTY - Professionalism at it’s best.Visit our office “Unda da Palapa” on Barrier Reef Drive,226-2681. www.CoralBeachRealty.net

ISLAND FERRY SERVICE & WATER TAXI – Sched-uled ferry service & water taxi for Ambergris Caye. Phone226-3231.MONCHO’S GOLF CART RENTALS - Four & Six seatergolf carts available. Open daily 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. We deliverto your room. 226-3262 or 226-4490.CRYSTAL AUTO RENTAL – Largest fleet in Belize. Of-fices at International Airport and Belize City. 223-1600, 0-800-777-7777.

SAILSPORTS BELIZE – Windsurfing, kite sailing andsailing. The latest equipment and expert instruction makesit easy to learn. 226-4488 [email protected] & HAPPY - Snorkeling - private snorkel tours- just you on the boat, no set schedule! Visitors with spe-cial needs and children are welcome. Call 226-3420 or672-1234. Visit www.grumpyandhappy.com, or Email:[email protected].

Water, Sports & Tours

CASTILLO’S HARDWARE - Storm supplies, electron-ics, household appliances, tools, home repair items and awide variety of paints, stains and varnishes. PescadorDrive. Phone 226-2302.S.P. HARDWARE - Large variety of hardware and house-hold supplies. Will meet or beat any competitor’s price!Seagrape Drive; Open seven days a week. 226-4522

Real Estate...

Emergency 911Medical Emergency: 226-3231Crimestoppers 800 922-TIPSPolice 226-2022Fire 226-2372Wings of Hope - Medical emergencyair ambulance. Phone: 223-3292.Lions Health Clinic - 226-4052; emer-gencies 600-9071 or Hours: Mon.-Fri.,8am to 8pm; Sat., 8am - noon.Los Pinos Clinic 602-6383 and 226-2686.Dr. Lerida Rodriguez: 226-2197 or cell620-1974.San Pedro Chiropractic Clinic 226-4695Hyperbaric Chamber - 226-2851, Dr.Otto Rodriguez - 600-0287 or 226-2854.Antonia Guerrero - 600-5475 or 206-2152. Eleazar Portillo - 610-4560 or 226-3195.San Pedro Polyclinic II - 226-2536. 8-12 and 2-5, Mon. to Fri. Emergencies226-2555/2918 or 606-3864.Ambergris Hopes Clinic - 226-2660,Emergencies: 606-2316US Embassy - 822-4011Labour Office - 226-2700 (Open 8am -5pm, Mon. - Fri.)Canadian Consulate - 223-1060Mexican Embassy - 223-0193Guatemalan Embassy - 223-3150Honduran Embassy - 224-5889San Carlos Medical (MD & DentistServices) - 7:30am - 9:00pm, 226-2918

IMPORTANT #s

Miscellaneous

San Pedro Roman Catholic ChurchSun. Mass: 9 a.m. English; 11 a.m.Children’s; 7:30 p.m. Spanish; Sat. Con-fessions 5-7 p.m; Mass or CommunionService every night at 7:30 p.m.Living Word Church Service Sun.10:45 a.m. Bible study Mon. 7:30 p.m.We do Christian charity work. 226-2950.Assembly of God Church onAngel Coral St. T-W-St.-Sn. at 7:30 p.m.Lighthouse Christian Radio - 101.3FM. 226-4673, Cor. Buccaneer &Pescador Drive.The Church of Jesus Christ of Lat-ter Day Saints - Sunday Service: 9:30am, Wednesday Scripture Study 7:00pm. 17 Lagoon St. (between the bak-ery and the bridge).San Pedro Community Church -meets Sundays at 10a.m. at the Am-bergris Elementary School. All AreWelcome.

Church Services

Services...

Transportation...

THE HOLIDAY HOTEL - Every Wednesday, live musicand a fabulous Beach Barbeque 6:30 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. Bar-rier Reef Dr. 226-2014.PALAPA BAR AND GRILL - The Coolest Place, Northof Bridge. Drink & Dine out over the Caribbean waterswith cool breezes and no mosquitoes. Specialty is a BBQ,Slow Smoked, Pork Sandwich and Fresh Caught FishTacos. Open 7 days, Happy Hour Drinks 4 - 6 226-3111.ROADKILL BAR - For a GREAT time! Mondays withDennis Wolfe and Caroline’s BBQ. Enjoy happy hour from2pm - 6pm on Thursdays and Sundays. BBQ Lunch onSaturdays. Across from Crazy Canucks, open daily from12 - 12.COCO LOCO’S SWIM-UP & BEACH BAR - 1/8th of amile north of the bridge, directly on the beach! Happy Hourdaily from 4-6pm. Great music and the best bartender!The new owners are doing it up right! Call 226-2910.

Party...Party...Party

Belize Tourism Board - 223-1910.Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) - 227-5717.San Pedro Tourist Guide Association 226-2391.

Tourist Information

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SAN PEDRO FITNESS CLUB – A/C Gym at Bel-ize Yacht Club, Fully-equipped. Open to the public.Tennis Courts, Lap and Family pools, Aqua Fitnessand Toning Classes.Open 7am Daily, 8am Sundays.226-2683.CAYE COFFEE – Take a taste of our locally roastedfresh coffee back home. A wonderful cup of coffeemakes such a great difference in your day. Try itand ask for more. 226-3568.THE GREENHOUSE - Fresh Produce & Seafood.Belizean and imported speciality. Fresh herbs, coldcuts, chilled goods plus an exciting selection of gro-ceries. A/C local on Barrier Reef Dr. 226-2084.CAYE INTERNATIONAL BANK - Offering De-mand Deposit Accounts, Loans, Savings Accounts,etc. [email protected] or phone 226-2388.PROVIDENT BANK & TRUST - Offering a fullrange of International Banking Services. phone 223-5698 services@prov identbank.bzGRANIEL’S DREAMLAND - Locallymade furniture & accessories from allBelizean exotic hardwoods & Ma-hogany. On Pescador Drive, oppositeRock’s, Call 226-2632, ext. 18 or 226-2938. Open Mon-Sat 8:30-12:00 noon &1:00 to 9:00 p.m. & Sun 10-12 noon.SUNDANCER + MOONDANCER -Unique boutiques featuring beautiful,quality clothing, jewelry and gorgeousgift items for both men (Sundancer) andwomen (Moondancer). Phone: 226-

MATA CHICA - Mambo Cuisine - for food lovers.Homemade pasta, shrimp paté, bruschetta, charbroiledseafood and much more! Call 220-5010/5011.ELVI’S KITCHEN - serving the finest food since 1977.Daily Lunch and Dinner Specials. Caribbean Night onThursday. Mayan Fiesta every Friday - come try ourMaya Buffet. Open Monday – Saturday. Lunch: 11:00a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Dinner: 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Callus for group reservations. Ph 226-2404/2176 “Wheresomething good is always cooking!”CELI’S RESTAURANT ON THE BEACH at the SanPedro Holiday Hotel, serves Great Fajitas, salads andlocal dishes for LUNCH. DELECTABLE SEAFOODSPECIALTIES for dinner. OUTDOOR & INDOORDINING 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.Beach barbeque every Wednesday night with live mu-sic.LILY’S TREASURE CHEST RESTAURANT - Onthe beach behind Lily’s Hotel. Join us for a cool breezeand the best seafood or USDA beef on our veranda bythe sea. 226-2650.

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...

3126.BELIZEAN ARTS GALLERY - Local art!BELIZE MINI STORAGE / SELF STORAGE - Lo-cated in San Pablo. Elevated concrete constructionand gated entry. Security. Water access and a greatnew boat launch ramp on site. Call 672-1234.PINGUINO BELIZE - Fine Wine. Gourmet Olives,stuffed olives and spreads. Exclusively in belize.Free Tasting! 226-2930. pinguinobelize.comLIQUOR BOX - Wholesale and Retail on local andimported liquors. Delivery available! Case ofBelikin Beer, Ice Cold - only $60Bz! On BuccaneerStreet, open 7 Days a week 9:00am to 9:30pm. 226-2475 or 626-7331.FOOTPRINTS - Crocs shoes, Reef shoes, and funbeach accessories. On Barrier Reef Drive, openMonday through Saturday from 9am - 6pm. 226-2689.

RAMON’S VILLAGE - Enjoy breakfast, lunch anddinner in a Mayan atmosphere or on the veranda over-looking the Caribbean Sea. Coconut Drive. Phone 226-2071.LUNA at Journey’s End Resort - Experience fine din-ing on the beach north of San Pedro. Visit our tropicalbar featuring karaoke, dance and fun music. Phone 226-2173.PAPI’S DINER – The place for fine food at diner prices.Taste the Caribbean. Call 665-4506.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. Burritos on Wednesdays. PescadorDrive. Call 226-2223.BLUE WATER GRILL – Island cuisine with a twist!Wood-fired Oven Pizzas, Sushi & more! Open daily.Happy Hour 4 to 6 p.m. 226-3347.EL DIVINO RESTAURANT at BANANA BEACH -Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner from 6 a.m - 10p.m. Book your party or banquet today! Phone 226-2444.

PORTOFINO RESTAURANT AND GREEN PAR-ROT BEACH BAR - Meet our boat at 6:30 p.m. atFido’s Dock for a complimentary ride to one of thebest culinary experiences you will have while in para-dise. For reservations, call 220-5096.SUNSET GRILL - Offering local and international cui-sine. Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. Lo-cated on the lagoon side. 226-2600. Come by at sunsetand help us feed the tarpons!JUNGLE JACK’S - International and Local cuisinefeaturing AWESOME hamburgers. Serving lunch anddinner with daily specials. Open 11:30am - 2:30pm and5:30pm - 9:30pm. Located across from the Belize Bank.Call 226-2639.RENDEZVOUS RESTAURANT AND BAR - Themost romantic spot in town featuring award winningchefs. Thai and French cuisine blended to make para-dise taste like heaven, or so our customers say. FreeRendezvous Wine tasting from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.Fermented, blended and bottled here on theproperty. Open for lunch and dinner. Call 226 3426 forreservations and transport options.CASA PICASSO TAPAS + MARTINIS - Smallplates, big pastas and fantastic desserts! “Hippest mar-tini spot”-Frommer’s. Nightly 5:30pm, closed Sundays.reservations 226-4507.BEACH ‘N’ KITCHEN - Open Daily for Brunch.Choose delicious Eggs Benedict, stuffed French toastor continental breakfast! Now open for dinner from 5pm- 8pm. North of the bridge, near Palapa Bar. Call 226-4456.RICO’S SURFSIDE RESTAURANT – A truly uniquedining experience on the beach at Banyan Bay. Servingbreakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Phone 226-3739 ext.135.BLUE LOTUS LUXURY DINING- Delight yourselfwith Indian cuisine at San Pedro’s newest water-toprestaurant. Spectacular views of San Pedro at night!Complimentary water taxi service. Call 501-620-BLUE(2583).ROJO LOUNGE - Enjoy tropical lounge cuisine in oneof the most beautiful beachfront settings in all of Belize- Azul Resort. 226-4012.

The San Pedro Sun

Visitor Guide

Contact The San Pedro Sun for more [email protected]

Phone: (501) 226-2070 FAX: (501) 226-2905www.sanpedrosun.net

EVERY WEEKwe print a new edition

covering the “good news” aboutSan Pedro and Belize!

...Unique Offerings...

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