belize - travel world news

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BELIZEMother Nature’s Best Kept Secret

Snuggled between Mexico to thenorth and Guatemala to the westand south, relaxed, English-speaking Belize is an adven-

turer's paradise. It is a land rich in naturalbeauty and steeped in the magic of itsMaya past. Renowned for pristine waters,exotic marine and wildlife, lush unspoiledlandscapes, and superb diving, Belize isMother Nature’s Best Kept Secret.

Only a two-hour plane ride from the con-tinental United States, Belize features a di-versity of adventure opportunities un-matched by any other country, and offers anintriguing mix of tropical forests, majesticmountains, mysterious Maya temples, anddiving and fishing experiences beyondcomparison. In a single day, one can gofrom tropical forest to the longest barrierreef in the Western Hemisphere.

The upcoming summer season is filledwith a diverse group of programs and packages in Belize, andthe following properties and tour operators offer opportuni-ties to participate in a wide range of sightseeing, cultural, andoutdoor activities with something for every need and budget.

Almond Beach ResortAlmond Beach is an outstanding luxury resort in Belize, lo-

cated beside the famous Jaguar Reef Lodge. It is ideal forhoneymoons, anniversaries, family vacations, fishing anddiving vacations. They are close to a number of Belize'sNational Parks, Mayan ruins, and world famous diving andfishing. Their sister resort, Jaguar Reef Lodge, offers a num-ber of tours to explore the eco-wonders of Belize's diversewildlife and landscape.

Their new spa, Butterflies, opening by May, 2007 at AlmondBeach Belize will have it all: Scuba Spa, Snorkel Spa, JungleSpa, and Beach Spa. Guests will have a unique opportunityto combine the best of Belize, with the best of spa therapies –massage, hydrotherapy, scrubs, wraps and body polishes, fa-cials, hair and nail care in this beautiful new spa on the quietsouth coast of Belize.

Butterflies Spa is offering three exciting Spa Weeks featur-ing inclusive packages which include meals, accommoda-tion, local transfers, taxes and services and a choice of SpaTreatments uniquely integrated into an exploration of the nat-ural rain forest jungle, reef, and culture of Belize

There is a choice of accommodation from single or double

garden rooms to private, beachfront, Casita’s, or suites ac-commodating two to eight people. Guests will have

12-14 spa treatments to choose from, including massage,scrub and wrap options, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, and achoice of facials, hair, nails, plus complimentary Yoga. Fordaily adventure trips, snorkel the reef, explore the JaguarReserve, climb a Mayan site, float through ancient caves, andexplore local areas.

Price for seven nights accommodation, meals, beer andwine, spa services, adventure trips, internal transfers, taxesand service charges is from $1,660 ppdo.

An exclusive spa adventure package is also being plannedthat will provide the ultimate spa experience, limited to onlyeight guests on four occasions in 2007.AAllmmoonndd BBeeaacchh RReessoorrtt,, 886666--662244--11551166,, wwwwww..aallmmoonnddbbeeaacchhbbeelliizzee..ccoomm,,wwwwww..bbeelliizzeessppaa..ccoomm

Astrum HelicoptersAstrum Helicopters offer helicopter tours and helicopter

chartered flights. They specialize on transfers to San Pedro,Ambergris Caye, Placencia or any destination in Belize. Theircustom helicopter tours can take passengers to the Blue Hole,Glovers Reef, Turneffe Islands, Victoria Peak, 1000 ft Falls,Altun Ha, Caracol, Lamania, or many other destinations inBelize.

Their Helicopter Adventure to the Blue Hole is a once in alifetime adventure that takes passengers to see two of the

Belize: Mother Nature’s Best Kept SecretFrom snorkeling to helicopter tours, family vacations or romantic getaways, the upcoming summer season offers a wealth of vacation packages to choose from on your adventure to Belize.B Y J E N N I F E R M . L A N E

Astrum Helicopters offers a spectacular view of Victoria Peak.

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three atolls in Belize which has thelargest Barrier Reef in the WesternHemisphere. Once in flight, see BelizeCity from the air, and fly over DrownedCayes and Gallows Pt. Further alongwill be the beautiful view of TurneffeIslands. The adventure continues intothe open ocean heading towards theLighthouse Reef Atoll, beyond the bar-rier en route to the Blue Hole, thelargest ocean sinkhole in the world. Theflight will also take you over one ofBelize’s largest protected areas, HalfMoon Caye Natural Monument. Priceis $1,700.

Helicopter Adventure to 1,000 ft Falls& Victoria Peak is a journey that followsthe Burdon Canal, heads to NorthernLagoon, flies over the Sibun River, thenover the beautiful forest of Belize. Flyover the small but famous bathing spotssuch as Freetown Sibun, Butcher Burns,Cedar Bank and Gracy Rock Bank.Then, fly over Caves Branch where youwill be able to see the beauty of the riveras it flows through the cave system.Ahead of Caves Branch lays the forest ofthe Mountain Pine Ridge. Visit thelargest waterfall in Belize and inCentral America called 1000 ft Falls.After, head up across the Mountain PineRidge area to have a bird’s eye view ofVictoria Peak. The tour then headsnorth across the Stann Creek Districtand Hummingbird Highway. Price is$2,000.

Helicopter Adventure to the MayaRuins of Altun Ha & Lamanai takes youover the International Airport whereyou will fly over Salt Creek Estate.Moving along, you will fly over the OldNorthern Highway. The flight headsover to the Altun Ha Maya Ruins lo-cated north of Belize City. Continuingon the journey, you will fly over a rain-forest canopy across Northern Belizeand then the famous Crooked TreeWildlife Sanctuary. You will land at aprivate airstrip where you will be trans-ported to the Mayan Ruins of Lamanaifor a private tour of the site. Next, headback to Belize City where you will get abird’s eye view of the city. Price is$1,905

All prices are for the helicopter, on theBell 206 B3 Jet Ranger five place heli-copter (up to four passengers, weightrestrictions apply). Tours depart fromCisco Base, Belize City.

Astrum Helicopters will offer a fivepercent discount on their HelicopterAdventures until November 15, 2007.AAssttrruumm HHeelliiccoopptteerrss,, 888888--AASSTTRRUUMM44,,wwwwww..aassttrruummhheelliiccoopptteerrss..ccoomm

Azul Resort Azul Resort is a new, all-inclusive lux-

ury property that combines the space,privacy and comforts of a private villawith the amenities and services of aworld-class resort. Azul consists of twoprivate, luxurious 3,000-square foot vil-las situated on 400 feet of beachfrontand 10 quiet acres. The villas of Azul aredesigned to marry the best of natural el-ements and materials with moderncomforts and sophisticated conve-niences.

Rates for Summer and Fall (June 1-December 15) are $1,995 (double),$2,395 (quadruple occupancy) and$4,790 for a full resort rental (maximumoccupancy of eight). Rates are inclusiveof daily full breakfast, lunch, dinner,and snacks in their famous RojoLounge; all drinks from the well stockedbar; exceptional wines; premium roomamenities that include bicycles, Ipoddocks, Nespresso machines and per-sonal concierge; roundtrip transfersfrom the San Pedro Airstrip; a staff toguest ratio of 3:1; and all taxes and ser-vices charges.

A stay at Azul can be customized to ac-commodate both special occasions andspecial interests. From catering the re-hearsal dinner to planning the morningafter brunch, they specialize in hostingand planning weddings. With one of themost picturesque settings for a beach-front wedding, a spacious pool andpatio area for a reception, and a beach-front deck and palapa area for diningand dancing, Azul is the perfect settingfor a tropical wedding. Honeymoonpackages offer private massages andspa treatments in your villa, romantic

beachfront picnics, and rooftop candle-light dinners. Daily excursions can bearranged for diving and fishing with thebest dive masters and guides. AAzzuull RReessoorrtt,, iinnffoo@@aazzuullbbeelliizzee..ccoomm,,wwwwww..aazzuullbbeelliizzee..ccoomm

Best Western BelizeBiltmore Plaza Hotel

Best Western Belize Biltmore PlazaHotel is a full service Caribbean stylehotel situated in the quiet and sereneresidential area of Bella Vista on thenorthern outskirts of Belize City.

The hotel is perfectly accessible on the Mundo Maya route, betweenMexico and Guatemala on theNorthern Highway. It is three milesfrom downtown Belize City and sevenmiles from the Phillip GoldsonInternational Airport. The Biltmore isideally located for day trips to thenearby Maya ruins and sanctuarieswhere endangered creatures roamfreely in the wild. Belize World Heritagesites, such as the Blue Hole and the

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Barrier Reef, are easily accessible. Business travelers are afforded a

peaceful setting to do their businesstransactions, utilizing the business cen-ter at their convenience and still havingeasy access to the commercial and fi-nancial districts of the country.

The Best Western Belize BiltmorePlaza Hotel consists of 75 air-conditionsrooms, garden, courtyard, restaurant,two bars, gift shop, tour desk, confer-ence facilities, business center, fitnesscenter, massage center and swimmingpool. They offer very attractive commis-sion offer for wholesalers, tour operatorsand travel agents.BBeesstt WWeesstteerrnn BBeelliizzee BBiillttmmoorree PPllaazzaaHHootteell,, wwwwww..bbeelliizzeebbiillttmmoorree..ccoomm

Francis Ford Coppola’sBlancaneaux Resorts

In 1993, Francis Ford Coppola openedhis jungle paradise in Belize to the pub-lic. In December 2000, Coppola openedTurtle Inn, his second resort in Belize, inthe seaside fishing community ofPlacencia. La Lancha, their newest

property, is still evolving and is not yetintended to offer the same luxuriouscomforts and amenities as its sisterproperties in Belize. However, the closeproximity to the important Mayan siteof Tikal, the beautiful lake shore setting,and the stylish ambiance make it a greatplace to relax.

Six new, one-bedroom Pool SideCottages have been added at Turtle Innalong with a new triangular fresh waterpool and the Gauguin Grill restaurant.They also recently added a small au-thentic Belizean diner adjacent to thedive shop called Aunty Luba's.

At Blancaneaux, a swimming poolwill be added in late 2007. They willalso add a very deluxe, secluded unitcalled 'The Enchanted Cottage.'

The seven-night Mountain & BeachPackage 2007 starts with a transfer fromBelize International Airport toBlancaneaux Lodge. Enjoy three nightsin a stylish Riverfront Cabaña. Thepackage at Blancaneaux Lodge in-cludes all meals; a canoe tour intoBarton Creek Cave; full day tour to theMayan site of Caracol with picniclunch, and on your return journey to thelodge a visit to the Rio Frio Cave.

Guests will be transferred fromBlancaneaux along the HummingbirdHighway to Turtle Inn in Placencia.During four nights at Turtle Inn you willstay in a Seaview Cottage. The packageat Turtle Inn includes cooked breakfasteach day, two lunches and two dinnersin the Mare Restaurant; a full day snor-keling tour to nearby cayes; a full daytour of the Cockscomb Basin WildlifeSanctuary and Jaguar Preserve; and

scheduled flight from Placencia toBelize International Airport.

Package Price from April 10 – May 31 and December 1 - 19, 2007 is$4,962 per couple. Package price fromJune 1 – November 30, 2007 is $4,607per couple.

Blancaneaux Lodge & Turtle InnHoneymoon Package 2007 begins atBlancaneaux Lodge for three nights in athatch-roof honeymoon cabaña. Guestswill be greeted by a chilled bottle ofNiebaum-Coppola’s “Sofia” cham-pagne. All meals at Blancaneaux Lodgeare included and honeymooners canenjoy a romantic candlelit dinner on thedeck of their cabana.

Exciting adventures include BartonCreek Cave, and a 4-wheel drive vehi-cle to the ancient Mayan city of Caracol.On the return journey, visit Rio FrioCave, and take a swim at the Rio OnFalls and Pools.

The four night package at Turtle Inn inthe Honeymoon Suite includes two din-ners plus all breakfasts and lunches, abarrier reef snorkel tour, and a tour ex-ploring the rainforest and waterfalls ofthe Cockscomb Basin WildlifeSanctuary and Jaguar Preserve. A spatreatment of either a herbal wrap ormassage may be taken.

Package price from April 10 – May 31,and December 1 - 19, 2007 is $5,895 percouple. Package price from June 1 –November 30, 2007 is $5,525 per couple. FFrraanncciiss FFoorrdd CCooppppoollaa’’ssBBllaannccaanneeaauuxx RReessoorrttss,, 880000--774466--33774433,,wwwwww..bbllaannccaanneeaauuxx..ccoomm


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Belize Biltmore Plaza

Ruins • Rainforest • Diving • SnorkelingFishing • Adventure and Entertainment

All Close To You• 3 miles from Belize City• 7 miles from

International Airport• Full Tour Desk• Business Center• Buffet Restaurant

• 75 Spacious and comfortable rooms with A/C, Ceiling Fans, Cable TV,Direct Dial Telephone, Safety Deposit Boxes & Room Service.

• Fitness Center & Swimming Pool• Conference Facility for up to 500 pax

Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza HotelTel # 501-223-2302 – Fax: 501-223-2301

E-mail: [email protected] reservations dial: 1-800-528-1234

www.belizebiltmore.com

Chaa CreekAs a private 365-acre nature reserve

set along the banks of the Macal Riverin the foothills of the Maya Mountains,Chaa Creek has provided a unique rain-forest experience for thousands of peo-ple while maintaining an unspoiled am-bience. Chaa Creek Inland Expeditionscaters to the traveler looking for bothphysical and intellectual challenges,and their range of programs and activi-ties have been designed to stimulate in-terest in the environment, culture, andarchaeology of Belize.

There are many good reasons to visitChaa Creek this summer. First of all, theweather is lovely and many folks wholive in Belize consider summer to be thebest time of year. Also, the days arelonger during the summer and soguests can pack more into their day.Enjoy many of the onsite activities ChaaCreek has to offer, some of which are in-cluded in the room rate. Choices in-clude guided visits to their NaturalHistory Museum, Butterfly Farm andRainforest Medicine Trail, Canoeing onthe Macal River, guided Bird Watching,or simply relaxing.

Although Belize continues to thrive asa tourist destination, it is still un-crowded and charmingly laid back.This is especially true during the sum-mer months when there are fewer visi-tors at the Mayan ruins and other localattraction, on the beaches and on thestreets. If you like more open spacesand more personal attention, this is thetime of year for you.

Summer is a family friendly time andChaa Creek is a great place to bringkids of all ages and children under 18stay free. With swimming and canoe-ing, and miles of trails for walking andhorseback riding, the onsite NaturalHistory Centre and Butterfly Farm tovisit, boredom is out of the question.Friendly, knowledgeable guides arehappy to explain the rich cultural andecological wonders of the area.Babysitters are available for parentswho want some time alone. CChhaaaa CCrreeeekk,, 887777--770099--88770088,, wwwwww..cchhaaaaccrreeeekk..ccoomm

Chabil Mar VillasA dream vacation awaits at Chabil

Mar Villas. Whether its basking in thesun, an incredible journey into ancientrainforests, scuba diving or snorkelingwhile exploring the world’s secondlargest barrier reef, discovering themajesty of early Mayan ruins, exploringthe jungles, experiencing the world ofendangered howler monkeys, or worldclass fishing, Chabil Mar Villas has itall.

Their Summer and Fall Special fromMay 1 – November 19, 2007 is stay sixnights, get one additional night free.They are also offering an agent incen-tive: from February– November 19,2007 for every six nights, paid bookingsagents will receive one night for twopeople free. These award nights mustbe used between July 1 and November19, 2007 and the maximum number ofaward nights that an agent may receiveis seven. There is no limit on the num-ber of awards per agency. Agent orwholesaler may choose to use theiraward for personal use or gift.CChhaabbiill MMaarr VViillllaass,, 880000--881199--99008888,,wwwwww..CChhaabbiillMMaarrVViillllaass..ccoomm,, wwwwww..sseeaaeexxpplloorree..ccoomm

Chan Chich LodgeChan Chich Lodge is Belize's premier

jungle lodge. Located on a 130,000 acreprivate nature reserve in northwesternBelize at the heart of "La Selva Maya,"this is a unique destination for seriouseco-tourists and novices alike.Carefully situated in the plaza of an an-cient Maya city and surrounded by pris-

tine forest, the lodge consists of 12 indi-vidual thatched-roof cabanas and onetwo-bedroom Villa.

Retrace the footsteps of the Maya,wander the extensive trail system anddiscover the unforgettable flora, faunaand Maya history unique to this tropicalparadise. With an unparalleled abun-dance of wildlife (and the best chance tosee the elusive jaguar in its naturalhabitat), Chan Chich is an extraordi-nary destination for naturalists, birdersand for those seeking an authentic re-treat to the jungle.Chan Chich is offer-ing Spring/ Summer specials from May1- October 31, 2007 which include:book four nights and receive the fifthnight free (room only); low season ratesranging from 10 percent – 19 percent offthe winter rates; and online specialsand deals posted on their web site.

They are also in the process of plan-ning/ designing a small spa area on theproperty scheduled to be completed by2008, and they have created a smallgarden/sitting area on the upper plazaof Chan Chich which includes a nativeorchid collection. CChhaann CChhiicchh LLooddggee,, 880000--334433--88000099,, wwwwww..cchhaanncchhiicchh..ccoomm

El PescadorEl Pescador on Ambergris Caye,

Belize, is a serene and gracious estab-lishment well known as a world-classfishing destination on the doorstep ofthe world’s largest living Barrier Reef.In addition, the first-rate resort offerseco-adventures which take full advan-


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Opening May 1st 2007First Destination Spa on the South Coast

of BelizeHopkins, Stann Creek, Belize

Massage • Wraps • Facials • Hair • Manicure • Pedicures • Hydrotherapy

Check out our Spa Breaks, Spa Weeks and Adventure Spa Weekswww.butterfliesspabelize.com Email: [email protected]

tage of Belize’s exotic flora and fauna.Snorkeling, manatee watching, cave-tubing and zip-lining are just a small as-sortment of the activities availablewhile staying at the resort. El Pescadoris proud of their philosophy to protectand nurture friendship, adventure andthe environment. Donations are madeon behalf of guests to a non-profit orga-nization, Green Reef EnvironmentalEducational and Coastal ResearchInstitute, to offset the carbon emissionsused to travel there.

Guests are invited to snorkel the wa-ters of Hol Chan Marine Reserve andexplore the Mayan archaeological site,Altun Ha. The area is a tropical wonder-land with many species of exotic birds,fish, and wildlife.

El Pescador is offering a 2 for the Priceof 1 Special. Buy any single occupancypackage at El Pescador and guests’roommate comes free. This offer is validon trips that originate between August15 and December 14, 2007. The offer isfor the second guest sharing room andguide and may not be combined with

any other promotion.EEll PPeessccaaddoorr,, wwwwww..eellppeessccaaddoorr..ccoomm

Exotic CayeAt Exotic Caye Beach Resort, guests

can relax on the beach, enjoy a soothingmassage, dance the night away, find ad-venture trekking through the jungle,diving the famous Blue Hole, and ex-ploring ancient Mayan ruins on theBelize mainland, or hit the links on aprivate 18-hole golf course.

Exotic Caye is offering a special sum-mer 15 percent discount on nightly pub-lished rates

May 1 - November 15, 2007 for a min-imum three night stay. Also from May 1-November 15, 2007, Stay 7 Nights in aOne Bedroom Standard Ocean FrontCondo for $659 (double) or Stay 5Nights in a One Bedroom StandardOcean Front Condo for $459 (double).

At Exotic Caye, the Pelican BeachFront Restaurant will be open in Springof 2007. Their Monkey Bites Cafeserves breakfast and lunch daily. Guestscan also lounge at Crazy Canucks

Beach Bar and relax in the open air at-mosphere as they enjoy one of the manyfine drinks right next to the sea.EExxoottiicc CCaayyee BBeeaacchh RReessoorrtt,, wwwwww..bbeelliizzeeiissffuunn..ccoomm

Hidden Valley Inn A secluded, luxury resort on 7,200

acres of private reserve in the MayaMountains, Hidden Valley Inn is theideal base from which to enjoy the manynatural wonders of Belize. The Inn iscomprised of 12 elegant cottages, eachwith a fireplace, and is a paradise for thenaturalist and hiker. 90 miles of well-maintained hiking and mountain bik-ing trails, as well as swimming in manysecluded pools and waterfalls set intropical rainforest are available exclu-sively for guests.

The bird watching at Hidden ValleyInn is spectacular. Green Jays, Blue-Crowned Mot-Mot, Golden HoodedTanager, Hummingbirds, Keel-BilledToucan and Crested Guan are just a fewof the flamboyant species you may en-counter in the area. The cliffs on the


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Hidden Valley property are one of the very few nesting sitesfor the endangered Orange Breasted Falcon. Other highlightsfor birders include King Vulture, Stygian Owl, and Grace’sWarbler.

The location of the Inn provides convenient access to theendless attractions of the area. Day trips to Mayan archaeo-logical sites including Tikal, Caracol, Xunantunich andCahal Pech are available. Other excursions include caving,horseback riding and river trips.

The Inn is proud to have been recently awarded the 2006Islands Magazine/Caribbean Tourism OrganizationSustainable Tourism award in recognition of its environmen-tal conservation efforts. In addition, the luxury resort hasbeen featured on BBC’s prime time travel program “Jetset”and in Forbes Magazine as a “Destination of the Week.”

The Main Lodge has recently expanded its dining room fa-cilities offering a full bar area. The menu features some of thefinest cuisine in Belize.

Hidden Valley Inn offers various Package Specials to meetevery guests need, including their ‘Romantic Interlude’ fea-turing a private waterfall for the day, and their ‘DiscoveryPackage’ which includes tours to Barton Creek CaveCanoeing, Caracol Maya Site, Rio Frio Cave and Rio OnPools.

Hidden Valley Inn is offering a Travel World News Specialfor May and September 2007. Book any dates in May orSeptember 2007 before April 30, 2007. Five nights or more re-ceive a 30 percent commission. Double occupancy regularrate $150, net rate $105 per night. Use Code: TravWorld.HHiiddddeenn VVaalllleeyy IInnnn,, 886666--444433--33336644,, wwwwww..hhiiddddeennvvaalllleeyyiinnnn..ccoomm

Hugh Parkey Belize AdventuresHugh Parkey Belize Adventures, a tour operator that spe-

cializes in offering unique Belize adventures, introduces itsnew “Dolphin Experience” excursion to bring travelers face-to-face with Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins born under humancare in their natural habitat. Residing in Belize’s tranquil wa-ters of the Caribbean Sea at the remote island of SpanishLookout Caye, the dolphins are expertly trained and welcom-ing to visitors. For the first time ever in Belize, participantscan get in the water alongside the dolphins and delight in theanimals’ sociable behavior while watching trained behaviorsand taking part in hands-on interaction. Designed to pro-mote a fun, safe and educational interface with these gentlecreatures, dolphin encounters are available to all interestedanimal lovers regardless of age or swimming capabilities.

Developed to encourage conservation of Belize’s preciousmarine ecosystem, the “Dolphin Experience” tour focuses en-tirely on the welfare of the resident dolphins. Before enteringthe water, all participants are educated on the natural history,physiology and proper care of the animals as well as briefedon marine conservation issues. While in the water, guides en-sure that participants adhere to strict guidelines that promote

a safe and enjoyable experience.The cost for an up-close dolphin encounter is $100 per per-

son and can be combined with a number of other exciting ma-rine excursions offered by Hugh Parkey Belize Adventures,including snorkeling along the barrier reef or even sea kayak-ing around natural mangroves. HHuugghh PPaarrkkeeyy BBeelliizzee AAddvveennttuurreess,, wwwwww..bbeelliizzeeddoollpphhiinnss..ccoomm

Jaguar Reef Lodge At Jaguar Reef Lodge you will be surrounded by millions of

acres of reef and rainforest with unlimited opportunities forsnorkeling, diving, fishing, biking, kayaking and hikingthrough these pristine and protected eco systems.

A stay here is a friendly, laid-back experience with an abun-dance of Belizean hospitality.They are recognized for theircomfortable accommodations in luxurious cabanas andsuites, exhilarating tours, and unrivaled attention to guests'comfort. All of the bathrooms have been recently renovatedand they have added large soaker tubs to each. Their newButterflies Spa will be opening by May 2007.

From April 17 - December 21 room rates range from $130 fora Standard Room - Garden View to $265 for a two bed, twobath Beachfront Suite. They offer a variety of packages tochoose from.

Their Multi-Sport packages include all meals and tours in-


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cluding two full day (standard) tours onthe three-night package, and an addi-tional half day (standard) tour on extranight. Two half-day tours can be com-bined for one full day tour. Also in-cluded is a welcome cocktail and orien-tation, complimentary use of bicycles,kayaks, sail boats, snorkel, and fishinggear, and round trip transfers fromDangriga Airstrip to the Lodge. Ratesfrom April 17, 2007 to December 21,2007 start at $572 ppdo for three nights.

Their Walk On The Wild Side FamilyAdventure is a family vacation in air-conditioned two bedroom suites righton the beach. Families can enjoy explor-ing the rich rainforest, diverse cultureand Mayan history, along with the col-orful underwater world of theCaribbean Sea. Children 14 and under,sharing a suite with parents, eat freeand sleep free. For two adults and twochildren, rates start at $3,995 from April17, 2007 to December 21.

Their Dive & Stay package is the per-fect dive trip and includes round triptransfers from Dangriga Airstrip toJaguar Reef Lodge; accommodations;breakfast, lunch and dinner daily; wel-come cocktail and orientation; compli-mentary use of bicycles and sea kayaks;all taxes and gratuities; and two to sixdays of diving, depending on number ofnights stayed. Dive and Stay Packagerates start at $638 for three nights ppdo,April 17-December 21.JJaagguuaarr RReeeeff LLooddggee,, 880000--228899--55775566,, wwwwww..jjaagguuaarrrreeeeff..ccoomm

Lodge at Big FallsThe Lodge at Big Falls, close to Punta

Gorda, in Toledo, southern Belize, is thedistrict’s premier inland resort. Vacationpackages offer guests easy access tonatural wonders, archaeological trea-sures and a host of adventures. Theirpackages include eco-tours which in-troduce travelers to the local Mayanpeople and culture, Mayan archaeologyand the natural history of the area. Theirbirding packages offer a variety of habi-tats and an amazing range of residentand visiting species. The Lodge addeda swimming pool in 2006, as well as ahalf mile tubing route around the lodge,badminton, and a horseshoes pit.

For those looking for a southern Belizeadventure vacation, they offer jungletrekking, caving, river kayaking andsnorkeling, fishing and manatee watch-ing on the offshore cayes.

Special summer rates during theGreen Season from May 1-31October31, 2007 are cabanas from $95, $125double occupancy. They also offerSummer Specials throughout the GreenSeason. The Lodge offers commission of10 percent on packages.

Their five-night/six-day package in-cludes one free night’s accommodation;free use of kayaks, mountain bikes,inner tubes and internet; one full-daytour to Lubaantun Mayan site and wa-terfalls; accommodation, meals andtransfers for $110 per person per dayrack.

Their four-night/five-day package in-clude one-day’s free meals; free use ofkayaks, mountain bikes, inner tubesand internet; one full-day tour toLubaantun Mayan site and waterfalls;accommodation, meals and transfers for

$113 pppd rack.Their three-night/four-day package

includes free use of kayaks, mountainbikes, inner tubes and internet; one full-day tour to Lubaantun Mayan site andwaterfalls; one full-day tour to theSnake Cayes in the Port HondurasMarine Reserve; accommodation,meals and transfers for $175 pppd rack.

They have other established day toursavailable for clients who want to staylonger and try other activities and adventures. TThhee LLooddggee aatt BBiigg FFaallllss,, 888888--886655--33336699,, wwwwww..tthheellooddggeeaattbbiiggffaallllss..ccoomm

MarubaMaruba Resort Jungle Spa is an oasis

of charm and grace. Not a traditionalspa, Maruba offers an alternative to theregimen and routine. The resort hasbeen conceived and created to blendvarious Mayan, Creole, and African de-signs side by side with their jungle setting.

The spa offers all natural treatmentsderived from ancient techniques whichincorporate their natural products pro-duced from Maruba Therapy and thesurrounding jungle environment. Theyspecialize in a number of MudTreatments using their all natural MoodMuds.

Maruba’s Easter Jungle Special runsfrom April 1, 2007 to April 30, 2007.Price is $320 ppdo and includes threenights in a Junior Suite EP Plan, onehour massage, and roundtrip hoteltransfers (BZE International Airport).Nine percent hotel tax not included($25/person). Package is valid for traveldates the month of April only.

Other exclusive special offers fromApril 1-December 5, 2007 include spe-cial pricing:

Standard Rooms are $155 first night,each additional night at $90; JuniorSuites are $189 first night, each addi-tional night at $120; Garden Suite is$235 first night, each additional night at$150; Master Suite is $315 first night,each additional night at $250; JungleTree House Suite is $315 first night,


BELIZE FROM PAGE 7

each additional night at $250; JungleVilla Suite is $333 first night, each addi-tional night at $275; Honeymoon Suiteis $368 first night, each additional nightat $290; and Opium Villa Suite is $490first night, each additional night at$380. Rates are based on room only, sin-gle or double occupancy.

Their Special Spa Package Five NightRejuvenation Package includes accom-modations, two full body massages, oneAfrican honeybee body Scrub, one aro-matherapy massage or one herbal, onefacial, choice of manicure, breakfast,lunch, adventure tour to Altun Ha,horseback ride in the jungle, safari hike,and round trip hotel transfers. Price is$1,866 single, $1,416 ppdo.

An additional exclusive special is 20percent off Honeymoon & SignatureSpa Packages for three- to seven-nightpackages.MMaarruubbaa RReessoorrtt JJuunnggllee SSppaa,, 880000--MMAARRUUBBAA77,, wwwwww..mmaarruubbaa--ssppaa..ccoomm

Maya Travel ServicesMaya Travel Services is a Belize based

tour operator, offering a wide selectionof fascinating and exciting activities onthe cayes, coast and mainland. Theyhave hiked, paddled, galloped, drivenand flown across much of Belize.

Their travel specialists will provideup-to-date, accurate information re-garding the accommodations, tours andregions. They assemble tour packagesand custom designed vacations forgroups and individuals.

Their seven-night Belize Honeymoon& Romantic Getaway Package offers achance to relax on the beach, discoverexotic flora and fauna, go diving andsnorkeling, hike through the Belizerainforest and enjoy a multitude of otheractivities and adventures that can beshared by two.

Package includes four nights accom-modation at Hidden Valley Inn; threenights accommodation at theSunBreeze Hotel in San Pedro,Ambergris Caye; one way private roadtransfer from the International Airportto Hidden Valley Inn; one way privateroad transfer from Hidden Valley Inn to

Belize City; Caracol Maya Ruins, RioFrio Cave and Rio On Pools day tour; aday at Hidden Valley’s private pool andwaterfall with sparkling wine andlunch; one hour massage at islandMassage Studio (1/2 hour each); a bot-tle of Champagne in room in San Pedro;and hotel tax, service charge and gen-eral sales tax. Package Price from May1 to December 15, 2007 is $1,950 percouple.

The Belize Reef and RainforestAdventure Package takes visitorsthrough the jungle and rainforest, andto the Caribbean Sea that contains themost splendid marine ecosystem in theentire western hemisphere – the BelizeBarrier Reef and three of the four coralatolls in all the Caribbean.

This seven-night package includestwo nights accommodation at BelizeBiltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City;three nights accommodation at HiddenValley Inn; two nights accommodationat the SunBreeze Hotel in San Pedro,Ambergris Caye; one way private roadtransfer from the International Airportto Belize City Hotel; round trip privateroad transfer from Belize City to HiddenValley Inn; choice of one full day tourfrom Belize City: Lamanai Maya Ruinsand River Safari, Altun Ha & OldeBelize River, Xunantunich & Belize Zooand Olde Belize River & Belize Zoo;choice of one half day tour from BelizeCity: Historic Belize City, The City & theZoo, A Tale of Two Cities, CommunityBaboon Sanctuary, Crooked TreeWildlife Sanctuary and Museum &Mangrove Tunnels; Caracol MayaRuins, Rio Frio Cave and Rio on Pools

day tour; Barton Creek Cave Canoeingand Green Hills Butterfly Farm daytour; and Hol Chan Marine Reserveand Shark Ray Alley half day snorkeltrip. Package Price from May 1 toDecember 15, 2007 is $1,099 ppdo.

The Belize Birding and AdventurePackage offers spectacular opportuni-ties for birdwatching. This seven nightpackage includes two nights accommo-dation at Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel inBelize City; three nights accommoda-tion at Hidden Valley Inn; two nightsaccommodation at the SunBreeze Hotelin San Pedro, Ambergris Caye; one wayprivate road transfer from theInternational Airport to Belize CityHotel; round trip private road transferfrom Belize City to Hidden Valley Inn;Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary bird-ing day tour; Cedar’s Cabin BotanicalTrail half day birding tour; CaracolMaya Ruins and Chiquibul ForestReserve birding day tour; and HiddenValley Property half day birding tour.Package Price (per person) from May 1-December 15, 2007 is $1,099 (double),$910 (triple), and $940 (four people, tworooms).

Maya Travel Services is also offering a10-20 percent discount on hotel ratesthroughout the summer from May 1-November 31, 2007. (Discount does notapply to Thanksgiving weekend. Offerdoes not apply to other summer spe-cials.) Book seven nights at selected aBelize hotel and pay for only for sixnights. (Offer does not apply to othersummer specials.) They are also offer-ing a Group Super Summer Special:


CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

800.247.5189 or 713.334.2340 • Fax: 713.224.3287Hotel: 501.226.2067

email: [email protected] • www.victoria-house.com

Experience the Casual Elegance of Victoria HouseAmbergris Caye’s Premier Luxury Beachfront Resort


Free Tour Conductor pass for every 10paying clients based on single or doubleoccupancy groups. (Offer does notapply to other summer specials.)MMaayyaa TTrraavveell SSeerrvviicceess LLiimmiitteedd,, wwwwww..mmaayyaattrraavveellsseerrvviicceess..ccoomm

Mayan PrincessThe Mayan Princess, always known

for its value and great location in townand on the beach, is now includingcomplimentary continental breakfastwhen staying at their regular prices.Now with their Stay for 7 - Pay for 6Program, they continue to be symbolicwith "Value for Your Money."

Mayan Princess is offering OceanAdventure Packages for $814 ppdo. TheDive Package includes round trip TropicAir transfer from Belize City toAmbergris Caye; roundtrip taxi trans-fers to the hotel; seven nights accommo-dations; hotel tax; service charges; andfive days of local diving - two singletank dives per day. The SnorkelPackage includes

Round trip Tropic Air transfer from

Belize City to Ambergris Caye;roundtrip taxi transfers to the hotel;seven nights accommodations; hoteltax; service charges; DolphinExperience; Manatee Watch; and HolChan Marine Reserve/Shark Ray Alley. MMaayyaann PPrriinncceessss,, 880000--885500--44110011,,mmaayyaannpprriinncceesssshhootteell..ccoomm

Princess Hotel & CasinoIn the heart of Belize lies the most

prestigious hotel and Belize’s only en-tertainment center all in one: ThePrincess Hotel & Casino. This luxuryhotel is strategically located 15 minutessouth of the International Airport. Itmakes the ideal escape for both busi-ness travelers and leisure guests alike.

The Princess Hotel & Casino is consid-ered the gateway into the eco-tourismmarket and the center to any of yourdestinations. You can easily experiencescuba diving and snorkeling the longestliving Barrier Reef in the World and thefamous Blue Hole departing from theirMarina. Guests can also journey intothe exotic Rain Forest, NationalReserves, go Cave Tubing, visit CrystalWaterfalls, go horseback riding and ex-plore the Mysterious Mayan Temples.

With 172 lavishly appointed roomsand six conference rooms accommodat-ing from 20 – 1,000 guests, PrincessHotel & Casino is the only entertain-ment center in Belize featuring a LasVegas Style Casino which has over 400slot machines and 12 tables for BlackJack, Wheel of Fortune, Roulette andCaribbean Poker, all complimented withinternational dancers and a midnightbuffet.

The hotel boasts two cinemas and aGift Shop. There is a full BusinessCenter open 24 hours a day. For thosethat have come to be pampered, there isa massage salon available. The SeaView Restaurant offers buffet breakfast,international buffet lunches and din-ners, and the Calypso Restaurant,which overlooks the Caribbean Sea,specializes in Seafood. The PrincessHotel & Casino also has a Gym/FitnessCenter and one of the largest pools inBelize. Princess Hotel & Casino addi-

tional boasts a bowling alley and videoarcade. After a full days’ activity, relaxat The Vogue Bar, enjoying their dailyHappy Hour. The day ends at ClubNext, the hotel’s very own Night Club. TThhee PPrriinncceessss HHootteell && CCaassiinnoo,, ssaalleess@@pprriinncceessssbbeelliizzee..ccoomm,, wwwwww..pprriinncceessssbbeelliizzee..ccoomm

Sunbreeze Beach ResortThe SunBreeze Hotel is an oceanfront

"U" shape hotel which overlooks theCaribbean Sea, where one can experi-ence all the wonders Belize has to offer.Enjoy the serenity and beauty of theocean or experience the sunrise andsunset from the wooden deck whichsurrounds the fresh water pool. Theyare centrally located within a stroll ofthe heart of the town of San Pedro witheasy access to all the restaurants, enter-tainment and activities, yet out of thehustle and bustle of the town.

They are offering their Summer BusterUnBelizeable Dive Special with AquaDives, their onsite Dive Shop. Pricesfrom August 1 – October 31, 2007 are$692 ppdo; $592 per non diver accom-panying a diver; $642 per person tripleoccupancy diver; and $1,043 single oc-cupancy. For a group of 12, the twelfthperson pays $110. Package includesseven-nights accommodation; room taxand service charge; four days local twotank boat dives; one tank night dive(weights, belt and tanks included); freesnorkel stop at Shark Ray Alley; andround trip air transfer from BelizeInternational – San Pedro on MayaIsland Air. Upgrade the night dive to aBlue Hole Trip for an extra $144 perdiver. The park fee of $40 pp is not in-cluded in this package.When making abooking please refer to the Aqua Dives@ SunBreeze Special.SSuunnBBrreeeezzee HHootteell,, 880000--668888--00119911,, wwwwww..ssuunnbbrreeeezzeehhootteell..ccoomm

Tropic AirTropic Air offers over 180 scheduled

flights throughout Belize and to Flores,Guatemala.They also offer charters toremote and exotic places within Belizeand exciting tours to Lamanai in Belize

BELIZE FROM PAGE 9


and Tikal in Guatemala. Both day tripsand overnight trips are available. Withover 27 years of expertise they knoweverything that Belize has to offer.TTrrooppiicc AAiirr,, 880000--442222--33443355,, wwwwww..ttrrooppiiccaaiirr..ccoomm

Turneffe FlatsTurneffe Flats has long been recog-

nized as a premier saltwater fly fishing,scuba diving, and marine ecotourismdestination.

Located on North America’s largestcoral atoll, Turneffe Flats has a maxi-mum occupancy of 24 guests per week,with a maximum of 12 anglers. Targetspecies are bonefish, permit and tarpon.Turneffe Flats’ location on the Easternside of the Turneffe Atoll offers easy andquick access to 60 dive sites in Belize,including Lighthouse Atoll with its BlueHole.

Due to the Easter holiday and in-creased airline availability, TurneffeFlats is offering special week-longpackage rate for fishing, diving andatoll adventure tours.

Discounted Easter week rates are:Fishing: $2,410.45, Diving: $1,580.13,and Atoll Adventure: $1,269.83. Pricesinclude all Belizean taxes, airport pick-up, transfer by boat to the lodge, meals,lodging and activities. The discountedrates are available April 9-14.TTuurrnneeffffee FFllaattss,, 888888--551122--88881122,, wwwwww..ttffllaattss..ccoomm

ViaventureViaventure is a full-service tour opera-

tor and destination management com-pany that delivers the very best in per-sonalized, on-time service todestinations throughout Guatemala,Belize and Honduras. Each of their itin-eraries offers an inspiring, exciting, andenriching experience. From minivans tohelicopters, sailfishing to mountain bik-ing, or boutique hotels to resorts, theyare happy to work with you to create aperfect itinerary.

A special offer from Viaventure isGuatemala and Belize: 10 nights for theprice of eight. Package is five nights atCasa Encantada in Antigua,

Guatemala, and five nights at VictoriaHouse in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye,Belize. Package includes Antigua Citytour; day trip to Chichi Market andLake Atitlan (upgrade to helicopter);visit to Tikal; day sailing and snorkel-ing; a day snorkel and beach BBQ; andan upgrade with helicopter transfer toSan Pedro. Price is $2,343 ppdo. Pricesare commissionable at 15 percent totravel agents. Prices apply the wholeyear except Easter, Thanksgiving,Christmas and New Year. The price in-cludes accommodation as outlined inthe itinerary; breakfast each day andadditional meals as per the itinerary; allland transfers and internal flights; alltours, guides, entrances; and localtaxes. The itinerary has to start on aFriday or Tuesday to match with themarket days of Chichicastenango(Sunday or Thursday). If guests want tostart on another day, the order of activi-ties can be changed.

They are also offering a very excitingnew product for animal lovers: a threeor four- night package at the ScientificResearch station at Las Cuevas in theChiquibal Rainforest. The ChiquibulRainforest in Belize provides one of thefew remaining sanctuaries for many en-dangered species. Las Cuevas ResearchStation and Explorers Lodge lies in theheart of this forest and provide a basefor scientists undertaking importantfield research in the forest – and for con-servation-orientated visitors who wishto experience living in this remote andunexplored part of the world. By stay-ing here, guests are also helping by cre-ating an economic incentive for savingthese forests. Not only do visitors getthe chance to see unspoiled nature butthey also get to see ‘science-in-action.’

Las Cuevas is the perfect location fromwhich to observe a host of endemic andnon-endemic species. Spot birds,ocelots and other cats. During day tripsand night drives there is also get thechance to see other rare and exotic floraand fauna - including Jaguars, HarpyEagles, Tapir, Black Orchids, Fer-de-lance, King Vultures, River Otter andmore. The three-night package in-

cludes all accommodation and food.Contact Viaventure for pricing.VViiaavveennttuurree,, iinnffoo@@vviiaavveennttuurree..ccoomm,,vviiaavveennttuurree..ccoomm

Victoria HouseNestled on Ambergris Caye just two

miles south of the small town of SanPedro, Victoria House is the island’spremiere luxury resort, offering themost diverse accommodations in Belize.The ambiance is plantation style andtropical, surrounded by acres of flower-ing gardens, unspoiled beaches and tallswaying palm trees.

Although full service, it remains small,elegant and exclusive, offering 45 ac-commodations with two guest pools andtwo private villa pools. Located on thehotel pier is the hub of daytime activity,Fantasea Dive Shop, offering all aspectsof water sports including world classScuba diving with PADI certified Dive Masters, salt-water fly fishingguides, and inland jungle or Mayanruin excursions.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12


Resort accommodations include Plantation Rooms and spa-cious suites, unique Palapa Casitas, and individual villas withprivate pools. The new luxury “Villas at Victoria House”comprises three/two bedroom villas and four one and twobedroom suites, all located on the edge of a 60-foot infinitypool and marble waterfall. In keeping with the relaxed ambi-ence of the resort there are no radios or telephones or evenJet Ski’s, however, upon guest request the new villas offer flatscreen cable televisions. Villas at Victoria House all boastbeautiful sea views, signature bath amenities; granite tiledbathrooms with indoor/outdoor shower gardens, state of theart appliances and beautifully crafted mahogany wood ceil-ings and four-poster beds.

San Pedro, a small and quaint village offers an abundanceof souvenir shopping, local crafts and art galleries. Golf cartsare the preferred mode of island transportation and can berented from the hotel.

Victoria House is offering one free night when four or morenights are booked. This offer is available in most of roomtypes and paid nights are fully commissionable to travelagents. Offer is valid from July 10 to November 16, 2007. VViiccttoorriiaa HHoouussee,, 880000--224477--55115599,, wwwwww..vviiccttiioorriiaa--hhoouussee..ccoomm

Windy Hill Resort & Tour CompanyWindy Hill Resort & Tour Company, San Ignacio, Belize, is

a Belizean family owned and operated property. Windy Hilloffers 20 all-inclusive packages that include round-trip trans-fers, accommodations, meals, and tours. The package ratesalso include all taxes, entrance fees, and guide fees. Childrenunder 12 years old may join parents on any package for a flatrate of $165 per child regardless of length of stay.

The resort consists of 16 private air-conditioned cottagesand nine standard rooms. The Windy Hill tour guides are alltrained and licensed by the Belize Tourism Board.

Their Green Season Specials from May 1 – December 15,2007 include: one extra night with meals free when bookingany of their 20 all-inclusive packages; one extra night free(room only) when booking three nights or more; free upgradeto deluxe air-conditioned cottage when booking any five or

six night package (extra night with meals also); and childrenunder 12 may join parents on any all-inclusive packages for$165 per child (limit three children).

For Adventure Lovers, Windy Hill offers an ultimate adven-ture package that includes Caves Branch River Tubing,Jungle Horseback Riding, Barton Creek Cave Canoeing,Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave Exploration, Jaguar Paw JungleCanopy Zip Line, and a trip to the Maya City of Tikal inGuatemala. This package also includes round-trip airporttransfers, five nights accommodation, all meals, entrancefees, guide fees, taxes, service charge and border crossingfees. Price is $1,583 ppdo (discounted rates available for threeor more persons).

The Windy Hill Resort/Blue Tang Inn Family Package offersaffordable summertime reef and rainforest vacation pack-ages. Day One of the trip will provide a tour of the Belize Zoo.Guests will have a guided tour of the Xunantunich Maya site,with a spectacular pyramid that can be climbed for apanoramic view stretching all the way into neighboringGuatemala. On day two, families will be taken for a full-daytour of the Maya city of Tikal in Guatemala. On day threeguests will be treated to a morning canoe trip to the BartonCreek Cave and an afternoon horseback ride to Buena VistaMaya site.

On the fourth and final day at Windy Hill, guests have aquick trip to the island of Ambergris Caye and then begintheir stay at Blue Tang Inn. On day five, guests will take ahalf-day snorkel trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve/Shark RayAlley. On day 6, they will take a full-day snorkel trip toMexico Rocks.

The six-night/seven-day package offers a per person priceof $840, based on a family of four and includes all in-countrytransportation, accommodations, and meals and activitiesthat are specified in the itinerary. The cost for children underthe age of 12 is $165 each. The package does not includehotel tax or gratuities.WWiinnddyy HHiillll RReessoorrtt && TToouurr CCoommppaannyy,, 880000--wwiinnddyy9955,,wwiinnddyyhhiillll@@hhuugghheess..nneett,, wwwwww..wwiinnddyyhhiillllrreessoorrtt..ccoomm,,wwwwww..wwiinnddyyhhiillllttoouurrss..ccoomm;; TThhee BBlluuee TTaanngg IInnnn,,wwwwww..bblluueettaannggiinnnn..ccoomm

Captain Henry Morgan, Sir Francis Drake and others plundered treasure, gold, pear ls and more from the heavily

fortified forts and cities of Panama – Join their spirits in a swashbucklingadventure of your own to reveal the True Treasures of Panama!

Contact us about our exciting tours (866) 924-2837 www.coralstar.com

Follow in the footsteps of the True Pirates of the Caribbeanin Panama aboard the MV CORAL STAR!

BELIZE FROM PAGE 11


LAS PERLAS CONDORESORT OPENING INPANAMA; TRIPS AVAILABLETO VIEW PROPERTY

Panama is becoming a very attractive op-tion for Americans as a vacation destina-tion, as the location for a second home andeven for retirement. An intimate condo de-velopment/resort will soon rise on the trop-ical island in the Panamanian archipelagoof Las Perlas that will set a new standardfor luxury accommodations and will be amodel for sustainable living for the 21stcentury. Each of the 40 villa units is pricedat $400,000.

All 40 villas will have views of the Gulf ofPanama. Las Perlas will also have a 35-foot infinity pool, two restaurants and alounge, the Sapibenega Ayurveda Spa, anda fitness center. An organic farm will pro-duce vegetables, herbs, fruit, cheese, free-range poultry and livestock. The resort’sprivate airstrip will accommodate jetplanes.

The villa units will be fashioned from allnatural materials. Based on long-held eco-logical principles, energy needs will be sup-

plemented by a Biogas plant providing re-newable and self-sustaining power.

The 3,660-square-foot villas will featurean expansive living room with dining roomand adjoining family room, three bedrooms,three baths, a full kitchen and a laundryroom. There will be an infinity pool, out-door Jacuzzi and rain shower. The villaswill have flat screen televisions with satel-lite channels, CD/DVD players, and highspeed broadband access. The kitchen willhave state-of-the-art amenities including aclimate-controlled wine cellar.

Taking a holistic approach to each guest’swell being, therapists at the Spa at Cuna deVida’s Las Perlas resort will use ancienttreatments derived from the East and fromNative Americans’ medicinal practicescombined with the latest techniques of theWest. The hydrotherapy center will featurewater from natural springs and therapistswill be able to treat muscle, joint and nervepain through hydromassage. Offering an ex-tensive range of treatments, theSapibenega Spa will feature Ayurvedic pro-cedures, Thai massage, herbal body wraps,facials, massages, reflexology and other

body treatments. Guests might opt for theHimalayan Shirodara treatment, a hotstone massage first practiced by theMayans, or an age-reversing rejuvenationtherapy from Kerala in India.

At the fully equipped Fitness Center,guests can practice yoga, tai chi andPilates. Las Perlas will offer programscomplimenting the spiritual as well as thephysical with daily meditation, spiritualsatsangs and the stress-reducing reiki.

For those interested in purchasing a villa,Cuna de Vida is offering a five-night “Town& Country Discover Panama” package vis-iting Panama City with a trip to Las Perlasto view the property. Guests will be met bya personal concierge and taken in a chauf-feur-driven private car to the five-starBristol for five nights.

A high point will be exploring the CascoViejo, the 300-year-old historic quarter ofthe country’s capital. A visit to the PanamaCanal will provide an opportunity to see theworld’s most accessible and pristine rain-forest. Las Perlas, 800-950-CUNA, www.cunadevida.com

Secluded Inn offeringpersonal service, twelveluxury cottages with fire-places, pool and hottub. Situated on 7200acres of private reservein the Maya Mountains.Six waterfalls, idyllicpools set in tropicaljungle, 90 miles of trails,

hiking, biking, wildlife, birding on property.Tours to ruins, caves, canoeing, horse riding.

Tel: 00-501-822-3320Toll Free : 1-866-443-3364www.hiddenvalleyinn.com

[email protected]

B E L I Z EB E L I Z E

hiking, biking, wildlife, birding on property.

Tours to ruins, caves, canoeing, horse riding.

Tel: 00-501-822-3320

Toll Free: 1-866-443-3364

www.hiddenvalleyinn.com

[email protected]

Secluded Inn offering

personal service, twelve

luxury cottages with fire-

places, pool and hot

tub. Situated on 7200

acres of private reserve

in the Maya Mountains.

Ten waterfalls, idyllic

pools set in tropical

jungle, 90 miles of trail,


TAM GROUP LAUNCHESTAM VACATIONS IN NORTHAMERICA

The TAM Group, perhaps best known forthe top quality service of its airline TAMBrazilian Airlines, has unveiled TAMVacations, a full service travel companywith more than 250 travel products cover-ing Brazil and South America.

TAM Group (TAM) is not new to the busi-ness. Back in 1988 the company created itsfirst tour company serving the Brazilianmarket under the name of TAM Viagens

(Portuguese for vacations). Due to the in-creasing business from the U.S. to Braziland South America, as well as the numberof destinations served by TAM BrazilianAirlines, TAM decided to bring TAMViagens to the USA, under the name ofTAM Vacations, to better serve its clients.

Through their network, including 49 rep-resentatives in Brazilian cities as well astheir U.S.-based office in Miami, TAMVacations has a wide range of professionalswho can answer all questions about orga-nizing meetings or incentive trips as well asspecial events throughout Brazil.

When looking for a pre-arranged tourpackage, agents can call TAM Vacations’specialists or go on-line to TAM Vacations’website and visit the “Classico Packages”section.

When catering to groups with specificneeds, agents can also fill out an on-lineform and request a proposal. TAMVacations can create a tailor-made itiner-ary based on any client’s specific requests,whether they involve educational, cultural,historical or other specific activities.Tam Vacations, 866-6BRAZIL (866-627-2945), [email protected], www.tamvacations.com

ANGEL-ECO TOURSANNOUNCES MINI ECOPROGRAMS AND 2007 TOURDATES FOR VENEZUELA

Angel-Eco Tours has announced a seriesof new eco related mini programs forVenezuela and a number of dates for its2007 programs to Angel Falls.

Paul Stanley, Angel-Eco’s President and

co-founder hopes that the new mini tripswill help boost sustainable tourism to eco-destinations other than Angel Falls.

He says: “Most people only know of AngelFalls, it is an icon for Venezuela being thetallest waterfall in the world, now we cangive the agencies and travelers the option ofchoosing additional destinations of naturalbeauty and cultural diversity when they visitthe country.”

Angel-Eco has also announced the datesof their group tours to Canaima NationalPark and Angel Falls.

Ultimate Angel Falls Experience is eight-days/seven-nights. Visit the Pemón ofKamarata Valley deep in the heart ofCanaima National Park and travel withPemón guides by river to Angel Falls andCanaima.

Dates are June 15, June 29, August 4,September 1, October 6, and November 24.Special departure dates are available forfour or more.

“Special” Ruth Robertson Expedition isseven-days/six-nights. Retrace Ruth’s epicjourney to Angel Falls in 1949 and hearanecdotes and stories from Ruth’s personaldiary.

This trip also visits the Pemón in CanaimaNational Park. Dates are July 6 and August11. Special departure dates are availablefor four or more.

Five percent of all revenues will be do-nated to Angel Conservation's "ProjectKamarakoto " to help the Pemón inKamarata Valley, Canaima National Park. Angel-Eco Tours, 888-423-3864, [email protected], www.angel-ecotours.com

EXPLORE THE COLCHAGUAVALLEY IN CHILE WITHSPORTSTOUR

The Colchagua Valley is the ideal destina-tion to experience the roots of Chile, its cul-ture, and traditions.

Located in the city of Santa Cruz, theHotel Santa Cruz invites guests to enjoy thewarmth, harmony and excellent service inthe wine-producing heart of the SixthRegion. Specially decorated rooms allowfor relaxation and have everything for anunforgettable stay.

The idyllic landscape of the Lolol Valleysets the stage for Viña Santa Cruz.Discover a world where wines of the highestquality are combined with Chilean tradi-tions and typical cuisine. Visit the food cen-ter, tour the vineyards, and enjoy the onlywine cellar in Chile that contains a museuminside.

Cable cars will transport guests to thePuerta del Sol (The Door of the Sun), anicon to the people of the indigenous villages.They have recreated authentic homes of in-digenous families of the Mapuche, RapaNui and Aymara cultures.

Upon completing the trip, their astronom-ical center gives visitors the opportunity toenjoy the stars of the valley.

The Colchagua Museum boasts more than10,000 pieces, some of which date backmore than 300 million years, making it acultural center recognized among LatinAmerica’s best. Tourists have the option toutilize an audio guide system which ex-plains the exhibits in a simple, yet detailed,manner.

To enjoy the traditions of the region, ahouse from the early 19th century contains

“Espíritus de Colchagua” handmadeliquors, salvaging the tradition of makinghomemade liquors using old distilleryprocesses. More than 40 varieties – fromboldo to cinnamon– are featured.

As for the land, Parador del Almazara islocated in San Pedro de Alcántara, whichlies 55 km from Santa Cruz. It is a typicalChilean estate that combines agricultureand tourism with the tradition of the land.It has five rooms, a meeting room, and alarge kitchen where guests can enjoy watch-ing the preparation of the foods that areserved.

Additionally, guests can board an antiquetrain pulled by a steam locomotive built inthe early 20th century and take a guidedjourney back to historic roots while comingcloser to the unique world of theColchaguan wine.

Sportstour invites guests to live the landin the Colchagua Valley, where you canenjoy experiences full of flavors, aromas,traditions, history and enchantment. Sportstour, www.sportstour.cl

GET TO KNOW GHL HOTELESIN LATIN AMERICA

GHL HOTELES is an international hotelchain with more than 40 years of experi-ence. Its hotel operations are located in theAndean Region and the Caribbean. It ranksas the chain with the highest growth inLatin America. GHL HOTELES is the de-veloper and operator of the brandsSheraton, Four Points by Sheraton,Howard Johnson, and Sonesta Posadas delInca, and is the owner of the brands GHL yGHL Comfort.

GHL HOTEL currently counts 28 hotelsand has a presence in five countries:

Colombia, Ecuador, Perú, Panamá andBelize, and it has expansion projects inChile and Argentina.The main cities whereGHL HOTELES operates are Lima,Bogotá, Quito, and Panamá, which makesup close to 50 percent of their business.Additionally they have more hotels in popu-lar tourist cities, including Cusco,Arequipa, the Sacred Valley and Puno inPerú, Guayaquil in Ecuador and Medellín,Cali, Santa Martha and San Andrés inColombia.

They define themselves as a LatinAmerican enterprise that knows how tocombine its services standardization strat-egy and its international parameterizationof hotel operations, with the Caribbean andAndean people’s warmth and kindness.Because of this, GHL HOTELES has suc-cessfully navigated through the differentmarketing segments of the housing andevents organization industry.

that it is present in the main emittingmarkets of the world (Europe, The UnitedStates, and Japan), has demanded GHLHOTELES to be present in the main GlobalDistribution Systems (G.D.S.). They haverecently signed a technological link con-tract with TRAVEL CLICK to connectseven of its hotels, which hold the GHL andGHL COMFORT brands, to the world widenetwork of hotel booking by Internet andGDS.

GHL HOTELES invites the tourism’sagencies and wholesalers to meet theirproperties and experience an IntegratedManagement System (IMS) which guaran-tees service standards over the five coun-tries where it runs business.GHL HOTELES, [email protected],www.ghlhoteles.com,www.sonestaperu.com


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