The Belikin La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge is a gruelling multi-day canoe race traveling a perilous river route across the country of Belize. The route runs West to East along the Macal and Belize Rivers, once the only link between beautiful San Ignacio, in the foothills of the Maya Mountains, and the bustling port of Belize City. This is a race for everyone (not just professional racers)!
The race occurs each year in March, coinciding with Baron Bliss Day. This year (2020), the canoes will leave San Ignacio on March 6 and arrive in Belize City on March 9. The teams, which race for station prizes along the way, battle for the major cash prizes awarded at the end of the race.
This race was founded by Cayo Tropical Fruits Ltd. (producers of Big-H brand fruit juices, Vida Purified Water and Mamita Milks) with great support from many Belizean corporations and organizations such as The Belize Tourism Board , The Lodge at Chaa Creek resort, and the San Ignacio Resort Hotel.
Maybe your cruise ship docked for only a day in Belize, which didn’t allow you the time to explore much of the local culture, jungles or coral reefs. Or perhaps you stayed at one of the all-inclusive resorts and didn’t venture out beyond the sun, sand and water. If so, book the next flight you can back to this breathtaking Central American country. Its 9,000 square miles has an abundance of adventures to offer and is often overlooked by travelers. Plan to spend a few thrilling days diving into some of the most unique experiences found anywhere in the world.
Here are 10 things you must do during your next trip to Belize:
1. Fly Over the Blue Hole for Breathtaking Views
Located off the coast of Belize, the Blue Hole is the largest ocean sinkhole in the world. Created by a collapsed underground cavern, it appears as a dark blue circle among the startling turquoise sea. Although cruises and snorkeling boats circle the Blue Hole daily, the most spectacular way to see this marvel is from the air. Only an aerial view does justice to the vast magnitude and deep colors that make this one of the wonders of the world. Astrum Helicopters offers personalized tours over the Blue Hole as well as other destinations in Belize. They will even pick you up from practically any hotel in the country.
Photo by Sucheta Rawal
2. Get Your Adrenaline Up at the Longest Zip Line
The longest zip line in Central America is 2,300 feet long and is located at theMayflower Bocawina National Forest near Silk Grass Village on the Southern Highway in Belize. Nestled amidst 7,000 acres of pristine lowland broadleaf forest in the saw-toothed Maya Mountains, this adventure center offers day and nighttime zip-lining, waterfall rappelling and hiking.
The 1.5 miles of zip lines stretches across 12 platforms, starting with short easy zips that get progressively longer, faster and steeper. The final one is the longest, lasting over 30 seconds. There is also a surprise rappel built into the course. Make sure to keep an eye out for waterfalls along the way.
3. Step Back in Time at Historic Mayan Ruins
Belize is considered part of the southern Maya lowlands of the Mesoamerican culture area. The area peaked in growth during the classic period dating from 250 AD to 900 AD, although the settlements date as far back as 400 BC. Many of the excavations highlight preserved plazas, pyramids, temples, frescoes, tombs and ball fields.
Start by visiting Altun Ha and Lamanai in Northern Belize, and then make your way down to Xunantunich (the most impressive ruins), El Pilar, Caracol (the tallest Mayan building in Belize as well as the tallest man-made structure in the country), and Tikal (located on the Belize-Guatemala border and the most excavated Mayan site).
Photo by Belize Tree houses at Caves Branch
4. Dive, Snorkel and Kayak at the Second Largest Coral Reef in the World
One of the greatest attractions of Belize is the Belize Barrier Reef, made up of 185 miles of beautiful corals, cays and islands. While water temperatures are pleasant year-round, the best time to dive is December through July. White sandy beaches, turquoise waters and miles of untouched, unspoiled beauty are only a few reasons to dive into the gorgeous waters of Belize. Be prepared to see a variety of hard corals, gorgonians, sea fans, tunicates, shellfish, grouper, stingray, manta ray, spotted eagle ray, hammerhead shark, Caribbean reef shark, whale shark and oceanic white tip shark depending on the area in which you are swimming.
There are hundreds of islands dotting the Belizean coastline, many of which offer resorts, lodges and dive shops for guests looking to avoid large crowds and to be one with nature. The hotels also offer dive tours from the mainland.
Photo by Sucheta Rawal
5. Connect with Spirits Through a Real Shaman
Shamanism refers to a variety of spiritual practices involving rituals, prayers and healing. A shaman (priest or practitioner) is considered an intermediary or messenger between the human world and the spirits. A Shaman’s important role in Mayan history has been that of a priest, doctor, spiritual healer and community advisor.
Mr. Jovencio Canto, a Mayan Shaman, offers ceremonial practices at his home or by invitation. A two-hour session may include a dedication to a deceased family member, prayer for one’s health, prosperity, and relationships, or anything else you desire. During the ceremony, spirits are invited and offerings are made.
The holy practice has been passed on from generations to generations, and it is very interesting to observe the strong beliefs that Belizeans of today hold. Although Mr. Canto has a daytime job, he carries on this tradition to help people and to do good deeds. There is no cost for his service.
6. Get Up Close With Frigates
Your concept of birdwatching will change when you take a private boat to one of the tiny bird islands located off the coast of Belize. The Manovar Bird Sanctuary is home to hundreds of magnificent Frigatebirds (also known as Man of War birds or Pirate birds). The male Frigatebirds attract females by inflating their red-colored throat pouches (which look like balloons) and making loud shrill sounds.
There are several bird islands scattered around the waters, but they may be difficult to find on your own. It is best to hire a local guide and ask them to show you the birds that are nesting during that season.
Photo by Sucheta Rawal
7. Push Yourself to the Limit at Caves Branch
The adventures at Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch Jungle Lodge are sure to challenge your mind and body. Leap from six underground waterfalls in 300 feet of darkness while spectacular crystal formations loom above you. Watch Mayan ceremonial centers hidden deep inside caves on a river tubing tour. Finally, rappel down to a sinkhole above the rainforest canopy. If you still have some energy to spare, try rock climbing, hiking and swimming at this private adventure ground.
Photo by Belize Tree houses at Caves Branch
8. Romance in the Jungle
Spend a few days reconnecting with your partner at the Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge, located at the foothills of Sibun National Forest Reserve. With only nine private cabanas overlooking the river, thick canopy and oversized indoor/outdoor showers, it is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of life. Listen to the sounds of the forest while lying in a hammock or watch the brilliantly lit star-studded sky from your outdoor Jacuzzi.
Photo by Sucheta Rawal
Enjoy delicious Caribbean creations, including lobster and conch curry, prepared by Chef Ramos and featuring fresh and natural ingredients. With a beautiful view of the canopies, the lodge is the perfect place to enjoy a morning breakfast of salbutes and fresh juice while being greeted by Toucans and monkeys.
Photo by Sucheta Rawal
9. Wind Down at a Garifuna Fishing Village
Garifunas were West Africans who were brought as slaves by the Spanish to the island of St. Vincent in the early 1600s. For some well-deserved relaxation, head to the coastal village of Hopkins in East Belize. Known as the cultural center of the Garifuna population, this small, vibrant community prides itself on good food, unspoiled beaches and genuine hospitality. Enjoy Garifuna drumming, live music and authentic cuisine at one of the many local bars and restaurants dotting the sleepy village.
While there are a few options for lodging ranging from cabins and B&Bs to smaller Belize hotels and guest houses and even private villas and all-inclusive resorts, the Almond Beach Resort and Spa is one of the top-rated hotels in the country. It offers ocean view rooms with direct access to the beach as well as a spa, restaurant, café and gift shop. It’s also a good place to relish some of the local dishes, such as Hudut (savory fish stew with mashed plantains) and Cassava bread, while watching seductive movements and rhythmic beats performed by the Dangriga Garifuna Dance Academy.
Hopkins was voted “The Friendliest Village in Belize” by Belize First Magazine.
Photo by Sucheta Rawal
10. Visit a Mennonite Community
Belize is one of the least densely populated, yet most diverse, countries in North America. In a population of just over 318,000, there are Mayas, Mestizoes, Creoles, Mennonites, Garifunas, East Indians, Guatemaltecos and Hondurans living in peace and harmony. Almost every Belizean can fluently speak at least three languages: English, Spanish and Creole.
It is common to see local Mennonites riding their horse-drawn buggies on the country’s highways while passing Chinese restaurants and Taiwanese-owned supermarkets. The Mennonites in Belize have been known to convert sections of the jungles into highly productive farmlands. They have proven to be excellent agricultural contributors and own dairy farms that produce milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, chicken and eggs.
Travelers can tour Little Belize, an Old Order Mennonite community of about 2,000 residents, in a buggy and visit the papaya-packing plant, a poultry farm, a wood workshop and other local industries. The half-day tour includes lunch in a private home and costs 100 Belizean dollars per person.
When most people hear of Belize, they immediately think of a third-world, under-developed, and dangerous little country. But, the select few that have had the pleasure of visiting and those of us already living in Belize know it as a true jewel within the Caribbean offering an abundance of beauty and charm for visitors of all ages.
Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America and is nestled between Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea. This ideal location affords the country to be only a short plane ride to all major U.S. ports while housing some of the most lush rainforests and pristine islands in the region.
Many, who have ventured here on a short trip, have fallen in love and became permanent residents themselves, as they have discovered some of the most unique characteristics that make the country shine much brighter and bigger than its small physical size. Some of these reasons to live in Belize include its affordability, ease of communication, health benefits, unending list of activities and mainly the culture.
Below, I’ll take a deeper look into these reasons that will surely make you love living in Belize.
1. Affordability
Don’t be mistaken and think everything in Belize will be “dirt cheap” but the standard of living is much lower in comparison to larger countries like the U.S. and others in the Caribbean.
Common services that are considered a luxury elsewhere are very affordable here like Cable TV, which costs about USD $25 monthly, domestic help (USD $15 daily), insurance (which is available for health, life, home, motor and commercial) that carries very affordable yet compensating policies, and medical facilities. Medical services are so affordable here that medial tourism is now on the rise in Belize. More and more people are travelling from all over the world seeking the more affordable yet quality medical attention that Belize provides.
Housing options are also very affordable here. You can choose to buy move-in ready homes, condos, apartments or even buy raw land and build your dream home from the ground up. There is plenty of land and other property options available for sale in Belize. An easy way to see all available options is to check with a real estate agency like CPC Belize Real Estate Solutions. If you prefer the security and close-knit community of a condominium there are many options available across the country, including Playa del Consejo which is located in one of Belize’s top retirement communities of Consejo in Corozal. For those on a tight budget and looking for an apartment, Belize also has various options available – most of which can be found in the local paper’s classifieds. In comparison to other countries in the region, Belize offers buyers the lowest price for top properties inland and beachfront whether for personal or commercial use.
Don’t think you’ll have to cut out your night life to afford living in Belize. Entertainment here is very, very affordable. Many of the bars offer free entrance and the night clubs have free nights too. On the nights you do have to pay, the entrance fee usually runs around USD $10. Inside, drinks are just as reasonable. One could enjoy local rum or beer for about $2.50 and imported rums, whiskeys, wines, champagne or cognac for under $10.00.
Eating out is another affordable luxury in Belize. There are plenty of fast food joints offering dishes that start as low as USD $2.50, and sometimes cheaper, while most places generally stay under USD $20. Higher end restaurants offering international cuisine can run a little higher ranging anywhere from USD $10 – $35 depending on where and what you order. But in almost all aspects, Belize is very affordable and accommodating to almost any budget.
2. Language
Because Belize is a former British Colony, its official language is English. This is definitely a plus for those in the US, UK, or Canada who are considering Belize as their new home since they wouldn’t need to learn another language before venturing to a country that, in almost every other aspect, is completely different from their own. There is no need to worry about any miscommunications when in Belize, because all official street signs, documents and any other means of communication are all in English everywhere in the country.
However, you shouldn’t expect to hear only English when you’re up and about in the country though, many people here are bilingual and speak Spanish, Chinese or Mandarin as well while a few also speak French.
3. Health
Aside from providing affordable health care services, Belize also grows plenty of fruits and vegetables all over the country making produce here cheap and readily available on a daily basis at the local markets and supermarkets. A healthy diet is easy to maintain here without breaking the bank.
The air in Belize is much less polluted than in other parts of the world. This is thanks in large part to the abundance of plants and trees found in the lush rainforest and scattered throughout the mainland. This is not to imply that certain main towns in the country that are congested with automobiles won’t have some smog, but those are far and few in between and are in no way comparable to that experienced in larger countries.
Because of Belize’s subtropical climate, there are plenty of sunny days here. Aside from increased vitamin D levels that contribute to cancer prevention and higher energy levels, sunny days allow endless opportunities to enjoy all sorts of outdoor activities like biking, hiking, swimming and exploring. It is very east to maintain an active lifestyle and healthy diet while living in Belize.
4. Activities
Warm weather, rich archaeological sites, hundreds of islands – Belize is a mecca for outdoor activities! You don’t need to be an adrenaline junkie to enjoy the outdoors here. The sandy islands and jungle resorts are great for lounging and unwinding. There are more popular islands to the north of the country like Caye Caulker and San Pedro that have small hotels and upscale resorts to cater to any budget and experience. Although these islands invoke a feeling of serenity and relaxation as you arrive, there is still plenty adventure to be had.
Because all the islands (locally known as cayes) are lined along the largest barrier reef in the region, they provide great fishing, snorkeling and diving experiences. Some of the most unforgettable underwater experiences can be had at the Great Blue Hole, Shark Ray Alley, Hol Chan Marine Reserve or the Turneffe Atolls to name a few top spots.
For those history-junkies, Belize’s rich Mayan history is ready to be explored and uncovered! With over 20 different Mayan sites scattered across the country, and more still yet to be excavated, there is a lot to see and learn about the people who once inhabited these lands.
Belize is also home to many nature parks and reserves. One of the more popular reserves is the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary which houses the world’s first jaguar preserve. Here, you can go hiking through nature trails, swimming beneath waterfalls, canoeing down rivers or climbing atop Mayan mountain. The Nohoch Che’en Archaeological Reserve is another popular adventure destination in Belize as it offers guest fun cave-tubing tours through caves along the Caves Branch River as well as breath-taking zip line tours atop the jungle.
Aside from all these sites, you can also choose to do your own activities at your own pace like going for an evening stroll, biking through your neighborhood, bird watching, or just about anything else you can think of. There is no limit to all the fun activities you can do when you live in Belize.
5. Culture
Lastly, but maybe most important, is the culture. Belize is very slow-paced and relaxed in every way. So much so that the locals even know two versions of time – regular time and Belize time. Most businesses are scheduled to open at 8 AM but because of this slow-paced demeanor, the day usually gets started at the “Belize time” equivalent to around 8:30 AM. Although this may seem ridiculous to some who are used to a stricter schedule, in Belize everyone is accommodating and flexible just going with the flow as the day progresses.
This accommodating nature comes naturally to Belizeans who, as a people, are very warm and friendly to everyone they come in contact with. We are always willing to lend a helping hand or just offer a reassuring smile. Belizeans are also very family oriented. We are protective of each other but are very offensive in nature as most of us tend to do good with the expectations of the same from others.
Even if you ventured here by yourself, you will never feel like you are alone in Belize. You’ll meet people everywhere you go, who will treat you as if you are one of their own, and develop friendships that last a lifetime.
Ready to move yet?
Living in Belize, can offer a lifestyle that is much hidden in this new fast-paced technological era. Enjoy the best of both worlds living here as you’ll now have the opportunity to slow down and ingest scenery and people around you while still employing the modern technologies and amenities that have become a part of our daily lives. Take one visit and realize why there is no other country that can offer you the perks that many already enjoy when living in Belize.
MyBelize.Net not only displays the results as they are announced for Boledo, Fantasy 5 and Lottery, but also, provides historical data for Boledo strategists. You can check how often your lucky numbers are played and also view specifically what dates they were last played since the website was launched in 2008. Also, past results are stored for a six month period then refreshed every year. You can easily access the Boledo page here.
Fun Facts
Most Searched Boledo #’s
Number
# of Searches
X’s Played
9
3006
13
1
2803
14
22
2769
21
3
2744
19
13
2730
15
17
2705
10
12
2671
5
10
2665
11
11
2623
10
23
2609
13
Least Searched Boledo #’s
Number
# of Searches
X’s Played
74
1139
11
96
1121
11
82
1119
17
85
1101
12
98
1068
9
94
1054
12
86
1038
11
97
1024
14
95
1008
13
83
1004
9
You can see more details like specific days and dates when each number was played by using the “search” function on the page.
Great Belizean talent is being showcased again in the release of A Heights of Vibes Christmas.
This Christmas CD comes to you courtesy the Heights of Vibes recording studio and features Christmas songs by local Belizean artists. Producers behind the compilation are Fada Lee, T.R. Shine and Marco Lopez and was mixed by Young C. The CD showcases songs by 17 different artists featuring popular names like T.R. Shine, Denise Castillo, Positive Vibes and Contenental Cat to name a few.
The album is packed with mostly original lyrics inspired by the season but features genres like Bruk-down, Reggae and Soca which gives it a uniquely cultural spin. Bring in the Christmas with A Heights of VibesChristmas!
Belizeans may be many things, but one thing we’re not is short on talent! From singers, dancers, athletes, sculptures, painters and now fashion designers, there’s definitely a whole lot of talent packed into our little Jewel. And one of these home-grown talents have been causing a stir in the international fashion scene lately.
Richard Henderson has been chosen the winner of Best Designer at Fashion Week San Diego 2013-2014. Richard Henderson, a born Belizean who moved to California, is partner and the creative genius behind the fashion house of RHCREATION. He owns RHCREATION with Timothy McGee, a San Diego native.
Fashion Week San Diego is an annual 4-day runway and trunk show that takes place at the Port of San Diego Broadway Pier in downtown San Diego. 26 emerging fashion designers participate in the competition to showcase their creations.
RHCREATION showcased their Spring 2014 Resort-Wear Collection at the event featuring swim-suit cover ups that have been hailed as sexy sophistication with a Caribbean flare. Model and current Miss Belize, Destinee Arnold, walked in the runway show for the designer. RHCREATION has also been featured in red carpets including the Daytime Emmy’s, BET Awards in Los Angeles, The Miss California Latina and Miss Teen California Latina, as well ass Miss International that was held in China and Japan.
The black, white and yellow Garifuna Flag implemented by Thomas Vincent Ramos of the Carib Development Society was an evolution of the red, yellow and black flag that began with the Carib International Society.
The colors in the flag developed by the Carib International Society represented the blood of the Garifuna (red), the skin of the Garifuna (black) and the food of the Garifuna (yellow). When Ramos later created the Carib Development Society, he substituted the red with white according to the National Garifuna Council.
Although the meaning behind the colors have always been a topic of debate, the NGC Belize makes a good attempt to give proper significance to them. They agree with the previous description of the black representing the skin color and yellow for the food; and, they suggest that the white represents the white man (European) who forcibly removed them from St. Vincent. Conversely, the colors could also symbolize the Garifuna’s hardship and struggle that they endured (black), hope and prosperity (yellow), and the peace that they yearned for in their history (white).
