Dion Vansen, Author at My Beautiful Belize

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Posts By: Dion Vansen

A sustainable fishing tale from the Lopez family

Fishing in Belize is more than a profession; it is also a tradition that has been maintained and practiced for generations. As a vital livelihood, those depending on it are also aware of the importance of protecting this vulnerable industry from abuse and overfishing. Among the hundreds of fishing spots along the Belizean Caribbean coastline, there is a particular area that a dedicated family sustainably uses out of Sarteneja Village in northern Belize. The Lopez family fish and look after a fishing area around Middle Long Caye, rich in fisheries stock and a mangrove haven southeast of Belize City.

Delicacies of Dia de San Pedro celebrated at Elvi’s Kitchen

Usually celebrated at the end of June, Dia de San Pedro is a vibrant celebration that takes residents and locals back to the humble beginnings of La Isla Bonita. The annual festivity honoring Saint Peter (San Pedro’s fishermen’s patron) is full of culture, entertainment, and fantastic gastronomy. This year, the iconic Elvi’s Kitchen Restaurant further revived the traditional fiesta with a menu featuring some of the most traditional dishes associated with the old San Pedro.

Where to find the best views and fine dining in San Ignacio Town

The western part of Belize is well known for its natural beauty and mountainous regions of the Cayo District. Amidst the wild country is one of its main urban attractions – San Ignacio Town, known for its natural surroundings, mouth-watering cuisine, wine and dining corners, ancient history, and home to accommodations that feature the best views of the town and beyond. This is indeed the perfect base to start exploring this side of the country.

Las Terrazas’ O Restaurant goes Italian with new dinner menu

The trendy Las Terrazas resort, located 3.5 miles north of San Pedro Town, hosted a grand launch party to introduce its new reimagined menu, turning…

Playtime Sports Bar opening in San Pedro on New Year’s Day

A new hang-out spot for sports enthusiasts will officially open in downtown San Pedro on January 1, 2023. Playtime Sports Bar, located on the second floor at the Sancas Plaza on Trigger Fish Street, is the go-to place for catching the latest game, enjoying delicious food, your favorite drinks, and soaking in the complete sporting ambiance offered by the friendly staff.

Belize Chocolate Company receives International award for their cocoa butter and powder

San Pedro Town is home to some of the country’s best attractions, and its gastronomy is another reason to visit this beautiful island. A favorite place to indulge yourself in a deliciously sweet experience is the Belize Chocolate Company which recently won a Gold award for their cocoa butter and a Silver award for their cocoa powder.

San Pedro’s Chef Jennie Staines advocates for Stone Crab conservation

Chef Staines says regularized stone crab fishing is essential. “In spawning time, sometimes, they get killed, affecting the industry,” she said. According to her, spawning starts in July; thus, the closing season time from July to the ending of September is perfect timing.

Second Best Western Hotel in Belize opens on Ambergris Caye

The second Best Western hotel in Belize was officially unveiled on Thursday, August 18th, in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. Named Best Western Grand Baymen Gardens Resort, it is located just five minutes south of downtown. With 33 one and two-bedroom condos, amenities include swimming pools, a pool bar, a fitness center, and two tennis courts.

Did you know the world-famous Chicken Drop has a new home?

Wahoo’s Lounge, home of the world-famous Chicken Drop, has relocated from downtown San Pedro to Corona del Mar Hotel south of town. Chicken Drop is one of the island’s oldest and most famous traditions. Held every Thursday, it guarantees a fun time with friends and family while offering the opportunity for you to win some cash.

The September celebrations are back; come and celebrate on Ambergris Caye!

After a COVID-19 pandemic pause for the last two years, Belize is preparing to host its popular September celebrations, again honoring the country’s month of patriotism. After public health restrictions were lifted in April this year, the National Celebrations Commission announced that they would resume the traditional events this September. In San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, the celebrations will be observed with patriotic parades, ceremonies for the Battle of St. George’s Caye and Independence Day, a Soca festival, and the anticipated carnival road march, among other activities still to be confirmed.

Mexican social media influencer and Youtuber Alex Tienda visits San Pedro

On Tuesday, May 31st, just after 2:30PM, Mexican social media influencer travel blogger, documentarist, and YouTuber, Alex Tienda arrived in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, via Tropic Air. The audiovisual content producer has over 300 million views on social media, and his visit to Belize is expected to expose the country significantly, especially among his millions of followers from around the world.

September Celebrations Carnival is back and coming to Ambergris Caye!

Carnival is a time to show your love for your country, traditions, and culture. This year the festivity will see revelers by the hundreds or thousands, cheering on their favorite carnival band as they compete and have fun at the same time.

Alaia introduces its exclusive ‘Alaia Tropical Pale Ale’

There is a brand-new beer in San Pedro Town, a refreshing, very approachable, and flavourful pale ale only found at the luxurious Marriott’s Alaia Beach Resort. The beer, dubbed ‘Alaia Tropical Pale Ale,’ is locally brewed by Bowen and Bowen, modest in alcohol at 5.5%, but complex in character thanks to the notes from Belizean grapefruit and Alaia’s ale yeasts. This pale ale bridges the gap between dark stouts and light lagers.

Marriott’s Alaia resort on Ambergris Caye is the ultimate in high-end accommodations in Belize

The first of its kind in Belize, the Alaia Resort-member of the Marriott Autograph collection is now open south of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. Boasting more than 1,000 feet of beachfront access, the resort features modern amenities, gorgeous grounds, and impressive details. Alaia is the perfect getaway for those looking for comfort, luxury, and pampering when visiting La Isla Bonita.