A travel update from Chabil Mar

 

Dear Traveler,

In this very difficult time for everyone around the world, our hearts and minds go out to all those most affected by COVID-19. We are so thankful for all of our world tourism partners and guests to Belize, Placencia, and Chabil Mar. As you consider your current or future travel plans, we kindly request that you also consider a re-booking option rather than a cancellation. As things become clearer, you can look towards the new dates for your Belize vacation to relax, refresh and bask in all of the adventures and hospitality of your Belize vacation. We’ll be waiting for you with open arms.

With Best Belizean Regards,

The Chabil Mar Team

March Is the Perfect Month to Visit Belize

belize in march

Did you miss your winter vacation this year? You can more than make up for it by booking a trip to warm, friendly Belize in March.

Enjoy White Sandy Beaches and Lush Jungles in March

March is a great time to explore Belize’s beaches and lush jungles and the Placencia Peninsula in southern Belize is the perfect base to enjoy both. Opt for a jungle and beach vacation package and you are guaranteed to have the time of your life in Belize.

Adventures You Can Only Have in Belize

The Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest barrier reef in the world, and it offers world-class snorkeling and scuba diving.

Try a cave tubing adventure, where you ride a rubber tube down a scenic river and through a network of mysterious sacred caves used by the thousands of years ago.

Belize has many nature preserves, wildlife sanctuaries, and marine reserves. Each is a fantastic destination for birders and anyone who wants to see rare, tropical wildlife.

La Ruta Maya-Belize River Challenge

Major March Events

The biggest sporting event in Belize, the La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge, takes place in March. This grueling, 180-mile canoe race brings thousands of spectators and participants to San Ignacio Town, where the race begins. Before the race starts, San Ignacio holds a festival of music, food, and dance.

The race is a major event that draws competitors from countries all over the region.

Baron Bliss Day (March 9th) honors one of Belize’s greatest benefactors. Baron Bliss was an English aristocrat whose yacht spent two days in the harbor at Belize. Bliss never left his boat, but local Belizeans visited him while he was in the harbor.

Bliss was completely charmed by Belize. When he died in 1926, he left a generous trust fund to set up schools, roads, parks, and public services in Belize. He also asked to be buried here. Every year, Belizeans honor his memory with a parade and a boat race.

Maya Day honors the proud heritage of one of Belize’s largest ethnic groups. The Maya of Belize have built a thriving culture that preserves their traditions. You can learn about their culture and history during Maya Day at the Tumul K’in Center of Learning in the Toledo District, Southern Belize.

Enjoy traditional dances, music, games, and activities for children. Sample delicious, homemade Maya food and world-famous Maya chocolate.

What’s the Weather Like in March?

Unlike northern countries that are still shivering under gray skies and chilly winds, Belize is warm and sunny in March.

Daytime temperatures are in the 80s with low humidity and almost no rainy days. At night, the temperatures drop to the 70s. Sea breezes keep everything cool and fresh. The Caribbean Sea is warm enough to swim in all year round.

In short, it’s just about perfect.

Chabil Mar Belize Resort

Enjoy Belize at Chabil Mar in March

When you book your trip to Belize, make the most of your vacation by staying at Chabil Mar. Our award-winning Belize resort is located on the stunning Placencia Peninsula and offers luxurious accommodations and amenities to discerning travelers.

Contact us today to create a perfect March getaway.

5 Belizean Festivals You Simply Cannot Miss This Year

One of the great things about visiting Belize is that there’s always something going on. No matter what time of year you come to Belize, you can join in on the fun with one of the country’s many exciting festivals, holidays, and events.

Here are 5 festivals in Belize that you shouldn’t miss this year:

Placencia Lobsterfest

 

Summer kicks off with style every June on the Placencia Peninsula with a festive three-day party that celebrates the mighty lobster. Local chefs compete to create the most savory dish from the world’s favorite crustacean while diners work to burn off all those extra calories with fun games, live music, and a beach party that lasts until dawn. There’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy, including other seafood treats, face painting, and homemade handicrafts and artwork for sale.

This year’s Lobsterfest in Placencia runs from June 26-28, 2020.

September Celebrations

Belize Flag

 

Sometimes it seems as though the entire month of September is one big holiday. Beginning on September 10, the national holiday of St. George’s Caye Day celebrates the historic 1798 triumph of British settlers over a Spanish armada which led to Belize becoming the only English-speaking country in the region. Patriotic celebrations, parades, and red, white, and blue (the national colors of Belize) festooned everywhere culminate with big bang on September 21, Independence Day, celebrating the moment in 1981 when Belize became a free and independent nation.

Garifuna Settlement Day

 

More than 200 years ago, the Garifuna people were exiled from their Caribbean home after an uprising against the British. Seeking sanctuary, the Garifuna arrived in Belize on a fleet of dugout canoes, an event which is re-enacted on the morning of November 19 every year for the national holiday of Garifuna Settlement Day. Although the Garifuna compromise only 4% of Belize’s population, their contribution to music, dance, and food has the whole country celebrating on November 19.

Mango Festival in Hopkins

 

Many consider the mango to be the tastiest tropical fruit grown in Belize, and the idyllic coastal village of Hopkins grows no fewer than 20 different varieties. Besides all the tasty fruit and mango-themed dishes, there’s live music, games, contests, and dancing in the street to herald the arrival of the mango crop.

In 2020, the Hopkins Mangofest is scheduled for the first week in June.

International Costa Maya Festival

 

Originally a celebration of Maya heritage from around the region, the International Costa Maya Festival is now one of the biggest festivals of the year. Held in San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Caye, the International Costa Maya Festival has top musical acts, plenty of delicious food and drinks, and a beauty pageant.

In 2020, the festival will be held from July 31st to August 2nd.

For more information about Belize, feel free to chat with our Concierge at: concierge@chabilmarvillas.com or contact our Reservations Manager at: reservations@chabilmarvillas.com. Or perhaps you would like to call toll free from the US or Canada: 1-866-417-2377.

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10 Best Belize Tours, Vacations & Adventures for 2020

There are some people with an unquenchable thirst for adventure – and for those people, nature made Belize. Home to an expansive coastline, the world’s second largest barrier reef, and a jungle rich with exotic wildlife and hidden Maya temples and pyramids, there’s nowhere else on the world quite like it. Chabil Mar partners with only the best guides in the country to provide one of a kind experiences tailored to a range of tastes.

Here are ten of the best tours available.

1. Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave


There’s a reason why the Mayas thought the ATM cave offered access to the underworld. Widely regarded as the best-sacred cave in the world, the ATM Cave demands adventurers who aren’t afraid to trudge through overgrown forests and swim through an underground river. The reward is one of the most sobering and well-preserved sites of human sacrifice in the world.

2. Xunantunich Maya Ruins

Xunantunich, or “Sculpture of Lady”, was once one of the largest cities in the Mayan Empire, and some say it’s still haunted by the ghost of a woman with fiery eyes and a white dress. But if you’re willing to brave the excursion and make a climb to the top, you’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking views of Belize around.

3. Scuba or Snorkeling with Whale Sharks

The whale sharks that populate Belize’s barrier reef are a far cry from Jaws. These gentle giants are a sight to behold, but they’re just a fraction of the beautiful underwater world you’ll experience when you book a scuba or snorkeling excursion.

4. Explore Laughing Bird or Silk Cayes

These twin islands are some of the best spots in the country for snorkeling or diving, and they’re also a testament to Belize’s commitment to ecological preservation. Silk Cayes is home to a number of preserved species that you won’t find anywhere else, and it’s one of the friendliest adventure destinations for families.

5. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Speaking of preservation, Cockscomb is one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in Central America. It’s also the number one site in the world if you’re looking to meet jaguars in their natural habitat. The trail system is eminently walkable and provides access to some truly gorgeous waterfalls.

6. Monkey River Tour

Howler Monkey Chabil Mar Belize Resort

Just as Cockscomb is known for their jaguar population, Monkey River is regarded for their thriving population of howler monkeys. This trip allows you to explore on the water and on foot. Even if you don’t catch a glimpse of the monkeys themselves, you’d be hard pressed to miss their signature calls.

7. Zip Lining in the Jungle

Looking for a more immediate adrenaline rush? Zip lining is one of the best options around. The boldest adventurers can start with the 2,300 foot single run, but there are over 12 platforms to try in the Belize jungle, totaling an impressive 2.5 miles in length.

8. Tikal Maya Ruins in Guatemala

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is more than just a crumbling edifice of stone. It’s a remarkably intact vision of one of the most thriving city centers in the Mayan empire. While the five temples are a highlight of Tikal Maya Ruins, there are plenty of squares and palaces to venture into as well.

9. Barton Creek Cave

Belize is a country known for its systems of caves, but Barton Creek Cave is a cut above the rest. It’s second only to ATM in terms of fame. Barton Creek Cave was once an important sacred site for the Mayas, and many of the artifacts of the time are still in place within this cave.

10. St Hermans Blue Hole and National Park

St. Herman’s Cave offers direct access to the Blue Hole – one of the clearest and most refreshing pools for swimming you’ll find anywhere. But the park is also home to the sacred Crystal Cave. This landmark is known for its otherwordly, glimmering crystalline structures.

If you want to go on an adventure you’ll remember for the rest of your life, don’t hesitate to pull the trigger. Book a Belize vacation package with Chabil Mar today.

Texas Newspaper says Belize is the best place to snorkel and dive this year

Belize is the best place to dive this year
The Texarkana Gazette, a popular USA Newspaper has listed Belize as one of the world’s top places to snorkel and dive. The newspaper chose Belize as a top spot for water lovers above other popular snorkel and dive destinations such as the Brac Reef, Florida Keys, Maui, Cayman Brac, and Bonaire.

Due to its massive popularity, several international publications have recently showcased Belize as a great country for water-related activities.

Travelers looking for turquoise and clear waters to snorkel and dive this year should consider Belize. Here is why:

A True Snorkeling And Diving Adventure Awaits

Since the country boasts the second largest barrier reef in the world, many intrepid travelers can’t wait to put on their snorkel or diving gear to explore the amazing marine life. A top diving site in the world and which can be found in Belize is the Great Blue Hole. There are also 200 cayes along the coastline that offer spectacular diving and snorkeling.

When Belize’s beautiful underwater world is explored with a professional guide, visitors will appreciate the colorful marine life. Whether you are exploring the Belize Barrier Reef with two, four, or six family members, Belizean diving guides will always make sure that your experience is top-notch.

The Placencia Peninsula located in southern Belize is one of the best diving destinations to visit in Belize. The peninsula is only thirty minutes from Belize City by plane, so getting here is a cinch. Off the coast of the Placencia Peninsula, you can find Laughing Bird Caye and the Silk Cayes which are world-renowned destinations for diving and snorkeling. After snorkeling and/or diving in the area, make sure that you check out the many nearby internet cafés, gourmet restaurants, and beach bars in Placencia Village.

Stay At The Chabil Mar Resort

Chabil Mar Resort Belize (002)

Situated right on the beach, Chabil Mar is a great place to stay on your Belize vacation. A perennial award-winning resort, Chabil Mar features luxurious villa accommodations with local décor and world-class amenities.

During your relaxing stay at Chabil Mar, you’ll be steps away from many tasty restaurants, diving and snorkeling spots, ancient Maya cities, verdant jungles, meandering rivers, lively nightlife, and much more. Our onsite concierges are also eager to work with you to create an amazing Belize itinerary.

If you are interested in an “UnBelizeable diving vacation”, Chabil Mar is a great place to stay as you’ll have extremely easy access to the many popular diving attractions in the area.

Give our Reservations Staff a call today if you’ll like to experience luxurious accommodations that are close to the world’s most popular snorkel and dive spots. Our exceptional staff is always eager to serve you. Thank you for choosing Chabil Mar Resort.

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