5 Things You Must Experience When Visiting Belize in 2024

Whether you are ready for a vacation break right now or not, there’s no better way to spend time than by starting to plan a trip overseas.

Can planning be as enjoyable as arriving at a tropical location like Belize? It can be. Researching a vacation destination assures you that you won’t miss a single attraction or experience as you prepare for a 2024 Belize vacation.

belize barrier reef
1. Explore the Belize Barrier Reef, one of only two on the planet and visible by astronauts in outer space! Located just off the Belize coastline, this World Heritage site has a reputation for delivering thrills and wonder, whether you sail to spot offshore atolls, sand cays, and lagoons, or scuba dive the area. Expect to spot marine wildlife that’s so fantastical, you will be in thrall, including marine turtles, exotic fish, and breathtaking coral formations.

caracol-mayan-ruins in Belize

2. Indulge your inner archaeologist by roaming ancient Maya cities. You don’t have to see all 900 that are believed to be located throughout Belize but you can find plenty to explore, both above and below ground. Don your walking shoes to check out palaces, temples, ball fields, and sophisticated cities, or take deep dives into caves, once home to Maya priests who considered these environs sacred areas of worship and sacrifice.

Cockscomb-Basin-Wildlife-Sanctuary

3. Take a wildlife tour. Choose Placencia’s Chabil Mar Resort as your base and get your pick of excursions that include the Belize Zoo, a Monkey River sail (bring ear plugs if you don’t want to be yelled at by Howler monkeys), the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to numerous birds and mammal species plus jaguar, puma, ocelot, jaguarundi, and margay. The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary has no equal and by staying on Placencia you gain access to a lagoon where manatees reside.

Be at Ease at Chabil Mar Resort Belize

4. The Placencia peninsula is the hottest, trendiest Belize destination according to travel experts who insist the area is home to the nation’s most highly-rated beaches in Central America. If you find that Chabil Mar offers enough fun on its own, there are plenty of things to do when you’re not discovering why these beaches are so glorious. Chabil Mar’s gourmet restaurant, beautiful pool, spa, and endless amenities make ideal diversions when you’re not soaking up the sun.

Garifuna Settlement Day in Belize
5. Hang out with Belizeans. If you’ve already read that the citizens of Belize are some of the friendliest, most gracious, and most welcoming people you’ll ever meet, consider that fact shared. Explore the peninsula’s unique cultural mix by discovering the art, music, dancing, cuisine, and other cultural surprises found only in Belize. Learn to drum Garifuna style. Explore the history of Belize’s indigenous people. Take a chocolate tour and learn to prepare ethnic dishes. You’ll never run out of things to do, especially if you make Chabil Mar your holiday headquarters.

As a guest of Chabil Mar, get the most enjoyment out of your 2024 stay if you choose from the resort’s Belize vacation packages. They include every amenity, meal, and tour that allows you to see all of the aforementioned adventures for yourself, and everything you need and want is included.

View specials associated with our packages to tailor your 2024 visit to your exact desires. At Chabil Mar, we’re dedicated to creating an atmosphere where adventure meets relaxation. Immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of our surroundings, where every moment is about unwinding and making unforgettable memories. 2024 is shaping up to be a year of exhilarating experiences and serene moments at Chabil Mar. Start planning your dream vacation now!

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 or WhatsApp us at +501-633-7547.

Battle of St. George’s Caye: A Defining Moment in Belizean History

September 10th holds a sacred place in Belizean history, commemorating the Battle of St. George’s Caye in 1798. This pivotal moment saw a small but determined group of Baymen, settlers, and slaves rise against a formidable Spanish invasion force. Against all odds, they secured a resounding victory, safeguarding Belize’s path to independence and shaping the vibrant, multicultural nation we know today.

 Belizean history

The Battle of St. George’s Caye stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit of courage, resilience, and unity that defines Belize. It serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who came before, inspiring generations of Belizeans to strive for excellence, embrace their diverse heritage, and work towards a brighter future for their nation.

 September 10th

Every year, on September 10th, the entire country erupts in a jubilant celebration of patriotism and national pride, honoring the heroes of St. George’s Caye and reveling in the unique tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions that make Belize so special. The streets transform into a vivid spectacle of colors, music, and dance, as communities across the nation come together to pay homage to their ancestors and express their deep gratitude for the freedom and independence they enjoy today.

The Battle of St. George’s Caye continues to shape Belize’s national identity and inspire its people to embrace their shared heritage with open arms. From the pulsating rhythms of the Carnival Road March to the tantalizing aromas of traditional dishes, the celebrations offer a captivating glimpse into the heart and soul of Belize – a nation that takes immense pride in its past while looking towards the future with unwavering hope and optimism.

Belize Celebrations

For those seeking an unforgettable experience during this festive season, Chabil Mar, nestled on the picturesque Placencia Peninsula, beckons as a haven of tranquility and luxury. As you immerse yourself in the warm hospitality and breathtaking natural beauty of this award-winning resort, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the dynamic celebrations that mark this momentous occasion.

Whether you choose to join the exuberant revelry in the streets or simply soak in the festive atmosphere from the comfort of your private villa, Chabil Mar provides the perfect backdrop for experiencing the true essence of Belizean culture and heritage. The resort’s commitment to showcasing local traditions and its dedication to providing an authentic Belizean experience ensures that your stay during this special time will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Belize's independence

Beyond the celebrations, September 10th underscores the enduring strength and resilience embedded in the heart of every Belizean. It is a day to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look toward the future with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. And for those fortunate enough to experience this special occasion in the enchanting setting of Chabil Mar, it promises to be an unforgettable journey into the heart and soul of Belize – a journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for this remarkable nation.

Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.

The Mestizo Culture of Belize

Mestizo Culture of Belize

In Spanish, the term “Mestizo” means “mixed” as in mixed race, but this is not a very apt description for the Mestizo people of Belize. In reality, the Mestizos were originally immigrants that began arriving in Belize after fleeing from a race-based civil war in neighboring Mexico in the 19th century called the Caste War.

Initially, the Mestizos brought much of their original culture with them, including the Catholic faith and the Spanish language. Over time, however, the Mestizos have integrated into the wider Belizean society, many having adopted other Christian faiths as well as being bilingual in both English and Spanish.

Today, the Mestizos are primarily located in the two northernmost districts of Belize, Corozal and Orange Walk, as these border regions were largely uninhabited in the mid-19th century. The Mestizos were instrumental in Belize’s burgeoning agricultural sector, especially sugarcane production. The Mestizos now form the second-largest cultural group in Belize after the Creoles.

Mestizo culture is rich with a blend of Catholic and indigenous traditions. Perhaps their most well-known story tells a tale of Xtabai (pronounced ish-ta-buy) who was a powerful spirit that lives in the jungle. According to legend, the Xtabai waits at night on the edge of town for an intoxicated or lost man to wander by. The Xtabai then lures the man into the jungle, sometimes just to taunt them, but sometimes to hurt or even kill them. During the day, however, the Xtabai takes the form of a tree or a snake.

Mestizo music is heavily influenced by Spanish traditions. No Mestizo gathering would be complete without some guitar music, especially a song called the Serenata (Serenade) that was traditionally sung by young men outside the bedroom window of their beloved. Mestizo music often recalls the rollicking rhythms of flamenco, rumbia, and salsa with lyrics that tell stories of rural life, love, and death. Other typical Mestizo musical instruments include harps, trumpets, and violins.

Mestizo cooking is similar but distinctly different than Mexican food. Mestizo villages often have a large communal kitchen where tasty treats are made such as tortillas, tacos, and tamales. Mestizos are also renowned for their textile work and handicrafts that feature simple yet elegant floral designs.

The lovely beach resort of Chabil Mar on the Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize is a great place to stay for visitors who want to learn more about Belizean culture and people, including the Mestizos.

Belize Whale Sharks – 8 Fascinating Facts You Need to Know

belize whale sharksDespite its massive size, Whale Sharks are the “Gentle Giants” of the ocean. Unlike their other shark relatives that are meat-eaters, these giants are filter feeders.

Every year, huge schools of migrating whale sharks arrive in the waters off of Belize in order to feed on fish spawn and plankton. These enormous creatures normally cruise a depth beyond the reach of most divers. It is only when they rise to the surface to feed that humans can get the rare and wonderful opportunity to interact with these friendly and inquisitive creatures.

Below are eight fascinating facts you need to know about whale sharks:

  1. The name “whale” shark refers to their size, not their biology. Whale sharks are fish, not mammals.
  2. Whale sharks have been swimming in the Earth’s oceans for approximately 60 million years.
  3. Whale sharks have teeth but never use them. They feed by filtering the water for microscopic bacteria and algae.
  4. Whale sharks travel approximately 30,000 miles around the globe every year.
  5. The largest whale shark ever caught weighed more than 47,000 pounds.
  6. Despite weighing several tons, whale sharks feed almost exclusively on tiny plankton virtually invisible to the naked eye.
  7. In Asia, whale sharks are called “tofu fish” because the meat is said to taste and look like tofu.
  8. Scientists have never observed whale sharks mating and know very little about their biology.

Although whale sharks circumnavigate the globe every year, it is only in the waters around Gladden Spit off the coast of Placencia in Belize that divers can get the rare chance to interact and photograph these magnificent animals. Drawn to the enormous concentration of fish spawn and plankton in the area, whale sharks arrive in the waters off of Belize between March and June.

Because whale sharks are carefully protected by Belizean conservation laws, divers who want to dive with whale sharks must use a licensed tour operator. If you’d like to partake in a truly special diving adventure to get close to and interact with the gentle giants of the deep, sign up for this complete Belize whale shark diving package. It includes three limited slots to dive with whale sharks and accommodations at the world-class Belize resort of Chabil Mar.


For information about diving with whale sharks in 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.

 

Save

Belizean Fry Jacks Recipe for Foodies!

fry jacks

One of the quintessentially Belizean dishes out there would be fry jacks. While this dish is hardly healthy, it is certainly popular. Resembling mini puff pastries, fry jacks are wads of dough fried to a golden brown. While it remains unclear how they got their name, fry jacks are cherished by  Belizeans.

Why No Belizean Vacation is Complete Without Some Fry Jacks

Fry jacks are more common than sliced bread and a common breakfast combines them with scrambled eggs, refried beans and some sort of cheese. Fry jacks are also a common lunch staple, paired with dishes like rice and beans or stewed chicken.

Where Can You Get Some Fry Jacks? Cafe Mar, Chabil Mar!

At Chabil Mar, we pride ourselves on providing authentically unique flavors and presentations while using the freshest possible ingredients and from-scratch preparations on all dishes. Our Chef Daniel and Marsha, bake our breads every morning, fresh for you, and our Fry Jacks to order for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The ease of preparation of fry jacks means that you can find them in just about any restaurant in Placencia and throughout Belize. 

If you happen to stroll down the beach or hop on an easy 5 minute bike ride into Placencia Village from Chabil Mar for some eats, it’s easy to find a nice family-run and/or beach-front restaurant just minutes away as well.

What is the Best Time of Day for Fry Jacks?

While you can have them for lunch, breakfast is the best time for fry jacks. Remember that you should have them hot and fresh.

What is the Best Way to Eat Fry Jacks?

The fry jack serves the same role as bread on the Belizean plate, working as accompaniment rather than a main dish. A traditional Belizean lunch is fry jacks served with re-fried beans, some sort of meat and cheese. A traditional Belizean breakfast would combine the fry jacks with many of the same things you would put on a pancake, although honey is more easily acquired than maple syrup.

How to Make Belizean Fry Jacks at Home

Fry jacks are a traditional breakfast food paired with either a sweet (honey, jam or powdered sugar) or savory (cheese or refried beans) aspect. Fry jacks are also great for soaking up the sauces and gravies of other savory dishes.

Ingredients

  • Flour, all-purpose, 2 cups
  • Water, 1 cup
  • Salt, 1 tsp
  • Shortening, 1 tbsp
  • Powder, baking, 3 tsp
  • Oil

Directions

  1. Mix the dry ingredients into a bowl.
  2. Cut the shortening into your flour.
  3. Slowly add the water, mixing as you go, until you have a soft, non-sticky dough.
  4. Halve the dough and give it 15-20 minutes rest.
  5. Add flour to your work surface and roll the dough into rounds between 10″ and 20″ in diameter.
  6. Cut the dough into 3″ strips twice, leaving you with the proper size. Fry jacks are commonly made into triangles.
  7. Make a small slit into each piece of dough and then fry each side in very hot oil until the fry jacks reach a golden brown coloring.
  8. Remove from the fryer, garnish as you like and serve.

So there you have it; everything you ever wanted to know about Belize’s version of quick bread and even a recipe to make it yourself. Eat up!

Archives