Every year on November 19, Garifuna Settlement day is observed which marks the arrival  of the Garifuna people in Belizean territory in 1802. The holiday was created by Thomas  Vincent Ramos, a Belizean civil rights activist and is celebrated for a whole week with  major festivities that include parades, live music, drumming, dancing, prayers and pageantry in Garifuna communities. Here are 6 things to know about the Garifuna people of Belize:

1.) In 2001, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognized the Garifuna language, music and dance as a masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity. This designation means that it is a important culture that should be preserved, promoted and celebrated.

2.) According to Historians, the Garifuna resisted British and French colonialism in the Lesser Antilles and were defeated by the British in 1796. Because of a violent rebellion on St Vincent, the British moved 5000 Garifuna across the Caribbean to the Bay Islands off the north of Honduras. From there, they migrated to the Caribbean coasts of Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala and Belize. By 1802 about 150 Garifuna had settled in Stann Creek (present day Dangriga) area and were engaged in fishing and farming.

3.) The Garifuna are resilient people who have survived many years of extreme hardships and are the only black people in the Americas to have preserved their native Afro-Caribbean culture due to the fact that their ancestors were never slaves. The Garifuna’s deep sense of kinship and participation in community cultural activities have provide them with a sense of solidarity and cultural identity during times of turmoil.

4.) The religion of the Garifuna consists of a mix of Catholicism, African and Indian beliefs. They believe that the departed ancestors mediate between the individual and external world and if a person behaves and performs well, then he will have good fortune. If not, then the harmony that exists in relationships with others and the  external world will be disrupted leading to misfortune and illness.  Their spiritualism is expressed through music, dancing and other art forms.

5.) The Garifuna foods consist of fish, chicken, cassava, bananas and plantains. One of the staples of the diet is cassava. Cassava is made into bread, a drink, a pudding and even a wine! The cassava bread is served with most meals. The process of making the bread is very labor intensive and takes several days. Hudut is a very common traditional meal. Hudut consists of fish cooked in a coconut broth (called sere) and served with mashed plantains or yams. Dharasa is the Garifuna version of a tamale made with green bananas. It can be made either sweet or sour. The foods are very labor intensive and used to be cooked over an open fire hearth. Today, stoves save time, but some families still prefer the taste of the fire hearth.

6.) The Garifuna flag consists of three horizontal strips of black, white and yellow, in that order, starting from the top. The flag has been accepted internationally as the flag of the Garifuna Nation and the colors have been used in forums where Garifuna people assert their Garifuna identity. Discover the culture of Belize.

Contact Us to “Reserve your custom Belize vacation package.”

Are you thinking about planning a trip to Belize? If so, you’re in for a treat! Belize is an absolutely stunning country with so much to see and do. The hardest part of planning a trip to Belize is narrowing down all of the amazing options. That’s why, in this blog post, we’re going to share our top tips for making Belize vacation planning a breeze.

1. Choose your Dates Carefully

One of the most important aspects of Belize vacation planning is choosing the right dates. If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting during the shoulder season (May through September). Not only will you find affordable prices on flights and accommodations, but you’ll also have a more authentic experience as you’ll be able to mix and mingle with the locals more easily.

2. Decide what kind of trip you want to take

Another important step in Belize vacation planning is deciding what kind of trip you want to take. Are you looking for a relaxing beach vacation? An action-packed adventure? A luxury getaway? Once you know what kind of trip you’re looking for, it will be much easier to narrow down your options and start putting together an itinerary that makes sense.

3. Choose the Best Accommodation for a Comfy Stay

When it comes to accommodations in Belize, there are plenty of great options to choose from. However, if you’re looking for a truly unique and special experience, we highly recommend staying at Chabil Mar Resort. Chabil Mar is located on the Placencia Peninsula and offers guests direct access to some of the best beaches in Belize. In addition, the resort offers world-class amenities and activities, including snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, and more. Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants and bars nearby if you’re looking for some nightlife during your stay.

Belize is a melting pot of cultures, with Maya, Creole, Mestizo, East Indian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern influences. This diversity is reflected in the food, music, and art of the country. There are also numerous Maya ruins scattered throughout Belize, a testimony to the country’s rich history.

Bottom Line

Belize vacation planning doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip that suits all of your needs and interests. And if you’re looking for truly one-of-a-kind accommodations, don’t forget to check out Chabil Mar Villas Boutique Guest Exclusive Resort. 

If you’ve planned summer family vacations abroad, you know how much hype goes into resort descriptions that entice parents to bring their children. From Mexico and Costa Rica to Jamaica, parents are treated to all sorts of “camps” and child-focused activities that emulate experiences found at North American resorts. 

Perhaps you’ve asked, “What’s the point of taking the kids “overseas” when resorts are using gimmicks to lure families into thinking that their programs are “authentic”? Wouldn’t you prefer a memory-building getaway that delivers a true cultural immersion? Discover Belize where genuine vacations reflect this nation’s heart and soul and where your children will thank you for years to come!

Discover the Best of Adventure and Relaxation  

If you are looking for a family getaway that offers plenty of adventure and relaxation in one package, Belize might just be the perfect destination. With its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and English-speaking environment, Belize is an ideal place for families with children of all ages.

One of the best places to stay in Belize is Chabil Mar in Placencia. This property caters to families with an attractive family package, designed to offer children an exciting and enjoyable vacation experience. Moreover, the resort provides a diverse range of activities that cater to children’s interests, including thrilling snorkeling and kayaking adventures, as well as leisurely biking and nature tours.

If your children love animals, they will never forget the Monkey River or Cockscomb Jaguar Nature Preserve tours, which provide a unique opportunity to observe Belize’s incredible wildlife up close. From monkeys to jaguars to exotic birds, Belize is home to a stunning array of animals that your children will love to see and learn about.

Of course, a family vacation in Belize is not all about adventure. The country also offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation, including beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and delicious food. At Chabil Mar, you can enjoy the best of both worlds, with a comfortable, family-friendly environment that is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration and adventure.

So, whether you are looking for a fun-filled family adventure or a relaxing beach vacation, Belize has everything you need to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones . . . Belize Style. Book your family package at Chabil Mar today, where the on-site Concierge will customize it and get ready to experience the magic of Belize!

News you can use

United Airlines just announced a new service that parents will find invaluable: The carrier is “opening up more seats on aircraft to families traveling with children younger than 12.” If your destination airport offers United flights to Belize City, ask about “preferred” location seats when you book, so your family isn’t separated en route to Belize. Find your flight. Choose Chabil Mar for your upcoming vacation and make it a magical holiday that’s truly authentic and reflective of this fascinating nation.