Shows
Off Road with Frank FerraroOff Road w Frank Ferraro - Discovering the Beauty of BelizeSend us a textIn this episode Frank talks with Belize real estate broker Wayne Robbins and hears about the amazing opportunities that lie in Belize. Find out why Wayne has been here (Belizing the Dream) for nearly 20 years. Support the show2024-01-1010 min
Belize TravelcastChan Chich Lodge: Conservation of Belize's Natural BeautyIn this episode, Cindy from Chan Chich Lodge joins us to speak about conservation efforts to protect Belize and Central America’s wildlife and rainforests. Chan Chich Lodge in the north of Belize is a pioneer for conservation. Its name comes from the Yucatec words for “little bird” and is built on what was an undiscovered Maya city. Originally a residence for archaeologists and researchers, the lodge became popular with the public as word got out about the hidden gem that is this property and people came to visit for themselves. Because of the location’s isolatio...2023-01-2758 min
Belize TravelcastSak Tunich: Preserving Maya Culture & TraditionIn this episode, we are joined by Ruben Magana, co-owner of Sak Tunich with his father Jose Magana. Ruben speaks about Maya culture in Belize and how it is passed on and kept alive even today. Part of this cultural preservation is Sak Tunich itself. The name comes from the Mayan words for “white rock.” This is because under the topsoil of the property is a layer of pure limestone. The whole place resembles an authentic Maya site, including a plaza, ballcourt, and ceremonial room all carved and decorated traditionally. It is a place where visitors can see a...2023-01-2646 min
Belize TravelcastAdventures in Southern Belize with Untame Belize ToursThis episode features Rodwell Ferguson Jr., owner of Untame Belize Tours and Transfers, and a board member of the Belize Tourism Board. In this episode, he dives into all his favorite activities and places to visit in Southern Belize. From rock sliding down waterfalls to hiking the world's only jaguar reserve in Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Reserve, Rodwell lets us in on all the top activities he has done and what he recommends every traveler should try when visiting Belize. Through his company, Untame Belize, he can take intrepid travelers on these memorable experiences. Rodwell refers to the...2022-12-0225 min
Belize TravelcastRelaxation and Adventure on the Belize Barrier Reef: Blue Marlin Beach ResortThis episode is short and sweet with two guests, Mariel and Carlene, from Blue Marlin Beach Resort on South Water Caye. The name is a tribute to the island which was once used as a fishing camp and in honor of the rare and difficult catch of a Blue Marlin in the area. True to this, one of the top activities around South Water Caye is fishing, for both beginners and experts. In fact, fly fishing can be done right from the docks. Both snorkeling and diving are also available just off the island for those looking...2022-11-1224 min
Belize TravelcastDestination Weddings in Belize with Blu ZenIn the episode, Norvani Santoya, Reservations manager at the Blue Zen Resort on Caye Caulker, talks about just why Caye Caulker and Belize as a whole are the perfect wedding destination. As Norvani states, Zen is about finding balance in relaxation and peacefulness. Located in an accessible yet private and secluded location, Blue Zen accomplishes just this. Along with handling arrivals/departures and general concierge service, Norvani and his team are also responsible for creating completely personalized packages for guests and, most of all, weddings. As the only English-speaking country in Central America and packed wi...2022-11-1235 min
Belize TravelcastMaya Healing and Culture in BelizeIn this episode, we speak with the Yucatec Maya healer and owner of Nuuk Cheil Cottages, Aurora Saki. Aurora speaks about her Maya culture and the tradition of healing that has been passed down through her family. Her mother learned from her grandfather and her uncle became world-renowned, the same uncle who she studied under for 8 years, learning the secrets of countless plants that when combined and used correctly can create nature's remedies for almost anything. She has now been a full-fledged healer for over 25 years, but this is not all she has accomplished. As...2022-11-1143 min
Belize TravelcastThings to do from Belize City : Cave Tubing and Maya Sites with Private Belize AdventuresIn this episode, we sit down with Dorian Rivero, owner of Private Belize Adventure and tour guide of over 20 years, to discuss what activities are available to visitors based in Belize City such as those looking for a way to enjoy their Belize layover during a cruise. Belize City, being one of the first settlements, has a rich history and many historical relics, whether it be the artifacts in museums or the colonial style building, there is always a sight to see. From here, people are in the perfect location to embark on quick trips to more e...2022-11-1139 min
Belize TravelcastTraveling to Belize during the Covid-19 PandemicAli Wunderman joins us in the studio for a conversation about the new Belize covid-19 travel restrictions and her experience traveling back to Belize for the first time during the pandemic. We discuss the new travel protocols and her experience arriving in Belize and visiting different areas of the country. With travel to Belize now fully reopened, including the return of cruise tourism in July 2021, there are some updated protocols and procedures that travelers should be aware of. Ali walks us through her experience and explains why traveling to Belize is as easy as 1-2-3.2021-07-1229 min
Belize TravelcastBelize Crystal Cave Virtual Audio TourIn this episode, we take you on a virtual tour of the world-renowned Mountain Cow Crystal Cave in western Belize. The Crystal Cave is one of the most popular spelunking destinations in Belize. Expert cave guide Mr Francisco Itza from Belize Caving Expeditions will walk you through the entire experience by discussing what you'll see, hear, and do on this unique tour. You'll also get some travel tips and insights to prepare for the tour on your next Belize vacation. Crystal Cave Mountain Cow St. Hermans' Blue Hole National Park > Book This Tour2021-07-0253 min
Belize TravelcastSafeguarding Belize's Cultural and Natural HeritageElla Békési from Heritage Network Belize talks about Belize's cultural and natural heritage, including the tangible and intangible heritage. She also discusses why it is important for Belizeans, and visitors alike, to safeguard and embrace the cultural and natural heritage of Belize for generations to come. Their initiative started in the midst of the 2020 pandemic with the aim to support Belizean tourism professionals, cultural and heritage organizations, business owners, artists, and artisans coping with the impact of COVID-19.2021-06-0746 min
Belize TravelcastThree Perfect Days in Belize by Ali WundermanAli Wunderman is back in the studio of the Belize Travelcast to update us on what she's been up to since her last visit back in January 2020. She tells us what it was like being stuck at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic and how she missed Belize dearly and just had to come back as soon as she got the chance. Not only is Ali in Belize to rekindle her love for Belize's nature and people, but she was also here to work on a new cover article for Hemispheres Magazine's April issue, titled "Three Perfect Days in...2021-04-0729 min
Belize TravelcastIs Belize Safe? Travel to Belize in 2021 and BeyondBelize's Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, Honorable Anthony Mahler, talks about safety in Belize during the COVID-19 pandemic and discusses what travel and tourism in Belize will be like in 2021 and beyond. Tune in to hear about his vision for Belize tourism. Belize is safe to visit and is gearing up to become a first-class tourism destination under the leadership of Honorable Anthony Mahler. Belize COVID-19 Travel Updates. Aliana's Villas Belize Ground Shuttle Mangata Villas The Belize Tourism Board Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations See the S...2021-01-0156 min
Belize TravelcastBelize Gold Standard Hotels, Tours, and Transportation OptionsBelize is open for travel! The Belize International Airport reopened for inbound tourism on October 1st, 2020. In this episode, we continue our conversation with Misty Michael from the Belize Tourism Board to discuss the Belize Gold Standard program for Health and Safety, and why it is important to ensure safety for guests and residents alike. A full list of Belize Gold Standard hotels, tours, and transportation options is available on Belizing.com. This episode is sponsored by the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, Belize Sailing Vacations, and Orchid Bay Belize. National Health and Safety guidelines were developed by t...2020-11-0940 min
Belize TravelcastBelize Travel Restrictions & Airport ProtocolsBelize is open for travel! Yes, we’re back and we can’t wait to welcome you back to our shores. On October 1st, 2020, the Belize International airport finally reopened for leisure travel. Belize had closed its airport and borders on March 23rd. For over 6 months we were closed to inbound tourism. National Health and Safety guidelines were developed by the Belize Tourism Board through a 9-point certification program called the Gold Standard Recognition Program. A new Belize Health App is also required for entry to Belize. This episode is sponsored by: San Ig...2020-10-3031 min
Belize TravelcastThe Largest Ancient Maya City in BelizeTake a virtual tour of Caracol, the largest ancient Maya city in Belize. Learn about the history of this magnificent place deep in the jungles of Belize. Our expert guide, Jorge De Leon, from Lion Adventure Tours, takes us on this trip and gives us some travel tips for your next in-person visit to Caracol. In AD 650, the urban area of Caracol had a radius of approximately 177 square kilometers. It boasts the tallest man-made structure in the country of Belize, and the city covered an area much larger than present-day Belize City (the largest metropolitan area in the country...2020-08-291h 03
Belize TravelcastBelize Punta Rock Music with Supa GIn this episode, we discuss the vibrancy and uniqueness of Belize’s music and musical artists. We are joined by Supa G, one of the most famous punta rock artists in Belize. We discuss the evolution of punta music from paranda to punta rock and Supa G's unique style that reaches across genres and has made him popular throughout the world. If you’re ready to dive into the rhythmic world of punta rock with Supa G, then this episode is for you. Find more information at https://belizing.com/podcast Episode Page. 2020-08-1543 min
Belize TravelcastThe People of Belize (part 2)This is the second part of our conversation on Belizean Culture and the people of Belize with Belizean Anthropologist Joe Awe from NINE Eco-Cultural Tours. Joe Awe is one of the most renowned experts on indigenous cultures in the country. In this episode, Joe continues the discussion on Belizean Cultures, how food and culture bring us together, and the Creolization of Belize. 2020-07-2646 min
Belize TravelcastThe Origins of Belizean Culture (Part 1)The people of Belize are often referred to as a melting pot of cultures. For such a small country, Belize’s population is very diverse. In this episode, we discuss the origins of Belize’s cultural groups. Our guest is Joe Awe, Anthropologist and Chief Cultural Evangelist from NINE Belize Eco-Cultural Tours. Joe is one of the foremost experts on Belize's cultures. In this two-part discussion, Joe gives us a very thought-provoking lesson on the history of Belize's melting pot.2020-07-2440 min
Belize TravelcastWhat to Expect when Belize Reopens on August 15th[Updated] The Belize airport reopening has been delayed. In this episode, sponsored by Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas, we will provide a summary of the information you need before you visit and what to expect while you are in Belize. Not all hotels will be open to international guests in the first phase of reopening. The hotels that are allowed to open must first certify for the new Belize Gold Standard certification program. Jim Scott was instrumental in developing these new standards and he sits down with us to discuss the stringent standards that will be put in place to...2020-07-0458 min
Belize TravelcastHorseback Riding to the Xunantunich Maya TemplesRodolfo Juan and Carla Juan, the dynamic duo from St. Leonards Tours, takes us on a virtual audio experience of the Horseback Riding tour to Xunantunich, home of the second tallest man-made structure in Belize. This is more than just horseback riding. Come take a journey into the history of western Belize in the days of the Ancient Maya. A quiet riverside trail will take you to the village of San Jose Succotz where you will cross the river by ferry. Along the way, you will learn how the local Maya lived. Then, you will visit the world-renowned Xunantunich...2020-06-2350 min
Belize TravelcastBelize's Wealth Untold: The Seven Wonders of Central AmericaMr. Hector Silva, a local Belizean historian, gives us a brief overview of his contribution to Belize's development and some of the reasons why Belize is still a largely undiscovered territory. He was one of the first ministers of government, serving as the minister of public works, public utilities, and communication. He was responsible for bringing essential utilities and infrastructure throughout the country as Belize developed through self-government and then as an independent nation. Don Hector, as he is affectionately known, tells us about the seven wonders of Central America and why the town of Corozal in northern Belize...2020-06-0925 min
Belize TravelcastThe ATM Cave in Belize - A Journey to the Maya UnderworldIn this episode, ATM specialist Mr. Elias Cambranes from Katun Ahau Tours takes us on an amazing mind-blowing virtual tour of the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave in Western Belize. The ATM Cave is one of the experiences in Belize that you must have on your bucket list. Take a journey into Xibalba, the Maya underworld, and hear why this was proclaimed as the most sacred cave in the world. The ATM cave is one of Belize's most stunning attractions and a visit will most certainly change your life. Until you visit in person, join us on this virtual tour w...2020-05-241h 02
Belize TravelcastBelize Prepares: An Update from The Belize Tourism BoardThe public relations officer of the Belize Tourism Board, Mrs. Linette Canto, joins us in this episode to discuss some of the preparations being made in Belize, including the development of new policies and procedures and capacity building of local tourism stakeholders. The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) is the governing body of Belize’s tourism industry, with a primary mandate of marketing the destination both locally and internationally. In our phone conversation, Linette recaps Belize’s recently booming tourism industry as we recorded more than half a million overnight arrivals in 2019. She also gives us a brief overview of some...2020-05-1344 min
Belize TravelcastBelize Awaits: How Belize is Preparing for Post-COVID TourismTed Tejada joins us remotely via telephone to discuss how Belize has fared during the coronavirus pandemic and the efforts to prepare for visitors after our borders are reopened. Ted is the president of the Belize Hotel Association and general manager of the Belize Best Western Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City. In this episode, he gives us some insight into how the tourism industry in Belize was caught off guard, just as the rest of the world, but how the country then took decisive action to mitigate the spread. Belize now ranks 5th globally as one of the...2020-05-0554 min
Belize TravelcastWhy Belize Should Be On Your Travel Bucket ListIn this episode, Kaitlin Narciso, a travel journalist from Canada speaks to us about her experience visiting Belize for the first time. Kaitlin writes for HOLR Magazine, and is an experienced multimedia journalist, content creator, and digital marketing strategist. Kaitlin discusses how she found out about Belize and why she had to put it on her travel bucket list. Hear about her experience in San Ignacio with her travel partner Jess Campbell, and what she thinks about the people of Belize and why they plan to come back. Kaitlin also tells us about her experience eating the local cuisine...2020-04-2347 min
Belize TravelcastBelize Destination Weddings with Chef Sean KuylenChef Sean Kuylen gives us his insight into what makes Belize a unique and excellent location for your destination wedding. Sean is well known as Belize’s best chef, and he works with wedding planners throughout Belize to bring you an all-inclusive package with the best of Belize’s cuisine inspired by the different cultures in Belize. Sean is passionate about promoting Belizean culture and his menu features authentic cultural food and experiences that are perfectly curated and catered to your unique wedding plans. If you’re dreaming of a fairytale wedding to tie the knot barefoot on a sandy...2020-04-0544 min
Belize TravelcastThe Importance of Wellness in Stressful Times: Relax, Restore, and Reconnect in BelizeIn this episode, we welcome Michelle Williams from Om Shanti Belize, a place to “relax, restore, and reconnect to your best self”. As we endure this world crisis, we may all need to do just that to ensure that we emerge from this as our best selves. In these very stressful and uncertain times in the world, we are all feeling some level of stress, anxiety, and depression. It’s a very scary time for everyone, and it is now more important than ever to ensure our mental and physical wellbeing. In this Episode, Michelle takes us through her person...2020-03-2644 min
Belize TravelcastThe Longest Canoe Race in Central AmericaLuis Garcia is one of the original founders of the La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge. Today he is the General Manager of Eco-Friendly Solutions Limited, a Belizean company that distributes biodegradable products in Belize, where single-use plastics are being phased out. Luis is well known in Belize as an advocate for environmental awareness and promoting sustainable practices to conserve the environment. The La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge, the longest canoe race in Central America, had it’s humble beginnings from Luis’ own passion and love for the rivers and keeping them clean. The La Ruta Maya race was...2020-03-0544 min
Belize TravelcastThe Crocodile Research Coalition in BelizeLearn how the great great granddaughter of Pancho Villa's medicine woman is now saving the crocodiles in Belize. Dr. Marisa Tellez is the founder and Executive Director of the Crocodile Research Center in Belize. In this episode, Dr. Tellez and her colleague Darcy Ulez talks about the work at the CRC and their plans to build a wildlife clinic in Belize to protect the crocodiles and educate the local communities about the importance of crocodiles to the environment. Crocodiles are fascinating and very important to the environment. They were revered by the Maya who believed that the earth rested...2020-03-0341 min
Belize TravelcastNo Barcode: A Culinary Journey through Belize with Chef Sean KuylenTake a journey through Belize with Chef Sean Kuylen and learn about the different cultural dishes that make up Belizean Cuisine. Chef Kuylen is Belize's equivalent of Anthony Bourdain and he is on a mission to define and showcase authentic Belizean Cuisine. Chef Kuylen is a household name throughout the country and represents Belize by showcasing inspired Belizean Cuisine locally and throughout the world. He was trained in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Studies in San Francisco, California. His No Barcode philosophy advocates for the appreciation of the local ingredients, cooking techniques, and the cultures of Belize. 2020-02-1851 min
Belize TravelcastWhy Belize is Open for Business, Vacation, and Retirement.In this episode we welcome the Belize Ambassador to the United States of America, Daniel Gutierrez, for a conversation about his role as ambassador and how his office in Washington D.C. serves to promote Belize as a place to vacation but also as a place to retire and invest. We talked about his journey in Belize first as a teacher and school administrator at the local Sacred Heart Junior College and then his work at Belize’s only oil company, Belize Natural Energy (BNE) where he sought to ensure that the company left a legacy that served to be...2020-02-1137 min
Belize TravelcastDiscover Yourself and Fall in Love with Belize - The Story of Ali WundermanAli Wunderman is the author of Frommer's Guide to Belize. She is a freelance wildlife journalist, naturalist, and Belize travel expert. She first learned about Belize while on a kayaking tour in San Francisco and ended up visiting for her honeymoon. That first trip turned into a disaster of sorts, but also inspired her to become a travel and wildlife journalist. She then came back and spent some time in the jungle fighting poachers, and has been back many times since then. She has also published several articles about Belize and other destinations in publications such as Conde Nast...2020-01-2750 min
Belize TravelcastThe Belize Zoo Harpy Eagle Restoration Program and Tapir ProjectAn extended interview with Zhawn Poot who has strong roots at the Belize Zoo and gives us some insights about the conservation projects at the Belize Zoo and other places in Belize. Specifically, he discusses the Harpy Eagle Restoration Program and the Belize Tapir Project spearheaded by the Belize Zoo. The Harpy Eagle is one of the biggest eagles in the world and the zoo has made significant efforts into ensuring their survival in the wild in Belize. Zhawn also discusses the Conservation Camp offered by the Belize Zoo which is a week getaway for local kids that teaches...2020-01-1227 min
Belize TravelcastBelize's Next Top Chef: Enrique Awe from Running W RestaurantMeet the Executive Chef, Enrique Awe, from the World Renowned Running W Restaurant at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel in San Ignacio Belize. He was recently featured in a Forbes.com article about introducing brunch in Belize, uniquely infused with Belizean ingredients and flavors. Enrique is a native of San Ignacio Belize, but he is fairly new to the Belize food scene, having spent 18 years in the United States building a highly successful culinary career. At the Age of 21, Enrique admittedly did not know how to cook so much as an egg. As he tells it, he di...2020-01-0533 min
Belize TravelcastBelize's Top Travel Blogger: Meet Lorenzo Gonzalez from BelizeAdventure.caLorenzo Gonzalez is one of the original Belize travel bloggers. He runs the popular BelizeAdventure.ca blog that provides useful and relevant content for all travelers to Belize. If you've done any online research about Belize, you've probably come across his blog. Lorenzo is a native of San Ignacio Belize, and now resides in Toronto Canada after emigrating to further his education. He visits Belize often, and continues to write about Belize and promote Belize throughout the world in his spare time. Most of his blogs are personal experiences with honest advice for travelers to Belize. In this episode...2020-01-0142 min
Belize TravelcastBelize's Top Tour Guide: How Steve "The Crocodile Hunter" Irwin inspired a young BelizeanZhawn Poot is one of Belize's top young tour guides. Zhawn is a native of San Ignacio, Belize and has been a licensed tour guide since the age of 17. In 2003, the world famous Steve "The Crocodile Hunter" visited Belize and made a special appearance at the Belize Zoo for their 20th anniversary celebration. In attendance was a young Zhawn Poot, whose father has worked at the zoo for many years. Zhawn was inspired to pursue a career in conservation and became a tour guide at the age of 17. He holds a degree in Tourism Management and has w...2019-12-3129 min
Belize TravelcastBackpacking in Belize: A Brazilian quit Law School and now Travels the WorldIn this episode, we welcome Mayke Moraes as he travels through San Ignacio Belize. Mayke is a backpacker and leads what he calls a detached and minimalist lifestyle. With his backpack on his back, he visits places and revisits dreams that were born when he decided to leave his comfort zone in Brazil to build memories instead of material riches. Mayke is an accomplished author and social media influencer. Belize is the 70th country he has visited toward his goal of 100 countries. Listen to his story and hear why he plans to come back to Belize again.2019-11-2848 min
Belize TravelcastEnhancing the Belize Visitor Experience through TrainingJim Scott, the proprietor of Hospitality Training Services Belize discusses how hospitality service in Belize continues to improve. Jim talks about the array of upcoming brand-name resorts and hotel developments in Belize including Hilton, Marriott, Four Seasons, and others, and how it brings the need for improved service for visitors. Jim is a stalwart of the Belize Tourism Industry and is deeply passionate about uplifting the Belizean people by providing top-notch hospitality training in the industry.2019-11-2730 min
Belize TravelcastHow a Lesson’s Motmot inspired a young Belizean to love BirdsIn part two of our interview with the team from the Belize Raptor Center, we welcome lead bird trainer Marcia Mas, a native Belizean hailing from the Toledo district of Belize. Marcia talks about how her love for nature and the environment was nurtured from a young age by her parents growing up in southern Belize. She tells us that the Lesson’s motmot was the bird that made her fall in love with birding. Marcia is now the first certified female bird trainer in Belize and continues to inspire younger generations of birders through her educational outreach activities. Ma...2019-11-2717 min
Belize TravelcastBelize Birds of Prey. Sarah and the Orange Breasted FalconIn this episode, we welcome Sarah Mann from the Belize Raptor Center. Sarah talks about her love for birds of prey and her journey to Belize first as a student volunteer and now as the director of the Belize Raptor Center. Sarah points out the Orange Breasted Falcon as the bird that convinced her that Belize was where she wanted to live. Hear the story of how she got her first lifer in Belize as soon as she landed at the airport. In this episode, Sarah also talks about the importance of having a care and rehabilitation center for...2019-11-2521 min
Belize TravelcastFrom Michigan to Belize with Love. A Peace Corps volunteer came to Belize in 1987 and never left.Host Javier Gutierrez is joined by Jim Scott for a discussion about his journey to Belize and what made him stay in Belize after coming as a peace corps volunteer in 1987. Jim recounts his time in Belize City and how he assimilated into the culture of Belize and fell in love with the people. They discuss his love of nature and his experiences as a scuba diver, fly fisherman, avid hiker, and a professional in the Belize tourism industry. Jim is an advocate for hospitality training in Belize and together with Lorena Zaldana they own and operate Hospitality Training...2019-11-0837 min
Belize TravelcastThe Official Podcast of BelizeThe Belize Travelcast is a new podcast series created by Belizing.com, a brand that is passionate about telling authentic stories, promoting sustainable tourism, and travel to Belize. Each episode is an engaging conversation that delivers authentic local travel experiences, useful travel tips and advice, as well as relevant updates on the Belize tourism industry and important issues affecting the environment, culture, and economy of Belize.2019-11-0102 min