Wales Tourism and Visit Planning

Inside Belize

The Belize Zoo began as a backyard collection of animals that were abandoned after being used in nature films. Today, the 29-acre, membership-funded facility is considered one of the best small zoos in the world. Thirty miles west of Belize City, the zoo is home to 125 indigenous animals including jaguars, ocelots, howler monkeys and tapir. For information, to become a member or to adopt an animal, visit www.belizezoo.org

The CT&L Index

Money: BZE$1 = US$.50.

Belikin beer: US$2.

Local rum drink: US$2.

Dinner: (Creole seafood) US$12.

Postcard to U.S.: US$.15.

Call to U.S. from hotel: US$3/minute.

Local call: US$.25.

How to Get Around

Mayaland Tours & Travel (501-92-3506 or www.mayalandbelize.com) can arrange package tours and guides for ground travel, lodging throughout Belize and attractions, such as parks and Maya sites.

Where to Stay

Staying overnight in the jungle is the best way to view wildlife. Cabins (rain-forest rustic) are available inside the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. For US$7.50 (plus the US$5 entrance fee), you will get a bunk and sheets for one night. You must bring your own mosquito net and all your own food and water - plenty of water. Campgrounds (US$1.50/night) are also available. The Belize Audubon Society oversees the park. To reserve a cabin or for more information: 501-23-5004 or www.belizeaudubon.org

The central building of Rum Point Inn in Placencia is a charming, colonial-style structure built of massive pine planks. But when owner George Bevier couldn't find any more old pine in Belize, he began experimenting with Styrofoam coated with cement. The result is an eclectic beachfront resort where the space age meets the Stone Age.

Oceanfront gardens surround Rum Point's cottages - airy, spacious, pod-looking rooms filled with light that pours through patterns of windows. For reservations and additional information call 800-747-1381 or visit www.rumpoint.com

CT&L SAYS

Don't let the words "rainy season" scare you away. In the dry season - especially during April and May - Belize can get so hot that you'll be sacrificing virgins to Chac, the Mayan rain god, and praying for a little relief from the sun. Our favorite time of year in Belize is July, for its calm seas and cooling rain showers.

Posted online 01/01/01.

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