Category: Belize

Cultural Differences: Belize

Amusing Signs Around the Planet   Something I never would have thought of doing: flushing a toilet with my foot. But just in case I did, it’s good to know that this would not be appropriate in Belize. —Lori Tripoli…

Seeing the Signs: Punta Gorda

Of all the places I might find a place named Dean Martin Cafe, the least probable location is where it’s located: Punta Gorda, Belize. If the King still sings in Vegas, I suppose Dino might be loitering around Punta Gorda.…

The Bright Side of Death

I’ve never really understood the American method of mourning, kicking off with a somber viewing followed by an even more somber funeral. Let’s all wear our sad faces along with the black. This approach seems so incongruous to me given…

The Wrong Way to Belize

I’m not in Belize for more than a day when I am ready to drop everything and relocate there. I love the jungle, the caves, the thatched roofs, rising waters, wildlife, and the complete lack of people. I also like…

Tis the Season for Reflection

Another year, not enough travel! I’d hit the road all the time if my checkbook would let me. But I am grateful for all of the places I have been so far and to have goals about where I want…

Unexpected Treasures of Lubaantun

On the first full day of our stay at the Cotton Tree Lodge on the Moho River in the Toledo District of Belize, we haven’t yet learned which plant leaves to rub on our skin so the mosquitos won’t bite…

Making Our Way to the Cotton Tree Lodge

A getaway is so much better if it’s somewhat challenging to reach. The Brawny Sherpa and I wake up in the middle of the night to get to JFK in time for our flight to Miami only to be delayed…

Tripping on Chocolate

A chocolate gorilla at Patrick Roger Chocolatier in Paris Photo credit: V. Laino

Indulging in Chocolate Tourism Attempting to crack open cacao beans one afternoon at Cyrila’s Chocolate near Punta Gorda, Belize, I couldn’t help but wonder what led people, thousands of years ago, to begin torturing beans in a way that would…