It was first discovered in 1926, and was photographed from the air in 1930, but the remote site deep in the jungle had little more attention paid to it until Ian Graham spent some time there making the first map of the area in 1962. A detailed investigation was begun in 1978 with an archaeological project under the direction of Dr. Bruce Dahlin from the Catholic University of America and Dr. Ray Matheny from Brigham Young University.

Dahlin’s work focused primarily on the “bajo” swamps and mapping, while Matheny’s team focused primarily on
excavations in the site center and architecture. This project ended in 1983. To the surprise of the archaeologists, it was found that a large amount of construction was not contemporary with the large Maya classic cities in the area like Tikal and Uaxactun, but rather from centuries earlier in the Pre-Classic era. In 2003, Dr. Richard D. Hansen, a Senior Scientist from Idaho State University, initiated major investigation, stabilization, and conservation programs at “El Mirador” with a multi-disciplinary approach, including staff and technical personnel from 52 universities and research institutions from throughout the world. By August 2008, the team had published 168 scientific papers, produced 474 technical reports and scientific presentations as well as documentary films in th History Channel, National Geographic, the Learning Channel, BBC, ABC’s 20/20 and Good Morning  America, 60 Minutes (Australia), and the Discovery Channel. Dr. Richard D. Hansen is the current director of the “El Mirador”Basin Project, and according to his discoveries here, he thinks that the more than 45 mapped sites in the Basin may have formed the earliest well-defined political state in Mesoamerica.

Guatemala offers a varitey of Vacation Packages to Tikal and other interesting sights to see while in country.  Guatemala is rich in culture and history, Chichicastenango market, Tikal, Lake Atitlan and Antigua are just a few of what this Central America country has to offer.

Guatemala, Central America is know as “the land of the eternal spring” is a nation rich in history.  Most archaeologists agree that ancient Guatemala was the culture center of the New World and the famed Maya civilization. It’s many Mayan ruins and colonial buildings are its most impressive architectural attributes.  This much we know: Beautiful lakes, towering volcanoes, rugged mountains, and exotic flora and fauna all make Guatemala an exceptional place to vacation.

Chichicastenango must be visited on Sunday, the day of the famous open-air market where traditionally dressed Indians offer their wares in open stalls.  The cofradias (religious brotherhoods) often hold processions on this day.  The locals have combined traditional Mayan religious rites with Catholicism; the best places to witness these old rites are around the church of  Santo Tomas and the shrine of Pascual Abaj, which honors the Mayan earth god  Incense, food and drink are offered to ancestors and to ensure the continued fertility of the earth.  This is a magical and misty highland town is surrounded by valleys and overshadowed by looming mountains.

Tikal, in the heart of the Guatemalan jungle.  Tikal Park is not only a refuge for most of Guatemala’s mammals, but one of the places where they can easily be observed.
Towering pyramids rise above the jungle’s green canopy, while down below spider and howler monkeys swing nosily through the branches of ancient and trees, colorful parrots squawk and tree frogs fill in the auditory gaps.   With some luck you may even spot coatis, raccoons or white tailed deer.  More than 300 species of birds have been recorded within the park, from hummingbirds to great birds of prey.  Tikal was one of the most important, if not the most important, urban centers of the Maya area, as proven by the more than 3,000 buildings spread over 16 kilometers, including palaces, temples, ceremonial platforms, ball courts, terraces, residences, plazas, causeways and steam baths.  Here you will also find more than 200 stone altars, hundreds of graves and ritual sites, hear is an uninterrupted history of at least one thousand years.  You can almost feel the presence of this ancient society.

Lake Atitlan and its eternal blue sky here you will have a magnificent view of several volcanoes.  Though this area does not prompt instant name recognition among travelers its beauty easily trumps more famous lakes.  The tiny villages along the 50-square-mile lake are still inhabited by modern-day Mayans wearing traditional dress, kaleidoscopic garments shimmering with purple, orange and crimson threads.  A highlight will certainly be the boat tour to the village of Santiago de Atitlan.

Antigua Guatemala set amid three magnificent volcanoes, with superb colonial buildings.  And of course time in Guatemala City where you have the opportunity to visit several important museums, housing beautiful Mayan and Spanish colonial art.

If you’re looking for something exciting and adventurous, this could be the one. Give the experts at Belize TravelPOINTS.

For more information about vacation packages into Guatamala and Belize, contact Belize TravelPOINTS at 303-938-9018 or 1-800-626-3483 or visit our web site at www.belizetravelpoints.com

“Tourism and commercial activities are developing normally in Guatemala and in the Peten region. Airport services, immigration and customs are fully operational. Within the first 24 hours some itineraries were temporarily modified in accordance with recommendations of the competent authorities. Today, these itineraries are being operated regularly. Security forces have stepped up surveillance on major touristic routes and destinations in the area, so the visit to the region is recommended and safe for domestic and foreign visitors.”

The full statement can be found here on the Guatemala tourism board website: http://www.visitguatemala.com/web/documentos/CURRENT_STATUS_REPORT_ON_PETEN.pdf

Please do not hesitate to contact us at info@belizetravelpoints.com for further information on this matter.

For travel into Tikal from Belize call turner at 1-800-623-3483. ]]> http://belizetravelpoints.com/blog/guatamala/guatemala-update/feed 0 http://belizetravelpoints.com/blog/ambergris-caye-2/belize-barrier-reef http://belizetravelpoints.com/blog/ambergris-caye-2/belize-barrier-reef#comments Fri, 22 Apr 2011 05:55:26 +0000 turner http://belizetravelpoints.com/blog/?p=129 As Earth Day approaches one area of the world that continues to be a fragile environmentally beautiful destination is the Barrier Reef of Belize.  Considered one of the most diverse ecosystems in Central America and home too many species such as the spiny lobster, sturgeon, conch, rays, whale sharks and 500 species of fish, it’s a divers and sports fisherman’s paradise.

The Belize Barrier Reef is nearly 700 miles long ranging from Mexico to Honduras, a play ground for divers.  The three coral atolls, including the Great Blue Hole make Belize one of the top diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. With such high visibility extending to 200 feet, divers of all ages and abilities find many new areas to explore.  Visitors to Belize are attracted to the rich diversity of the reef,  UNESCO awarded World Heritage Status to the Belize  Barrier Reef.  Divers come to Belize to explore the spur and groove coral formations and sheer walls along the length of the reef.  Popular dive sites include the atolls, the world-famous Blue Hole, Shark Ray Alley, Hol Chan marine Reserve, South Water Caye marine Reserve and the seasonal whale shark encounter at Gladden Spit.   Snorkelers can also enjoy the clear turquoise waters floating atop of the warm water.  Knowledgeable local guides are available to help arrange dive and snorkeling excursions.  One of the most popular day trips is swimming with the rays and sharks in waist deep water.  Swimming with these gentle rays and nurse sharks is an experience you will never forget.  Other water sports such as sport fishing, sea kayaking and sailing are offered in certain areas of the country.  Opt for a stay in a small town, a remote beach, or even a private island.  If you just want to relax, there is no better plane than a hammock or lounge chair and let the warm Caribbean Breezes surround you.  Should you decide to plan a journey, we’ve have some interesting vacation suggestions. 

Get There:  Go with Belize TravelPOINTS, founded 14-years ago helping travelers with travel arrangements into Belize.  They can help you combine a jungle lodge journey with a diving / snorkeling experience.  Journey into Belize’s rainforest for a few days, kayaking or exploring a cave, a side trip to Guatemala, a visit to the Mayan ruins at Tikal, and, finally a three-day stay on an island in the reef with plenty of diving or snorkeling.

The Hotel Ka’ana Resort and Spa is a boutique luxury hotel located in the Cayo district of Belize.  Hotel Ka’ana Resort is a short drive from the small town of San Ignacio and is nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by the Maya Mountains.  True to it’s Mayan name Ka’ana, meaning “heavenly place” this delightful boutique resort, set in tropical gardens, offers exceptional accommodation in charming cottage with fine dining, superb service.  Conveniently located near all major touring attractions is one of a hand full of choices for luxury discerning travelers.  Adventure and non-adventure seekers will have numerous options from a day tour to Tikal in Guatemala to cave jungle trips.  The hotel is a great way to relax after a full day exploring Belize to enjoy a drink at their bar and a fine culinary Belizean gourmet dinner, you won’t be disappointed. 

After making the decision to visit Belize, where do you start to begin planning a vacation that is fun, exciting and has some of the luxury hotel options to experience.  Why rely on the “do-it-yourself” approach of the internet when you can plan your adventure or vacation with a seasoned travel expert that has been working with proven reputable suppliers for the past 13-years. Belize TravelPOINTS has a list of proven reliable resorts and hotels, tour providers and suppliers that can customize the Belize vacation to your desire.  Whether its couples or families, we can help you make the most of your vacation in Belize with jungle adventures to beach get-away.   Let us help you take the guess work out of planning your vacation.  Our service is to provide knowledge, advice and value to a vacation as important as yours.  Please call me us at (800) 626-3483 or email us at info@belizetravelpoints.com  or visit our web site at www.belizetravelpoints.com and together we can work on your arrangements for a perfect vacation.

• Time Zone: GTM  -600 same as US Central Standard Time
• Area: 8,867 square miles
• Capitol City: Belmopan City
• Population: 300,000
• Languages: English os the official language. Spanish, Maya, Garifuna and Creole
• Telecommunications: Belize offers domestic and international phone service, fax, internet and mail service is available in limited areas. International code is 501
• Exit fees: Passengers of international flights must pay approximately $35 US dollar. Leaving from other borders pay a lesser fees.
• Taxes: a 9% General Tax is charged on purchases of any good or service and there is a 9% lodging tax.

Roberts Grove in Placencia is located on the beach and has lots of amenities for your comfort.

Coco Beach Resort This property is also on the beach about 3.5 miles from San Pedro. It’s an easy bike ride or water taxi to town.

There are 12 private rooms. Each lodge style room comes with a touch of solitude and serenity. Every room is tastefully decorated and includes a fire place to add to the romantic ambiance.

Turtle Inn in Placencia, Enter into a world, hidden behind palm trees and grasses and beautiful koi pools.

You will love what’s behind the screened porch. 

THE PLACENCIA HOTEL AND RESIDENCES, is  huge.  This property is spread out and is massive.

Their beach is beautiful and they offer all types of excursion.

The Placencia Hotel rooms are modern, spacious and include beautiful linens  and fine amenities.

“Best Luxury, Central America” TripAdvisor 2009 & 2010 “

Best Services, Central America 2010″

This oceanfront Condominium Villas offer a unique experience.s

Hidden Valley Inn, a luxury hotel with only 12 cottages, is located on a 7200 acre private reserve in the Mountain Pine Ridge area of Belize. This intimate eco resort offers quality accommodation, fine food and attentive service in a natural environment unspoiled by man. The flora, wildlife and birding here are like no place on earth. Hidden Valley Inn is one of the most established and luxurious resorts in the Mountain Pine Ridge.

 
Guests staying at this small luxury hotel enjoy exclusive access to over 90 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails as well as many secluded pools and waterfalls set in tropical rainforest. For those seeking romance, one of the waterfalls may be reserved exclusively for the day.

 
Situated in the Maya Mountains, this cozy jungle lodge also serves as a convenient base for visiting the various scenic attractions of the area. Canoe trips are a peaceful way to observe the indigenous fauna and flora, horseback riding through the jungle with a local Mayan guide is a unique experience, mystical caves can be explored on foot, by canoe or tube whilst ancient Mayan cities and modern day rural villages provide a glimpse of past and present cultures.

Book 2 nights and get 2 nights FREE! Rates starting at $199 per person in double occupancy

Valid through Oct 31, 2010

For more information call us at: 1.877.250.8865
Visit www.belizetravelpoints.com

If you are looking for a great destination with endless activities for the adventure enthusiast you should try Coco Beach Resort which is located just 3.5 miles north of San Pedro Town; a short trip by boat, bicycle, or golf cart. The resort offers luxurious accommodations in a quaint environment with palm trees, hammocks, and one of the best swimming pools on the island.
 
Relax with a tropical beverage by the pool or beach and soak up the Belizean sun. You will find plenty to keep you busy on and near Ambergris Caye. Diving and snorkeling are popular activities in the area – for good reason. Belize boasts some of the best reefs in the world, just minutes from shore!

In addition to the water sports available offshore, there are also secluded beach barbeques, tours of Mayan ruins, cave tubing, river kayaking, zip lining and many other mainland adventures just a short boat trip away.

Coco Beach Resort is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from it all!
 

3 nights in a luxury hotel room
 
Package includes:
 
    * round trip air transfers from Belize City to San Pedro
    * round trip ground transfers
    * half day snorkel trip to Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley
    * taxes
 

Total per person (based on 2): $1386.00 USD

Valid May 1 – Aug 30, 2010

For more information call us at: 1.877.250.8864
Visit www.belizetravelpoints.com

Check out an Eco tourism package that includes Belize specials to Chaa Creek.  Book now for dates between May 1-30 and June 1-30 and get 15% Discount.

Welcome to Chaa Creek, a Pioneer in Adventure Travel to Belize since 1981.  As a private 365-acre nature reserve set along the banks of the Macal River in the foothills of the Maya Mountains, this Belize Resort has provided a unique adventure travel experience for thousands of people while maintaining an unspoiled ambience. Chaa Creek Inland Expeditions caters to the traveler looking for both physical and intellectual challenges, and range of programs and activities have been designed to stimulate interest in the environment, culture and archaeology of Belize.

Chaa Creek’s jungle lodge has 23 comfortable palm-thatched cottage rooms including two Garden Suites or a Complete Garden Suite with Jacuzzi, two Tree Top Jacuzzi Suites, an Orchard and Spa Villa and a Macal Cottage with Jacuzzi, all nestled along the riverside in a setting of unmatched beauty and tranquility. Travelers share stories and relax at our verandah bar before enjoying delicious meals in the Chaa Creek restaurant. Guests interact with nature while exploring the river, miles of well-maintained forest trails, Maya temple sites, and through activities such as hiking, canoeing, horseback riding, mountain biking and bird watching.

Package includes:
 

    * 3 Nights lodging in beautifully appointed luxury cottage accommodations traditionally constructed by local artisans utilizing indigenous hardwoods.

    * All meals with daily special recipes featuring the seven Belizean ethnic groups, Maya, Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, East Indian, Chinese and Mennonite.

    * A guided interpretive tour of our Rainforest Medicine Trail which showcases traditional Maya folk remedies that are extracted from the plants of the surrounding tropical forest.

    * Early Morning Bird Walk with one of our Naturalist Guides within Chaa Creek’s 365 acre nature reserve where over 308 species of birds have been documented.

    * Guided horseback riding within our Ruta Maya Trail System where your naturalist guide will highlight the various unique plants and wildlife species native to the reserve.
Rates starting at $600 per person

For more information call us at: 1.877.250.8864
Visit http://www.belizetravelpoints.com/