Cayo Scoop! The Ecology of Cayo Culture

Caracol and Xunantunich both made tripadvisor.com's top 10 list for Central American landmarks.  Caracol was ranked 4th place, and Xunantunich was 7th.  There were 4 other Mayan sites listed, with Altun Ha in the 8th place and Tikal next door in Guatemala on the list twice.

Not a month goes by where Chaa Creek isn't on a top 10 list.  This month they made gayot.com's list for 'Top Value Spas' and Fox News' list of 7 'stunning jungle and rainforest retreats.'  

http://www.foxnews.com/travel/2013/04/11/7-stunning-jungle-and-rainforest-retreats/

"The Lodge at Chaa Creek prides itself on being a true eco lodge, 100 per cent devoted to green, sustainable tourism.  Set on 365 acres on a private nature reserve in Belize, the riverfront resort offers a vast menu of adventure travel packages at great rates.  After a day of spotting exotic animals, hiking along a medicinal plant trail, canoeing at sunset on the Macal River, horseback riding or rainforest ziplining, guests like to chill at the jungle bar or relax with luxurious spa treatments.  While the cost of a therapeutic massage is not cheap at $85 (or $70 for a custom facial), the environment is priceless: al fresco pampering with views of the rainforest, a musical backdrop of tropical birds and a spa that is decorated with fresh flowers every day."

Lonely Planet have their Traveler's Choice lists out for 2013, and Belize is ranked 7th on the Relaxing list. Of course!

"No surprises here. All of the top 10 destinations for relaxing are known for their amazing beaches. Most are also well-known for their unhurried ‘island time’ sensibility."

San Ignacio once again made it on Tripadvisor's Top 10 Caribbean Destinations list!  Oddly, it's number 10, and not 1st place...next year.  The Green Iguana Conservation Project, located at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel tops the list of attractions in San Ignacio.  San Pedro was listed as 2nd place on the list.  

"It’s true: parts of Belize are getting touristy.  But San Ignacio remains rustic, making it a great base for budget-friendly tropical adventure travel.  Canoe on the Macal River, or walk to Mayan ruins at Cahal Pech(just be warned: it's uphill)."

Belize makes another top 10 list, this time it for the best Eco-vacation destinations.

"Belize was named as one of the 'Best Eco-Vacation Spots' in the world by FlipKey, a TripAdvisor company.  The list, developed based on both traveler feedback and industry research, commends Belize for its countless opportunities to experience incredible natural beauty and unique biodiversity.  With 36 percent of Belize’s landmass and 13 percent of its waters enjoying protected status, the country has long been a leader in this category.  From the majestic Blue Hole to the recently established Turneffe Marine Reserve, Belize delivers an authentic, unspoiled experience for both locals and travelers to enjoy."

Belize was again ranked one of the world's happiest countries, this time by the Travel Channel.  Belize ranked 4th on their top 10 happiest countries.  Picture is the Five Sisters Falls, taken at Gaia Riverlodge.

"With the second biggest barrier reef in the world, a laidback Caribbean lifestyle and a favorable climate, there’s a lot to be happy about in Belize.  But its cultural diversity is what is truly believed to make this country so content and welcoming: European, Creole, Hispanic and Mayan are some of the prevalent groups that form one harmonious culture here. "

Belize made it on another top 10 list, although this list proves that the makers of top 10 lists have run out of ideas.  Really, '10 Relaxing Solo Vacations For New Divorcees?'  And Belize isn't in South America!  Maybe the Huffington Post needs a new copy editor.  At least San Ignacio got some recognition.

"Like Costa Rica, Belize -- a South American travel destination that's recently become a trendy hub of sustainable tourism -- has a lot to offer the single traveler.  Belize boasts the beauty and tranquility of a tropical getaway without the crowds, couples and high cost.  Experience the local flavor by touring through Caye Caulker, San Pedro and San Ignacio, and make sure to schedule some R&R time at the country's stunning beaches and nature preserves.  If you're feeling daring, don't miss adventure activities like climbing ancient Mayan ruins and ziplining through the rainforest."