Reasons You Should Add This Central American Country To Your Travel Plans This Year

By Marci Rivera

With so many diverse places to choose from in Central America, it’s likely that the majority of travelers head for popular destinations such as Costa Rica and Guatemala, and with good reason.

Central and Latin America are full of diverse countries that overflow with natural beauty, and choosing between them can be a tough call.

While all these places definitely deserve a place on any traveler’s wish list, there are some Central American countries that tend to get overlooked by visitors, and here is where you can often find the undercover gems.

One such place is Belize – which is in no way a secret – but is, however, a country that hasn’t traditionally gotten as much traveler attention as it should, although this is changing and the country is becoming more and more popular with tourists.

In fact, 2022 saw Belize being named one of the top destinations of the year, and CNN Travel listed Belize as one of the 23 destinations to visit in 2023.

You can find the small tropical country of Belize nestled between Mexico and Guatemala.

The country is full of postcard-perfect beaches, colorful towns, ancient Mayan ruins, dense rain forests, and, not to mention, so much natural beauty both on land as well as offshore.

Easily Accessible

While you might feel as if you are worlds away from most American cities, technically speaking, you are only a short 3-4 hour flight from most of the U.S. and Canada.

Belize City is well connected to many American airports, making this lush destination an easy flight compared to some other tropical places further south or over in Southeast Asia.

Recently airlines have been adding Belize City to their routes from major Canadian cities as well, meaning there are more options and better fares than before.

Southwest, United, and American Airlines are popular options from the U.S., while WestJet and Air Canada of- fer options from Canada.

Not to mention that Belize is easily reachable from Mexico’s Uber-popular Yucatán Peninsula, and bus connections make this addon an option for any Cancun area trip.

It also offers a bit of a different vibe for those looking to avoid the crowds and nightclubs of the ever-popular hotspots along Mexico’s Caribbean coast, although there is possibly no escape from the

5 FEB 2023 seaweed.

It’s best to check the local reports for that, as the record sargassum that has been plaguing the Mexican coast might be an issue here as well, depending on the current conditions.

Many reports have indicated that sustainable travel is a big trend for this year, and travelers are making more of their holiday choices based on the economic impact of their trip.

Those who are attempting to make strides in this area will be happy to know that Belize is too.

The country’s new Tourism Minister has stated that Belize is dedicated to becoming a low-impact/value destination for visitors.

The country recently publicity committed to protecting 30% of its ocean territory, and many are hailing Belize as a conservation success story for this and the many other initiatives taken thus far.

This may or may not be a reason for some people, but Belize is technically the only English-speaking country in all of Central America.

Being a county that is as diverse

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The Central Bank invites qualified individuals to join its Office of Strategy Management.

The Project Analyst will provide direct or indirect project management services in the application of the Central Bank of Belize’s Project Management (PM) methodology and effective use of PM and Change Management (CM) tools. The Project Analyst will perform direct services when assigned to a project in the role of project manager. Indirect services include supporting other project managers and teams to enhance their capability to successfully implement projects and contribute to the achievement of the Central Bank’s strategic objectives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

▪ Supports the Office of Strategy Management in the promotion of PM and CM best practices, methodology, standards, and tools in the execution of the Central Bank’s projects.

▪ Applies the change management process and tools to support the adoption of the changes required by a project or initiative.

▪ Assists in training, mentoring, and guiding project team members throughout the project life cycle.

▪ Assists in identifying and utilizing of technology-based tools, especially Microsoft Project to facilitate project support and continuous development of project management skills.

▪ Assists in preparing project budgets and developing resource requirements.

▪ Reviews and reports on the project portfolio’s performance, budget, and finances.

▪ Develops Service Level Agreements for indirect and direct project management services.

▪ Performs other related work required to ensure successful implementation of projects.

The applicants should possess the following:

Education and Experience

▪ A master’s degree in project management, management information systems, business management, or a related field from a recognized university, with two (2) years of experience in managing business-related projects. Knowledge and proficiency in project management software, preferably, Microsoft Project, or

▪ A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in project management, management information systems, business management, or a related field from a recognized university, with four (4) years of experience in managing business-related projects. Knowledge and proficiency in project management software, preferably, Microsoft Project.

Technical Knowledge

▪ Knowledge of Microsoft Project: Knowledge of Change Management tools and techniques; Knowledge of the strategic management approach; Excellent research and presentation skills; Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

Competencies

▪ Strong Communication Skills; Diagnostic Information Gathering; Analytical Thinking; Results Orientation; Initiative; Thoroughness; Flexibility, Fostering Teamwork; Performance Management; Building Collaborative Relationships; Managing Change; Self-Confidence; Organizational Awareness.

Submit the following documents by Wednesday, 12 April 2023:

▪ CBB Employment Application Form (Available online)

▪ Curriculum Vitae

▪ Three (3) current references (one must be from a previous employer)

▪ Certified copies of university transcripts, degrees, and any other personal certificates