Tropic's View 2013

View View TROPIC’S

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2013

WELCOME ABOARD Welcome to the 14th edition of Tropic’s View.

2012 saw the successful launch of three new great destinations to our growing route map. The launch of San Pedro Sula, Honduras has provided a great opportunity for increased tourism and trade between Belize and Honduras, and was our first foray into serving our neighbors to the South. With the addition of Orange Walk (Tower Hill), and San Ignacio (Benque Viejo), Tropic now serves every major municipality and District in Belize with daily scheduled passenger and cargo service. Now, proudly, we are truly the Airline of Belize.

© 2013 Tropic Air Limited. Cover Photo © Belize Tourism Board

2013 promises to be even more exciting as we plan to spread our wings to new regional destinations, and to continue our investment into new aircraft and new facilities for our customers. With our BTL partners, we also intend to continue the rollout of free wifi at all our stations, so that we all can stay more connected.

We are extremely proud that Tropic Air has built a solid reputation, not only as The Airline of Belize, but as a strong Belizean company with over 250 dedicated employees. Now, as we start to grow regionally, we will continue to strive to operate each day in a customer-focused, innovative, and team-based environment where our people are the primary reason for our success.

We hope you have a pleasant flight today, and thanks for flying with us.

Sincerely,

Steve Schulte Chief Executive Officer

John E. Greif III President

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ABOUT BELIZE HISTORY Independent since 1981, Belize covers 8867 square miles and has a little over 350,000 residents of Mestizo (Spanish - Indian), Creole (African - European), Maya, Garifuna, Chinese, East Indian and European descent. Bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south and the Caribbean Sea to the east, the topography ranges from sea level mangrove forests to mountains. Three atolls and the largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere are dotted with hundreds of islands (called cayes).

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Entry A valid passport is required for all. Some nationalities require visas.

Foreigners leaving are also required to pay a departure tax. Retirees and investment citizens are welcome, though a specialized immigration process is required.

Currency The Belize dollar is pegged at BZ$2 to US$1. US dollars are accepted widely. ATMs are available countrywide, and most merchants will accept major credit cards.

Time Zone Belize is in USA central standard time (GMT -6); daylight saving is not observed.

Language English is the official language.

However, Spanish is widely spoken, as is the English Creole dialect. Garifuna, Maya (Ketchi, Mopan), East Indian, Mandarin, and Hindi are also spoken in the culturally specific areas.

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W H E R E W E F LY Belize City Belize City is the hub of transportation, commerce and culture. The Museum of Belize, The Bliss Institute and The House of Culture (housed in a 19th century building that was once the © Olivera Rusu. BelizeWonders.com residence of colonial Governors) all showcase stunning ancient artifacts and historical memorabilia. St. John’s Cathedral is the oldest Anglican Cathedral in Central America. You can watch sailboats rock gently near the hand cranked swing Bridge, or on the outskirts of Belize City see tableaus of Maya sites, rainforest, waterfalls, caves and industry at Old Belize. For a short excursion, get close to jaguars and other native species at the Belize Zoo, indulge in an airboat ride through Manatee Lagoon or climb a 60 ft. temple of the sun god at Altun Ha. Offshore, take a boat to St. George’s or Goff’s Caye for snorkeling and manatee spotting. Tropic Air serves both airports, Belize Municipal (TZA) located in town, and the Phillip Goldson International Airport (BZE), 12 miles outside the city.

Belmopan Referred to as “Garden City”, Belmopan was established as Belize’s capital after Hurricane Hattie in 1961. Here you will find the seat of government and its agencies along with foreign embassies. Belmopan is also the destination to fly to if you’re looking for inland adventures and natural beauty of the Cayo District. In the Mountain Pine Ridge, you will find Thousand Foot Falls, Rio On Caves, Rio Frio Pools, © Dorian Nunez T H E

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and beautiful caves and rivers. Cayo is also home to some of the most famous Maya sites. Don’t forget The Ruta Maya River Canoe Challenge every March, the inland Blue Hole, horseback riding, canoeing, hiking, cave tubing, zip-lining and birding.

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CaNCUN, MEXICO Situated on the south-east coast of Mexico in the state of Quintana Roo in the Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun offers something for everyone. There are eco parks, ancient Maya sites, white powdery sand beaches and turquoise crystal clear waters with all the water sports you can imagine. Enjoy fabulous restaurants, a throbbing nightlife and great shopping. Cancun also offers excellent connections for those wishing to avoid the USA on their way to and from European cities.

Caye Caulker Situated 21 miles northeast of Belize City and 11 miles south of Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker is the epitome of a laid back lifestyle.

June is famous for Lobsterfest which celebrates the opening of the lobster season. Front Street is full of brightly colored wooden houses, shops, restaurants and small hotels. The Barrier Reef is clearly visible from the shore and a snorkeling visit to Shark Ray Alley is highly recommended. © Belize Tourism Board

Corozal The town of Corozal occupies the foundations of the ancient Maya city of Santa Rita, the remains of which can still be visited on the hill overlooking town. Another Maya site, Cerros, overlooks the white 2 0 1 3

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capped bay. Corozal was traditionally the heart of the country’s sugar industry, and sugar cane fields are still abundant in the surrounding countryside. Home of the Free-Zone, and near to the Mexican border, Corozal is the gateway to Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Not far from Corozal are the picturesque fishing village of Sarteneja and the Shipstern Nature Reserve with its abundant flora and fauna.

Dangriga (Hopkins) Home to the Garifuna, a unique cultural and ethnic group, Dangriga is famous for its drums and punta music. South Water Caye, Tobacco Caye and Glover’s Reef atoll are a short boat ride from here. Hopkins, a 40 T H E

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minute drive from Dangriga, is a quaint, quiet fishing village that has grown in popularity over the last few years. The surrounding marsh landscape is home to jabiru storks and other interesting birds. Stretching across nearly five miles of sandy palm strewn beach, Hopkins is home to thousands of Garifuna families and the home of many resorts that combine the best of the Maya Mountains, the beach, the reef with its unique culture.

Š Belize Tourism Board

Flores (Tikal) Flores, Guatemala is home to the grand Maya site of Tikal. Deep in the Peten jungle of Guatemala, it ranks among the most significant archaeological discoveries of the region.

Three thousand stone temples, palaces, and other structures date back thousands of years.

Tikal is a place for marveling at the amazing accomplishments of the Maya civilization and the splendors of the surrounding jungle. The area also presents an excellent opportunity to see toucans, spider and howler monkeys among others.

Guatemala City Added as a destination in 2011 in cooperation with our partner TAG. Guatemala City is the economic, governmental and cultural capital of Guatemala and the largest city in Central America.

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The city itself is a sprawling bustling metropolis. In addition to a wide variety of restaurants, hotels and shops the city has art galleries, theatres and museums. It offers all the sites and sounds of a modern city sprinkled with important historic sites.

Just a short drive away and worth a visit, are the beautiful towns of Antigua and the wonders of Lake Atitlan.

ORANGE WALK (TOWER HILL)

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Orange Walk Town is the second largest town in Belize. With a population of about 13,400, it is the capital of the Orange Walk District. It is located on the left bank of the New River, 53 miles north of Belize City and 30 miles (50 km) south of Corozal Town, © Belize Tourism Board and is considered the gateway to the Lamanai Archaeological Reserve. In addition to Lamanai, Orange Walk is also the historical home to the sugar industry. Even today in “Sugar City”, this industry continues to thrive, and plays a vital role in the local economy.

Placencia The 16 mile long Placencia Peninsula in southern Belize is home to the communities of Maya Beach, Seine Bight and Placencia Village.

Placencia itself, is home to the narrowest main street in the world according to Guinness World Book of Records. Here too, Lobsterfest is a popular celebration in June. In February, the Placencia Sidewalk Arts Festival takes place. April and May see the arrival of the magnificent whale shark and diving or snorkeling with them is © Belize Tourism Board a not-to-be-missed experience. From 2 0 1 3

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here, you can also explore Monkey River and the Cockscomb Basin or sail, to many of the southern cayes. Laughing Bird Caye National Park just a short boat ride away.

Punta Gorda PG as it is locally known, is the largest town in the fishing and agricultural area of the Toledo District. The surrounding areas are full of traditional Mayan villages where visitors can interact with the local Maya people, spend the night in traditional houses and eat tasty “caldo” and corn tortillas.

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Visit Toledo in May and experience chocolate and wine at The Cacao Festival. For the adventurous, some of the largest cave systems in the

world can be found nearby. On Wednesday and Saturday, the market on front street showcases produce from local farmers and handicraft items from indigenous Mayan artisans.

SAN IGNACIO / Benque VIEJO (MAYA FLATS) Located in western Belize San Ignacio, serves as the capital of Cayo District. It got its start from mahogany and chicle production in the Colonial era, but has gradually evolved into the center of commerce and tourism for western Belize. Visit the area to see its many Maya sites (including Cahal Pech, Caracol, and Xunantunich), caves such as A.T.M, and other sites such as the Mountain Pine Ridge, Tapir Mountain Reserve and the Macal River. Cayo is also home to many award winning resorts and nature programs (like the Green Iguana Project).

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San Ignacio, and its sister towns of Benque Viejo del Carmen (on the border with Guatemala) and Santa Elena also serve as a hub of agricultural activity. In recent years, oil has been found in the areas settled by the Mennonites, and this has also led to a burst of economic activity.

San Pedro, A.C. San Pedro is the main town on Ambergris Caye, the most northerly and largest of the 200 cayes off the coast of Belize. It is a world-class diving and snorkeling destination, with dive sites on the barrier reef, just a 20 minute boat ride away. Hol Chan Marine Reserve is abundant with fish and a snorkeler’s dream.

The clear, shallow waters and prevailing winds are ideal for windsurfing, sailing and kite surfing. North of the island, the Bacalar Chico Reserve is an adventurer’s paradise. The lagoon on the leeward side provides an excellent opportunity for birding.

San Pedro town has a unique feel and offers sophisticated international cuisine in beach side restaurants, mixed with local cafes serving traditional Belizean food. It also has many award winning hotels, spas, tour operators and resorts. The town streets bustle with local artists and craftsmen displaying their wares. It is also the home of Tropic Air.

Š Belize Tourism Board

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SAN PEDRO SULA, HONDURAS San Pedro Sula is located in the northwest corner of Honduras, about 60 km south of the Caribbean coast. With an estimated population of 802,598 in its metro area (2010), it is the second largest city, after the capital, Tegucigalpa. It is considered the industrial center of Honduras, and serves as the capital of its region.

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The city serves as a major transportation hub for the rest of the country, while economically maintaining its base in light industry and the commercial production of coffee, bananas, beef, sugar cane, tobacco, and forestry. San Pedro Sula generates two-thirds of country’s GDP and offers some of the best shopping in Central America.

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We Rent Superior Carts Free Delivery & Pick-Up

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O R A N G E WA L K

LAND of SUGAR

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If you are lucky enough to enjoy our river tour to Lamanai or if you are flying to Orange Walk, fondly known amongst Belizeans as “Sugar City”, as you approach Tower Hill, you can’t help but notice the imposing factory dominating the landscape below you. This is the Tower Hill Sugar Factory.

Sugarcane is essentially a grass with fibrous stalks that are rich in sugar. Arguably, it was first introduced to Belize by James Hume Blake in 1840s, and then by Mexican refugees fleeing the Caste War of Yucatan 1847 -1901 across the border into Corozal and into Orange Walk. During the American Civil War, immigrants from Southern USA also migrated to Belize settling initially in Southern Belize in the Cowpen area of Toledo District and then throughout the country. They were responsible for investing large amounts of money into sugar estates and introduced the industrial revolution to Belize with the first steam powered mills. There are remnants of a steam operating sugar “plant/factory” at Lamanai (established in 1850s) in the Orange Walk District. This is where the majority of the sugar industry eventually ended up. This plant was later sold to the British Honduras Company, and operated for about 25 years. In the 2 0 1 3

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1880s the sugar industry was a thriving industry within Belize with about 60 sugar estates producing approximately 2,400 tons of sugar at its height. The industry however gradually declined as a result of the inexperienced and limited labor force used to operate the machinery. In 1935, the Libertad Sugar Factory was set up in Corozal and by then there were only six mills left in operation.

During the 1950s there was a revival of the industry and at that time 2000 acres of land were planted with sugar cane. The industry reached its peak in the 1960s as world demand increased and many former subsistence farmers switched to cane. The Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association was established in 1960. Their vision is to be a dynamic farmers’ organization that contributes to a

Open daily 6 am to 5:30 pm 7 days per week Phone: 501 533 7888 or 501 670 8525 www.sitteerivermarina.com Stann Creek District

Amenities

• 24-Hour Security • Ice (Bags or Buckets) • 110 V Power • 30 and 50 Amp • Fresh Water • Groceries/Sundries • Marine/Fishing Supplies • Kayak Rental/Boat Charters/River Pool

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• Gas and Diesel • Wireless Internet Available • Restrooms and Shower • Dry Docking • Restaurant and Bar • Tropic Air Authorized Booking Agent • Sport Fishing Licenses Available

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Coordinates

16 48.731N and 88 1.121W

Authorized Agent

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sugar industry that is efficient, competitive and sustainable and which enhances the economic and social development of Belize, and remains relevant to their industry today.

In 1963, the UK company, Tate & Lyle bought the factory at Libertad with aims to expand production. Then, 1967 saw the establishment of the Tower Hill Factory in Orange Walk. The sugar market crashed in the 1970s and the Libertad factory in Corozal was eventually forced to close in 1986. In 2008, Belize was put on the map as Tate & Lyle sugar from Belize gained the Fairtrade label (this was the brands first product with this accreditation). The Tower Hill plant (now operated

by Belize Sugar Industries Ltd) is now the only sugar plant in Belize. Today, cane is supplied by over 5000 farmers on (approx) 27,000 acres of land. This modern factory now produces (approx) 85,000

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tons of refined sugar annually which accounts for 60% of Belize’s agricultural export. Once milled, the raw sugar is taken by barge to be loaded onto cargo ships ready for export. Be sure to look out for the sugar barges below you when flying between San Pedro, Belize City and Corozal.

There are even a few shipwrecks of sugar barges around the waters of the many Belizean cayes. The sugar industry also provides the base for one of Belize‘s best and most enjoyed products, rum.

At the time of writing this article, the sale of Belize Sugar Industries, to American Sugar Refineries Incorporated, is all but complete. It is hoped that this will result in further modernization and increased output for this very important industry within Belize.

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LAMANAI

M AYA S I T E

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So, you are on a week’s vacation to Ambergris Caye, Belize. You’ve spent your days relaxing, sunbathing on the beach. Maybe you have come specifically to dive, or at the very least will take a snorkeling trip to the world renowned Hol Chan Marine Reserve. You’ve done some fishing, some more relaxing and now, you only have a couple of days left. You are still working on that tan, but you really want to see a Maya site, or get that once in a lifetime shot of you on top of a pyramid. You’ve also heard that the most impressive sites are on the mainland, but you don’t want to spend an entire day getting there. Well, a Tropic tour to Lamanai may very well be the perfect way to finish off your vacation and fulfill your Maya dreams.

Your flight to Tower Hill leaves San Pedro at 8:00am (please ensure you are there at least 20 minutes before departure). You should bring bug spray (you are going to the jungle after all), sunscreen, and sturdy walking shoes. You may want to bring long pants and a waterproof jacket in case there is the odd shower. The 20 minute flight gets you to Tower Hill, just outside Orange Walk Town (home to the sugar factory), where a quick drive will then take you through the sweet smelling sugar cane fields to banks of the New River.

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The boat trip down the river is nothing short of spectacular. As your captain and guide, weave through the mangroves, watch out for crocodiles (Lamanai after all means Submerged Crocodile), as well as exotic birds, monkeys, iguanas and bats. You may even see local villagers in canoes fishing in the same manner that has been traditionally used for the last 200 years.

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Lamanai is one of the oldest sites in Belize dating back to 700BC, and there are © Jose Luis Zapata over 700 buildings although only about 5% have been excavated. It was a thriving Maya city with a population of (approx) 35,000 residents at its height. As many other Maya cities started to collapse during the Classic Period, Lamanai continued to flourish as a trading city. Now it is a 950 acre archeological reserve rich in tropical flora and fauna. Your guide will explain the

history or the site and give you the opportunity to see the impressive Jaguar Temple and climb El Castillo where you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding jungle and lagoon.

A tasty Belizean lunch is served under the palapa, and there is time to walk around the museum that is full of Maya artifacts.

Then its time for the return boat journey followed by the flight back to San Pedro.

Before you know it, at around 2:30pm you © Jose Luis Zapata will be back relaxing on the beach, cocktail in hand, having experienced the jungle and the Maya world.

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All Lamanai tours depart from San Pedro. To book it (and other great day adventures), or for more details contact your local hotel, tour operator or Tropic Air at reservations@tropicair.com.

OFFERING BOTH DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL BANKING

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ABOUT TROPIC AIR Founded in 1979 by John Greif III with just a single airplane and two employees, Tropic has steadily grown to become the largest and most experienced airline in Belize.

It now employs over 250 staff and offers over 185 daily scheduled flights.

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Since its inaugural flight 33 years ago, Tropic Air has been a leader in the introduction of modern aircraft technology in the domestic market in Belize. It has played a key role in the promotion of the tourism industry within the country, and has always been committed to the growth of this sector. Tropic Air is dedicated to the highest quality of customer service, delivered with a sense of warmth, friendliness, individual pride, and company

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spirit. The success of our business strategy requires us to build on these foundations by focusing each day on the business, leisure and cargo markets and by driving efficiency and effectiveness.

Cargo is an important part of the airline’s business. Tropic provides scheduled cargo service to all its destinations, offering clients same day transportation of mail, packages and perishable items. Cargo charters are also available. © Jose Luis Zapata Tropic Air operates nine Cessna Grand Caravans (208B) - Glass Cockpit, two Gippsland GA8 Airvans, and one Cessna 172. These aircraft are configured for three to fourteen passengers. Tropic has a fleet replacement and expansion program with six (6) 208B-Glass Cockpit, Caravans on order.

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Tropic also believes in giving back. It supports the development of the communities its serves through health, sports, drug prevention, education and community projects. Tropic supports the development and growth of the wider tourism industry of Belize through promotional initiatives locally and internationally.

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Tropic Air continues to grow its routes and plans to continue to expand on its infrastructure with new terminals and terminal improvements, in addition to an expansion of its maintenance facilities.

With additional international carriers announcing plans to offer service to Belize, Tropic’s future growth continues to look promising.

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20 YEARS AGO

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TROPIC TERMINAL in SAN PEDRO

OUR NEWEST TOUR ZIP LINE & WATERFALL TOUR Fly down the coast to Dangriga in Southern Belize where you will be able to soar above the Mayflower Bocawina National Forest on a 12 platform zip line. It has the longest, fastest and tallest runs in Belize, and allows an up close view of pristine rainforest. After a quick lunch, take a short jungle hike Š Bocawina Adventures to cool off at Bocawina Falls. Swim in its refreshing pools or rappel down its face for an even more unbelievable experience. For adrenaline junkies, an optional upgrade of rappelling down Antelope Falls is available. The zip line is the only one currently certified in Belize, and experienced guides will ensure a great experience for every age and skill level.

Tapas Dining in an Artful Setting

Experience global flavors created from local ingredients Enjoy our Speciality Martinis, Wine List & Extensive Vegetarian Options Ideal for Private Functions Wedding & Rehearsal Dinners, Business Meetings, Luncheons

Open Tuesday-Saturday for Dinner & Drinks Call (501) 226-4443 for reservations or email casapicassobelize@gmail.com (Ask about our free pick-up service within San Pedro Town) Located south of San Pedro Town, past the Caribena Gas Station and around the bend beyond the Crystal/Belikin Distributor

Visit casapicassobelize.com for our full menu Like us for updates on events & specials

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FINAL THOUGHTS

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© Jose Luis Zapata

Next time you think about coming to Belize for your vacation, take a moment and consider visiting in the off season (May-November).

There are so many interesting festivals to enjoy, so much to see and do, and if you can put up with the odd rain shower, the weather is the best of the year.

May sees the Cacao Festival in Punta Gorda with a wine and chocolate evening, a fabulous display of local chocolate culture, and visits to local Maya sites and cacao farms. June sees the start of lobster season with festivals in San Pedro, Placencia and Caye Caulker serving delicious and innovative food accompanied by fun entertainment. August is the Costa Maya Festival in San Pedro where Central American countries showcase their cultures. September is a national month of celebration with two public holidays, St. George’s Caye Day (10th) and Independence Day (21st). In celebration, there are colorful carnivals and parades throughout the country. October means RumFest in Orange Walk. November marks Garifuna Settlement Day (19th) in Dangriga, and the unforgettable pulses of the Battle of the Drums in Punta Gorda. Tropic Air flies to all these wonderful places, so you can go enjoy without having to wonder how you will get there. Have fun!

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