Plus...Blue Lotus debuts international dishes!

August 7, 2008 Visitor Guide Page 1 Bienvenidos a “La Isla Bonita” Where did you read your San Pedro Sun? Where did you take your San Pedro Sun & Visitor Guide? Departe del Concilio y Take a photo of you and the paper and send it to us at: la gente de San Pedro, me [email protected] enorgullezco en extenderles una calurosa bienvenida a cada uno de ustedes a esta joya Hermosa, nuestra casa, Cayo Ambergris.

Espero con mucha anticipación que su estancia durante el Festi- val Internacional de la Costa Maya sea agradable, llena de alegría y de grandes experiencias. Saludos a ustedes nuestros hermanos visitantes de Centro America y México. Reciban una sincera bienvenida nuestros nuevos amigos Panameños que se unen por primer año a este Festival. El Festival Costa Maya admite la cultura rica y diversa reserve marina de Hol Chan, el hogar única a los países del Mundo Maya y de incontable especies Marinas. de los países vecinos. Durante su Nos enorgullece y nos llena de estadía esperemos que también felicidad tenerles aquí visitando y exploren nuestra “Isla Bonita” y siendo parte de este gran evento. Que descubran las bellezas que tenemos los recuerdos que usted lleve de este que ofrecer. Estamos solamente un lugar sean eternos. corto paseo de la mística ruina Altun Una vez mas bienvenidos y que Ha donde el pedazo mas grade de se diviertan. jade, Kinich Ahau, fue encontrado. /s/ Elsa Paz Otro paseo en lancha le llevara a la Alcaldesa de San Pedro YO! Teacher Lisa of The Island Academy in San Pedro The San Pedro Sun spent the summer in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where is mailed everywhere. she ran into ROCKY BALBOA, the scrappy boxer of Publisher The San Pedro Sun Ltd. movie fame! Under Pennsylvania’s state flag, a bronze Editor Ron Sniffin [email protected] Rocky stands guard outside the beautiful Philadelphia Editor Tamara Sniffin [email protected] Art Museum, whose steps provide excellent training for Associate Editor Kainie Manuel [email protected] bike-riding the lovely isle of Ambergris Caye. YO! Staff Writer/ Mary Gonzalez [email protected] Graphic Design Photos taken in unique and unusual places are Staff Reporter Maria Novelo [email protected] preferred. Be sure to identify who is in the photo Office Assistant Nathalie Manuel [email protected] and where the photo was taken. Don’t forget to include your names and what you were doing. Mail The San Pedro Sun, P.O. Box 35, San Pedro Town SuDoku! Level: *Easy Answers on Page 4 Ambergris Caye, Telephone 011-501-226-2070 US Telephone (307) 460-4114 Fax 011-501-226-2905 E-Mail [email protected] Internet/WEB www.sanpedrosun.net Main Office #63 Barrier Reef Drive, San Pedro Name

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E-mail: Receive The San Pedro Sun & Visitor Guide weekly in your mailbox. 26 ISSUES (six months) US, : $60 U.S. Domestic: $60 BZ. 52 ISSUES (one year) US, Canada: $110 U.S. Domestic: $100 BZ.(Other locations vary.) More foreign subscribers than any newspaper in Belize! Page 2 Visitor Guide August 7, 2008 Bringing the Mundo Maya together – the International Costa Maya Festival is here! Already off to a great start, the Costa Maya festivities bring in much excite- ment as people anticipate opening night. Scheduled to officially begin tonight, Thursday, August 4th, 2008, Costa Maya brings together the Mundo Maya coun- tries. However, one of the biggest highlights of the festive weekend is the Reina de la Costa Maya pageant which has grown by leaps and bounds to become internationally recognized. The delegates arrive in the country and are immedi- ately sucked into a whirlwind of fun activities. The girls’ arrival on the island, hypes up the mood as people realize that the day to crown a new queen gets closer. With Noche San Pedrana, dinners, bikini photo shoots, the eight beauties have acquainted themselves with the island and its friendly people. As people wait for gala night at the Old Football Field, their choice for favorite contestant is a difficult task. To make it easier, The San Pedro Sun presents the eight contestants with a brief biography. Belize *Belize will be well represented by Iris Jessie Medina at this year’s Miss Costa Maya International 2008 pageant. This 25-year-old, 5 foot 7 inch beauty competed in the official 2007 *Proudly representing her country of Pageant held in September 2007 and al- Costa Rica, Maria Elena Quesada Córdoba is a 26-year-old who hold a though she was a late entry, Jessie proved Master’s Degree in Marketing. The herself to be highly competitive and com- brown eyed, brunette was a finalist in petent to garner the 1st runner up posi- the pageant in 2005, tion. Jessie was originally born in El Sal- Miss Tourism Queen International in vador, grew up in and came 2006 where she took the prize of Miss to Belize at age 13 and became a Photogenic, Miss Caraibes Hibiscus Belizean. She speaks English and Span- Beauty 2006 and Latin Model of the Year. ish fluently, works at the Corozal Free A professional model, María enjoys Zone as the assistant Manager of the reading, photography, the beach, exer- Corozal Free Zone Development Com- cising and playing with her nephew. Bi- pany. Her dream is to own and manage lingual and speaking English and Spanish a chain of fine restaurants in key tourism fluently, she stands at five feet six inches areas of Belize that specializes in Latin in height. In the future, Maria would en- and Belizean cuisines. She enjoys danc- joy working in the editorial, publicity or ing, cooking, working out, Supa G mu- cosmetology fields. sic, photography and modeling. Continued on Page 4

August 7, 2008 Visitor Guide Page 3 culture; a place she is so proud to call Costa Maya Continued from Page 3 home. *Daniella Maria Augspurg Guatemala Jimenez is a 17-year-old blonde, * Universe 2008 green-eyed beauty hailing from El Sal- will be representing her country at the vador. Currently in her last year of International Costa Maya Festival. high school, she is looking to further Miss Jennifer Chiong recently re- her studies and become an excellent turned from the pag- psychiatrist. She enjoys reading, sing- eant in and is bringing all her ing and kick-boxing, and is especially experience to the Reina de la Costa proud of her awards for her perfor- Maya pageant. Miss Guatemala is 25- mance in the school choir and for her years-old and stands at 5 feet 5 inches. participation in science fairs. This Currently she is a business woman who reading buff counts Gabriel Garcia enjoys modeling and traveling and she Marquez, Isabel Allende and Paulo aspires to be the owner and manager Coellho among her favorite authors. of an international modeling agency in Daniella looks forward to represent- Guatemala. ing her beloved El Salvador, a coun- try she believes is truly impressive Honduras with its wealth of natural beauty and *Representing Honduras, the gor- Continued on Page 5

SuDoku Answers! Puzzle on Page 2

Page 4 Visitor Guide August 7, 2008 Costa Maya Continued from Page 3 geous brunette is a professional model and medical student. At only eighteen years old, Alejandra Mendoza (right) holds the title of 2007 and competed in the del Mundo 2008 in June and in November she is expected to compete at the 2008 pageant. Her hobbies include model- ing, reading, chatting and a good laugh.

Mexico *Natalia Soledad Ruiz Alvarez (left) is a 20-year-old beauty that stands at six feet one inch tall and was born on March 19th, 1988 in Tuxtla, Chiapas. She is currently a student working on her Master’s Degree in Tourism and enjoys swimming as a sport, while her hobbies include shopping, modeling and reading horror books, as well as nov- els. Natalia’s motto for life is, “If you want, you can,” and she could. Last year, she was crowned Nuestra Belleza Chiapas 2007 but said that, according to her, her biggest body flaw is her butt, laughing while she states the comment. With much charisma, glamour and beauty, Natalia plans to give the rest of the delegates “a run for their money” as she proudly represents The Land of Te- quila, .

Nicaragua *Nicaragua’s beauty ambassador for the Costa Maya Festival 2008 is 18 year-old Karina Gordon. She is a 5 foot 6inch tall model who is both beauty and brains, as she pursues her degree in Public Contracting and Fi- nances Management. Miss Nicara- gua intends to graduate with honors especially in her finances courses. For Karina, an education is very im- portant for a young woman to obtain because it opens the door for many wonderful opportunities. Miss Nica- ragua enjoys reading, modeling, and spending time with family and friends.

Continued on Page 6

August 7, 2008 Visitor Guide Page 5 dedication needed to win an International Pageant. With all this beauty, poise, Costa Maya glamour and intelligence the Reina de la Costa Maya will be a contested one. Continued from Page 5 You sure don’t want to miss it. Panama Entertainment at Costa Maya *For the first time since the incep- Since 1991, the International Costa dor, the festival is a melting pot of tion of La Reina de La Costa Maya, Maya Festival has continued to light up music, dance, food and camaraderie. we have a Panama delegate. Anais the stage in the month of August. With With many food booths, dancing and Solis is a 22-year-old, 5 foot, 5 inches the diversity of the many participating music, mechanical rides and games, tall brunette who is currently studying countries, the Maya history lives on and singing, all the countries enjoy each Business Administration. Her hobbies is honored during this time of the year. other’s company as they learn from one are dancing and having fun. She was From Guatemala to Honduras to Nica- another. A sure fire way to learn what crowned at Miss Realmente Bella, ragua, Belize, Mexico and El Salva- Continued on Page 12 Señorita Panama 2008, a “reality show” inspired by the hit show “America’s Next Top Model” that was created to select the Panama delegate to the pageant. We welcome her to Belize and wish her the best of luck!

Hosts Hosting this year’s Reina de la Costa Maya is San Pedro’s very own Senator Eiden Salazar of The Reef Radio, and joining him on stage is Gloria Alejandra López Morales (l). New to San Pedro, Gloria is a 20- year-old beauty who currently works at TV Azteca Cancun. With pageantry experience in the bag, she is currently Reina del Carnaval Cancun 2008, Gloria understands the hard work and

Page 6 Visitor Guide August 7, 2008 August 7, 2008 Visitor Guide Page 7 IMPORTANT #s Tourist Information Police 226-2022 Belize Tourism Board - 223-1910. Fire 226-2372 Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) - 227-5717. Medical Emergency (ACER) 226-3231 San Pedro Tourist Guide Association 226-2391. Emergency 911 Crimestoppers 800 922-TIPS Water, Sports & Tours Lions Health Clinic - 226-4052; emer- gencies 600-9071 or Hours: Mon.-Fri., SAILSPORTS BELIZE – Windsurfing, kite sailing and sail- 8am to 8pm; Sat., 8am - noon. ing. The latest equipment and expert instruction makes it easy to learn. 226-4488 [email protected]. Los Pinos Clinic 602-6383 and 226-2686. Dr. Lerida Rodriguez: 226-2197 or cell GRUMPY & HAPPY - Snorkeling - private snorkel tours - 620-1974. just you on the boat, no set schedule! Visitors with special needs and children are welcome. Call 226-3420 or 672-1234. Visit San Pedro Chiropractic Clinic 600-7119 www.grumpyandhappy.com, or Email: Hyperbaric Chamber - 226-2851, Dr. [email protected]. Otto Rodriguez - 604-7599 or 226-2854. Antonia Guerrero - 600-5475. Eleazar Real Estate... Portillo - 610-4560 or 226-3195. SEASIDE REAL ESTATE – Many listings, from raw San Pedro Polyclinic II - 226-2536. Dr. land to beautiful beachfront homes. We can help you Zuniga: 670-8755 and Dr. Otto own a piece of paradise. Call 226-4545 or E-mail Rodriguez: 604-7599. [email protected] Ambergris Hopes Clinic - 226-2660, SUNRISE REALTY - Land, homes, businesses, con- Emergencies: 606-2316 dos and investment properties. Call 226-3737, fax 226- US Embassy - 822-4011 3379 or E-mail: [email protected] Labour Office - 226-2700 (Open 8am - 5pm, Mon. - Fri.) SOUTHWIND PROPERTIES - For all your Real Es- tate needs. Call 226-2005 or 226-2060 for information Canadian Consulate - 223-1060 or E-mail: [email protected] for current listings. Mexican Embassy - 223-0193 Guatemalan Embassy - 223-3150 SUEÑO DEL MAR - Paradise has a new address! Located on Barrier Reef Drive (Front Street), across Honduran Embassy - 224-5889 from Fido’s Restaurant. 8:30AM to 5PM, San Carlos Medical (MD & Dentist www.dreambelize.com, Phone: (US #) 719-302-5398, Services) - 7:30am - 9:00pm, 226-2918. (Belize #) 011-501-226-4001. Church Services INVEST IN BELIZE - Call for Appointments and pick- San Pedro Roman Catholic Church ups. 226-4000 or www.investinbelize.com Sunday Mass: (English) 8am & 10am & RE/MAX Isla Bonita, 1ocated at 10 Coconut Drive, Baptism: 11am; Spanish: 7pm; Mass or Communion Service every night at 7pm. San Pedro. 226-4400 e-mail: [email protected] Saturday evening: Anticipated Sunday or visit our website at www.owninbelize.com Mass: 7p.m. Daily Masses 7am & 7pm. CORAL BEACH REALTY - Professionalism at its Living Word Church Service Sun. best. Visit our office “Unda da Palapa” on Barrier Reef 10:45 a.m. Bible study Mon. 7:30 p.m. Drive, 226-2681. www.CoralBeachRealty.net We do Christian charity work. 226- 2950. Transportation... Assembly of God Church on Angel Coral St. T-W-St.-Sn. at 7:30 p.m. CRISTAL GOLF CART RENTAL - Along with Island Tour Lighthouse Christian Radio - 101.3 Rentals, have combined to offer the best rates on the island! FM. 226-4673, Cor. Buccaneer & Special hourly, weekly & monthly rates. Daily rates are $85 Pescador Drive. BZ. 4- & 6- Seater golf carts available. Security deposit re- The Church of Jesus Christ of Lat- quired. Cristal - 226-4949 or 626-5555. Island Tour - 226-2351 ter Day Saints - Sunday Service: 9:30 or 226-2972. am, Wednesday Scripture Study 7:00 CRYSTAL AUTO RENTAL – Largest fleet in Belize. Of- pm. 17 Lagoon St. (between the bak- fices at International Airport and Belize City. 223-1600, 0-800- ery and the bridge). 777-7777. San Pedro Community Church - meets Sundays at 10a.m. at the Am- ULTIMATE GOLF CART RENTAL - Experience the ulti- bergris Elementary School. All Are mate ride! Yamaha carts for rent. 226-3326; Corner Tarpon & Welcome. Pescador Drive. Belize Gold Cars Ltd: Yamaha carts & parts Miscellaneous for sale. 226-3993; Suite 12, Coldwell Building. E-mail: The Lions Club of San Pedro relies [email protected], [email protected] or visit our on income from its Friday and Satur- website at www.ultimaterentalsbelize.com. day Night BBQ to support the needy MONCHO’S GOLF CART RENTALS - Four & Six seater community. Help a great cause -have golf carts available. Open daily 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. We deliver to dinner with us! your room. 226-3262 or 226-4490. Green Reef A non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of sustain- CARTS BELIZE - Conveniently located just one block north of able use and conservation of Belize’s the airstrip. Hourly, Daily & Weekly. Call 226-4084. marine and coastal resources. [email protected] /226-2833 Services... San Pedro AA - 226-4464, 600-9061 CASTILLO’S HARDWARE - Storm supplies, electronics, Saga Society A non-profit “humane so- household appliances, tools, home repair items and a wide va- ciety” to address the stray cat and dog riety of paints, stains and varnishes. Pescador Drive. Phone population in San Pedro. Phone 226- 226-2302. 3266. CARE BELIZE - Children’s Special- S.P. HARDWARE - Large variety of hardware and house- ist, San Pedro. 622-8200 hold supplies. Will meet or beat any competitor’s price! SP Town Library - 206-2028 Seagrape Drive; Open seven days a week. 226-4522 Page 8 Visitor Guide August 7, 2008 THE SAN PEDRO SUN VISITOR’S GUIDE Dining Out... MATA CHICA - Mambo Cuisine - for food dinner. OUTDOOR & INDOOR DINING EL DIVINO RESTAURANT at BANANA lovers. Homemade pasta, shrimp paté, 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. BEACH - Serving breakfast, lunch and din- bruschetta, charbroiled seafood and much Beach barbeque every Wednesday night with ner from 6 a.m - 10 p.m. Book your party more! Call 220-5010/5011. live music. or banquet today! Phone 226-2444. ELVI’S KITCHEN - serving the finest food RAMON’S VILLAGE - Enjoy breakfast, PORTOFINO RESTAURANT AND since 1977. Daily Lunch and Dinner Spe- lunch and dinner in a Mayan atmosphere or GREEN PARROT BEACH BAR - Meet cials. Caribbean Night on Thursday. Mayan on the veranda overlooking the Caribbean our boat at 6:30 p.m. at Fido’s Dock for a Fiesta every Friday - come try our Maya Sea. Coconut Drive. Phone 226-2071. complimentary ride to one of the best culi- Buffet. Open Monday – Saturday. Lunch: nary experiences you will have while in 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Dinner: 5:30 p.m. MICKEY’S PLACE - Open daily 6:30 a.m. paradise. For reservations, call 220-5096. – 10:00 p.m. Call us for group reservations. - 10 a.m. for breakfast, 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 Ph 226-2404/2176 “Where something good p.m. for lunch and 6 - 10 p.m. for dinner. SUNSET GRILL - Offering local and in- is always cooking!” Burritos on Wednesdays. Pescador Drive. ternational cuisine. Open 7 days a week for Call 226-2223. lunch and dinner. Located on the lagoon CELI’S RESTAURANT ON THE BEACH side. 226-2600. Come by at sunset and help at the San Pedro Holiday Hotel, serves BLUE WATER GRILL – Island cuisine us feed the tarpons! Great Fajitas, salads and local dishes for with a twist! Wood-fired Oven Pizzas, lunch. Delectable Seafood Speciaties for Sushi & more! Open daily. Happy Hour 4 RENDEZVOUS RESTAURANT AND to 6 p.m. 226-3347. BAR - The most romantic spot in town fea- turing award winning chefs. Thai and French cuisine blended to make paradise taste like ...Unique Offerings... heaven, or so our customers say. Free Ren- SAN PEDRO FITNESS CLUB – A/C Gym, belize. Free Tasting! 226-2930. dezvous Wine tasting from 11:30 a.m. to Fully-equipped. Open to the public. Tennis Courts, Website:pinguinobelize.com 4:00 p.m. Fermented, blended and bottled Lap and Family pools, Aqua Fitness and Toning here on the property. Open for lunch and LIQUOR BOX - Wholesale and Retail on local Classes.Open 7am Daily, 8am Sundays. 226-2683. dinner. Call 226 3426 for reservations and and imported liquors. Delivery available! Case of transport options. CAYE COFFEE – Take a taste of our locally Belikin Beer, Ice Cold - only $60Bz! On Bucca- roasted fresh coffee back home. A wonderful cup neer Street, open 7 Days a week 9:00am to CASA PICASSO TAPAS + MARTINIS - of coffee makes such a great difference in your 9:30pm. 226-2475 or 626-7331. Small plates, big pastas and fantastic des- day. Try it and ask for more. 226-3568. FOOTPRINTS - Crocs shoes, Reef shoes, and serts! “Hippest martini spot”-Frommer’s. THE GREENHOUSE - Fresh Produce & Sea- fun beach accessories. On Barrier Reef Drive, Nightly 5:30pm, closed Sundays. reserva- food. Belizean and imported speciality. Fresh open Monday through Saturday from 9am - 6pm. tions 226-4507. herbs, cold cuts, chilled goods plus an exciting 226-2689. BEACH ‘N’ KITCHEN - Open Tuesday selection of groceries. A/C local on Barrier Reef BAREFOOT BOOKS - Over 9,000 new , used to Sunday, from 7:30am - 3:00pm. Satur- Dr. 226-2084. and well loved books available. All titles and au- day and Sunday Brunch - choose delicious CAYE INTERNATIONAL BANK - Offering thors and subjects. We buy your books. Located Eggs Benedict, stuffed French toast or con- Demand Deposit Accounts, Loans, Savings Ac- on Pescador Drive; call 226-3563. tinental breakfast! North of the bridge, near counts, etc. [email protected] or phone 226-2388. www.barefootbooks-belize.com. Palapa Bar. Call 226-4456. PROVIDENT BANK & TRUST - Offering a THE GALLERY - Fine art for fine living - the RICO’S SURFSIDE RESTAURANT – A full range of International Banking Services. phone studio and gallery of Linda Mikulich. Original truly unique dining experience on the beach 223-5698 services@prov identbank.bz Fine American Style Caribbean Art. Commissions at Banyan Bay. Serving breakfast, lunch and welcomed. 610-0277. GRANIEL’S DREAMLAND - Locally made fur- dinner daily. Phone 226-3739 ext. 135. niture & accessories from all Belizean exotic hard- SUNDANCER + MOONDANCER - Unique woods & Mahogany. On Pescador Drive, oppo- boutiques featuring beautiful, quality clothing, jew- BLUE LOTUS LUXURY DINING- De- site Rock’s, Call 226-2632, ext. 18 or 226-2938. elry and gorgeous gift items for both men light yourself with Indian cuisine at San Open Mon-Sat 8:30-12:00 noon & 1:00 to 9:00 (Sundancer) and women (Moondancer). Phone: Pedro’s newest water-top restaurant. Spec- p.m. & Sun 10-12 noon. 226-3126. tacular views of San Pedro at night! Com- plimentary water taxi service. Call 501-610- BELIZEAN ARTS GALLERY - Local art! SUNDANCE POOL COMPANY - Custom, com- BLUE (2583). mercial & residential pools. Chlorine free, efficient PINGUINO BELIZE - Fine Wine. Gourmet Ol- & environmentally conscious. Free quotes! 1-877- MOJITO BAR & TAPAS - Serving a wide ives, stuffed olives and spreads. Exclusively in 313-POOL [email protected] variety of Mojitos, pitchers of Sangria, Margaritas and beer! Enjoy delicious home- Party...Party...Party...Party made breakfasts and snacks. Located at the Sunbreeze Suites, on the beach across from BAYSIDE BAR - On the water, south of joy the swimming pool. Located in San Pablo; Belize Bank. Open daily: 7 am - 10 pm. Tropic Cargo. Friday Night Movies - kids call 226-4655. FRENCH BAKERY - A taste of . watch while you enjoy drinks! Happy Hour: THE HOLIDAY HOTEL - Every Wednes- All products are made in the traditional way $3.50 beer and $15 pitcher beers. Take the day, live music and a fabulous Beach Barbeque with only natural ingredients. Open from stairs to our third floor Bayside Restaurant. 6:30 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. Barrier Reef Dr. 226- Enjoy the amazing view of San Pedro while 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Phone: (604) 0748 2014. dining in style! Call for Reservations: 226- or (624) 5880. 2147. PALAPA BAR AND GRILL - The Coolest HIDDEN TREASURE - Discover great Place, North of Bridge. Drink & Dine out over HIDEAWAY BAR AT PINKY’S MOTEL - food in an enchanting setting! Featuring the Caribbean waters with cool breezes and Everyday specials. $4 Belikins & local rums Latin American and Caribbean Cuisine, and no mosquitoes. Specialty is a BBQ, Slow and $6 Guinness. Saturday is fight night: come the Island’s Best Martinis & Mojitos! Open Smoked, Pork Sandwich and Fresh Caught watch televised boxing and UFC while you for Lunch and Dinner. For Reservations, Fish Tacos. Open 7 days, Happy Hour Drinks enjoy 2 for 1 tequila shots. Bar customers en- please call 226-4111. 4 - 6 226-3111. August 7, 2008 Visitor Guide Page 9 grilled with mild spices, tandoori curry and served over saffron Basmati International Menu Debuts at Blue Lotus! masala and sumptuous beef Seekh Ke- rice to the Vegetable Samosa, Rogan bab marinated with Kashmiri spices. Josh lamb, Bombay Saffron Shrimp From the Lotus Butter Chicken mari- Curry and Gulab Jamun dessert each nated with northern spices, grilled in dish is spiced to perfection and guaran- tandoor, sautéed in almond butter cream Continued on Page 11

Watermelon mojitos are just one of the new cocktails served at Blue Lotus.

Pedro. First featured in The San Pedro Sun Visitor Guide on January 24th, 2008 Water top dining conjures all sorts of (http://www.sanpedrosun.net/old/08- images…but no matter what combina- 04.pdf), we had the opportunity to tion of images those may be; the ulti- sample some of the finest Indian cui- mate result is the sensation of floating sine in the country. From the “tandoor” in the air, suspended over cool Carib- (a large and cylindrical clay oven fired bean waters while surrounded by the by coal) we relished in exotic foods like gentle laps and coos of aqua song. Add garlic naan brushed with butter, to that image an incredible nighttime Tandoori Chicken Tikka marinated and view of the western coast of San Pedro garlanded in twinkling lights and the fi- nal equation is exquisite romance at its finest. This is Blue Lotus Restaurant, offering one of the most seductive and delicious dining experiences in San

Reservations: 501-226-2012 Fax: 501-226-2338 Email: [email protected] The Airline of Belize www.tropicair.com Page 10 Visitor Guide August 7, 2008 taurant manager Carlos Settle, and began our visit with Garlic Naan Blue Lotus Continued from Page 10 with Hummus and Watermelon Mojitos. While we lounged in the comfy sitting area we enjoyed good conversation and sipped the Mojitos that exploded with mint and melon flavor, the perfect cool and refreshing beginning. Carlos introduces us to the changes they have recently made to their menu, explaining that they added inter- national cuisine in order to better serve their guests and use the full talents of their chefs who are internationally trained. One new item even allows guests to try a variety of Indian dishes as a “mini buf- fet”. For $75BZ per person, the Maharaja Feast is based on how many guests participate. For example a party of two receives their choice of two appetizers and any three main courses (lobster cost is additional). Included with the meal is garlic naan and rice pudding. For those of us who can not decide on the fabulous menu items, this affordable feast is the way to go, and for those who are first sam- pling Indian food, it is a great way to try a variety of dishes. While sampling other tasty cocktails like the Absolute Cool Lotus (a vodka drink with sweet ginger) and the dessert-like White Moon, Continued on Page 14 teed to leave you wanting more even pronounce, the Blue Lotus has now added when you tummy tells you that you have International cuisine to their menu. We had enough. were more than happy to accept the in- But what if you love Indian cuisine vitation to sample the new dishes as there but your loved-one does not? For those was no doubt we were in for a treat! who are not as adventurous or just pre- Upon our arrival we were warmly fer to eat foods whose name they can greeted by co-owner Ruby Bedi and res-

Serving San Pedro since 1980!

We at Southwind Properties specialize in the listing & sale of fine island properties - Homes, Condos, Hotels, Commercial, Income-Producing Properties & Land for homes or large parcels for development. Be sure to meet with Marianne, Edwardo or Claudio to discuss your particular needs. Southwind Properties prides itself in being there full- time for full service and full disclosure for all your real estate needs. Call 226-2005/ 2060 or e-mail [email protected] for more information. Commercial/Condos/Homes Beach’n Kitchen (W30). This popular restaurant is new on the market. With an excellent location between the beach & the main thoroughfare connecting town center with the exclusive areas to the north, the restaurant has proven to be a successful business with a clientele of both tourist & residents. This thriving business comes fully equipped. Asking price $125,000.00 US CASH. Tres Cocos. (C52) Beach front property with gorgeous vegetation, small older house and pier. 75’ x 138’. Only 495,000.00US firm price. Home in San Pedro Town (S63) - Centrally located in area of Town which is seeing a lot of investment in a variety of large businesses. This is a two storey concrete and wooden home with room for expansion on the backyard. Lot measures 27.5’ x 72’. Priced to sell at $175,000.00 US. El Cocal Condos (E16) – New condo project offering deluxe oceanfront living with magnificent views of the Caribbean Sea. Only 3 beach front units available for sale. Enjoy the great island life with easy access to all amenities, yet convenient, peaceful, and private. Prices starting at $192,500.00 US. Call or email our Agents for complete details! Buyers Looking for Luxury & Elegance! (T36) Tara del Mar- Custom, beachfront condo, 2 bdrm, 2 baths, 2nd floor, fully furnished. Nothing compares in class, style or quality. Call for further details. Raw Land EDEN ISLE LOT (R26) – Ocean view lot on the south end of Caye Caulker. Good sized lot in a great location. Great investment at only $15,500.00US. Spanish Reef (G46) Beautiful beach front in residential subdivision. 3.5 miles north, electricity, telephone and access by boat or road. Good price at 295,000.00 US. Terms Island Park (T42)- Residential beachfront lot located only 3 miles south of town, measuring approximately 79’ x 103’. Enough space to build your dream home and enjoy the charming Caribbean. Only $320,000.00 US Lagoon frontage at Palm Bay Club. (B43) High, dry, lots of palm trees. Three side by side lots available. Each 100’ x 100’. $35,000.00US or purchase 300’ of frontage for only $90,000.00US Palm Bay Club (H40)- 60 feet of beach frontage with a depth of 130 feet. Price-$77,500.00 US. Boca del Rio (W35)- Large beachfront lot located just north of San Pedro Town Center in one of the most sought after areas of the island. The property sits in a quiet neighborhood and offers an ideal opportunity for either commercial or residential development. Asking Price- $825,000.00 US Robles (B46)– Drive your boat up to your doorstep at this beautiful beachfront lot, lush with vegetation. Lot measures 80’ x 200’ and is priced to sell at only $263,000.00 US. Eiley’s Subdivision (G45) -Large and nice lot within electricity access located just a couple miles south of San Pedro town. Parcel 2927, measures approximately 80’ x 60’. Great buy at only $23,000.00 US. Ambergris Bay (Z03) Large beachfront parcel 140’ x 184’ of depth. $175,000.00 US. Ambergris Bay (H35) Beach front lot approx 60’x 80’. $90,000.00 US. Robles (N12)– 3 side by side off the beach lots each 92’ x 190’ for $60,000.00 US each August 7, 2008 Visitor Guide Page 11 Natalie Arceo Costa Maya Continued from Page 6 your culture is about is through music that is exactly what they hope to accom- and this year the International Costa plish. After much practice, they will Maya Festival is providing just that. perform and showcase their best stuff. Friday – August 8th, 2008 El Ballet Folklorico De La The gates open at 7:30 p.m. for the Secretaria De Cultura De Quintana, official Opening Ceremony and initial Roo, Mexico is back to provide the best Cultural Presentations. Guatemala will in their Mexican heritage. With their then take on the stage as Fabiola Rodas colourful costumes, traditional gear and lights up the crowd with her music. selection of song, this group will defi- Fabiola performs Friday and Saturday nitely succeed in entertaining the night as she showcases the best in her crowds. El Grupo de Danza de El Sal- music. Talented she is as she has been vador is another fabulous dance group the opening act for such big names as who will rock those gathered. The com- Vicente Fernandez, Eros Ramazotti, bination of these dance companies Pimpinela, Belinda, Pandora and An- proves exactly what Costa Maya plans Mexico, Guatemala, St. Kitts, Ja- of one of the best Punta Bands ever; gelica Valle. She has represented Gua- of carrying out – marrying all cultures maica and in the . This The Punta Rebels which reigned from temala at “The World Championships into one Mundo Maya mix. Belizean artist is an original member Continued on Page 13 of The Arts”, winning seven gold med- Friday night will also be about song als and five honorable mentions in performances with two big names hit- seven different musical performance ting the stage – Belize’s Supa G and categories including R&B, Pop, Rock, straight from Honduras, Klan-Destinos. Latin, Dance and Vocal, and Broad- To date, Supa remains one of the big- way. gest Belizean artist. Having worked Local acts include the shakes of the with several artists such as Aziatic, San Pedro Dance Company. Perform- Reckless, Andy Palacio, Nuru, Osca ing all over San Pedro and Belize, the B, Leon Caldero, Adrian “Doc” girls and boys of the company have ex- Martinez and Loving Dear just to name perience in bringing down the house and a few, Supa has taking center stage in

Page 12 Visitor Guide August 7, 2008 formed it at the Take the Lead show pects will also perform with the big Costa Maya Continued from Page 12 earlier this year. comedy coming courtesy of La Dennis Wolfe and the Usual Sus- Chupitos.

you can be certain that they, along with the Belize National Dance Company will keep the night rocking. Grupo Bryndis then takes the lead as International performers of this year’s Costa Maya. They were formed in Santa Paula, CA, by Mexican musicians from San Luis Potosí in the early ‘90s. The group received attention after covering Miguel Gallardo’s “Otro Ocupa Mi Lugar.” The band’s breakthrough came 1997-2001. after issuing Por El Amor, achieving Klan-Destinos took to heart the say- gold status in the past years. ing “Strength in Unity” and as such their Sunday – August 10th, 2008 musical career has taken flight and Local talent Natalie Arceo performs soared to new heights. Their five indi- on Sunday. She became so well known vidual talents have fused together to that she was asked to perform at such great strengths and power. With Mother’s Day events, talent shows, and a fusion of Bachata and Reggaeton and many festivals. Always remembering Urban music, Klan-Destinos is now set to count her blessings, Natalie sings and to light the stage afire. plays in church while making appear- Saturday Night – August 9th, 2008 ances and performing on the island. She After a performance from Fabiola has recently started to perform her own Rodas, Grupo CLASH, who has en- songs as she has been a writer for many tertained us in the past will hit the front years. Her first single “Te amo y once more. Up and down, side and side adios” got great reviews when she per-

August 7, 2008 Visitor Guide Page 13 Other changes at Blue Lotus include price of $14.99BZ along with $3 beers. Blue Lotus an updated cocktail menu with more Complementary water shuttle service Continued from Page 11 drinks featuring local fresh fruits and is available nightly (just a 5 minute ride) an extended wine list. Blue Lotus is also and departs from the Fisherman’s Pier featuring a Kabob Monday night spe- on Buccaneer Street at 5:30pm, 6:30, cial that includes your choice of beef, 7:30 and 8:30pm. Walk-ins are welcome chicken or fish kabob (or any combina- and reservations are appreciated. For tion of the three meats) served with gar- further information please call 610- lic naan and chutney for the amazing BLUE (2583).

Water-top dining with a divine view of San Pedro. we move to a table where the new menu items await us. Not only are they lovely to look at but delicious to taste. The Lob- ster Thermidor is an amazing treat of succulent lobster tail lightly spiced with white wine and toasted with home made hollandaise sauce, served with garlic mashed potatoes and a steamed and sautéed vegetables. The flavors melt in your mouth and the combination of lobster and hollandaise is a match made in heaven. We also sample the Coconut Jumbo Shrimp which is lightly battered and fried and served with a perfectly sweet mango and pineapple sauce along with coconut rice. The fluffy batter does not overpower the shrimp and the subtle flavors of shrimp and coconut are the perfect compliment. The Chicken Medallion is a fresh grilled boneless chicken breast prepared in tangy cilantro sauce and was served with coconut rice. The tender chicken melts in your mouth with just the perfect hint of cilantro. The Spinach Fish roll in Creole sauce came with three beautifully rolled fish fillets stuffed with diced spinach and onions, in a rich and tangy Creole sauce and was also served with coconut rice. Also new on the menu is the Fettuccini Concasse. This tasty fettuccini pasta is one of their chef’s spe- cialties that he learned when working at an Italian restaurant in . Mixed with special concasse ingredients, the pasta is served with your choice of chicken, shrimp or lobster.

Page 14 Visitor Guide August 7, 2008 Wolfe’s Trivia Tidbits... *The two most common passwords people chose are “123” and “pass- Woofers word” in total they account together for around 7.5% of all passwords. *The Inland Taipan or the Fierce Snake, is notorious for having the most by potent venom of all known snakes. Dennis Wolfe *About half the lipstick a woman puts on her lips she ingests, this means that the average women ingests about 1 to 3 sticks of lipstick per year. *The Nintendo Wii is much more than its PS3 Learning and Xbox 360 counterparts in terms of electrical consumption using only 17 watts when in use, that is compared to 171 and 194 used by the other two to fly respectively. To give some comparison a fridge apparently uses only 14 watts. *Mt. Everest is the highest mountain in the world standing at 8,850meters. “Tia, I don’t want to play with Davin. He’s too little,” Ian Jr. said. *Shanghai is the most populated city on the planet with almost 15 million “Now, Iancito,” Dulce said. “I know you’re six years old and Davin is inhabitants, whereas China wins again for the most populated country on the only three but you are cousins and you should play together. Besides, he planet with nearly 1.3 billion inhabitants. learns a lot from playing with you.” “He does?” “Of course, he does. Younger kids always learn from the older ones.” “So I would be like a teacher, huh?” Ian asked. “You sure would.” “Oh. OK.” Soon, the house was filled with the sounds of little boys running and YOUR ISLAND SPECIALISTS! screaming in delight, making it hard to read my book. Davin came run- TEL 501-226-3737 / FAX 501-226-3379 ning through the house with a towel pinned around his neck, flapping www.SunriseBelize.com behind him. E-mail: [email protected] “What are you playing now?” I DEVELOPED PROPERTIES asked Ian. Grande Caribe Beachfront Condos 1 mile north of the bridge on 500 ft of coconut grove. 1,2 & 3 bedrooms. San Pedro’s most exciting new project 3 pools “We’re playing Superhero,” Ian & marina. From $363,000 Under construction. Inquire! said. “Davin is Superman and I’m Oasis Del Caribe Fully furnished 2nd floor ocean front 2 bedroom $335,000 Spiderman. I’m going to teach him Banyan Bay Villas 2 bed/2 bath top level condos fully furnished $350,000 how to fly.” Casa Blanca on ½ acre beach Mata Grande. Extensive new rental home “That’s good,” I said, returning complex. $2,200,000. Tres Cocos 4 bed beach rental home, pier $1,150,000. to reading my book. Holiday Lands Sunshine Home Fully furnished 2 bed/1 bath up with 2 bed/ Shortly afterwards I heard Iancito 1 bath apt below and roof top patio $350,000. say, “Flap your arms like this. O.K. Boca Ciega Home 3 bed/2 bath ocean and lagoon view home $350,000. Must Jump and you will fly like Super- see! man!” Banana Beach 1-3 bedroom ocean front condos with 2 Pools, beach, restau- rant and bar from $120,000 with guaranteed rental incomes. From the bedroom Dulce called, Miramar new completed 2nd floor beachfront 2 bedroom tastefully furnished “Hold on just a min. . .” condos from $325,000. Thud! Bermuda Landing furnished 1 bed 1 1/2 bath on beach pool $265,000. Beach Villas - Caye Villas Mata Grande 2 Bed 3 bath fully furnished pool rental “W-a-a-h!” management program from $449,900 bring offers! Davin ran in, nursing a big Vista Del Mar – Attractive Holiday Lands home. 2 bedroom 2 bathroom scrape on his forehead. spacious owners level with 4 immaculate one bed, one bath rental apartments. $589,900 Royal Palms Villas – Top floor pool side custom furnished and re-modeled 1 “All right! What’s going on bedroom. Leather sofas, 50 in plasma, King bed set, wash/dry, all new appliances here?” Dulce said. “Ian what hap- $ 235,000 pened?” Royal Palm Villas pool and breeze side on the beach 1 bedroom $205,000 “Davin jumped off the top of the Resort Property – Tranquility Bay Resort – inquire! freezer,” Ian said. “He was going San Pablo – duplex apartment building on canal with boat slips $295K Brand New! to fly like Superman.” COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITIES “Ian, Davin is supposed to be “Rated Best in Belize” Casa Picasso Tapas restaurant and Martini bar - learning from you,” Dulce said. $150K. Building and lot available separately. “You know he can’t fly but I heard Lagniappe Provisioning – established with great growth potential - $85K you tell him to flap his arms and UNDEVELOPED PROPERTIES jump.” Santa Evelia beach lot 100 ft x 200 ft $ 385,000. Palmeros beach lot with pier 80 ft x 200 ft $ 280,000. “But I am teaching him, Tia,” Playa Blanca beach lot 60 x 105 ft $350,000 offers. Ian said. Mata Grande 100 x 200 ft prime beach lot with pier permit $445,000. “Oh, yeah? What are you teach- Mata Grande 100 x 200 ft residential beach lot $445,000. ing him?” Esperanza 1.5 acres beach 150 ft x 460 ft $1,000,000. Esperanza 4.6 acres beach 300 ft x 460 ft $2,000,0000. “I’m teaching him not to believe Boca Ciega 4.5 acres 174ft beach front. $350,000. everything people tell him.” Club Caribbean beach lot 50 x 100 ft $115,000. West Bay private sandy bay with 260 ft frontage only $425,000. West Bay oceanfront 100 ft x 500 ft $179,000 bring offer. Behind Banyan Bay 75x75 ft lot $55,000. Palmeros 70ft x 350ft cleared ocean view lot with direct access to beach $85,000. Motivated seller. Mexico Rocks 2 ocean view lots 75 to 80 feet wide x 260 ft deep $75,000 each Acreage available on Lagoon side Inquire. Laguna Estates ocean view lots from $65,000. Spanish Reef 2nd row lots for $40 – 50K. All prices are in US dollars and subject to change without no- tice. For further details on these properties and much more call your AMBERGRIS CAYE SPECIALISTS August 7, 2008 Visitor Guide Page 15 Page 16 Visitor Guide August 7, 2008