The mansions is a gated subdivision that has finally opened up for sales. Located right in the heart of it all, this subdivision is perfect for those looking to own their slice of Paradise at a great price, without having to sacrifice by being too far from it all. The Mansions subdivision is also set apart from the rest in that you are ensured that any and all homes built around you are to be held to a higher standard... Not that this will be a cookie cutter subdivision... Just a nice subdivision with guaranteed attractive homes... Call or email for more details and a price list. These are sure to sell quickly so act fast and reserve yours today..... 

-- 

Robert D Colon

011-501-629-0565 Cell

011-501-226-4400 Office

(561) 203-1908  US Direct Line

www.buyinbz.com

     

A Day Out on Ambergris Caye, Belize

      Who says you need a sunny day to enjoy a day out on the water...? The past week here on Ambergris Caye has had its share of gloomy, rainy days, but that shouldn't stop you from having some fun on the water. Sure you might not get a tan, but you can still have a great day of fishing adventures, snorkel around the world's second largest barrier reef...or just get crazy and jump off a pier.... 

      We started the day wondering what we should do...My son who loves fishing suggested we go out and have some fun...Who could argue with that! We started our adventure poking around the reef for some conch, not only is this great for ceviche ( a local dish where conch is marinated in lime juice and complimented by a host of veggies) but they also make great bait for fishing....While we were gathering a few conchs we noticed we had company. A barracuda about 3.5 feet in length was trailing us. he followed us the entire time we were in the water...very nosy fish! My son had the idea that we should try to catch him...Well, that sounded like fun, so we threw a lure out and on the third cast...Bam...Fish on! My son reeled him in ( Like a pro i might add) for a good 15 minutes. A great start to our adventure....

 

    Throughout the week we had more overcast rainy days. But that didn't stop us from having some fun...We went to our favorite wading spot, a short boat ride to a spot with white sandy bottom and swam for hours... Along the way the kids spotted starfish and were eager to snap a few photos.... We relaxed on the boat, enjoyed good snacks and good company... Sure there were times when we were a bit chilly without the sun being out, but I'd have to say, it was a great week.....Theres always something to do, even on what seems like an ugly day!!!

   Theres a reason why tourism in Belize is steadily on the rise, and Ambergris Caye was voted #1 two years in a row by Trip Advisor... If you have not had the opportunity to come see the beauty and adventures that this country has to offer, this is definitely one of those trips that should be on the bucket list.....

Blowout Sale...Beach Frontage in Mexico Rocks Area

 Been looking for that large parcel of land on the beach offered at a great price...well here are two opportunities that are too good to pass up. These two lots are located in the Mexico rocks area of Ambergris Caye and are priced to sell...whether looking for a property to build your retirement/ vacation home, or just looking for a great investment, you'll want to look at these. The parcel to the North is 90' x 265' deep and is priced at $355,000...The lot to the south is 100' of beach frontage x 290' of depth, priced at $380,000.....All offers considered, dont let these pass you by...

Of course we have a wide variety of properties available, from homes, condos, land etc...Call me for a consultation. I'd be more than happy to help.

RE/MAX Southwind

Robert D Colon

011-501-629-0565 Cell

011-501-226-4400 Office

(561) 203-1908  US Direct Line

www.buyinbz.com

     

Paradise Awaits You...Belize

Thinking of coming to Belize for a visit, but not sure what to expect? Here is some information you might find helpful....Though best known for its world class snorkeling and diving location, Belize also offers spectacular natural attractions and the authenticity of a genuine Caribbean getaway. Nestled between Mexico and Guatemala on the Caribbean coast of Central America, Belize is one of the few remaining unspoiled places on earth.

Off shore, Belize offers the longest barrier reef in this hemisphere, home to the Great Blue Hole, as well as hundreds of islands, and snorkel and dive locations. On land, Belize has hundreds of ancient Maya sites -- both excavated and jungle-covered -- as well as lush tropical rainforests with many species of birds, and exotic tropical flora and fauna.

If you’re looking for an adventurous vacation, Belize has it all, from soft to extreme play, from an adrenaline-charged experience zip-lining though jungle canopies, to exploring a mysterious cave or Mayan ruins, to lazily canoeing down a peaceful jungle river observing nature. Marine adventures are suited for all ages and activity levels, including scuba diving, snorkeling, wind or kite surfing, para-sailing or cruising on a catamaran. The breathtaking colors of Belize’s waters are an invitation to immerse yourself in nature for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Belize’s history from ancient Maya to recent events are presented in museums, galleries, visitor centers and street-side stalls, offering insight into the friendly Belizeans you will meet. And while you may not find the sophisticated nightlife of other vacation destinations, Belize’s varied cultures, love of music and many holidays and celebrations give ample opportunity to relax your inhibitions and be one with the people of Belize.

Belize is known for its simple yet flavorful cuisine. Most meals include rice and beans (usually red beans, not the black beans which are more common elsewhere in Latin America) and peppers -- the hotter, the better. The menus also include fresh seafood and fresh fruits and vegetables from local markets. One of the newer notable restaurants is El Fogon, in San Pedro, which features a menu dedicated to the home-style cooking of Belizean Creole and mestizo food, all prepared in an open-fire hearth. For breakfast, try Cindy’s Café, on Caye Caulker, where you can browse the collection of books while enjoying bagels with jam or creamy cheese, yogurt with fresh tropical fruit and granola, a gorgeous chocolate brownie and a wide selection of coffee or tea. For more upscale dining, the Blue Lotus, in San Pedro, offers a mouthwatering blend of Caribbean cuisines, including chicken tikka masala and Bombay saffron shrimp curry, in an elegant beachfront setting.

The Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Ladyville, about 10 miles from Belize City, serves American, Continental, Delta and US Airways, and is a two-hour flight from Miami, Houston and New Orleans. The best way to get from the airport is by taxi; although an airport bus service exists, it is infrequent and unreliable. Once in Belize City, arrangements can be made for a car rental or other transportation options. Belize City Airport also offers regional service to other cities in the country, as well as Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker.

Belize has a tropical climate with pronounced wet and dry seasons, although there are significant variations in weather patterns by region. Temperatures vary according to elevation, proximity to the coast, and the moderating effects of the northeast trade winds off the Caribbean. Average temperatures in the coastal regions range from 75º in January to 81º in July. Temperatures are slightly higher inland, except for the southern highland plateaus, such as the Mountain Pine Ridge, where it is noticeably cooler year round. Overall, the seasons are marked more by differences in humidity and rainfall than in temperature.

Average rainfall varies considerably, ranging from 53 inches in the north and west to over 177 inches in the extreme south. The dry season is shorter in the south, normally only lasting from February to April. A shorter, less rainy period, known locally as the "little dry," usually occurs in late July or August, after the initial onset of the rainy season.

The busier time of the year for travelers to Belize is November to May, which are the winter months of the Northern Hemisphere. Still, many visitors prefer the more quiet days of the summer months from June to October for their vacation in Belize. Both times of the year have their own unique attractions and the choice of when to visit is totally up to you, your budget and the adventure you crave.

Belize Made The List! - 6 Amazing Places to Scuba Dive Around the World "Travel Pulse"

6 Amazing Places to Scuba Dive Around the World

I’ve heard it said that scuba diving is as close as most of us will ever come to experiencing outer space. I believe it. Descending down into the depths of the ocean, where all becomes quiet and weightless, and a whole new world of discoveries become possible, life always seems to fall back into place.

Never am I so reminded about how small a piece of this world I occupy, and of how many awe-inspiring corners of the Earth there are left for me to explore.

I first started scuba diving because of my unwavering wanderlust. Not only did I want to experience what was above ground, I wanted to get to know what thrived beneath it, too. (I attribute it to too many hours spent watching The Little Mermaid as a child.)

Nonetheless, getting my scuba diving certification has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. No matter how many times I go underwater, I am always left captivated by the experience. 

PHOTO: Going down under to discover the local marine life

The wonderful thing about the ocean is that it’s absolutely massive—and each dive spot around the world boasts unique characteristics and creatures. Whether you’re a first-time diver or a seasoned scuba specialist, these six places to dive around the world are guaranteed to leave you speechless:  

1.Cancun, Mexico

PHOTO: The captivating and innovative statues at MUSA. (Courtesy of Cancun Tourism Board)

There’s more to Cancun than all-inclusive resorts and hard-partying spring breakers. For a real adventure, strap on your dive gear and head to MUSA, or the Underwater Museum. The vision of artist Jason deCaires Taylor, MUSA is both an ascetically pleasing art project as well as an eco-conservation plan.

It’s a little bit odd and a little bit creepy while also being extremely innovative and creative. On the dive you’ll swim among life-size casts of over 400 statues. Each sculpture tells a distinctive story; some are stories of hope and rebirth, while others are a critique on society. Taylor’s contemporary art display will keep evolving, attracting new coral and marine life, and continuously changing the very nature of the statues. No two dives here will ever be the same!

2.Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

PHOTO: A sea turtle gracefully swims in the Galapagos Islands.

For many, the Galapagos Islands are the ultimate of any dive spot in the world. The place where Charles Darwin came up with the theory of evolution, the Galapagos Islands is home to a thriving population of birds, reptiles, mammals, and more, meaning there is no shortage of things to see both on land and underwater.

If you time your visit right, you can swim with sea lions, whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphins, manta rays and more. Due to strong currents and occasional rough waters, we recommend having your Advanced Dive Certification to make the most out of your Galapagos dive trip.

3.Apo Island, the Philippines

PHOTO: There are plenty of boats to take you diving at Apo Island.

We first heard about Apo Island on a dive in Palawan, the Philippines. A fellow diver couldn’t stop raving about this underwater paradise he had stumbled upon not too far from Bohol. A few months later we found ourselves on a flight to Apo Island, based solely on this word-of-mouth advice. Luckily, we were not disappointed.

Apo Island remains one of our favorite dive spots around the world, not only for the colorful and diverse coral and marine life, but also the chilled-out culture and beautiful nearby beaches. There are numerous dives in the area, but the Apo Island Marine Reserve hosts some of the best. (Note: Since our visit, a small amount of the coral was damaged as a result of a typhoon.)

4.The Yongala, Australia

Dan continually raves about his enchanting experience diving The Yongala, a wreck dive proclaimed to be one of the best in the world. The S.S. Yongala sank of the coast of Australia in 1911 and was only discovered in 1958; today the wreck is home to a rich array of marine life, including grouper, a variety of sharks and rays. A visit to the Yongala in the winter might even allow a sighting of a minke or humpback whale!

5.The Great Blue Hole, Belize

The Great Blue Hole is a large underwater sinkhole, 300 meters across and 125 meters deep. The world’s largest natural formation of its kind, the Great Blue Hole is also a part of the larger Barrier Reef Reserve System, a World Heritage Site. 

Starting off with a 40-foot drop into the hole, this is certainly not a dive for beginners. However, once you have the skills and repertoire, a dive in the Great Blue Hole on a clear and calm day might reveal Caribbean Reef Sharks or even the occasional Hammerhead.

6.The Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

PHOTO: Cenotes offer a unique opportunity to dive through crystal-clear freshwater.

One of the most interesting characteristics of the Yucatan Peninsula is the 6,000 cenotes that dot the area. A cenote is a natural sinkhole resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater underneath.

The primary source of freshwater for the Mayan population, cenotes have long played a spiritual and mystical role in the culture of the local indigenous people.  While cenotes don’t have the same marine life as some of the other spots on this list, a dive in a cenote will reveal unique cave formations, crystal clear water, and a mesmerizing light show as the sun’s rays reflect through the water.

These are only six popular dive spots out of thousands around the world. We have such destinations as the Red Sea, Fiji and Thailand high on our scuba diving bucket list. Where is your dream dive destination?

Source: http://www.travelpulse.com/opinions/blog/6-amazing-places-to-scuba-dive-around-the-world.html

Belize is Booming And Has The Numbers To Prove It

Thinking of investing in a property in Belize? Want something that will produce a rental income while not in use? Here is some great information published by "Travel Pulse" that you will find most reassuring. 

Visitor arrivals at Belize’s Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport were in fact up higher in every month of the third quarter of 2014, said Belize Tourism Board (BTB) officials in a statement.Belize’s third quarter visitor arrival statistics reflect a destination in the midst of a surging travel boom. The country recorded 45,862 arrivals between July, an increase of nearly four percent from 44,133 in 2013. The increase comes in what is traditionally Belize’s slowest travel period.  

While increased airport arrivals are driving a corresponding growth in overnight stays, Belize is also expanding its cruise ship arrivals. Airport arrivals are up nine percent for the first nine months of 2014, while overnight stays are up by 11 percent and cruise ship arrivals are up by 45 percent.

Caribbean Tourism Organization statistics show Belize hosted 238,400 visitors between January and August 2014, a 10.9 percent increase over 2013. Belize recorded 527,037 cruise ship visitors between January and June, a robust 36.9 percent increase over 2013. The totals have “exceeded forecasted numbers for this quarter,” said officials in the BTB statement.

“We know that the visitor experience in Belize is one of the highest in this region, and that can only improve as we continue to elevate the quality of our product offerings and the level of service,” said Alyssa Carnegie, BTB’s director of marketing.

Belize’s tourism growth continued at the quarter’s end, said BTB officials. The country recorded a 12.1 percent increase in overnight visitors in September, and a 77.9 percent increase in cruise ship visitors from July to September. Belize’s cruise ship arrivals increased over 40 percent in each month of the third quarter.

BTB officials recently announced expanded air service to the destinations, including an increase by Delta Airlines in flights from Atlanta from eight to 12 weekly, representing an additional 596 seats per week. Delta will also resume weekly non-stop flights between Los Angeles and Belize on Nov. 7, 2014, representing an additional 160 seats per week.

Also United Airlines will launch weekly Chicago-to-Belize flights in December of through May 2015. United currently flies to Belize from Houston and Newark.

Source: Brian Major @ http://www.travelpulse.com/news/destinations/belize-is-booming-and-has-the-numbers-to-prove-it.html - See more at: http://www.mlsbz.com/Pages/news.html#sthash.buEvmGcQ.dpuf

Things To Do in Belize - Mayan Ruins and caves

Here are comments and tips from a honeymooning couple that visited Belize..They toured the islands, caves and Mayan ruins...A few of the many adventures that can be found in this beautiful country...Hope to see you here soon! 

Don't miss: The Actun Tunichil Mukal (ATM) cave tour. You swim, wade and rock-climb through this ancient cave with a headlamp. Mayans would do ceremonies and sacrifices deep in the cave. There is pottery and skeletal remains from the rituals they did 1,400 years ago.

Don't bother: Don’t do the ATM tour or any other cave tour if you feel you might get claustrophobic. We had a couple of people panicking the whole time while we were in the cave, which was not fun for anyone.

Coolest souvenir: Homemade pineapple, papaya and mango jam from an eco-lodge we stayed at in the town of San Ignacio. The lodge was called Black Rock Lodge, it’s very off the grid and high up in the middle of the rain forest. We loved it.

Worth a splurge: The guided tours — ATM cave, Mayan ruins, snorkeling, hiking. The guides have a wealth of knowledge and stories. They point out wildlife and identify all the plants. It’s worth it to go with the pros.

Wish I'd packed: Efficient bug spray. Nature is your host in Belize, and you are at its mercy, bugs and all.

Other comments: Belize is amazing. You can stay on an island caye, inland in the rain forest, or on the coast. We stayed in all three (Ambergris Caye, San Ignacio and Hopkins Village) and it was the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation and romance. Explore as much of the country as you can.

CBS Names Ambergris Caye One of The Top 10 International Places to Invest in Real Estate

Here's what they had to say:

On Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize, there aren't many homes you wouldn't consider "beachfront." Its mild weather, tropical landscape and numerous recreational opportunities make it a highly sought-after destination for real estate investors and vacationers.

Ambergris Caye has recovered from the global housing crisis, but has retained prices that are still less expensive than similar Caribbean locations. You could snag a two-bedroom beachfront condo for around $250,000 or a one-bedroom condo just off the beach for $150,000 or less.

Brand New Beach Front Home - Ambergris Caye

 
Incredible Views

• 2,800 sq. ft., 3 bath, 3 bdrm 

Two-level - $705,000

South Ambergris Caye, Ambergris Caye  -  This two story private home is located in the very popular residential community of South Ambergris Caye. The home is a 3 bedroom 3 bath beachfront home located approximately 4.5 miles south of San Pedro Town with great road access, electricity, cable TV etc. The home is concrete construction and is brand new, completed in July 2014. Home comes fully furnished, ready to move in. There are two split living quarters, upstairs with full kitchen and living area, 2 Bedrooms and 1.5 Baths. The downstairs also has a full kitchen and living area, 1 bedroom and 1.5 Baths. Living space combined with the first and second floor is approx 2800 Sqft....There is a roof top deck that can be used to add a third floor or simply used as a lounge area...The roof top deck has been plumbed with the idea to put in a hot tub. From here you'll enjoy amazing views of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

The home is situated on a beachfront lot measuring 50’ along the beach (seawall) by 115’ deep. This is as turnkey a property as you will get. Contact me for more details.

Things To Do In Belize.....

Swim With A Whale Shark in Belize

Ever wonder what it would feel like to dive or snorkel with one of the biggest creatures in the world?
Belize offers one of the best excursions to dive or snorkel with whale sharks! 

What’s a whale shark?

Only the largest fish in the world!  

Whale sharks can reach up to 46 feet in length.

The largest one ever measured was 40 feet, 7 inches in length, with a 4.5 foot wide mouth, a 4.5 foot high dorsal fin and 6.5 foot long pectoral fins.  

However, despite their size, whale sharks are remarkably gentle and curious. If they ever approach a diver or snorkeler, which sometimes happens, it’s more out of curiosity than any type of aggression. The whale shark’s gentle nature makes swimming with them a special treat.

In Belize, the best time to dive or snorkel with these majestic animals, is through April to June.

Whale sharks frequently visit an area on the reef called Gladden spilt, about 30 miles east of Placencia.

The reason whale sharks visit this area the most, is because during these months a variety of reef fish spawn in the Gladden split area and release millions of baby fish eggs and attracts whale sharks which feeds on the eggs.

 Here are some fun facts about whale sharks:

#1 Whale sharks are in no way related to whales. Although they are sharks they are very gentle and pose no real threats to humans

#2 Whale sharks can weigh up to 12 tons. That’s 24,000 pounds.

#3  Whale sharks have about 3,000 tiny teeth less than 6mm long, but don’t use those teeth to eat.

#4 Whale sharks aren't the fastest swimmers, reaching no higher than 5kmph.

#5 Whale sharks swim by moving their bodies side to side, unlike other sharks like the great white, who just use their tails to swim.

#6 Whale sharks are filter feeders.

FLY AND BUY PROGRAM!!

Thinking of making a visit to Belize with the purpose of buying property? Then you'll want to take advantage of this opportunity!

    

As part of the Re/Max Southwind Team in Ambergris Caye Belize I know that flights can be expensive, especially last minute flights, when you find that property thats just too good to pass up.

How does the program work?  To qualify for the “Fly & Buy Program”, a minimum purchase of $200,000USD is required. If you make a purchase using me as your agent, during your trip or 10 days after, we will reimburse travel expenses up to $1000.00 USD for commercial airfare. As part of this promotion we can also arrange for you to stay at one of Ambergris Caye’s most Luxurious Resorts at a discounted rate…. Contact me for further details. To sign up for the program simply email me and mention "Fly and Buy" 

 This offer expires November 15, 2014

BEACH FRONT CONDO - RE/MAX EXCLUSIVE
$295,000

Details

Address: Belizean Reef Condo Type: Condominium Style:  Single Story Bedrooms: 1 Bathrooms: 1 Lot Type: Rectangular

Description

The Belizean Reef Luxury Beachfront Suites on San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, is located right on the beach within easy walking distance of the downtown area with convenient access to restaurants, supermarkets, banks, cyber cafes and other amenities. Every gorgeous condo is oceanfront with stunning views of the magnificent Barrier Reef with sparkling crystal clear water arranged in a palate of rich blue hues just a few feet away from your own private veranda. You can also venture up to the rooftop deck which provides 360 degrees of breath taking views with great opportunities to capture lovely panoramic pictures of the island. It is a fabulous place to bask in the sun, watch the sun set or the moon rise while lying under a canopy of stars. The spacious and luxurious one bedroom one bath suite is furnished in native mahogany and rattan and decorated with fun local artwork. Bright and breezy living rooms with a queen sleeper sofa, air conditioned bedroom, fully equipped kitchen, phone, cable TV and ceiling fans throughout. Immaculate daily housekeeping, friendly faces, and warm smiles… all located on the hottest strip of the beach just one block south of town.