I normally never write trip reports but on this last trip to Cayo & San Pedro, I had such a relaxing wonderful time, I thought I would share a few tidbits. The first few nights were spent at Chaa Creek's Macal Camp. I admit I had my reservations about bringing my family to such a remote, no electric, shared baths, almost camping type place. But it really exceeded my expectations. This part of the Chaa Creek Lodge often gets overshadowed by the superb upscale main resort. But it deserves a lot of credit in its own right. The fully screened permanent tent like casitas are spacious, with kerosene lanterns, comfortable twin beds, and large porches with hammocks. The casitas are arranged around a center fire pit, large thatched roof dining palapa & separate staffed kitchen. Breakfast & dinner is included in the per person rate & the food is plentiful and typically Belizean - chicken, rice & beans one night, salbutes the next night, scrambled eggs with tomato, pepper & onion, fryjacks & tortillas for breakfast. Luscious homemade desserts. Beer & soda available on an honor system. The shared dorm style shower house and bathrooms are spotless, easily accessible and fully run on solar power. Hardly inconvenient at all. I spoke with most of the other guests, some of which had been there for several nights and everyone was pleased with the accommodations and food. The setting was quiet (as quiet as the jungle can be!) relaxed and peaceful. But I bet in high season and with a full house, evening fire pit going and lots of excited guests comparing travel experiences, it would be a happening place. Great for groups who could take over the whole camp.

The main lodge is accessed by a 15-20 minute trek along the original "Don Eligio Panti rainforest medicinal trail" which has been upgraded with hand rails, steps where necessary and leveled. Trees and foliage are marked with named signs and medicinal uses. The lodge facilities including computer business center, great new pool, spa, luxurious restaurant & bar are all available to the camp guests, as well as quality tours, horseback riding & river access. Chaa Creek is always a pleasure to visit, and one of the best run places in the country. The property was looking great and the new large pool, with poolside bar (serving smoothies and bar food as well as adult beverages) & open air massage area is a welcome addition to this Green Globe award winning eco lodge.

Day trip to Big Rock Falls, where due to the recent rains, the falls were roaring and the normally small stream was 6 feet deep and swimmable! The hike to the falls has been graded and has large steps and handrails added making it much more accessible to tourists. Still an awesome spot and so worth a visit. One on my favorite places on this planet! Met a few workers from Blancaneaux taking their lunch break by the falls - must be nice!

San Ignacio was quiet, funky & fun as usual. Not a lot of tourists this spring & summer has the local establishments & street vendors vying for business, and has resulted in some shop & restaurant closures. After a quick check of email at Tradewinds Internet Café (new location upstairs across from Martha's) had a wonderful dinner at the old Hannah's - now called Ko-Ox-Han-Nah. My favorite Ginger Rum Shrimp cannot be beat but they offer lots of vegetarian entrees, huge quesadillas and their own naturally raised pork, lamb & chicken from their farm in Calla Creek. Bought the cookbook too this time!

Off to Guatemala & Tikal�. I have been to almost all the ruins in Belize, some several times and while always impressive, I have to say Tikal is something else! I never thought I would be as impressed as I was. Not just with the sheer size of the place (almost 600 sq kilometers) but with the energy of the place. Powerful. Really powerful! We were there for the day and left as the sun was low over temple #1. Wow. I could feel what the Maya's must have encountered and can see how the tribal leaders could coerce "volunteers" for sacrifice! Truly amazing. (Hours 6AM - 6PM, admission 150 Quetzals per person. Located about 40 minutes drive from El Remate Village or 1 hr from Flores)

I toured all 3 lodges in the park (had to do some work after all!) The Tikal Jungle Lodge is the most "upscale" and full service with 38 cabanas, and 2 jr suites with king beds spread over a large sprawling property. Pool with large nature deck, big restaurant & bar, gift shop. The Tikal Inn is a bit smaller and more cozy with poolside or jungle cabanas, and smaller standard hotel rooms. Pool, restaurant & bar. The Jaguar Inn is most basic and offers inexpensive camping ($70 Q - about $10 USD currently) as well as hotel rooms. Popular restaurant & bar, internet connection, but no pool.

La Lancha Hotel & more to come.....

www.barbsbelize.com