Sport Diver Magazine Shows Up Belize

Belize City, Monday, March 29, 2004Sport Diver Magazine, the official publication of the Professional Association of Diving and catering to an estimated audience of 250,050, showcases Belize diving adventures in its March 2004 issue.

As Sport Diver, which is specifically designed to fulfill the literary needs of "underwater enthusiasts, for whom diving is a lifelong activity," often features first person recounting of diving adventures. In this edition, Columnist Tanya Burnett offers an account of "the sea beneath the scenery" in Belize. Speaking of the incomparable Blue Hole experience, she writes, "Three atmospheres below, the massive columns and stalactites of the original cave system from eons past are fully exposed for exploration. Combined with the quart-clear water, the whole environment evokes a surreal�feeling."

As Burnett also had the opportunity to dive the waters surrounding Half Moon Caye, she noted, "The�diving off the Half Moon Caye wall was nothing short of spectacularcertainly among the Caribbean's best. The reefs are healthy and dramatic�."

Shark Ray Alley and Hol Chan marine reserves, as well as the Blue Hole, Tres Cocos and M & M Caverns are listed among the author's "must dive" suggestions.

Burnett also comments on the overall experience of being in Belize, particularly Ambergris Caye, which she refers to as "this breezy slice of blue water and sand." The article also incorporates mention of the country's varying inland adventures, including "the awe-inspiring" Maya sites, namely Altun Ha, Lamanai and Xunantunich.

"The most recent Visitor Expenditure and Motivation survey, showed that a total 50.7 percent of visitors reported that marine attractions were very important to their ultimately selecting Belize as their travel destination," notes Director of Tourism Tracy Taegar. "Considering this popularity of our marine activities among visitors and prospective travelers, our presence in this very focused publication is significant for Belize. Maintaining our presence in this market is clearly crucial," Taegar continues.