I have confirmed that US Air has cancelled its flight from Belize today. (Flight 319 BZE-Charlotte).
I can't confirm what it plans to do tomorrow, though I believe the word is flights to and from Belize are cancelled until further notice. I also don't know what AA, CO, DL and TACA plan.
This is the statement that US Air has released:
"The flight is cancelled because of conditions affecting the airport terminal at Belize City Bze, BELIZE. Customers will be re-accommodated. For information about your party please contact US Airways Reservations at (800) 428-4322."
Coincidentally, my nephew -- based on my glowing tales of Belize over the years -- was flying into Belize tomorrow for his first visit.
--Lan Sluder
www.belizefirst.com
I just called continental, and today's first flight left to Belize City and the next one in 2 hours is scheduled and on time.
Yep, that is confirmed here too. Yeah Continental!!!
Does anyone know what "conditions" US Air is talking about?
OK, no response needed, I've been reading.
In the case of USAir it may be more their current fiscal condition than any condition on the ground in Belize. I know out here in Phoenix they often look for excuses to cancel some under capacity flights or will let United take on their underbooked flights.
As I noted yesterday, Continental's AM flight from Houston was 14 minutes early and all flights for today were on schedule.
I am leaving in 10 Days on American.I checked their flights and they are going and arriving on Schedule.
Now posted on the US Air web site (the home page):
>> Due to circumstances in Belize, US Airways has relaxed its travel policies for passengers whose travel may be affected. For the latest flight details, please check your flight and gate information.
These re-accommodation procedures are available to passengers ticketed from April 21-24 2005.
Re-accommodation Procedure
For flights originally scheduled for this time period, US Airways will waive the standard change fee, advance reservation or ticketing requirements.
�
The entire itinerary can be moved forward or delayed, up to fourteen days from the scheduled origination date. The length of the trip cannot be changed.
�
Full value of wholly unused tickets can be applied toward the purchase of a ticket to an alternate destination, with travel to originate within seven days of the scheduled origination date.
I just spoke to someone at US Airways and he said all flights to Belize are scheduled to fly out tommorrow. He said they made the decision to cancel today because of the "political unrest". But now there are people stuck in Belize waiting to get back and those rescheduled tommorrow. He said they are giving people the option to not go if they want to postpone their flight without penalities because of what is going on there.
Hello Everyone, normally I would not be saying anything on this subject, but it is about US air. I feel the need to give everyone a heads up on that airline.
I do not know if it is a good airline or not, but I know that in all the years that I have flown, US air is the only airline I have had a problem with.
Last May my Husband and I were booked for our usual trip to Belize, but instead AmericanAir or Contentintal, we got booked through Priceline with US air.
Night came that we had to gear up for the 4am arrival time at the airport, but we thought we would get a quick nap before we left. Hubby is sleeping and I am rechecking everything before I nap.
I never check with the airport, just show up as stated on my tickets. This time I decided that before I nap I will call the airline. US air told me my flight had been canceled..... And they never called!!
Tickets were no good, had to rush ( without the nap) to the airport to get reissued tickets. Contential, Delta, and American would not reissue US air tickets. Had to get new tickets. By this time it is 45 minutes to boarding time. By the time that mess was done and tickets on American were in our hands it was 20 minutes before boarding and we were still at the ticket counter.
All of that led to our luggage being flaged, we were we taged with SSS on our tickets. "Selected Security Search, which was more involved than the usual.....why???? Because no one would honor the US air tickets and Security saw us as last minute passengers. Moral of this is, if you hear rumors about an airline, stick with the one you usually use.
I am aware of the issues facing US Air. However, in interest of fairness, I would like to add that we have flown with them many times, including twice to Belize and several times to USVI without problems.
I have flown US Air to Belize now at least 16 times in the last 2 years, and NEVER had a problem (until my last trip which was Saturday). My luggage didn't arrive with me in JAX, but it was delivered the next day.
I travel with my in-cabin pet, and always have over the weight limit. Never had a problem, at all.
I think you might find that while several have those rose-colored glasses on concerning Belize, it's not all wine and roses, the political turmoil does exist, the GOB is having problems, and it does remain a third world country.
Does that make it less desirable for tourists? I don't think it should. It's still a beautiful place with SOME wonderful people. Just don't forget that "sh** happens".
I am still a fan of USAir, but I don't make plans to use them without consulting friends who are airline consultants/analysts. Based on current predictions we confidently booked to Belize for this June. See you then! (And knock on wood...)
All International flights are operating from and to Belize normally today 22nd April 2005.
On another forum today, it was mentioned that the unions are threatening to close the international airport for three days.
Has anyone heard anything to verify or dismiss this?
Found it, posted by Lan without reference to his source. The fact that he posts "I believe" leads me to: 1) "believe" that he does not really know but is guessing and that 2) the facts are about the airport are pure rumour (kind of like the rumour about phones being down for 21 days (they're up).)
"I believe US Air is resuming service on Saturday, with two flights.
However, the unions are threatening to close the international airport for three days. If that succeeded, it would be a real blow to Belize tourism.
--Lan Sluder "
Why would anyone pay attention to someone spewing rumours from North Carolina???
Listen to LIVE NEWS on the local Belize radio:
http://www.belizeweb.com/radio.htm LOVE FM or WAVE
Typical of the airlines this time of year- They cut back on flights as the volume isn't there. They will do anything to take the heat of their own heads. This time they are blaming it on Belize and civil unrest. Classic example: American Airlines cancels it's first flight of the day to Belize due to "civil unrest" then reschedules the first flight passengers to the "second" flight of the day only two hours later.
On this note I nominate Lan as the new head of Civil Aeronautics. :-)
No one wants USAir to succeed more than me.
Hell, I flew them back in the day when they were
Alleghany Airlines. In fact they were my virgin flight to college in Central PA back in 69.
However, as I posted the other day,they look for ways to cut costs at the drop of a hat.
They are not the USAir we have known over the years and any blip on the Belize radar screen is going to be an excuse for them to cancel flights.
They are currently in talks with our loco airline America West to help bail them out.
>>>>No comment.
<<<<<<<<<
Personally, I wouldn't book them much past June 15th unless they get a major infusion of capital from somewhere. Jomo. :rolleyes:
I've flown US Air for years and in spite of their financial problems they are great. If you ever have a layover in Charlotte speak with a few of their employees, they for the most part are happy with the company. The worst airline I have ever been on was Delta,(Don't Even Leave The Airport). Twice I've seen their flight attendants scream at a passenger and once they had the guy next to me arrested for complaining. The captain threatened all the people sitting near the guy who agreed with him. Nasty folks!!!
we flew us air last feb and march and couldn't have had a better experiance...have had lousy trips on other airlines. hope they pull through the bad times. the stewards, airport personel and captains all were great, kind of like the old days when i was a little girl flyin on the "yellow bird".
Why would someone pay attention to someone painting a rosy picture of a third world country with internal politcal problem, riots in its largest city, and Airline cancellations?
Maybe because as a tourist, I'm concerned with enjoying myself and relaxing on vacation and not living dangerously just to support some ex-pats business.
Obtuse angler - you will bvelieve what you want to believe and let me assure you that I do not,as people on this board will testify, give a damn about your business.
My advice to you is go somewhere else -Disneyland could be considered as a nice example.
Come on Peter, don;t sugar coat it, say whats really on your mind!!
Petey uno,
I don't give a damn about your business either. I can think of a place you can go but it might be a little hotter than you like.
This is from the US state department, updated 3/4/05 (4/3/05 if you are from Europe)
CRIME: The incidence of crime, including violent crimes such as armed robbery, shootings, stabbings, murder, and rape, is on the rise. The Embassy has noted an increase in recent years in reports of crimes against tourists at resorts and on the roadways and rivers. The incidence of crimes such as theft, burglary, purse snatching and pick-pocketing rises around the winter holidays and spring break. Several victims who resisted when confronted by criminals have received serious personal injuries, including gunshot wounds. Although the majority of reported incidents are in Belize City, crime occurs in all districts including tourist spots such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Placencia.
Sexual harassment and/or assault of females traveling alone or in small groups can be a problem. Although violent sexual assault is not common, it does occur. Several American travelers have been the victims of sexual assaults in recent years. At least one of these rapes occurred after the victim accepted a lift from an acquaintance, while another occurred during an armed robbery at an isolated resort.
To minimize the risk of being targeted, visitors should travel in groups, stay off the streets after dark, in urban and rural areas, and avoid wearing jewelry, or carrying valuable or expensive items. As a general rule, valuables should not be left unattended, including in hotel rooms and on the beach. Care should be taken when carrying high value items such as cameras, or when wearing expensive jewelry on the street. Women's handbags should be zipped and held close to the body. Men should carry wallets in their front pants pocket. Large amounts of cash should always be handled discreetly.
Armed robberies of American tourist groups have been reported near the western border with Guatemala in the past few years, several of which escalated to sexual assault. In the past, criminals have targeted popular Mayan archeological sites in that region. Visitors should travel in groups and should stick to the main plazas and tourist sites. Although there are armed guards posted at some of the archeological sites, armed criminals have been known to prey on persons walking from one site to another. Victims who resist when confronted by these armed assailants frequently suffer personal injury. The number of armed robberies on rivers in the western districts increased significantly in early 2005.
Travel on rural roads, especially at night, increases the risk of encountering criminal activities. Widespread narcotics and alien smuggling activities can make remote areas especially dangerous. Though there is no evidence that Americans in particular are targeted, criminals look for every opportunity to attack, so all travelers should be vigilant.
Rather than traveling alone, use a reputable tour organization. It is best to stay in groups, travel in a caravan consisting of two or more vehicles, and stay on the main roads. Ensure that someone not traveling with you is aware of your itinerary. Travelers should avoid budget hotels, which lack security guards and safes for guests, as guests in such hotels are more vulnerable to crime. Do not explore back roads or isolated paths near tourist sites. And remember always to pay close attention to your surroundings.
Americans visiting the Belize-Guatemala border area should consider carefully their security situation and should travel only during daylight hours. Vehicles should be in good operating condition, adequately fueled, and carry communications equipment. Persons traveling into Guatemala from Belize should check the Consular Information Sheet for Guatemala and the U.S. Embassy web site at
http://usembassy.state.gov/guatemala for the latest information about crime and security in Guatemala.
A lack of resources and training impedes the ability of the police to investigate crimes effectively and to apprehend serious offenders. As a result, a number of crimes against Americans in Belize remain unresolved. Nonetheless, victims of crime should report immediately all incidents of assault, robbery, theft or other crimes to the police. Tourists may contact the Belizean tourist police unit as well as the main police office for assistance.
Drug use is common in some tourist areas. American citizens should avoid buying, selling, holding, or taking illegal drugs under any circumstances. Penalties for possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia are generally more severe than in the U.S. Although not common, there is anecdotal evidence of the use of so-called date-rape drugs, such as Ruhypnol.
U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet, A Safe Trip Abroad for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at
http://www.gpoaccess.gov, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at
http://travel.state.gov.
and this
IMPORTANT NOTICE!
The U.S. Embassy advises that U.S. citizens visiting Belize currently may face delays or difficulties in making international telephone calls, accessing the internet, or using ATMs to obtain currency. Because of recent industrial strikes and incidents of sabotage, the country's national telecommunications and electricity providers have not yet restored full services, and U.S. airlines have had to cancel or reschedule some flights to Belize.
Labor/management disputes in the national telecommunications sector have disrupted services and also have led to large demonstrations. There is no indication that U.S. citizens or interests have been specifically targeted. However, U.S. Embassy personnel have been advised to avoid large gatherings on the Princess Margaret Drive near the Belize Telecommunications headquarters on St. Thomas Street. On the night of April 20, a protest led to looting and vandalism in the Albert St. area of downtown Belize City. The Embassy has advised U.S. citizens to use alternate routes and take precautions such as securing vehicles while parked, filling vehicle gas tanks, and storing emergency water supplies in the event of a shut down of utilities.
Landline telephone services are currently available in most of the country. Access to cellular, long distance, or local Internet services, including some banking services and credit card services, has not yet been fully restored, and may be problematic. The U.S. Embassy in Belize is not able to confirm that telephone service is available in outlying areas. Major hotels are operating and accepting credit cards.
Americans living or traveling in Belize are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website, HERE, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Belize. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the U.S. Embassy. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located at the intersection of Gabourel Lane and Hutson Street in Belize City; telephone 011 (501) 227-7161/62/63, fax 011 (501) 223-5423. The Embassy is open from 8:00 a.m. To 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for the 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. lunch hour, and U.S. and Belizean holidays.
U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State's most recent Consular Information Sheet for Belize, and the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, which are located on the Department's Internet web site at HERE. Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
Another unqualified moron is allowed to post
Obtuse,
Just my opinion:::
The first state dept advisory that you posted has been around the circuit a long time with the seasonally added spring break caveat. Doesn't sound much different than that what you read regarding most Carribbean countries and the Riveira Maya. I can drive you through sections of Phoenix that will mimic what this advisory cautions of.
Your second state dept. advisory posted sounds like a typical CYA in case some ugly American starts screaming that they can't get in touch with their broker on their Nokia camera phone from the chicken drop.
I don't understand the expat references nor do I suspect any expat is going to tell us all to "come on down" as the village burns in the background so that we may enjoy a Belikin happy hour at their business.
It's not the states, it doesn't pretend to be, and I think thats what people describe as part of the magic.
If you are afraid or concerned you should probably fish closer to home to feel safer. (unless it's in Jersey)
jomo
Jomo - can we all come cast a line in AZ maybe snag a few "sand" perch
Obtuseangler, if you have such a problem with "us" Belize that is why are you even posting here????????????? you can post your information and move on............ why the uglyness? "a third world country" it's a developing country if you don't mind..........and why say things like "support some ex-pats business." Do you even know how wonderful some of these people are?
Belize, what a paradise, I miss Belize! I have less than a week until I am there, I don't know how to wait!!! I feel so much safer there than here where I live in the states.
Well, guess what? I have a little different take on obtuseangler's position than Pedro. I think it fits in well with his name as he seems to be blunt, i.e. obtuse, and to the point. Also, most of what he posted is quoting the State Department and the other seems to me to be pretty much an accurate assessment of the current situation. Now to me, that is not all bad. When I first came to Belize they were no phones to not work and that was just fine with me. I met a number of people that came to Belize, back then British Honduras, partly because it lacked many of the things it now has and because it was an "adventure". Maybe because that was a long time ago and my memory has faded, but it seems to me that many of the people I met back then I related to more so than some that I meet now. I sometimes get the feeling that some of the people coming to Belize now are coming for different reasons than those earlier tourists. It seems that some come because they have this desire to visit a country that maybe there friends have not yet visited and they want to be able to say that they have been there. They come not because of what Belize really is and what it really has to offer, but more because they heard that slogan "where the hell is Belize". And in all fairness, I think that some in Belize are trying to portray Belize in a disingenuous way just to attract more tourists.
I know change is inevitable, but I still prefer Belize the way it was when I first came and I remain because it still has to me many of the attractions that first brought me here. Those attractions keep me here and allow me to ignore the changes I see happening that I do not agree with.
It is still and "adventure' to me. And if some tourists read about the State Department's comments or hear that they might not be able to make a phone call, and that makes them decide to visit Cancun or Jamaica or some other place than Belize, well that will just give me more of an opportunity to meet some of the types of tourists I met in earlier years.
And when I am back in the States and hear others talk of how safe they felt in their "compound" in Jamaica or how their bags were lost or their flights changed when they were traveling to other destinations than Belize, I will just smile and suggest that maybe that will not happen if they go on their next trip to a more well know destination where all of their friends have gone.
I think somebody needs a hug, why the anger and ill feelings Obtuse. Maybe you should find a place you like and post nice things. If you think Belize is dangerous you must have never been to Miami. Read some embassy reports from other countries about our fair American cities. As is always the case, you should understand there are good and bad folks everywhere. Move on dude, your negativity is a drag.
dittio to NyGal and bywarren
The US government at work! I wonder how much we paid for someone to write such silliness. Oh wait it was probably a whole department of folks, none of whom have ever left D.C. They live with such a high crime rate, they probably thing it must be worse OUT THERE.
Anyone watch the segment about Anacostia on 60 minutes last night? No this isn't a third world country it is a suburb some three blocks from from the US nation's capital...
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/04/21/60minutes/main690002.shtml
ObtuseAngler,
Wow! Have I ever had a different experience than what you speak of. I'm up and down the beach at all times of the day of evening. OK, I'm not one to be hanging out really late, but at least in my experience, I've never felt threatened. In any place, US or Belize, one has to exercise some caution, so hanging out with questionable people half the night could very well be a problem, anywhere. I'm an early riser, so take off up and down the beach at Amergris by sunrise, on my own. Nothing but totally nice folks have I met. My husband and I have been all over Belize. I hope one day to live there several months of the year. Re the inland areas, again, I've never felt threatened. Now, needless to say, one probably should take some care in Belize City, as one does in any city, but a sensible person probably won't be in trouble. I've been to lots of places in Central America, and never felt safer than in Belize.
Hey Pedro
I am going to take your advice and go to Disney World.
I have read the warnings about travelling in the United States of America and have ascertained that the only SAFE place for Belizeans to visit in the US is Disney World and Disney Land.
Mickey M has just been awarded an Armalite assault rifle by the Gun Lobby-now we know that it is safe
Re-Post
from US Embassy:
The information below might prove helpful if you receive inquiries from concerned U.S. citizens and intending travelers:
In the Embassy's estimate, it is unnecessary to ask U.S. citizens to defer their travel to Belize. There are no indications of any anti-U.S. sentiments, or that U.S. citizens or interests, or other foreigners, are at any greater risk. U.S. citizens should be aware that they may face inconveniences arising from the disruption of normal telecommunications (we understand that a few airline flights have had to be cancelled because the airlines had difficulty communicating passenger lists and other info, rather than because of any security concerns). While some flights have been cancelled, the airport continues operations. The Government maintains that telecommunications soon will be fully restored, and they are making progress. The cruise ship industry and tourism village at the port are operating normally, with no disruption of arrivals or tours of inland sites. If conditions change, a travel advisory will be issued.
Regards,
U.S. Consul Belize
ob�tuse
adj. ob�tus�er, ob�tus�est
Lacking quickness of perception or intellect.
Characterized by a lack of intelligence or sensitivity: an obtuse remark.
I'll be in San Pedro on the 27th and can't wait! It will be my 12th time to belize in 4 yrs and the only thing bad that has ever happened to me was i got rained out and couldn't dive because of high winds!! and i will take Belize over most any U.S. city any day of the week!! Have never had a bad experience there, not so much as being short changed.... john in denver
We were supposed to be on the US Air flight that was cancelled last Thursday, at the end of 8 wonderful days in Belize. I think US Air over-reacted, but it was made worse by the fact that their staff at the airport could not (or would not) give any reason for the cancellation. We heard from the pilot on our flight the next day that flights were cancelled "due to the uncertain situation." In addition, the internet at the airport was down for several hours, so passengers could not be rebooked to their destinations. (US Air offered to put us on the AA flight to Dallas, but then we'd have to figure out from there how to get back to NC.)
I certainly would not hesitate to go back - just expect the unexpected. It might help to be a little familiar with your other flight options, just in case. (We've flown thru DFW enough to know that we could not get home from there after the AA flight would arrive. So we opted to spend the night in Belize City rather than at the DFW airport, and to take the US Air flight the next day.)
On the other note, I felt perfectly safe - even welcomed - everywhere we went. The communications problems were definitely an inconvenience - without phone lines, the ATMs don't work, and a lot of places couldn't handle credit cards. But nothing worse than that.
I think the worst of Belize is pretty much right here on this board, posting messages.
If I offended any one here, too bad. The shoot the messenger attitude of the pollyanna's on this board is amusing. This board is of no value whatsoever if it only posts "good News' and ignores the reality of the situation. It happens that I was in Belize in February, had a nice time and might return someday. But I won't be looking most of you up when I do.
The good news is I deverted some of the bashing of Lan Sluder, who is worth more than most of the rest of you put together.
To all the fools who have gotten personal, bye and best of luck.
Oh, SimonB, that qoute you posted, supposedly from the US Consul, its phoney.
Obtuse, keeping posting, don't let some offend you. They have hoof in mouth problems.
Didn't George,Dick,Donald and Condy release a State Dept. report stating how safe Iraq was after a month into our adventure there? And if you come to Disneyland in LA PLEASE take the proper precautions. We have unstable politics,riots now and then,and lots of airline problems! And also we have had a rash of freeway shootings all around the OC so bring some kevlar. And if you visit in the fall please bring a firetruck and help us extinguish the brushfires. Oh and don't stay in a multi-story hotel,we get horrific earthquakes. And don't stay on a bluff overlooking the Pacific,can you say mudslides(no,not the drink you guys)? And limit your exposure at the bank. LA is the bank heist capital of America. Have a great time on the tea cup ride everyone!
You forgot the high risk of a terrorist attack...
We don't worry about the terrorist threats. Al Jazeera TV issued a Taliban State Dept. warning against travel to LA. They think it's WAY to dangerous! But i did forget gang members,pedophile washed up musicians,immigrants galore,WAY to many LAWYERS,smog,traffic,and a really bad actor starring as the Governator!
usair just called to tell me our june 25 flights were moved by 5 minutes. So it looks as if everything will be running smoothly again.
It seems to me that with progress and growth anywhere you get more problems and crime. We stopped going to Jamacia when we felt it too dangerous to stay outside of all inclusive resorts, which we hate. So far our trips to Belize have been wonderful, we love the people, the reef, food, etc, and have never been in fear. But, one of our guides did mention that a boat was stolen from Hol Chan while everyone was diving, so that now many of them will leave someone aboard. He was very sad about how things have changed. And one morning after cashing travellers checks at the bank I felt we were being followed by a couple of suspect men, we calmly crossed the street, and didn't look back as they made comments. We got to our property and they moved on. That's not to say the same thing couldn't happen here too. We were there last week and didn't have phone, internet or ATM service until Thursday, but it really wasn't a problem. There have been sporadic power and water outages both times were were there, you just have to go with the flow or don't go. It was actually kindof fun when the power was out for a couple of hours one night, we lit candles and sat on our balcony. There is no doubt that there are some issues there right now, hopefully they can be resolved quickly and peacefully. The building and growth on AC is ever present, hopefully it won't change the character of the island. But none of this is new, it happens everywhere, and won't prevent us from coming back, not even this itchy pica pica !!
Raper,
Wipe the foam from your mouth, take a deep breath and reconsider in-patient treatment. Not sure what your rant against LA is based on, but I'm thinking a chemical imbalance is likely.
Obtuse
The riots (Rodney king) never happened or did they?
Real estate investment opportunities on beautiful Ambergris Caye, Belize... overlooking the barrier reef and Caribbean Sea.
English speaking commonwealth country
Stable government and economy
Guaranteed fee simple titles
No capital gains tax
No inheritance tax
Advanced offshore banking laws
Once people start doubting the ads, the business goes into the crapper.
Petey uno,
If the LA riots were happening today, and the same people on this board that have an economic interest in Belize had an economic interest in LA, they would be denying it was happening. Self interest rules here.
Yes I agree with O.A.!
Everybody dump their property and run for your lives. There are a few or us crazy enough to stay behind and pick up the pieces for pennies on the dollar...
I think O.A. is a serious contender for our new minister of finance! Move over Ralph or you might get a fly hook in your eye!
All joking aside, then again I guess I am one of the few joking here, stability is obviously important. Stability isn't what is going to kill the investment economy in Belize. Taxation of hard working citizens to make up for the "carelesness" of the present/soon to be past government is a more likely contender.
So those of you who love Belize please bare with us. For those who aren't sure- please come and vacation here anyway as we need your money to help pay our taxes and utilities! (Even if none of them work)...
In closing- O.A. Cap't Jeff has invited you for a free day fishing and Pedro 1 has promised to provide (he didn't say pay) the beer for the day!
On the other hand Cap't Jeff will supply the boat and gasoline. You bring the tackle!
Here's my take/ramble: been coming to AC 2-3 times a year for 7 years. I fish and it offers the best value for the opportunity/experience anywhere. I've never been on the mainland except the I-airport. I've never met a rude vendor/server/owner/taxi driver/bartender/clerk-even when i include P1. Opinionated maybe. I know little about the politics of the country, but am amazed at the lack of local gov't control. It irritates me when taxes and fees that I pay go up anywhere, but it's particularly galling when the $ doesn't help the local economy/industry that generates it. It's refreshing to see the citizens/workers respnse to their view of the prblems. Sure they inconvienced me last month, and some of you over the last few weeks, but I have yet to hear/read about an action directed at a visitor. I don't know if I believe that would be true elsewhere and speaks volumes for the people of Belize. I intend to continue to visit,all the while remembering that I am a guest, and have no business telling belizeans what to do. If a time comes where my politics/religion/social values/sense of security are severely tested I'll find another destination. I'm a long from even considering that.
krehfish,my fishing brother you make a point. a good point..lets all chill .
and tim the new belize navy is out fishing and waiting for orders off shore.and will stay there till the beer and food runs out????
CAPT> When you know your late July schedule let me know. Still have that 5:30am all day salami trip.
Good news!
Pedro1 went on line last night and ordered a new Airbus 380. Maxxed out his credit card but it came in just under his limit. There will be plenty of room in the cargo hold to bring in our fishing/navy supplies.
Mike has agreed to fly it and Bobbie will maintain it.
Now we just have to figure out where we are going to get the money from to increase the runway here in San Pedro to land it. We have decided to do only direct routes to San Pedro. We are looking for a good gateway city. Any suggestions? Lan it's time you step up to your newly appointed position...
obtuseangler, you missed the points about LA. Anyone can look at the bad or good side of a place. It's all in the presentation and view of the beholder. Sort of like a 60 Minutes segment. I have lived in LA for 25 years and have loved it, except for some traffic issues like all major cities. As for Belize I have been there 10 times and also brought 94 of my friends there in February. Everyone loved it and most said it was the best vacation they had ever been on! Is Belize a flawless paradise? Hell no! Is it a great place to vacation? It's all in the eye of the beholder! And yes I do have a chemical imbalance...I haven't had Belikin in 2 months! AND it's REAPER not RAPER! Now go to Maui like a good tourist!
Tim J., I was really excited about the new SUPER AIRLINE. I could load it up with all the other mouthfoamers from LA. BUT...count me out. I'm sorry but I'm not getting in any airplane Mike is flying and Bobbie is wrenching on! We don't need to extend the runway. We could put floats on it and just land 800 passengers right at the fish'n hole!!!!
reaper
Tim -
Is there enough $$ left on P1's card to build a floating strip? I envision Terminal A to be a BB, B at Palms, C at Phoenix......
Hey capt J - if ya can get 'em a deal on the Enterprise, they could anchor that flattop right outside the reef and land there! A whole new flotilla of shuttles cvould then be built.
Reaper, what you worried about mon, everytime I see you, you got a chute on eh! And if I remember correctly you landed in the fishing hole, not on it.
Hey Papashine, Not everyone can shark fish using themselves as bait! AND...we were attached to some pretty colorful lures! I'm still gett'n sardines outta my reserve! OK...If you wrench and Mike flies I guess I'll go. But I want a seat by the door! Think Wipaire has a set of floats for that Airbus? Oh wait? don't the FRENCH make that plane? I don't think G.W. will allow me to fly on it! Save me a bar stool. I'll see you in 3 weeks. reaper