Business & Economy
Low Season Leaves Secret Beach with Fewer Crowds
The popular recreational area northwest of San Pedro Town, Secret Beach, is seeing fewer visitors as the tourism low season sets in. During peak months, the beach is usually bustling with activity almost daily. Still, in recent weeks, the crowds have dwindled, forcing local businesses to adapt while continuing to cater to those seeking a quieter experience.
Travel & Tourism
Spirit Airlines to Launch Direct Flights Between Belize City and Fort Lauderdale
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) announced on Tuesday, August 5, that Spirit Airlines will begin direct flights to Belize from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, starting on November 21. This announcement follows an initial mention by the Minister of Tourism, the Honorable Anthony Mahler. The low-cost U.S. carrier will operate flights on Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Travel & Tourism
Tourism Slows Across San Pedro as Businesses Adjust for Off-Season
The low tourism season in Belize typically begins in June, coinciding with the start of the rainy season. A brief uptick in visitors is usually seen in July during the annual lobster festivals, but afterward, tourist arrivals decline. This year is no exception, with several businesses, particularly hotels, noticing a drop in occupancy. The trend has also affected restaurants and souvenir shops, prompting many to begin planning for the slow months ahead until the high season resumes in November. While some establishments intend to close temporarily, others are shifting focus to attract local tourists.
Travel & Tourism
Belize Tourism Board Announces Taste of Belize 2025 – Culinary & Cocktail Competition to Showcase National Talent
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) is delighted to announce the return of Taste of Belize, our signature culinary and bartending event, set for Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Caribbean Motors, Belize City. The event will feature exciting competitions to award Belize’s best Master Chef, Junior Chef, Pastry Chef, and Bartender.
Travel & Tourism
Belize Expands International Airlift with Montreal–Belize City Route
Over the past few years, the Government of Belize has been lobbying to increase the number of airlines flying to the country. A slight increase in new regional routes was observed prior to COVID-19, but after 2020, most new routes have originated from North America. The latest announcement features a direct flight between Montreal, Canada, and Belize City, Belize, commencing on December 8, 2025. Air Canada will offer this new non-stop flight, aiming to enhance accessibility for Canadian and European travellers planning to visit the Jewel during the winter season.
Travel
Air Canada to Launch New Non-Stop Service from Montreal to Belize
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB), in partnership with Air Canada, is proud to announce the launch of a new, nonstop flight connecting Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) with Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City. This landmark route, beginning December 8, 2025, marks the first direct air service linking Montreal, Quebec, and Belize.
Travel & Tourism
BTB Reports 7.3% Decline in Overnight Visitors in the Last Two Months
Belize’s tourism sector has experienced a notable downturn in overnight arrivals during April and May. According to the latest statistics released by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) on their “Tourism Performance Dashboard,” the figures show a concerning trend. The most striking data point comes from May 2025, which recorded 41,074 overnight visitor arrivals, a 7.3% decrease compared to May 2024, when arrivals stood at 44,313.
Travel
What’s New: A Culinary Journey at Akasha Restaurant
Located on the western coast of Ambergris Caye, Akasha Restaurant at Aruna Resort and Villas offers a unique dining experience characterized by bold flavors, local ingredients, and creative presentation. Chef Carlos Serrano, who brings over twenty years of industry experience to the table, is behind Akasha's cuisine.
Travel & Tourism
BTB Hosts Key Tourism Events Highlighting Growth and Innovation
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) successfully hosted three events on Thursday, May 8th, and Friday, May 9th, at the Belize Civic Center in Belize City, drawing hundreds of participants from across the tourism and business sectors. The Building on Our Momentum (B.O.O.M.) Forum, the Belize Airlift Development Conference, and the 9th Annual Digital Marketing Summit highlighted the country's strategic direction for sustainable tourism, enhanced air connectivity, and cutting-edge digital engagement.
Travel & Tourism
Aruna officially opens as San Pedro’s newest eco-resort
On Friday, April 11th, Ambergris Caye's newest resort officially opened its doors. Located 1.3 miles west of San Pedro Town, Aruna Resort is an eco-luxury development that aims to diversify the accommodation options available on the island. The opening events included a brief welcome ceremony, a ribbon cutting ceremony, and a guest mixer at the on-site over-the-water restaurant, Akasha.
Community and Society
San Pedro BTIA hosts Membership Mixer; industry partners are encouraged to sign up
On Friday, April 11th, the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) San Pedro Chapter hosted a Membership Mixer event at its Tourism Information Center across from the Saca Chispas field. The event aimed to share information about the work and advocacy efforts of both the local chapter and the national BTIA within the tourism industry and encourage new businesses to become members.
