Dear Tourism Industry partners

Greetings from the Belize Tourism Board,

The focus of the daily activities at the BTB are geared toward ensuring that international travelers are aware of the diverse experiences that Belize offers for a variety of audiences; that visitors have the positive Belize experience that they seek; and that within Belize there exists an enabling environment for the success of private sector operations. This July brought exciting examples of each.

BETEX 2008 provided an opportunity for the industry to showcase our product in the best way possible – right here at home! Our visitors included influential members of the international press; travel agents in all our major markets including a healthy Central American representation; and a new show format that allowed the travel trade to experience the adventure and meet hotels and tour operators in their districts and at their properties.

With Food & Beverage service training a high priority at hotels throughout Belize, the Product Development department's preparations for two Johnston & Wales training courses coming in August complement the training opportunities provided by the Belize Hotel Association.

Of course, the Government's announcement of the paving of the Placencia Road is exciting and most welcome news for residents, investors and visitors to one of Belizes most popular destinations.

We hope that you find our July update helpful and informative and as always, we welcome your feedback via the BTB's online office at Belizetourism.org ; email, telephone or in person at our offices at # 64 Regent St. in Belize City.

With friendship,
Tracy Panton
Director of Tourism