Placencia Joins Forces with CORAL and WWF to Put Standards into Practice
In June, 2006, the Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL), in conjunction with the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), held the second ICRAN MAR pilot site series workshop held over a two-day period at the Placencia Community Center on Sustainable Marine Recreation in the Greater Placencia Area, Belize. The workshop, headed by Rich Wilson of CORAL and Belize City-based Shalini Cawich of WWF, brought together dedicated local participants working to develop voluntary marine recreations standards, and to identify and develop action plans for a select number of conservation projects for which the ICRAN MAR implementing partners (principally CORAL and World Wildlife Federation) will provide technical and financial assistance. The groups are also applying for matching funds and grants where available. Continue>>>>>

The Success of Lobsterfest

For the very first time Placencia's annual Lobsterfest, always the last weekend in June, was held out on the beach instead of down near the main docks in the village. Crowds gathered to enjoy all the great things that Placencia Lobsterfest is known for - the extensive selection of delectable lobster cuisine, the unique creations of the artisans on display, great musical entertainment, games and activities, and of course the added attraction of a refreshing dip along Placencia’s beautiful white beaches. Why the move? The fest has grown dramatically in size over the years and the need for more space was a must. Continue>>>>>

 Tour Guide Training Starts….By Elysia Dial

The Placencia Tourism Center is running its first National Tour Guide Training Program since the summer of 2004. With close to 30 participants registered this year’s group is the largest to ever start training in this area.
The National Tour Guide training program prepares participants for the exciting profession of tour guiding by covering the topics of Belize Today, The Guide, Natural History of Belize, Belize’s History and Culture, and the World of the Maya. Participants must also take part in an internship to complete this course.
Participants have already completed two of the six chapters of the course and are anxiously awaiting their results.
The Placencia Tourism Center is also planning on organizing an Advanced Marine Training course as well as other specialty courses throughout the year.