Dear Reader,

Belize is buzzing with new advancements in technology and tourism. It is no surprise that the Belize Tourism Board has been awarded the prestigious “Innovation & Creativity Award” of the Latin American Travel Association based in London. The announcement was made on June 12th at the Experience Latin America (ELA) trade show. “This award is a testament of how the BTB is ensuring that Belize is promoted effectively with great innovation and creativity to the European market and beyond,” said Karen Pike, BTB’s Director of Marketing and Industry Relations.

Additional improvements are progressing on Belize’s technological front, thanks to a partnership between the government of Belize and Microsoft. In an official ceremony in Belize City, both parties signed a “Memorandum of Understanding”, which will help the government meet its National Digital Transformation Goals. "We invited Microsoft to visit in April of this year while conducting a joint workshop with key governmental departments. Out of this workshop we have been developing a road map that will guide our work in building the systems needed to power e-governance,” stated Mike Singh, who is the Chief Tech Officer for Office of the Prime Minister.

For those interested in checking out the award-winning destination themselves, be sure to check Jack Sheldon’s expert tips for saving on airfare. Mr. Sheldon, founder of Jack’s Flight Club, offers invaluable advice on getting the best price for your flight around Christmas time, your long-haul flight to Asia, and how to best utilize connecting flights. Don’t miss these tips when booking your next visit to Belize!

The combination of technological advancements and the accessibility of a truly breathtaking destination like Belize has given rise to another new development, “SeaSeekers” goggles! Royal Caribbean has partnered with Snapchat to provide cruise passengers with “SeaSeekers” goggles, a new scuba mask with waterproof cameras. This opportunity will allow guests to capture stunning underwater images while on vacation.

If you’re looking for the best place to put these new goggles to use, check out the top four diving paradises of the world: Cuba, Malta, Australia, and of course, Belize! No dive list would be complete without the Great Blue Hole of Belize, a part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Jacques Cousteau’s famous dive has put this gem on the map as one of the best dive places in the world. 

We look forward to seeing you in Belize!

 Until next time,

Michael Cobb
Contact me
Chairman and CEO
 www.grandbaymen.com