So much has happened since my last visit to Belize, a journey that has included loss of loved ones, new additions to family, internal growth, and the development of my career. I want to return to Belize, specifically Chaa Creek, to reconnect with what I found there14 years ago.

Other uses include the production of paper, clothing, bedding, mosquito nets and dance masks as well as plastering walls. Bark beaters were made of limestone, wood, ground stone, and even sea shells and their size and shape vary depending on their use. Some bark beaters had long handles and others had an encircling groove around the sides so that they would fit in one hand. This simple, multi-use utilitarian tool was not exclusively invented or used by the Maya since many civilizations and people around the globe and over time have used similar tools. Bark beaters were however important to the Maya for daily use and in present times are important for archaeologists to better understand the great Maya civilization.

What sustained the great, expanding populations of the ancient Maya in their seemingly inhospitable tropical environment? Recent pioneering work in Belize and Guatemala is introducing a remarkable new paradigm and setting a standard of sustainability for future generations.

It has always been one of my most heartfelt dreams to visit the lush green of the rain forest. I go to sleep
listening to a tape of the sounds of the birds and animals of the forest, the ack,ack, of the parrots and the mournful howling of the monkeys.
The outdoors is my life, I’m a caver,mountain biker, horseback rider,and kayak-er.  It would be heaven to go hiking and horseback riding on the trails of Chaa …

From what my parents told me about their trips to Costa Rica, it sounds like Belize will be very similar in many ways. However, neither they nor myself have ever seen Mayan temples.
I grew up near St. Louis, MO. Right across the river there are a number of mounds built by the Mississipians, which was a very advanced culture for their time. There are several very large burial mounds in the area, and some believe the Mississipians may have …

Chaa Creek is by far the best Belize destination for so many reasons. Located in the rainforest at the foot of the majestic Maya Mountains and along the banks of the Macal river, Chaa Creek has something to make every traveler’s dreams come true. Whether it be a hike deep into the rainforest among the native plants and animals , exploring Mayan temples that have been preserved for hundreds of years or just relaxing in the unique accomodations engulfed in unmatched natural beauty, Chaa Creek offers something unique for everyone.

Today, we’re sharing a great slide show of some Mayan sites. The slide show covers some visitors that went to Caracol, Xunantunich and Tikal. They walked away with some amazing pictures.