“Mayanists, archaeologists, anthropologists and other researchers love the Maya caves of Belize because they contain such rich, well preserved examples of the Maya’s spiritual rituals. I think it’s great that we’re now seeing more mainstream interest in the caves as they really open up another aspect of this incredibly rich culture, ” Mr Awe said, adding that ATM tours through Chaa Creek are all conducted with the highest regard for safety, education and cultural respect for the Maya.

Over the years Chaa Creek has received numerous awards and accolades, and this new Trip Advisor recognition is particularly satisfying because it comes straight from international travellers themselves.

It’s remotely possible the world will end in December 2012. But don’t credit the ancient Maya calendar for predicting it, say experts on the Mesoamerican culture.

“To be recognised by National Geographic as one of the top ten destinations in the entire world, well, that pretty much says it all,” Chaa Creek owner and GM Lucy Fleming said. “As lifelong travellers and having been in adventure travel for over three decades, we naturally recognise National Geographic as the world’s top travel authority. To be recognised by an organisation and publication we hold in such high esteem is truly an honour.”

An article titled “The Music of Belize” written by Road Warrior Lily Girma is being featured on the National Geographic’s Intelligent Travel “Radar”.

I just returned from an amazing educational adventure in Belize. It was a cross between “Survivor” and National Geographic. I went as a part of my Master’s in Conservation program that combines summer field experiences with collaborative projects. I climbed Maya temples, explored caves, snorkeled the coral reef, hiked through rainforests, chased howler monkeys and much more. I also attended lectures from conservationists, did daily inquiry projects and engaged with local communities.

The ancient human remains were found at the bottom of a cenote (derived from the Maya word dzonot) located more than 2,000 feet (610 meters) below sea level. Known as Hoyo Negro, or Black Hole in Spanish, the deep pit is located inside the massive Aktun-Hu cave system on the Yucatan Peninsula coast north of Belize.

Archaeological explorers funded by National Geographic, report that they have found what’s believed to be Belize’s first recorded fossilized remains. They were found deep within cenotes at the little known Mayan site of Cara Blanca in the Orange Walk district.It is a project to explore what are called the sacred pools of the ancient Maya – basically an underwater spring located at the bottom of the Cenotes – which are underwater caves.
Here’s the link to this video report from National …