We recommend Chaa Creek to any soft-adventure traveler – and really want to support the conservation incentives of the Flemings. Jean & I visited Chaa Creek in the fall of 2009. Boy, had it changed since I was there in the early 90′s – back then it was a few thatched huts and outdoor deck / restaurant set on the banks of the Macal River. Of course the location hasn’t changed! But there’s tons more cabanas, an infinity pool that looks like it could be at a luxurious resort (which actually Chaa Creek is now), a proper restaurant aside from the bar….

With all the attention on the Heartland of Maya during 2012, it’s great to see such positive news and reviews from such internationally recognised travel experts as Trip Advisor and now the BBC and Lonely Planet. It shows that people recognise Belize not just for its position in the heartland of the Maya, but as a high quality, interesting destination in itself.

Did you know that the Spa at Chaa Creek was selected as a Top 10 Value Spa World Wide by Gayot.com?
Gayot is a website that serves as a serious, honest and professional resource on dining and travel for an international readership who are in search of the best.

GAYOT.COM: ” The Lodge at Chaa Creek prides itself on being a true eco lodge, 100 per cent devoted to green, sustainable tourism. Set on 365 acres in a private nature reserve in this …

The Academic Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to students undertaking study in various levels of education, including high school, colleges and university. The rigorous scholarships selection process is based on academic performance and financial needs, with an aim towards assisting Belizeans who show academic promise in attaining their goals

Coming from New York City where I see mostly man-made waste, construction, and noise pollution, I long to vacation in a natural, relaxing setting. Chaa Creek provides an exciting experience in an unspoiled environment that I would love to getaway in! I can just picture myself relaxing in one of the beautifully decorated rooms surrounded by the natural sounds of the jungle, rather than loud city sounds of car sirens and the commotion of the city. I love that Chaa Creek offers so many ways to encounter the organic beauty of Belize, through bird-watching tours, exploring archaeological ruins, relaxing in a spa in the middle of the jungle, or even just relaxing and listening to the peacefulness and tranquility of the Macal River.

Despite all that man has achieved – electricity, air and space travel, advanced computers and open-heart surgery among other things – and while our human intellect has soared to unimaginable heights, we have sadly neglected and dismissed the very source which nurtures our precious lives. Notwithstanding, nature like a loving and forgiving mother, continues to provide despite our many transgressions. As humankind irreverently pollutes this precious but delicate environment, our planet struggles to survive an increasingly destructive war we have foolishly waged on our very life support system.

The international climate change forum recently held in Belize is another sign that the small Caribbean country is serious about being part of a global solution, according to Chaa Creek GM and Environmental Initiatives Director Lucy Fleming.

In the coming months, a team of graduate students from Cornell’s Johnson School and College of Architecture, Art and Planning will work with the Belize Tourism Board and researchers at the University of Belize to examine the tourism industry and the costs associated with maintaining a sustainable destination.

As a Guide at Chaa Creek we are well aware of many things necessary for tourism and development to work – ecology, the environment, and historical, sociopolitical and socioeconomic circumstances of our country Belize. We also know that tourism is a vital main vein that leads to the life of the entire economy. On the other hand, we also know that educating ourselves, friends, guests and neighbors of the importance of this phenomenon of travel, we will help in the advancement of the country responsibly. We also know that we must have fun doing it!

By exploring alternative travel choices, you can have a unique trip and avoid leaving negative marks on cultures, economies, and the environment.

1. At the hotel: Ask about environmental policies and practices. Talk with staff about working conditions. Does the hotel support community projects?

2. Language: Learn a few words of the local language and use them.

3. Dress: Read up on local conventions and dress appropriately. In many countries, modest dress is important.

In a dream I am walking the Mayan Rainforest Trail through the vast nature reserve of Chaa Creek. My feet make no sound in the soft leaf litter. All my senses are alive. Strange, gloriously colorful birds flit through the green canopy, and animals I have seen only in pictures peer out at me from the thick foliage of the forest floor. The plants are not familiar to me, yet I sense their powerful beneficence.

Sustainable Tourism has come a long way in the past 10 years. Now it’s not only about appreciating nature but also about helping to preserve it. For hotels and resorts, this means minimizing footprints by reducing energy and water consumption, purchasing eco-friendly products, fostering environmental awareness among guests, and empowering the local community through employment and profit-sharing programs.
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References:
http://www.spamagazine.com/article/Lifestyle-Healthy-Living/Leave-a-Small-Footprint