The Journey to North Bali

25 February 202222 September 2024

The smell of coffee brought a smile to my face the morning after New Year’s Eve. Despite staying up late to welcome in the New Year, I had a restful sleep and was excited to make the journey to northern Bali. Before checking into the hotel on Lovina Beach, there would be plenty of time to make a few stops along the way. Wayan and his family wanted to drive around Denpasar to show me the busy city life of the south before reaching the more laid-back region of Singaraja.

Our first stop was in the heart of the island’s capital. First, the family needed to present an offering to their Hindu gods and offer up a prayer. There was a temple close by so, they completed their morning custom and then we visited one of the local shopping plazas to browse for souvenirs. This was the perfect location for purchasing a sarong for visiting the temples and there were so many options and a variety of designs. The children were eagerly excited to help me select the perfect one.

From clothing to temple decorations, the Balinese market offered a wide selection of products, quite similar to our large discount chains in the United States, but much more fun and exciting. Outside the shopping plaza were food carts that lined the street where a quick, healthy meal of meatball soups, noodle dishes or wraps could be purchased.

The Balinese are known for their intrinsic woodwork and take pride in the ornate furnishings they design. From decorating their everyday living space to adorning their family’s home temple, the Balinese artisans are very skilled and in high demand.

Wayan explained that each Hindu family has a small temple in their home to carry out their daily religious ceremonies. The altars are decorated in such detail to include carvings of the gods, with their exquisite artwork and vibrant colors. The shopping centers sell these types of items for their worship space and Wayan wanted to look at the new artwork on display. After purchasing a few bowls to hold their offerings to the gods, we were ready to start our journey north.

Before exiting the city, Wayan pointed out a tower-like structure, beautifully designed with vibrant colors known as a waddhu. Standing alongside the road, it had been created in preparation for a cremation ceremony and I learned that the higher the tower, the more important the person. This ceremony is one of Bali’s oldest customs that dates back to thousands of years.

The Balinese Cremation Ceremony, also known as Ngaben, is a spiritual ritual of the Hindu that is viewed as a celebration. It is believed that if the loved one has completed their purification on earth, they will be united with God. If the purification is incomplete, they will be reborn as someone else, returning to earth and starting the process again in a new life until purification is complete.

The date of the ceremonial rite will be selected by the Hindu priest and the family will make additional arrangements such as making the Lambu (the coffin), selecting the Gamelan musicians for the procession and purchasing the offerings to the gods.

After the service and procession, the priest will ignite the waddhu from the holy fire, burning the body until it has turned to ash. The remains will be scattered into the sea and ceremonial activities will last over the next twelve days in honor of their loved one that has passed.

With a two hour drive ahead of us, we left the city late that afternoon. The traffic began to lessen and the scenery to change in the most dramatic of ways. We traded in our stoplights and highways for mountains and rice fields. It was a quiet, relaxing drive and we made several stops to take some photos and enjoy the countryside.

We had been driving for about twenty minutes when Wayan’s wife, Candra noticed the fruit market on the side of the road. The fruit hanging from the poles is the durian fruit and when I told them I had not tried it before, they were happy to stop.

As soon as we exited the car, the strong smell of kerosene was overwhelming. In addition to its scent, the fruit has a spiky exterior. The durian’s pungent odor is one of its characteristics, but if you can get past it, the flesh is said to have a nutty custard flavor. The market provides free samples, so with a little coaching, I tried it.

I was happy that there were other fruit selections available as well, so I purchased bananas, rambutan and another local favorite, the starfruit.

Our small snack of fruit was enough to tie us over until lunch, and it was time to make another stop. As we pulled into the Ulun Danu Temple, Wayan mentioned that this location is one of the most photographed temples in Bali. He knew that I wanted to see Bali’s dramatic landscapes and the view of the temple surrounded by the misty mountains was magical.

Close to the temple was a small food stand where we could order authentic Balinese food. I tried the Bakso soup made of chicken and noodles in a bone broth and had a small order of spinach chips with a peanut crust. The meal was extremely fresh and satisfying.

Across from the food stand, children and teens were hanging out with their friends on the pier. Some were holding fishing poles while other seemed to be catching up on the latest gossip at school. We sat along the deck and gazed out into the scenic view before continuing our journey towards Singaraja.

Soon after leaving the temple, the sky began to darken. Passing a small group of trees, I noticed a monkey on the side of the road. The children were just as excited to see him so we pulled over for a closer look. He reappeared in the clearing along with a couple of friends and seemed so unafraid of humans.

Pande, Wayan’s oldest son, told me about the temple near their home where several monkeys lived. Wayan and Candra mentioned that it was on our way to the celebration that we would be attending later in the week.

I thought about that monkey the rest of our drive into Lovina Beach and about the fact that he had no fear of people. Candra said that the monkeys are a protected animal on the island and that they find refuge in the many temples.

We arrived at the Aditya Beach Resort where I had made my reservations, checking in around 9. I said goodbye to the Sunarsa family, who would meet back up with me in a couple of days.

My room was perfect and I was so tired that I knew it would be another great night of sleep. As the Indonesians say, Selamat Malam! (Good night!)

Have you visited the island of Bali? Where did you stay and what did you do? I would love to hear about your adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for following my visit to the island of Bali! Happy Travels!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Erlangga 2 Shopping Center
Jalan Nusa Kambangan no. 162
Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia

Admission Cost: Free, open to the public
Hours: 8AM to 10PM
Amenities: Food court close to venue
Length of Time to Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Best kept secret for souvenirs and local items at inexpensive prices. Some of the best deals on woodwork, sarongs, souvenirs, t-shirts, Bali textiles and artwork.

Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
Jalan Raya Candi Kunung-Bedugul
Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia

Where to Stay:

Aditya Beach Resort
Jalan Raya Lovina, Lovina Beach, North Bali, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 362 41059
Email: info@adityalovinabali.com

Where to Eat:

Ulun Danu Bratan Temple – Food Stalls
Jalan Raya Candi Kunung-Bedugul
Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia

I cannot get enough of the Bakso soup. I love the spices and it tastes so fresh!!

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for North Bali:

Git Git Waterfall
Mount Batur
Sekumpal Waterfalls
Tamblingan Lake
Twin Lakes Viewpoint

Forest on the Way to North Bali

Temples, Monkeys and Seafood in South Bali

11 February 202222 September 2024

As we left Ubud and traveled towards Kuta, it was quite clear that we were headed back to city life. With a short drive through rush hour, we saw several buses, cars, dump trucks and a large number of motorbikes. Soon we arrived in the city of Kuta with its beachfront hotels and upscale restaurants.

Since I wasn’t sure how long I would be staying in northern Bali, I did not make hotel reservations for the latter part of my vacation. Arriving in Kuta, I stopped by the Hard Rock Hotel where I stayed the first night, but unfortunately, there were no rooms available for a short term stay. Hotels in Kuta book up fast, even in the off-season.

I was hoping to find a place where I could relax and hang out by a pool, so my friend Wayan suggested we try the bungalows located around the corner. With a setting of solace and quiet, I was happy that the Kuta Puri Bungalows had space available. The property and location was perfect and happened to be one of the best accommodations I had ever experienced, staying a few nights in the Luxury Bungalow.

Waking early, I enjoyed the hotel’s complimentary breakfast and decided to make plans for seeing more of South Bali. I wanted to visit the Uluwatu Temple, known for its spectacular ocean views and resident monkeys but my friends had already left to go back to Lovina Beach. With the help of the hotel, I was able to find a local driver who would take me to the temple, wait with me until I had completed my tour and could recommend a seafood lunch on Jimbaran Beach.

As my driver dropped me off at the temple, I was welcomed by a troop of monkeys. I watched them as they eagerly taunted a group of visitors, stealing their belongings in the parking lot.

Before entering the temple, I wrapped the sarong around my waste to cover my knees. Many of the Hindu temples are strict about the dress of visitors and require that the shoulders and knees are covered prior to entering. Several of them loan out sarongs as a cover-up which can be returned at the end of their visit.

It was windy outside with overcast skies, and I was excited to visit one of the most dramatic temples of Bali, perched on a cliff high above the sea.

A pathway following along the coast led me past a steep cliff before arriving at the temple. I could hear the faint sound of waves crashing against the rocky bluff. The crystal blue waters with their white foam disappeared into the cave-like tunnels beneath the craggy rocks.

The temple was closing in and I could hardly see the tourists in the distance. I was nervous in anticipation as I thought about standing along the edge of the cliff. Climbing higher, the wind began to pick up so I started to hang on tightly to the railing until I reached the top. The view of the ocean extended for miles and looking down made me weak in the knees. What an exhilarating experience!

I slowly wandered to an adjacent open-air building where monkeys were playing, begging from visitors and sharing their food with their friends. Tourists were tossing fruit and coconuts towards them and those that had their fill went back to playing around and grooming each other affectionately.

While the adult monkeys were eating, it was the baby monkeys that stole the show. Tumbling over each other and playing a lively game of tag, their energy was adorable. Their big brown eyes and tiny features made them all the more lovable. I could have stayed here for hours but it was time for lunch along the beach and I was looking forward to sampling some of the Iocal seafood.

Jimbaran Beach was not far from the temple and the wind was beginning to die down. I was looking forward to having lunch outside along the beach, enjoying the scenic view of the coast. A large selection of restaurants lined the shore so I trusted my driver to provide a recommendation. He suggested the Bawang Merah Beachfront Restaurant where I ordered the red snapper with rice.

Blackened and grilled, my red snapper arrived and I could smell the heat from the spices. The fish was tender and the rice prepared perfectly. Enjoying my meal, I reflected on my Balinese vacation over the past two weeks and the amazing memories I had made in such a short period of time. Sitting along the beach, I thought about how much this opportunity taught me culturally, physically and spiritually. I made a mental note to take in the scenery at this very moment and promised myself never to take for granted this spectacular journey of a lifetime and promised myself that one day I would return.

What was your most recent journey that made a huge impact on you where you wanted to return again soon? I would love to hear your experience, so kindly leave a summary in the comments section below! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Uluwatu Temple
Pecatu, South Kuta
Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Admission Fee: 35,000 Rupiah (IDR) to enter the temple and 50,000 Rupiah (IDR) for the kecak performance; $5 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians, cash only
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM.
Amenities: Sarong rental to ensure appropriate dress, kecak fire dancing performances in the evening,
Scenic View: Spectacular views of the temple on the cliffside and of the ocean below
Length of the Hike: 1 to 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Please be aware of the monkeys at the temple. They may try to steal your belongings, so ensure that your sunglasses, hats, water bottles, etc. are secure in your possession. Hiking up to the temple, stay on the pathway as there are dangerous cliffs around. This is an amazing location to watch the sun set.

Where to Stay:

Kuta Puri Bungalows
Jalan Pantai Kuta
Poppies Lane 1
Kuta, Kubupaten, Badung, Bali, 80361, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 751903

Where to Eat:

Bawang Merah Beachfront Restaurant
Kelan, Jimbaran Bay, Bali, 80361, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 770210

I ordered the grilled, blackened red snapper which was incredibly fresh and absolutely delicious!

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for South Bali:

The Edge Hotel in Uluwatu, Bali is amazing for spectacular cliff views.
Rock Bar Bali is the perfect location to watch the sunset over Uluwatu
Ulu Cliff House is a beach club located in Uluwatu that provides incredible views of the coastline
OMNIA Bali’s infinity pool
Gili Trawangan Swings at Ombak Sunset
The Ayana Pool at Ayana Resort
Sea Circus in Seminyak for breakfast
La Brisa Bali located in Canggu is the popular location to watch the sunset
Tegenungan Waterfall in Ubud
Tegalalang Rice Fields for the gorgeous scenery and the Love Bali sign
Thomas Beach Uluwatu
Bingin Beach Uluwatu
Motel Mexicola for its colorful exterior
Bambu Indah Hotel in gorgeous Ubud
The Monkey Forest in Ubud
Hidden Hills Villas
Nusa Penida for the cliffside views
La Laguna Bali in Canggu
Mt. Batur for its sunrise (north Bali)
Crate Cafe at Canggu

Tigang Sasih: A Cultural Experience in Bali

15 January 202222 September 2024

Visiting a friend while on vacation in Bali, I was invited to a Hindu Nelubulanin Ceremony, a religious gathering that takes place when a child reaches the age of three months. According to Hindu beliefs, a child born to a family is considered a god until their three month ceremony which is one of the most rights of passage celebrations of the Hindu faith.

The Sunarsas picked me up at my hotel and we began our journey towards the northwestern side of the island. After a three hour drive and a stop along the way, we arrived in the residential town of Gilimanuk.

We set out early in the morning so that Wayan and his family could present their daily offering at the Monkey Temple. The traffic was light and the scenic drive included views of the ocean as well as statuesque trees that lined the roadway.

Prior to entering the village of Pemuteran, home to the Monkey Temple, there were several other Balinese sanctuaries situated along the coast. Among some of the most dramatic scenery, these places of worship are essential to the every day customs of the Balinese Hindus.

The cliffs behind the Pura Agung Pulaki temple are where the monkeys reside. According to Balinese legend, these monkeys are believed to be descendants of ancient guardians of the temple that once inhabited the island.

The Balinese believe that the reincarnated monkeys continue to provide protection to this magnificent temple. They are known by locals as the “Wong Samar” or “Gamang”.

The Sunarsa family entered the temple, prayed and left their offerings inside. It was hardly fifteen minutes when they emerged and met me outside where the active monkeys filled the sidewalks.

Returning to the vehicle, we noticed over fifty monkeys invading the walkway and curiously exploring the hood of our car and hopping onto the roof. Candra, Wayan’s wife, explained that these macaques are quite familiar with humans but can be aggressive if provoked. As we slowly walked towards the car, the monkeys began to scatter towards the trees and we continued our drive towards the coast.

Within an hour and a half, we arrived at the home where the Nelubulanin Ceremony would be taking place. On the drive over, Wayan explained the purpose of the celebration and its meaning.

According to the Balinese Hindus, until the day of the child’s three month celebration, the baby is a divine creature and is not permitted to touch the ground with his or her feet. They believe that the child is pure and sacred and must stay clean before the ceremony to connect with Mother Earth.

Family and friends will bring trinkets and blessings to the child to ensure that they are prosperous, healthy and have a joyous life. A priest is also in attendance to perform the ceremony and acts as an intermediary with the gods.

Celebrations are not only a part of the Hindu religion but of the Balinese culture. Large gatherings of family members and friends come together to celebrate, memorialize or mourn their loved ones. It is customary that relatives bring a dish for these celebrations and the food that day was an amazing spread of delicious Balinese foods.

The family of the child prepare themselves for the ritual by participating in a purification ritual. The parents also ready the baby by adorning him or her with jewelry such as earrings, necklaces and bracelets.

Many offerings are presented to the high priest in attendance and he prays over the items that have been prepared for the ceremony.

The Hindu priest facilitates the offerings and various rites of the event. He is seated on a platform among the offerings, water and incense. He is in a continual state of prayer that includes chants in the ancient Sanskrit language.

During this time, the family simultaneously presents their offerings to the priest and praying to the Hindu gods. The contributions are strategically placed within a designated square platform representing goodwill and protection towards the child.

The large number of offerings include earthly items that symbolize the state of the child’s future on earth. For example, leaves with inscriptions represent wisdom and intelligence, coins represent wealth and jewelry symbolizes the need for desire.

Fruit and grains of rice and corn represent the child’s future hard work and diligence. The water containing a goldfish symbolizes the pond of life. The climax of the ceremony is when the family places the child in the center of the small objects and watches as the child selects one of these items which will represent how he will live his life.

The child is carried around the symbolic offerings three times which represent birth, life and death. Once the ceremony is completed, the family gathers around to enjoy each other’s company at a wonderful feast which usually includes the suckling pig (babi buling) as well as a wide variety of other Indonesian foods and fruits. It is a joyous time for the family and their friends and lasts throughout the day.

Male Bali Starling

We stayed long enough to eat and enjoy each others company. Before sunset, we began the drive back to Lovina Beach. Nearing the halfway mark of our journey, the family eagerly suggested a stop at the Bali Barat National Park, a sanctuary for the country’s native bird, the Bali Starling. The reserve was established to protect these beautiful birds from extinction as locals trap them to keep them as pets for good luck.

Turning into the park, the entrance was paved and lampposts lined the driveway. The mangrove forest surrounding us is also home to more monkeys and a protected species of cattle. Not far from the conservation is a popular dive site with a coral reef and a variety of unique, interesting salt water fish.

Female Bali Starling

With over 160 varied species of birds at the Bali Barat National Park, it is the Bali Starling that is the most sought after, and is one of the most endangered species of birds in the world. The Bali Starling Recovery Project was created to reintroduce the bird back into the island of Bali.

From the beautiful drive to Gilimanuk, attending the Nelubulanin Ceremony, and visiting the Bali Starling Recovery Project, I was happy to have spent the day in the lives of my Balinese friends. With the Balinese celebrating a variety of ceremonies over the course of a year, it is unusual that an outsider would be invited to participate in the festivities. I felt honored to have experienced the ceremonial celebration. I learned so many wonderful lessons that day. One, the importance of religion and family in the lives of the Indonesians and secondly, their love of sharing their country and values with those that have a respect for their culture.

Have you attended a ceremonial celebration from another culture? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for following my adventures through Bali! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Pulaki Temple
Jalan Seririt-Gilimanuk, Banyupoh, Gerokgak
Kabupaten, Buleleng, Bali, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 362 92380

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Daily, open 24 hours
Amenities: Public toilet, Beach, Food and Drink Stalls
Scenic View: Beautiful views of the ocean from here and watching the monkeys is extraordinary!
Length of the Tour: Less than 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Dress appropriately for visiting the temple, covering your shoulders and knees. Watch out for the monkeys on the inside and outside of the temple as they are known to steal car keys, sunglasses, etc. Inside there are plenty of cats, which keep to themselves.

Bali Barat National Park
Kantor Pos Gilimanuk
Cekik, 82253, Bali, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 365 61060

Admission Fee: To tour the park, the cost is 10,000 Rupiah (IDR) during the weekday and 15,000 Rupiah (IDR) during the weekend. Because certified guides are required to trek through the park, the costs are varied (i.e., 2 hour trek = 150,000 IDR for 1 – 2 persons and 250,000 IDR for three to five persons).
Hours: Daily, open from dawn to dusk (open for overnight camping)
Amenities: Local Guides, Beach, Hiking, Snorkeling, Diving, Animal Reserve, Birding, Food and Drink Stalls
Scenic View: Beautiful views of the ocean from here and visiting the unique animals is fascinating!
Length of the Tour: Varies, depending on the activities you select
Tips for Your Visit: The best time to visit is from August to December which is the end of the dry season and start of the rainy season. I would also suggest going early in the day to watch the sunrise! The birding excursions are the most popular.

Where to Stay:

Nirwana Water Garden
Lovina Beach Street
Lovina Beach Bali

Nirwana Water Garden is located in the heart of Lovina Beach. It is a 45-minute drive to the dive site of Menjangan Island. Ngurah Rai International Airport is a 2.5-hour drive away. The hotel can provide hotel transfers for a fee.

Nirwana Restaurant serves Indonesian specialties, with the option of in-room dining. Guests can enjoy a guided tour to visit the dolphins at Lovina Beach, which can be arranged by the Nirwana’s staff.

Where to Eat:

Warung Ibu Wina
Jalan Mawar , Kalibukbuk, Lovina Beach, Anturan
Buleleng, Bali 81152, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 813 3759 6912

I could not stop thinking about the Makso soup that I had tried on my first day in Bali. The ingredients were light and fresh and the soup was downright delicious. I searched out a warung (a small Indonesian cafe) to find a place where I could find this yummy chicken soup and came across Warung Ibu Wina.

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for North Bali:

Git Git Waterfall
Mount Batur
Sekumpal Waterfalls
Tamblingan Lake
Twin Lakes Viewpoint

An Overview of Blog Posts from 2015

29 December 201522 July 2024

What a great year for travel! Here are some of my adventure blogs for 2015:

CARIBBEAN AND PORTS OF CALL:

Bermuda

Hamilton, Bermuda

Grand Cayman: Stingray City, Afternoon Drive on Grand Cayman, and Hell

Stingrays at Stingray City

Honduras: Untouched Beauty, Underwater Photographs

Gorgeous Honduras Beaches

EUROPE:

Wine Tasting in Tuscany

Wine Event at Fattoria il Poggio

UNITED STATES:

United States: Arizona

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Indian Settlement at Montezuma Castle National Monument

United States, California: San Francisco Downtown

San Francisco Chinatown

United States, California: San Francisco Golden Gate

San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge

United States: Louisiana

Mardi Gras

Celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans

United States, Michigan; Holland, Michigan

Tulips in Holland, Michigan

United States: Ohio

Cincinnati: Cincinnati Art Museum, The Divine Felines Exhibit

Recumbent Lion, Ptolomaic Period, 305 – 35BC, Reportedly from Giza

Fragmentary Inscription, Dynasty 25 – Dynasty 26, 670 – 650 BC

Cincinnati: Interview With Artist, Jimi Jones

Jimi Jones Artwork

Jimi Jones

Cincinnati: Cincinnati Children’s Museum – Leonardo da Vinci Exhibit

Exploring the Genius of Leonardo da Vinci at the Cincinnati Children’s Museum

Cleveland: The Cleveland Art Museum, Pharaoh King of Egypt Exhibit

The Pharaoh Exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art

An Egyptian Sarcophagus

Cleveland: Maltz Museum, Operation Finale

The Capture and Trial of Adolf Eichmann

The Holocaust Survivors

Columbus: Franklin Park Conservatory

Gorgeous Orchids at Franklin Park Conservatory

Amazing Butterflies at the Franklin Park Conservatory

Columbus: Inniswood

Having Fun with my New Camera

Springfield: Art Museum, Jason Morgan

Jason Morgan Artwork

Springfield: Art Museum, Jimi Jones

Jimi Jones Artwork

Auschwitz Exhibit at The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Celebrating 70 Years of Auschwitz Closing

Sam and Ethel’s

Enjoying a Reuben at Sam & Ethel’s

Yellow Springs Brewery

Sampling craft beer at Yellow Springs Brewery

Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail

Hiking the Rim Trail

Ohio Christmas:

Columbus: Alum Creek Lights

Drive Thru Christmas Lights

PNC Lights: Cincinnati Zoo

A Tunnel of Lights

I hope you enjoyed this recap of my blog posts and travels for 2015. Stay tuned for more adventures to come in 2016! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Capuchins in Quepos

8 December 201431 August 2024

My first week in Costa Rica flew by as we began to make our drive south towards the Pacific Coast. It felt great to arrive at our beach house for an afternoon of relaxation and then to host a bonfire for our neighbors in the evening. Cheffy cooked an amazing meal for us and we watched a couple of movies before turning in. We had a big day planned with a day of surfing and exploring Manuel Antonio Park in Quepos, about an hour drive from Playa Palo Seco.

We stopped by to see our neighbor Maria to see if she needed us to pick up anything from the grocery on our way back. She had decided that she had a freezer full of quick and easy prepackaged meals and a a refrigerator stocked with Imperial beer. She should be good for a couple of days.

Known for its white sandy beaches and outdoor bars, the sleepy town of Quepos is most known for its local park full of monkeys and sloths. We were so excited to take a few hours to explore Manuel Antonio National Park to interact with the white faced capuchin, hired a local guide and broke out our binoculars to find the elusive three-toed sloth.

As we walked the main path through the park, we felt as though we were being followed by the same troop of monkeys at the start of our adventure. These cheeky capuchins have become accustomed to humans and love to interact. Whether you find it charming or a bit invasive, the adorable primates are determined to be center stage.

Most white-faced monkeys travel together in numbers that reach between 18 to 20. We learned from our guide that it was mating season and that the gestation period lasts for close to 160 days. Their diet consists of both plants and animals such as nuts, fruits, insects, birds, squirrels, lizards and tree rats.

The two-toed sloths, on the other hand, could care less about their surroundings and stay high towards the top of the trees to maintain their privacy. Because they are nocturnal, these “smiling” sloths are very difficult to find. The sloths are synonymous with laziness, but in fact, they do as least they can to conserve energy. It takes nearly two weeks for a meal to be digested for the sloth and lucky for them, their diet consists of tree leaves and branches. It is rare to find a sloth near the ground as they only leave their treehouses about once a week to relieve themselves. One of the easiest ways to spot a sloth is to hire a guide, while some find sloth spotting easier on a night hike when they are wide awake.

Hiking the Punta Catedral brought us to the park’s island, where we could easily see the diversity of the park. From its snow white beaches, life sustaining rain forest and colorful coral reefs, we decided to cross over a small stream of water to reach the stunning isle.

Nearly a half a million visitors explore Manuel Antonio National Park each year and it has recently opened its elevated trail. Each year we would make our pilgrimage to one of Costa Rica’s most visited attractions to practice spotting sloths and tracking monkeys. We would end the day watching the sunset from our local friends’ home and reflecting on our spectacular adventure would agree that this is Pura Vida.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Manuel Antonio National Park? What was your favorite part of the day? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading through one of my favorite places to visit in the world and wishing you many Happy Travels.

What to See and What to Do:

Manuel Antonio National Park
Quepos, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 2777 3339 or 800 280 2597

Admission Fee: $18.08 for adults; $5.65 for children ages 2 – 12; children under the age of 2 is free
Hours: Daily from 7AM to 5PM with the exception of Tuesday. The park is open on holidays unless the holiday falls on a Tuesday. The nearby beach closes at 3 and the park rangers will notify the remaining visitors that they will need to leave the park by 4PM, starting towards the exit by 3:30PM.
Amenities: Guided tours ($51 for adults, $35 for children); Private tours ($71 for adults and $55 for children) The tours last for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You can purchase your tickets through a third party (i.e., Viator) that will provide a guide. Guides are available to show you around the park. They will tell you about the flora and fauna as well as show you were the animals are hiding within the parks. Most tours will last only a couple of hours, but should you want to stay longer, the guide can explain how to take the bus back or where to grab a taxi. Independent guides should wear their badges showing their ICT certification. For 2, expect to pay $20 per person for 2 hours and if they charge more, you can easily find another guide that will accept the $20 per hour/per person rate.
Parking: Parking is available at the park and there are several parking lots. Follow the sign at the entrance and an attendant will assist you with parking. Remember to note which parking lot you have parked your vehicle. Do not leave valuables in the car, roll up your windows and ensure the doors are locked. Pay for parking in Costa Rican colones, not American dollars. Depending on the season, you can expect to pay 3000 to 6000 colones. On your way to parking, look for restaurants and shops on the left and this will let you know that you are close. There may be attendants that will tell you that you must park in their lot, but this is a scam. After passing the shops and restaurants, you will see the Super Joseth convenient store. You will notice a small road to your left, so turn left here and past the Hotel Vela Bar to reach the parking lots. Drive carefully as this is a narrow road.
Scenic View: The park’s animals…the sloths and monkeys in the wild.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours to include the beach
Tips for Your Visit: Arrive early before the crowds. Tickets must be purchased online as they are not available at the entrance. If you arrive without a ticket, you will not be able to enter. The park only sells approximately 3000 tickets per day. December through April and June through August are high season, so purchase your tickets well in advance. The website provides instructions for purchasing the tickets and you can select the English language. The tickets are only valid for one day as there are no multi-day tickets available. Your ticket can only be used once, which means you will need to purchase multiple tickets for the dates you would like to enter. Ensure that you hire a certified guide who can point out the elusive sloths. You should ask for their ICT (Institute of Costa Rica Tourism) credentials. There will be scammers dressed in park ranger uniforms or fake badges and name tags. When you arrive at the park, bring a printed copy of your reservation (the reservation number or barcode) in addition to your passport. Should you not have your passport, you can show a copy of your passport for entry. Alcohol, guns, cigarettes, drugs and speakers are prohibited. Set your GPS or Google Maps to “Welcome Center Manuel Antonio” or “Hotel San Beda” for the correct directions.There are three bathrooms at the entrance of the park and three additional bathrooms within the park. There is one facility where you will find bathrooms, showers and changing booths. Visitors are not permitted to being food into the park. In 2023, the park added a cafeteria where visitors can purchase sandwiches, salads and drinks. There are also restaurants at the entrance of the park.

Where to Stay:

We stayed at our private residence located at Playa Palo Seco during our stay

Where to Eat:

Rico Tico Jungle Grill
Near Manuel Antonio Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 2777 0777

What to Eat:

Arroz con Leche is translated to rice with milk and is a popular dessert in Costa Rica. Additional ingredients include milk, cinnamon, salt and lemon zest, making this a delicious end to your meal.
Casado, which means marriage which is an interesting combination of meat such as beef, pork, chicken and fish as well as rice, beans, tortillas, fried platano maduro and salad. In addition, the dish also includes a fruit juice.
Ceviche is raw fish that has been “cooked” with citrus juices.
Gallo Pinto is a mixture of rice and beans with red bell peppers, onions, cilantro and other spices. The secret ingredient is the Salsa Lizano. It is a popular breakfast dish.
Sopra Negra is translated to black soup, which is the base of this delicious soup. Included with the black beans, there are onions, peppers, tomatoes, soft boiled eggs and spicy spices.
Tamales are similar to their Mexican cousin, but there are some differences, one of which is the wrapping. In Costa Rica, tamales are wrapped in banana leaves rather than corn husks.

What to Drink:

Agua Dolce (sweet water): which is sweetened with cane sugar
Cerveza (Beer): Imperial
Guaro: sugar cane liquor which sneaks up on you. Cacique is the most popular brand.

What to Read:

It’s Every Monkey for Themselves: A True Story of Sex, Love and Lies in the Jungle by Vanessa Woods
Oro by Cizia Zyke
Green Phoenix: Restoring the Tropical Forests of Guanacaste, by William Allen
Monkeys are Made of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica, by Jack Ewing
Costa Rica: A Traveler’s Literary Companion by Barbara Ras, Oscar Arias
The Year of Fog, by Michelle Richmond

Photo Guide for Costa Rica:

Manuel Antonio National Park for wild animals such as sloths and monkeys
Tortuguero National Park for amazing loggerheads and hawksbill
Poas Volcano National Park for its impressive view of the interior of the volcano

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Costa Rica’s Jaguar Rescue Center

24 November 201431 August 2024

It was another incredible day of surfing and water sports before we packed up our belongings to continue our journey towards Panama. We made one last stop at the bar to thank our bartender and host for the last couple of days and to say good bye to the friendly toucan. We each ordered an Imperial for the road, took a few photos of the spectacular view of the endless coffee fields and confirmed our route for Playa Chiquita.

The Casas del Caribe in Playa Chiquita was perfect for our short stay. Situated on the beach, we could also reach the little town for dinner, shops, grocery and bars. We were interested in visiting the Jaguar Rescue Center for the day and then make a few stops before arriving back to the house in Playa Palo Seco.

Jaguar Rescue Center is located on the beach of Playa Chiquita and we did not have a difficult time finding it. The refuge was founded by Encar Garcia of Spain and the late trained biologist Sandro Alviani. Built as a temporary home for injured and orphaned animals, there were several other native Costa Rican animals such as sloths, monkeys, birds and reptiles that were briefly held here for veterinary care to ensure their health and safety before returning to the wild.

The highlight of my trip was seeing a black jaguar at the center. Also known as panthers, these amazing creatures are nearly extinct due to illegal hunting and habitat loss. Seeing these elusive big cats are rare and are protected in the country’s reserves and national parks.

In addition to the jaguars, we were able to see the ocelots, wooly possums, baby monkeys and a few sloths. I had the opportunity to feed one of the baby sloths. He was such a tiny little guy and so docile.

A baby monkey had just been brought to the rescue during our visit, too small for human interaction. He had been found on the side of the road without its mother and a motorist rescued him and brought him in for medical care. We learned that his survival rate was excellent and that the reserve would keep him under medical surveillance until he was well enough to thrive back in the wild.

We spent a few hours at the reserve, purchased some Imperial, Cacique Guerra and juice before setting up a chairs on the beach. We had a few drinks before dinner and decided to try out another amazing restaurant and nightclub on the beach. We turned in early that night because we had a long drive ahead of us the next day. It was amazing to fall asleep with tunes of Bob Marley in my mind along with the sounds of crashing waves from the beach. It was one of the best night’s sleep I had experienced in a long time.

Have you visited Costa Rica? What was your favorite place and do you have any recommendations for where to spend my next stay in this beautiful country? I would love to hear from you if you would leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my journey through Costa Rica and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Jaguar Rescue Center
In front of Villas del Caribe
Punta Coclas
41001, Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 2750 0710

Where to Stay:

Casas del Caribe
Oficinas Caribe Sur Limon
Playa Chiquita
70403, Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 8976 7543

Where to Eat:

Paradise 2.0 Beach Hub
25 meters al norte y 100 mts.
al oeste del Supermarcdo El Duende Gourmet
Playa Chiquita Limon Province, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
70403, Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 2750 0544

What to Eat:

Arroz con Leche is translated to rice with milk and is a popular dessert in Costa Rica. Additional ingredients include milk, cinnamon, salt and lemon zest, making this a delicious end to your meal.
Casado, which means marriage which is an interesting combination of meat such as beef, pork, chicken and fish as well as rice, beans, tortillas, fried platano maduro and salad. In addition, the dish also includes a fruit juice.
Ceviche is raw fish that has been “cooked” with citrus juices.
Gallo Pinto is a mixture of rice and beans with red bell peppers, onions, cilantro and other spices. The secret ingredient is the Salsa Lizano. It is a popular breakfast dish.
Sopra Negra is translated to black soup, which is the base of this delicious soup. Included with the black beans, there are onions, peppers, tomatoes, soft boiled eggs and spicy spices.
Tamales are similar to their Mexican cousin, but there are some differences, one of which is the wrapping. In Costa Rica, tamales are wrapped in banana leaves rather than corn husks.

What to Drink:

Agua Dolce (sweet water): which is sweetened with cane sugar
Cerveza (Beer): Imperial
Guaro: sugar cane liquor which sneaks up on you. Cacique is the most poular brand.

What to Read:

It’s Every Monkey for Themselves: A True Story of Sex, Love and Lies in the Jungle by Vanessa Woods
Oro by Cizia Zyke
Green Phoenix: Restoring the Tropical Forests of Guanacaste, by William Allen
Monkeys are Made of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica, by Jack Ewing
Costa Rica: A Traveler’s Literary Companion by Barbara Ras, Oscar Arias
The Year of Fog, by Michelle Richmond

Photo Guide for Costa Rica:

Manuel Antonio National Park for wild animals such as sloths and monkeys
Tortuguero National Park for amazing loggerheads and hawksbill
Poas Volcano National Park for its impressive view of the interior of the volcano

Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio National Park

17 November 201431 August 2024

Leaving Playa Palo Seco, my friend Melissa and I were excited to visit Manuel Antonio National Park. About an hour from our home base, it was the first time I had visited the park and I was so excited for the opportunity to see sloths and howler monkeys. Located in the town of Quepos on the Pacific Coast, the park is known for its wildlife and beautiful beaches.

We needed to find the “Beach Trail” to reach the entrance, so we stopped at one of the refreshment stands before entering the park. We found a sign directing us towards the entrance, then after passing over the bridge, there was another sign directing us in the right direction. From the bridge, it took us about 5 minutes until we had arrived.

The first hike we took was the Sendero el Perezoso Trail (sloth trail). We did not realize that this would have taken us deeper into the park, but we were so excited to see sloths with our guide. This trail runs parallel to the main trail within the park and we spent about 30 minutes on this trail because there were several 2-fingered and 3-fingered sloths. Be careful if you find yourself looking up often as you would not want to trip over anything or miss any of the other amazing wildlife in the park such as crabs scurrying along the trail.

The Punta Catedral trail is just under a mile and leads to Punta Catedral which was once an island I remember when we would visit here in the mid-90s and we would schlep through the water to reach the island. Since that time, a strip of beach has been formed from several years of sand and sediment build up. We always loved the amazing views by hiking the perimeter of the island.

The Sendero Playa Gemelas leads to the beach for which it is named. This trail and beach is less crowded and provides some great tropical views. It is also a great place to relax for a swim. The trail is short and connects with other trails, so no need to worry about getting lost. At the end of the trail is one of my favorite views to see Playa Puerto Escondido. This is the place where we always find little geckos and I have heard some say that they have seen iguanas here though I have never seen them.

My favorite trail is the one that connects the Sendero Playa Gemelas and the Sendero Mirador known as the Sendero Congo. Although it is a short path, it is where I can find the most howler monkeys in one place, it is so exciting to see these small little creatures chasing each other in the trees.

While there may be time where you can’t find the howlers on the trail, you may be able to hear them.

According to the park map, there are eleven separate trails. Don’t worry as the trails are clearly marked and posted placards are available along the way.

A visit to Manuel Antonio National Park is always an exciting time, so arrive early and spend as much time as you can exploring the trails, searching for howler monkeys and spotting sloths.

Have you visited Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leaved a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to the national park and wishing you amazing adventures!

What to See and What to Do:

Manuel Antonio National Park
Quepos, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 2777 3339 or 800 280 2597

Admission Fee: $18.08 for adults; $5.65 for children ages 2 – 12; children under the age of 2 is free
Hours: Daily from 7AM to 5PM with the exception of Tuesday. The park is open on holidays unless the holiday falls on a Tuesday. The nearby beach closes at 3 and the park rangers will notify the remaining visitors that they will need to leave the park by 4PM, starting towards the exit by 3:30PM.
Amenities: Guided tours ($51 for adults, $35 for children); Private tours ($71 for adults and $55 for children) The tours last for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You can purchase your tickets through a third party (i.e., Viator) that will provide a guide. Guides are available to show you around the park. They will tell you about the flora and fauna as well as show you were the animals are hiding within the parks. Most tours will last only a couple of hours, but should you want to stay longer, the guide can explain how to take the bus back or where to grab a taxi. Independent guides should wear their badges showing their ICT certification. For 2, expect to pay $20 per person for 2 hours and if they charge more, you can easily find another guide that will accept the $20 per hour/per person rate.
Parking: Parking is available at the park and there are several parking lots. Follow the sign at the entrance and an attendant will assist you with parking. Remember to note which parking lot you have parked your vehicle. Do not leave valuables in the car, roll up your windows and ensure the doors are locked. Pay for parking in Costa Rican colones, not American dollars. Depending on the season, you can expect to pay 3000 to 6000 colones. On your way to parking, look for restaurants and shops on the left and this will let you know that you are close. There may be attendants that will tell you that you must park in their lot, but this is a scam. After passing the shops and restaurants, you will see the Super Joseth convenient store. You will notice a small road to your left, so turn left here and past the Hotel Vela Bar to reach the parking lots. Drive carefully as this is a narrow road.
Scenic View: The park’s animals…the sloths and monkeys in the wild.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours to include the beach
Tips for Your Visit: Arrive early before the crowds. Tickets must be purchased online as they are not available at the entrance. If you arrive without a ticket, you will not be able to enter. The park only sells approximately 3000 tickets per day. December through April and June through August are high season, so purchase your tickets well in advance. The website provides instructions for purchasing the tickets and you can select the English language. The tickets are only valid for one day as there are no multi-day tickets available. Your ticket can only be used once, which means you will need to purchase multiple tickets for the dates you would like to enter. Ensure that you hire a certified guide who can point out the elusive sloths. You should ask for their ICT (Institute of Costa Rica Tourism) credentials. There will be scammers dressed in park ranger uniforms or fake badges and name tags. When you arrive at the park, bring a printed copy of your reservation (the reservation number or barcode) in addition to your passport. Should you not have your passport, you can show a copy of your passport for entry. Alcohol, guns, cigarettes, drugs and speakers are prohibited. Set your GPS or Google Maps to “Welcome Center Manuel Antonio” or “Hotel San Beda” for the correct directions.There are three bathrooms at the entrance of the park and three additional bathrooms within the park. There is one facility where you will find bathrooms, showers and changing booths. Visitors are not permitted to being food into the park. In 2023, the park added a cafeteria where visitors can purchase sandwiches, salads and drinks. There are also restaurants at the entrance of the park.

Where to Stay:

We stayed at our private residence located at Playa Palo Seco during our stay

Where to Eat:

Rico Tico Jungle Grill
Near Manuel Antonio Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 2777 0777

What to Eat:

Arroz con Leche is translated to rice with milk and is a popular dessert in Costa Rica. Additional ingredients include milk, cinnamon, salt and lemon zest, making this a delicious end to your meal.
Casado, which means marriage which is an interesting combination of meat such as beef, pork, chicken and fish as well as rice, beans, tortillas, fried platano maduro and salad. In addition, the dish also includes a fruit juice.
Ceviche is raw fish that has been “cooked” with citrus juices.
Gallo Pinto is a mixture of rice and beans with red bell peppers, onions, cilantro and other spices. The secret ingredient is the Salsa Lizano. It is a popular breakfast dish.
Sopra Negra is translated to black soup, which is the base of this delicious soup. Included with the black beans, there are onions, peppers, tomatoes, soft boiled eggs and spicy spices.
Tamales are similar to their Mexican cousin, but there are some differences, one of which is the wrapping. In Costa Rica, tamales are wrapped in banana leaves rather than corn husks.

What to Drink:

Agua Dolce (sweet water): which is sweetened with cane sugar
Cerveza (Beer): Imperial
Guaro: sugar cane liquor which sneaks up on you. Cacique is the most popular brand.

What to Read:

It’s Every Monkey for Themselves: A True Story of Sex, Love and Lies in the Jungle by Vanessa Woods
Oro by Cizia Zyke
Green Phoenix: Restoring the Tropical Forests of Guanacaste, by William Allen
Monkeys are Made of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica, by Jack Ewing
Costa Rica: A Traveler’s Literary Companion by Barbara Ras, Oscar Arias
The Year of Fog, by Michelle Richmond

Photo Guide for Costa Rica:

Manuel Antonio National Park for wild animals such as sloths and monkeys
Tortuguero National Park for amazing loggerheads and hawksbill
Poas Volcano National Park for its impressive view of the interior of the volcano

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Belize City, Belize: The Perfect Resort for Scuba Divers

26 February 201431 August 2024

Back in the early 1990’s not many people had heard of Belize, unless you were an avid scuba diver exploring the Barrier Reef and the Blue Hole.

Working on cruise ships throughout Central America, I began to develop a deep love for the Mayan culture and its people, so weekly visits to Belize would allow me to research the country’s strong Mayan influence and architecture. There are close to 30 additional Mayan ruin sites in the country, such as Caracol, Lamanai, Cerros and Xunantunich but the most visited archaeological site is Altun Ha. For more information about the Mayan Ruins in Belize, check out the website of Belize’s National Institute of Culture and History (NICH).

In addition to my fascination with the Mayans, I am also an animal lover and the wildlife in Central America is spectacular. It is not surprising that Jaguars make their home in this beautiful country and even less surprising that these animals were once hunted to the brink of extinction. To learn more about the Belizean Jaguars, you can visit the Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary and Preserve, where there are approximately 200 of these amazing felines. Unfortunately, the chance of a visitor seeing one in the preserve is 17,000 to 1. Other animals protected in the sanctuary include the armadillo, the scarlet macaw, the keel-billed toucan, the Baird’s tapir and various species of monkeys.

With a diverse population comes a wide variety of options when it comes to cuisine. Of course there are the foods that are influenced by Belize’s neighboring Central American countries, but there are also dishes that have a more “Jamaican/Anglo-Caribbean” influence. And if this does not suit you, there are also a number of fast-food restaurants from which to choose as well.

Today Belize continues to draw divers to its fascinating underwater world and the area has become a port for major cruise lines, so things have drastically changed in many ways. But this does not seem to change the hospitality of the local Belizeans and their generous disposition. So take a moment to immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of Belize and you will be pleasantly rewarded.

Fun Facts About Belize
• It is the only country in Central America where the official language is English.
• Its population in 2014 was 340,844 & continues to grow annually at approximately 2%
• It has the lowest population density in Central America
• It is considered both Central American and Caribbean
• It was previously named British Honduras until its name changed in 1973

Is Belize on your bucket list or have you already had the opportunity to visit this amazing country? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for going down memory lane as I share my experience of visiting Belize and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins: I would suggest contacting a local tour guide for this trip who will provide transportation as well as a guide to walk you through the site.

Belize Exotic Adventures or Belize Fun Tours

Where to Stay:

Chateau de Pradines
Rock, Stone Pond, Belize
Telephone: 501 623 8656

Where to Eat:

Mayan Crystal Skull Mampi Diner
Rock Stone Pond, Belize
Telephone: 501 600 344

What to Eat:

Ceviche is a seafood dish made from raw fish cooked by the use of citrus juice.
Papusas are a popular street food also known as stuffed corn pancakes. Usually comes with hot sauce and a side of coleslaw.
Tamales are a traditional Mayan food and wrapped in plantain leaves instead of corn husks
Rice and Beans: made in coconut milk and pinto beans
Conch Fritters: Conch is a staple in Belize and this is their most popular appetizer
Chimole is a Creole stew made from local spices such as garlic, cumin and oregano.
Seafood which includes white fish, shrimp and lobster

What to Read:

Ping Wing Juk Mo, by various writers
Maya Cities and Sacred Caves: A Guide to the Maya Sites in Belize, by Dr. Jaime Awe
Tropical Nature by Adrian Forsyth
Maya Art and Architecture by Mary Ellen Miller

Photo Guide for Belize:

Baron Bliss Lighthouse is located at the mouth of Haulover Creek in Belize City
Barrier Reef
Beaches
Belize and Orange Walk Clock Tower
Belize Sign
Corozal Bay and its teal waters
Hawkesworth Bridge in San Ignacio
Hummingbird Highway connects Western Belize and the South
Mayan Temples
Mountain Pine Ridge which is the home to 1000 foot falls, Rio On Pools, Big Rock Falls, and Caracol
San Ignacio Murals‘ colorful artwork
Tropic Air flights for amazing views of Belize’s Barrier Reef.

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.