our Jewel , you are bound to find something new , an experience deeply rooted within the local cultural fabric , and mindful of the responsibilities we all hold as global citizens and custodians of this earth . Throughout all these years , we have pursued the ideals of sustainable development by encouraging the guided explorer , to submit to his / her spirit of inquisitiveness , and to enjoy a truly remarkable time in Belize . But we also encourage visitors to assist us in safeguarding our culture , traditions , and the pristine nature of our environment .
Visitors are always captivated by the vast variety and uniqueness of Belize ’ s attractions .
Belizeans , are a very proud people , one that celebrate their natural and cultural treasures while at the same time advocating their conservation and sustainability . The protection of our natural and cultural resources and the sustainable development of our industry has been , throughout the years , and will continue to be our mantra . It is under this note , that in June 2018 the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System was officially removed from the UNESCO World Heritage Center ’ s List of World Heritage in Danger . This is a victory not only for marine conservation and tourism , but indeed for humanity . We are ecstatic that Belizeans and our visitors , will be able to continue experiencing world class scuba diving , snorkeling and other marine-based activities within the second longest barrier reef in the world . While the removal from “ Danger ” status is a great accomplishment , the greatest accomplishment is without a doubt the commitment that we have asked and will continue to ask , from all Belizeans and visitors alike , to continue to do their part to ensure that this World Heritage remains vibrant and accessible to all .
The Government and the Belize Tourism Board are also cognizant of the fact that we must jealously guard our pristine natural resources and with this in mind , the government recently enacted legislation banning offshore oil exploration in Belizean waters , including those around the Belize Barrier Reef . We are proud that this legislation has made Belize a leader in protecting our precious corals and safeguarding coastal and marine ecosystems , a model we hope will be followed by many countries around the world .
Belize ’ s tourism is vibrant . Last year , Belize registered some 427,000 visitors . The latest statistics for the middle of 2018 shows that tourism arrivals to Belize continue to register groundbreaking levels and moving on a steady upward trend . Overnight tourism arrivals in June registered increases for the past three consecutive years while the first half of the year registered a 17.1 % cumulative increase .
During the month of June , cruise ship arrivals registered a 57.2 % increase while at the end of the first half of this year , there was also an overall increase of 10.2 % in cruise visitors to Belize as compared to the first half of 2017 .
The word is out . Not surprisingly then , a great number of guided explorers continue to visit Belize to enjoy her numerous attractions . And there is great expectation that the number of visitors will continue to register double digits in 2018 and beyond .
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