The exceptional increase in tourism arrivals is a reaffirmation that the country continues to be a growing , viable and unique tourist destination in Central America and the Caribbean . It is also emblematic of the extremely successful marketing efforts of the Belize Tourism Board and our valued stakeholders to market Belize as a Curious Place and as a premier tourism destination .
Q : Are there any new resort developments on the horizon for Belize ? A : Alia , a Marriott International ’ s Autograph Collection Hotel is set to open in Belize in 2020 . This will be a modern luxury resort located in San Pedro Ambergris Caye and will join the 135 independent hotels in the brand ’ s diverse and dynamic collection . Four Seasons Resort and Residences Caye Chapel will debut in Belize in 2021 . It will be made up of approximately 50 magnificent private estate lots , 35 private residences and 100 guest rooms and suites . Construction of the Leonardo DiCarpio ’ s ecoresort is scheduled to begin by end of this year on Blackadore Caye . The Dream Hotel Group has also announced two projects in the Kanantick area north of Placencia .
The first of the two Belize openings for the group , Unscripted Belize , will debut in late 2018 with 24 beachfront cabana accommodations steps away from the Caribbean Sea . With an open-air concept , the property will also feature an outdoor restaurant and bar , an expansive pool area , and two private boats for snorkeling and scuba diving . In 2020 , Dream Belize will feature 100 guest rooms and suites , 120 hotel condominiums and 40 branded residential home sites . Also included will be four vibrant dining and nightlife concepts , three pools , a luxury spa and fitness center , and multiple co-working suites to round out the dynamic resort offerings .
Q : What would you say are the challenges your country faces , if any , to its tourism growth ? A : Belize ’ s tourism is very dynamic but it also faces some challenges . Among these are the highspeed growth in our main tourism destinations , the continuous threat posed by erosion in southern Belize , the need for better garbage collection and disposal , better access roads to key tourism attractions , greater enforcement of our Tourism Hotels Act and greater financial incentives for tourism developers . The most recent challenge is the issue of Sargassum affecting the entire region , including our beaches . These are challenges that will not be solved in one single day , but the BTB , the Government and industry stakeholders are working together to address these issues .
Q : What are some of the special events and festivals held throughout the year that you will like to highlight and by so doing encourage our readers to travel to Belize to experience ? A : Have you ever heard about a mango festival or chocolate festival ? Well , in Belize there are numerous festivals throughout the country and several special events that your readers will certainly enjoy reading about . The month of May for example , sees the celebration of the Cashew and Chocolate Festival in Crooked Tree and Punta Gorda , Toledo , respectively . The Mango festival is held in Hopkins Village during the first week of June , while the Lobster Festival is held in San Pedro , Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker , in mid and end of June respectively . The Taco Festival is held in November in Orange Walk and the Belize City Yoga Festival and the Hopkins Village Paranda Fest are scheduled for April next year . However , there are also other events worth mentioning . Next year in May the BTB and Love FM will hold their second BTB Belize Love Sea Challenge . This
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