A police constable assigned to the GI3 unit in San Pedro has been remanded to the Belize Central Prison after being charged with aggravated assault with a firearm. The charge follows a November 5, 2026, encounter that drew public attention after video footage circulated on social media.

Police Constable Michael Anthony Wagner, 30, is accused of putting a gun in the mouth of Azzaine Guerra. The footage shows an officer leaning over a barefoot man lying on his back, holding what appears to be a handgun close to the man’s face. A second armed officer stands nearby.

Wagner appeared in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court, where his attorney, Arthur Saldivar, argued that the restrictions on bail in firearm cases should not apply because Wagner was on duty and authorized to carry a firearm. The prosecution argued that the charge left the Magistrate’s Court without the authority to grant bail. The magistrate agreed with the prosecution and remanded Wagner to prison.

Police Dept. Condemns Conduct

The Belize Police Department condemned the conduct shown in the video in a November 6 statement and announced separate criminal and disciplinary investigations. Wagner was suspended from duty. Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith later confirmed that police charged Wagner following a report from a San Pedro resident and that disciplinary proceedings were underway. National Security CEO Retired Major Francis Usher also condemned the incident.

Wagner is scheduled to appear in the San Pedro Magistrate’s Court on December 29, when he is expected to receive disclosure in the case. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

Click Here for More on Ambergris Today / Follow us on Instagram

The following is an official response from Mayor Gualberto ” Wally” Nunez and the San Pedro Town Council regarding Ambergris North Alliance’s (ANA) letter dated September 28^th 2026, in regards to what they address as serious environmental, infrastructure and tourism concerns facing North Ambergris Caye.

Dear Mrs. Paz, 
We acknowledge receipt of your letter dated September 28, 2026, and subsequent correspondence regarding waste management and illegal dumping on North Ambergris Caye. 

Firstly, we recognize and appreciate the efforts of the Ambergris North Alliance (ANA) in organizing community cleanups and promoting environmental responsibility. We share your concerns regarding illegal dumping and the growing demands on our island’s waste management infrastructure.

However, we believe it is important to clarify the Council’s ongoing involvement and the considerable work already being undertaken to address these challenges.

OUR SUPPORT FOR COMMUNITY CLEANUPS 
Since the inception of the Ambergris North Alliance, the San Pedro Town Council has actively supported cleanups organized by ANA. This includes deploying sanitation workers, drivers, traffic wardens and maintenance crews, often requiring personnel to work on their days off or be reassigned from regular municipal duties. 

While volunteers typically participate for several hours, our crews often remain considerably longer to complete the cleanup, collect the accumulated waste and transport it for proper disposal.

We have consistently provided this support without hesitation and maintained direct communication with ANA throughout these activities.

This partnership is important to recognize because the success of these cleanups depends on both community volunteers and the municipal personnel, equipment and resources that support them. Our commitment extends to all community organizations, businesses and residents undertaking similar initiatives. Despite our limited resources and operational demands, we have never turned down a request to assist with a community cleanup.

Ongoing Work in North Ambergris

OUR ONGOING WASTE MANAGEMENT OPERATIONS
Beyond supporting community initiatives, the Council maintains daily household garbage collection and deploys dedicated crews every week to address illegal dumping throughout the municipality. 

We investigate reported dumping sites, conduct outreach with residents and businesses, and regularly remove discarded materials from public spaces. This includes yard waste and other materials that residents are legally responsible for transporting directly to the Solid Waste Transfer Station.

We acknowledge that our island has grown considerably and that our municipal services must continue expanding to meet these demands.

Our administration has invested in four garbage compactors, which operate continuously to service the established collection areas. Even with this investment, our existing fleet is operating near capacity, and the temporary removal of a single vehicle for repairs can significantly disrupt collection schedules.

Nevertheless, we remain committed to strengthening our operations and expanding services as resources become available.

We have already submitted detailed work plans to the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) proposing additional waste collection substations across North Ambergris Caye. This builds on the existing collection point near the police station, where residents can deposit household garbage for scheduled weekly collection.

Additionally, through our engagement with the World Bank and national partners, Ambergris Caye has been selected to participate in a pilot waste recycling initiative. This has the potential to significantly reduce the burden on the Solid Waste Transfer Station and strengthen our long- term waste management capacity.

These initiatives require considerable planning, investment and coordination, but they are essential to developing sustainable solutions beyond repeated cleanup operations.

ILLEGAL DUMPING AND ENFORCEMENT 
The Council has also been working closely with the Department of the Environment (DOE) to strengthen our response to illegal dumping. 

Several major dumping sites have already been identified, mapped and investigated, with joint cleanup operations being coordinated. Some locations require heavy machinery, extensive personnel and the removal of as many as twenty dump-truck loads of accumulated waste.

The DOE has provided financial support for previous cleanup operations and continues assisting with upcoming activities, public awareness campaigns, signage and enforcement initiatives.

Importantly, we are also working to strengthen environmental enforcement legislation and municipal by-laws to address existing weaknesses concerning illegal dumping, wastewater disposal, abandoned vehicles and the improper use of public spaces.

Our approach has involved extensive outreach, investigations and documentation to ensure that enforcement measures are practical, legally supported and effective.

We are also pursuing additional monitoring and evidence-gathering measures to support the issuance of fines against offenders.

While some of these activities cannot be publicly detailed due to the sensitive nature of enforcement, considerable work has already been undertaken to establish a stronger system of accountability.

Our experience has demonstrated that public education and voluntary compliance alone are insufficient. Consistent enforcement and meaningful penalties are necessary to discourage illegal dumping and hold offenders accountable.

Our efforts also include the ongoing removal of abandoned vehicles throughout the island. These are longstanding problems that have accumulated over several decades, and the Council continues investing considerable resources to address them, even where the responsibility for proper disposal rests with individual owners.

OUR COMMITMENT TO COLLABORATION 
We agree with ANA that addressing the island’s waste management challenges requires stronger coordination among government agencies, businesses and community organizations.

Indeed, much of the work outlined above is already being undertaken through active partnerships with the DOE, BTB, the World Bank and other stakeholders.

We are therefore concerned that your correspondence suggests a lack of action or meaningful engagement on the part of the Council. This does not accurately reflect the extensive work already underway or the consistent support provided to ANA’s own initiatives. While we recognize that much more remains to be done, we believe it is important that these efforts and the contributions of our municipal personnel are fairly acknowledged.

We also wish to emphasize that our commitment to supporting ANA and other community organizations remains unchanged.

We welcome constructive criticism, recommendations and collaboration. However, we believe meaningful progress requires an accurate understanding of the work already being undertaken and the shared responsibilities involved.

The Council is not an obstacle to these efforts. We have been, and continue to be, an active and committed partner.

Our municipal employees work daily, often under difficult conditions and with limited resources, to maintain public spaces, collect waste, support community cleanups and respond to environmental concerns. Their contributions deserve recognition. 

Ultimately, we share the same objective: a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable Ambergris Caye.  We look forward to continuing our collaboration with ANA and strengthening our collective efforts toward achieving this objective. 

Sincerely, 
Our Island, Our Home. 
Respectfully, 
Mayor Wally Nuñez San Pedro Town Council 

Click Here for More on Ambergris Today

The debate surrounding the proposed construction of a new airport in northern Ambergris Caye continues to intensify, with tourism stakeholders and the San Pedro Town Council voicing strong opposition to the closure of the existing John Greif II Municipal Airport. Meanwhile, the Government of Belize is defending the proposal as part of its long-term vision for the island’s growth and development.

On Tuesday, November 3, 2026, the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA), the San Pedro Town Council, and the Government of Belize each issued statements outlining their positions on the controversial proposal, which has generated widespread discussion among residents, business owners, and tourism operators.

Tourism Stakeholders Say Island Has More Pressing Priorities
During a meeting held at the Sunbreeze Hotel on Monday, November 2, tourism stakeholders expressed a clear consensus against the proposed new international airport near Secret Beach, as well as any proposal to construct a bridge connecting Mexico to Ambergris Caye.

The meeting was organized by the BTIA San Pedro Chapter, with the participation of BTIA National President Efren Perez, to gather industry feedback on the proposed development and its potential impacts on the island. Rather than investing in a major new airport, participants urged the Government of Belize to prioritize the growing challenges already affecting San Pedro and Ambergris Caye.

Among their concerns were deteriorating infrastructure, traffic congestion, garbage management, environmental conservation, affordable and adequate housing, healthcare services, and public safety.

Stakeholders emphasized that these are not simply inconveniences but serious issues affecting residents’ quality of life and the visitor experience, both of which are essential to the island’s tourism economy.

BTIA also referenced findings from the World Bank highlighting the risks associated with unplanned development, inadequate municipal services, pollution, and coastal erosion. The association warned that allowing these challenges to worsen could threaten Ambergris Caye’s attractiveness as a tourism destination and the livelihoods that depend on the industry.

Area Representative for Belize Rural South and Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, Hon. Andre Perez, attended the meeting and addressed concerns surrounding the proposal. According to BTIA, Minister Perez expressed support for a phased approach to both the potential closure of the existing downtown airstrip and the development of a new airport. He also emphasized the importance of public consultation, stating that community concerns would help guide his position on the matter.

BTIA says it will continue gathering feedback from tourism stakeholders and seek meaningful dialogue with the Government of Belize to ensure that future development decisions reflect the island’s needs and long-term sustainability.

For & Against New Airport

San Pedro Town Council Formally Opposes Airport Closure
Adding to the growing opposition, the San Pedro Town Council announced that it has formally voted against the closure of the John Greif II Municipal Airport. In its official statement, the Council recognized the airport’s importance to residents, local businesses, and the tourism industry, making it clear that it supports the facility’s continued operation.

The Council stated that it would firmly advocate this position with the Government of Belize and all relevant authorities. However, the Council also sought to clarify that the proposed airport is only one component of a much larger development concept being considered for Ambergris Caye.

It emphasized that numerous planning, technical, regulatory, and other requirements would have to be addressed before the airport proposal could advance to formal consideration.
Importantly, the Council confirmed that no decision has been made to close or relocate the existing airport. The Council concluded its statement by reaffirming its commitment to keeping residents informed and advocating for the community’s interests as discussions continue.

Government of Belize (GOB) Says New Airport Is About Preparing for Future Growth
While tourism stakeholders and the Town Council have raised objections, the Government of Belize maintains that planning for a modern airport is necessary to accommodate the island’s continued expansion.

In a November 3 press release titled “Investing in the Future of San Pedro: A New Airport for a Growing Island”, the Government acknowledged the concerns surrounding the proposal and welcomed input from residents, businesses, tourism stakeholders, and airline operators.

According to the GPB, the existing airport was constructed at a time when San Pedro had significantly fewer residents, visitors, and aircraft movements. With the island’s continued development, officials say the facility is approaching its operational capacity, creating challenges involving aircraft movements, passenger processing, opportunities for expansion, and long-term aviation safety.

The GOB stressed that the proposal is not being driven by the failure of the existing airport, but rather by the need to prepare for future demand. Working alongside the Belize Airport Authority, the Government envisions a modern airport capable of accommodating increased passenger traffic, improving aircraft operations, enhancing safety standards, and strengthening the island’s connectivity. Officials also believe a new facility could improve emergency and disaster response capabilities while creating additional opportunities for tourism, investment, employment, and business development.

The GOB described the proposed airport as part of its broader national strategy to modernize transportation infrastructure and support sustainable economic growth. However, it acknowledged that concerns surrounding the eventual closure of the existing airport deserve careful consideration.

According to the release, any transition would involve planning, consultation, and coordination with airlines, regulatory authorities, businesses, and San Pedro residents. GOB emphasized that the discussion should not become a confrontation between development and preservation, but rather an effort to ensure that aviation infrastructure can meet the island’s needs for generations to come.

A Growing Divide Over the Island’s Development Priorities
The three statements highlight a significant difference in how stakeholders view the island’s immediate and long-term development needs. The Government is focused on preparing for future aviation demand and the economic opportunities a larger airport could bring.

Tourism stakeholders, meanwhile, are questioning whether Ambergris Caye is prepared to accommodate such a major project when existing infrastructure and public services are already under considerable pressure. The San Pedro Town Council has taken a more specific position, formally opposing the closure of the downtown airport while acknowledging that the wider development proposal remains in its early planning stages.

At the center of the debate is the future of the John Greif II Municipal Airport, which has long provided convenient access to downtown San Pedro for residents and visitors. Relocating airport operations to northern Ambergris Caye could significantly change transportation patterns, increase travel distances for residents living in central and southern communities, and affect businesses that depend on the current airport’s location. (Read our in-depth analysis examining the pros and cons of this issue)

While the Government has outlined the potential benefits of a modern airport, the public statements have not established a final project cost, confirmed financing arrangements, or detailed how the necessary supporting infrastructure would be delivered.

What Happens Next?
For now, the proposed airport remains under discussion, and there has been no final decision to close the existing facility. BTIA has committed to continuing consultations and consolidating the recommendations of tourism stakeholders. The San Pedro Town Council has pledged to advocate for keeping the existing airport operational, while the Government says it intends to continue engaging with stakeholders as planning progresses.

What is becoming increasingly clear is that the proposed airport has opened a much larger conversation about the future of Ambergris Caye. San Pedro has experienced tremendous growth over the past several decades, transforming from a small fishing community into Belize’s leading tourism destination. But that growth has also brought increasing pressure on infrastructure, public services, housing, and the environment.

The challenge now is determining how to...]]> Wed, 04 Nov 2026 00:01:58 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0q0uPv-3zpR4xtKQwad08GZ?utm_source=follow.it https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0q0uPv-3zpR487O1tblkgm4?utm_source=follow.it

For decades, the John Greif II Municipal Airport has been more than just an airstrip. It has been a gateway to Ambergris Caye, an essential connection to mainland Belize, and an important part of the everyday life and economy of San Pedro Town. Airplanes arriving and departing throughout the day have become as familiar to island residents as golf carts traveling along Coconut Drive. The airport’s location in the heart of town has helped shape the growth of surrounding businesses, hotels, restaurants, transportation services and residential neighborhoods. Now, the possibility of relocating that airport to northern Ambergris Caye, near the Secret Beach area, has sparked serious debate about the island’s future.

An Ambergris Today Special Report | November 2026
Development • Tourism • Environment • Community

The proposed development promises a larger, more modern airport capable of accommodating international flights, private jets and expanded regional air service. Supporters see opportunities for tourism growth, investment and improved aviation infrastructure. But the potential closure of the existing downtown airport raises equally important questions.

What happens to the businesses that depend on the steady flow of arriving passengers? How much more will residents have to pay to travel? Can our already strained roads and utilities handle a major international airport? And what would such a massive development mean for the fragile environment that makes Ambergris Caye one of Belize’s most popular destinations? Perhaps the biggest question is whether San Pedro is prepared for a transformation of this magnitude.

What exactly is being proposed?
According to planning documents associated with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the proposal involves constructing a new airport in northern Ambergris Caye, with the Secret Beach area identified as a preferred location.

A project timetable outlined in a 2025 document envisioned construction beginning in 2027, completion in 2029 and the eventual closure of the existing John Greif II Municipal Airport around 2030. The old airport property could then be redeveloped, with potential proceeds contributing toward financing the new facility or related infrastructure.

The proposed airport has been discussed as a facility capable of accommodating larger aircraft, regional services, charter flights and private aviation. Area Representative Andre Perez previously described plans for a runway approximately 7,000 feet long. However, the project remains uncertain. On October 29, Prime Minister John Briceño clarified that the government has not made a final decision. He explained that the IDB is still conducting studies and that the proposals would need to be reviewed and discussed with airlines, the San Pedro Town Council and other stakeholders before any decision is taken. The government has also not publicly established a complete construction financing package. That distinction matters. A proposed timeline is not an approved construction schedule, and an airport capable of handling international aircraft does not automatically mean regularly scheduled international airline service will follow.

The Potential Benefits: A new Chapter for Tourism (Government Seems to Still Want to Entertain the Idea)
There are legitimate reasons why government officials and tourism stakeholders are exploring the possibility of a larger airport. The existing downtown airport has physical limitations. Surrounded by established development, roads and residential neighborhoods, it has little room to expand its runway or accommodate substantially larger aircraft. A new facility could provide greater operational flexibility, improved passenger facilities and the possibility of accommodating aircraft that cannot currently land in San Pedro.

For international visitors, particularly those arriving on private aircraft or potential future regional flights, direct access to Ambergris Caye could eliminate the need to connect through Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport. That convenience could make the island more attractive to certain tourism markets. A larger airport could also create opportunities for employment in aviation, airport management, security, customs, immigration, maintenance, transportation and hospitality.

Businesses in northern Ambergris Caye could benefit from increased visitor traffic, while investment in new roads, electricity, telecommunications and other infrastructure could improve access to areas that have historically experienced slower development.

There are also potential advantages for downtown San Pedro. Removing airport operations from the town center could reduce certain traffic bottlenecks, free up land for new public uses and create opportunities to rethink how the town is organized. However, these benefits would depend heavily on how the airport is designed, financed, connected to the rest of the island and integrated into the existing economy.

The Biggest Concern: What Happens to Downtown San Pedro?

This may be one of the most overlooked consequences of the proposal. For generations, San Pedro’s downtown area has been the commercial and cultural heart of Ambergris Caye. The airport’s central location has contributed to that activity by bringing visitors directly into town. Today, travelers arriving by air are only minutes away from hotels, restaurants, shops, tour operators and other services. Relocating the airport several miles north would change that dynamic.

Instead of arriving in downtown San Pedro, passengers would enter the island through a completely different area. Depending on their accommodations and transportation arrangements, many could bypass the town center altogether. This could gradually shift commercial activity toward northern Ambergris Caye. Businesses near the current airport, including taxi operators, restaurants, convenience stores, golf cart rental companies and smaller accommodations, could lose some of the economic activity generated by airport passengers.

The impact would not necessarily be immediate, and not every downtown business would be affected equally. Much would depend on visitor travel patterns, hotel locations and the transportation system connecting the new airport to town. Still, the concern is valid. If the northern airport encourages more resorts, restaurants, shopping centers and tourism services to develop nearby, downtown San Pedro could face increased competition for investment and visitor spending.

The island could eventually develop two distinct commercial centers, with economic activity becoming more dispersed. That might create opportunities for some businesses while presenting serious challenges for others. The question is not simply whether Ambergris Caye will benefit economically, but who will benefit, and whether longtime San Pedro businesses will share in that growth.

What About the Residents Who Depend on the Airport?

Tourists are not the only people who use the John Greif II Municipal Airport. For residents, air transportation is an essential connection to Belize City and other parts of the country. People travel for medical appointments, business meetings, government services, education, family emergencies and countless other reasons. The current airport’s downtown location makes that travel relatively convenient for many residents.

Moving airport operations north could introduce additional transportation expenses and travel time, particularly for people living in downtown San Pedro, San Pedrito, DFC, San Pablo and the southern communities. A resident who currently lives only minutes from the airport might face a much longer journey before even boarding a flight. That could mean additional taxi fares, increased fuel costs, longer commutes and more complicated travel arrangements. For families who already struggle with the cost of domestic flights, another transportation expense c...]]> Tue, 03 Nov 2026 23:02:21 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0q0uPv-3zpR487O1tblkgm4?utm_source=follow.it https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0pt8De714btpLwVIRwe573-?utm_source=follow.it

The proposed new airport in North Ambergris Caye has sparked widespread discussion and strong objections on social media. Residents have raised concerns about the island’s readiness for a project of this scale, the infrastructure needed to support it, and whether other pressing community needs should take priority.

Questions about the future of the existing John Greif II Airport in downtown San Pedro have added to the debate. In the press release below, Mayor Wally Nunez addresses these concerns and what he describes as misinformation surrounding the proposed airport and the possible closure of the current facility.

The Proposed New Airport

Release from San Pedro Mayor Wally Nunez – “There is a lot of misinformation circulating about the proposed new airport for Ambergris Caye, particularly claims that our existing airport has already been sold. That is simply NOT true!! The existing airport has NOT been sold!! And at this early stage of planning, any discussion about its potential sale would be premature. There are still extensive studies, consultations and decisions that must take place before a proposed new airport could even move toward implementation. I want to clarify my position and, more importantly, explain the bigger picture.

WE ARE PLANNING FOR THE NEXT 25 YEARS
San Pedro is facing development problems that are decades in the making. Uncontrolled growth, inadequate infrastructure, land clearing, drainage problems and increasing demands for basic services did not happen overnight.

For too long, development has moved faster than our ability to properly plan and manage it. We are now dealing with the consequences. That is why we took the important step of developing the Ambergris Caye Sustainable Development Plan, a roadmap for the next 25 years of our island’s growth.

Unlike previous planning efforts, we are also working to establish the rules and municipal systems needed to actually implement this plan. We want a plan that guides development, not another document sitting on a shelf.

THE AIRPORT IS JUST ONE PART OF A MUCH BIGGER PLAN
The development plan outlines 29 proposed projects covering neighborhood improvements, housing, roads, water and sewerage, garbage management, schools, health facilities, parks, beaches, mangroves and economic opportunities.

The proposed new airport is just ONE of these projects. The plan also considers improvements to our existing cargo port, a possible northern cargo port and better organization of our docks and shoreline infrastructure.

And all these things are connected!!

We cannot expand housing without providing utilities. We cannot build drainage systems while destroying the mangroves and wetlands that naturally help manage flooding. And we cannot continue expanding tourism without improving the quality of life for the people who live and work here.

These are mistakes that have contributed to the challenges we face today. We must do things differently.

WHAT ARE WE ALREADY DOING?
We are already working on important parts of this plan, including the municipal framework needed to make our development and zoning plans enforceable.
This includes better land-use regulations, urban development standards, neighborhood improvements, protection and recovery of our natural resources, and planning for future public facilities and infrastructure.

Some projects are already moving forward, while others will take years of additional planning, financing and consultation.

The objective is to ensure that development is properly managed, that our natural resources are protected and that future generations inherit a better San Pedro.

SO WHAT ABOUT THE NEW AIRPORT?
The proposal did not come out of nowhere. The development planning process considered the existing airport’s capacity, future tourism growth, transportation needs and experiences from other destinations. The existing airlines were also included in the discussions.

But identifying a possible future need does NOT mean that a final decision has been made!!
Major investments such as a new airport require extensive feasibility studies, environmental and social assessments, consultations with stakeholders, financing arrangements and the necessary approvals.

The IDB has supported the planning process and is financing several components of the broader development effort. However, this does NOT mean that all 29 projects have been financed or approved for construction.

There is still a great deal of work to be done, and the interests of our residents, businesses and existing service providers must remain central to these discussions.

LET’S LOOK AT THE BIGGER PICTURE
Our island cannot continue growing without a clear direction. We are already paying the price for decades of development without adequate planning, and we have a responsibility to address those problems while preparing for the future.

We are looking beyond the next election and planning for the next 25 years. That means making decisions based on what is best for the long-term wellbeing of our communities, our economy and our environment.

Let’s not allow speculation and misinformation to overshadow an important conversation about the future of our island.

There is much more work ahead, and everyone has a role to play. Let’s become informed, ask questions and participate in shaping the future of San Pedro.

Our Island, Our Home.” – End of Release.

Click Here for More on Ambergris Today

Construction of the new Publics Supermarket building on Coconut Drive is bringing more than grocery shopping to the area south of downtown San Pedro. The development, adjacent to the existing Publics Supermarket, is being promoted as a mixed-use complex with commercial rental spaces and residential apartments.

A recent Facebook rental announcement offers a glimpse of what is planned for the property, located near the Water Taxi Terminal and across from Isla Bonita Yacht Club. The advertised lineup includes Publics Supermarket, Sbarro, Sarita’s, DHL and a UNO fueling station. A listing by Vista Real Estate also identifies these businesses as planned anchors for the complex.

Plans include an elevator, a separate commercial lift and on-site golf cart parking, with residential apartments on Level 3 above the commercial spaces. Available units are being marketed for shops, salons, service centers and professional offices.

One advertised option is Unit 7 on Level 2, positioned immediately off the elevator and stairwell. Listed at approximately 480 square feet, the space is offered at US$1,200 per month. According to the announcement, other unit sizes are available and can be adjusted to suit tenants’ needs.

The project would bring a broader mix of shopping, dining, services and housing to this section of Coconut Drive. The complex is expected to be completed in February 2027 but they are signing lease agreements for the units on a first come first serve basis.

New Publics Building Coming in February 2027

Click Here for More on Ambergris Today / Follow us on Instagram

Residents in South Ambergris Caye are being urged to remain vigilant following a reported jaguar sighting in the area. The South Ambergris Caye Neighborhood Watch (SACNW) issued the notice, asking residents to be especially alert at night and to keep pets safely indoors. SACNW said it contacted ACES Wildlife Rescue, which shared that tracks and other signs of jaguar activity had previously been found in the area.

“As a reminder, we live surrounded by beautiful wildlife and it is important that we respect their habitat while taking precautions to keep our families and pets safe,” SACNW stated. The notice is also a reminder that Ambergris Caye is home to wildlife whose habitat faces increasing pressure as the island develops.

Jaguars and Other Wildlife Habitat Threatened

In a separate recent post, ACES Wildlife Rescue raised concerns about the pace of construction and land clearing on Ambergris Caye, urging investors and prospective residents to make informed, ethical choices when considering development projects.

The organization questioned the continued expansion into natural areas while unfinished developments, derelict buildings, and unoccupied properties remain across the island. ACES called for better planning and management, suggesting that making use of those existing properties could offer an alternative to clearing more habitat.

Its message drew particular attention to mangrove areas being cleared and backfilled for construction. ACES encouraged buyers and investors to consider what habitats and species occupied a property before it was cleared, and how their investment decisions could affect the island’s remaining wildlife.

Alongside its post, the organization shared footage it described as coming from its wildlife research cameras that week. ACES warned that some of the species recorded face the threat of local extinction due to human activity.

While the SACNW notice does not establish a connection between this particular sighting and nearby development, both messages bring attention to the responsibility of sharing an island with wildlife.

For residents in South Ambergris Caye, the immediate request is clear: stay vigilant, take extra care at night, and keep pets safely indoors. For the wider community, the conversation also raises a bigger question about how Ambergris Caye can grow while protecting the natural habitats that make it so special.

Click Here for More on Ambergris Today

Press Release – Ambergris North Alliance (ANA) | October 27, 2026 – IS OUR ISLAND READY? As a new tourism season begins and visitor numbers fall, North Ambergris residents ask government to do its part.

San Pedro, Ambergris Caye: A new tourism season is about to begin, and on Ambergris Caye almost every income depends on it. The latest numbers only confirm what many of us in San Pedro have been feeling and worrying about. New BTB figures show overnight arrivals to Belize fell 8.4% from June to September 2026 compared to the same months in 2025, with August down nearly 13%.

The evidence on the island is anecdotal, but it’s consistent. Tour guides, restaurants, shops, real
estate professionals, and hotels big and small all say the same thing: business is slow, as slow
as it has been since the pandemic.

In December 2027, Belize’s first-ever direct flight from Europe, Discover Airlines from Frankfurt, will bring fresh eyes to an island we have promoted for years for its natural wonders. These visitors are coming for pristine reef and unspoiled nature, not roadside trash. The government is celebrating the new route, but the real questions are: Is our island ready? Are we delivering on what we promise?

Need to Safeguard our Tourism Season

Belize sells the world our reef, our cayes, and our incredible nature. But visitors heading north are met with roadside trash, illegal dumping, bulldozed mangroves, and lagoons being filled in. Visitors notice, and residents despair at the lack of concern for our island and our environment. Ambergris Caye isn’t just a tourism destination. It’s our home.

For over two years, ANA has held monthly volunteer clean-ups along the north corridor. Neighbors, police, coast guard, and school kids give their Saturday mornings to pick up trash again and again. Through community events and sponsorships, we’ve raised funds to hire workers to clean our roadsides. We’ve also run our first environmental summer camp for North Ambergris kids.

On September 28, ANA wrote to eight officials, including our Mayor and Area Representative, the Minister of Tourism, the Minister of Sustainable Development, and the Chief Environmental Officer of the Department of the Environment. We dropped off hard copies here in San Pedro and asked for a response by October 12. That date came and went. Eight officials. Not one reply. Not to us, and not to the community we speak for.

We asked for action on known dump sites, many of them in plain view of visitors driving north to Secret Beach; regular household trash collection on North Ambergris Caye, or, until that can be enacted, a viable interim plan with more public waste areas; and updated by-laws, such as clear rules for construction sites and proper waste disposal for businesses. Belize has great environmental laws. What we need is enforcement. That’s why we asked the officials to sit down with us at a single table, not in separate conversations, to address these issues not in isolation but as the interconnected crises they are.

“We’re not asking government to do our work,” said the Ambergris North Alliance. “We’re asking it to do its own. Volunteers can’t keep up with this alone.”

On October 23, ANA delivered another hard copy of the letter to the Mayor’s office and reached out to the new Minister of Public Utilities, Logistics and Solid Waste Management, Hon. Ramon Cervantes, to request a meeting. We invite residents, businesses, and tourism partners to stand with us.

Click Here for More on Ambergris Today / Follow us on Instagram

Keeping our streets from flooding and our beaches looking beautiful are two challenges that go hand in hand. The San Pedro Town Council says it is introducing a new beach drainage design aimed at addressing both, with the first installation already being tested during recent rains.

The initiative forms part of the Council’s ongoing beach restoration program and seeks to address problems that have built up over decades, including sediment accumulation, deteriorating drainage infrastructure and shoreline erosion.

According to the Council, many existing beach drains are more than 20 years old, with some deteriorating or no longer functioning properly. Over the years, stormwater flowing from the streets has carried silt, garbage and other debris onto the beaches. In some areas, the Council says, accumulated gray sediment has turned once-sandy stretches into muddy shorelines. The direct discharge of water also contributes to erosion in areas where beach restoration efforts are underway. Addressing these issues, the Council explained, requires more than replacing old pipes.

The new design takes an approach intended to work with the natural coastal environment. Instead of releasing stormwater directly onto the beach, the system allows rainwater to gradually filter through layers of stone and seep into the surrounding ground.

The Council says this should reduce the direct impact of runoff on the shoreline while supporting native vegetation being introduced along restored coastal dunes. The design also considers ways to trap garbage, silt and other debris before they reach the beach, with an emphasis on keeping maintenance practical and affordable.

New Beach Drainage Being Tested Out

While the first installation has been handling recent rains well, according to the Council, a wider rollout will depend on how the system performs over time. Officials say they want to assess its effectiveness, maintenance needs and potential to provide a lasting solution before replacing additional drains.

The Council described the drainage work as part of beach restoration efforts undertaken over the past three years, while acknowledging that considerable work remains. Areas affected by years of sediment buildup and erosion will require time, planning and investment to restore.

For residents eager to see cleaner, sandier beaches, the project represents an effort to address the sources of shoreline deterioration alongside its visible effects. Its long-term success will depend on how well the new drains manage runoff and protect the areas being restored.

“Our goal is not simply to make our beaches look beautiful again,” the Council stated. “We want to make sure they STAY beautiful!”

Click Here for More on Ambergris Today

Belize’s beloved Marie Sharp’s hot sauce is serving up some heat for a good cause. A new partnership between Marie Sharp’s Fine Foods Ltd. and the Clearwater Marine Institute is giving consumers a tasty way to support the protection of Belize’s manatees and marine wildlife.

The limited-edition Marie Sharp’s Manatee Label – Belizean Heat Habanero Pepper Sauce will direct a portion of each bottle’s purchase price toward marine conservation efforts. The bottles also feature a QR code where consumers can learn about the initiative and how their purchases help support manatee rescue, rehabilitation and protection.

The partnership was highlighted on Open Your Eyes, with Marie Sharp, conservation volunteer and management consultant Valerie Woods, and the institute’s Belize Program Coordinator and Research Scientist, Jamal Galvez.

Marie Sharp’s Conservation Message

Sharp shared that living near waters frequented by manatees has made her particularly aware of the dangers they face, including speeding boats. Through the reach of her products, the initiative aims to bring that conservation message into more homes, both in Belize and abroad.

Galvez reminded viewers that helping protect wildlife goes beyond making a financial contribution. Slowing down boats in manatee habitats, keeping waterways free of pollution and sharing conservation information are practical steps everyone can take.

The discussion also highlighted the Marine Research and Education Center being developed in Gales Point. The center is intended to support the care of injured and orphaned marine animals while offering Belizean students and international visitors opportunities to learn about manatees and the country’s marine environment.

As Marie Sharp’s celebrates its 45th anniversary year, this collaboration connects a familiar Belizean favorite with a shared responsibility: protecting the wildlife that makes our country special. Good heat, great cause, and another reason to reach for a bottle of Belizean flavor.

Click Here for More on Ambergris Today

Wow, what a difference! This week’s flashback takes us to Front Street, looking south from in front of the Holiday Hotel toward the San Pedro R.C. School at the beginning of the street. In the older photograph, a sandy road stretches between wooden buildings, with children walking and bicycles sharing the open space. It’s a familiar scene for those of us who remember walking these streets to school, stopping to greet friends along the way.

Now take a look at the second picture! Sand has given way to paving stones, more and bigger buildings line the street, and golf carts fill a view that once felt so spacious. Same street, same direction, but such a drastic change in the pace of island life.

How Front Street Looks Like Today

These side-by-side views remind us just how much San Pedro has grown. There’s something special about seeing the old neighborhood again, even in a photograph, and remembering the everyday moments that made it home. What do you remember most about sandy Front Street? Recognize any of the old buildings? Share your memories with us!

Click Here for More Flashbacks / Follow us on Instagram

There was a time when San Pedro was simply one of Belize’s tourism destinations. Today, I think it is difficult to argue that we are not the tourism capital of Belize. For many visitors, Ambergris Caye is their introduction to our country; they arrive through the international airport, make their way to the municipal airport or water taxi terminal, and before long they are stepping onto the streets of San Pedro.

For some, this little island community is the Belize they have dreamed about, the Caribbean Sea, the Barrier Reef, golf carts, beach bars, dive boats, palm trees, fresh seafood and that relaxed island lifestyle we have spent decades selling to the world. But what San Pedro has become goes far beyond the postcard image.

As I continue this San Pedro City series, looking at the transformation of our community from the small fishing village many of us remember into what I believe is essentially a city operating under the title of a town, tourism has to be a major part of the conversation. Tourism did not simply help San Pedro grow. Tourism reshaped the entire island.

It created jobs, attracted investment, encouraged migration, expanded our neighborhoods, filled our skies with airplanes and our waters with boats, and helped create the incredible variety of restaurants and businesses I discussed in previous parts of this series. In many ways, the San Pedro we know today exists because generations of islanders embraced tourism and built an industry around one of the greatest natural resources imaginable, the Belize Barrier Reef.

From Fishing Village to Tourism Powerhouse
Older generations remember when San Pedro was primarily a fishing community. Lobster, conch and fish provided livelihoods for many families, while coconuts had played an important role in the island economy even earlier.

Tourism arrived gradually.

Visitors discovered our reef, our beaches, our people and the charm of a small Caribbean settlement where life moved slowly and everyone seemed to know everyone else. Small hotels and guesthouses appeared. Local fishermen became tour guides. Families opened restaurants, dive shops and tourism businesses. Word spread.

Then San Pedro took off.

What started with adventurous travelers, divers and fishermen eventually developed into a sophisticated tourism industry with everything from small locally owned hotels to luxury resorts, private villas, vacation rentals and multimillion-dollar developments. The little airstrip that once welcomed a handful of small planes now handles a constant flow of domestic flights. Tour boats leave our docks every morning. Water taxis bring passengers throughout the day. Golf carts fill our streets as visitors head north, south, downtown or across the island to Secret Beach. Tourism is no longer something happening in one little section of San Pedro. It stretches across Ambergris Caye.

An Island Built Around Experiences
One of the things that makes San Pedro unique is the sheer number of experiences available from such a relatively small island. You can wake up in the morning and snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, dive along the Belize Barrier Reef, spend the afternoon at Secret Beach and be back downtown for dinner at a restaurant serving food from another part of the world. The following day might include fishing, sailing, parasailing, a sunset cruise, a trip to the mainland or simply exploring the island by golf cart.

And then there is the Great Blue Hole. Although it is not located directly off Ambergris Caye, San Pedro has long served as one of the major launching points for diving and sightseeing trips to one of Belize’s most recognizable natural attractions. Our island has essentially become a gateway to experiences throughout Belize. That is important because San Pedro does not compete only with other Belizean destinations anymore. We compete internationally.

A traveler deciding where to spend a Caribbean vacation may be comparing Ambergris Caye with destinations in Mexico, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas or elsewhere in the region. San Pedro has grown into a destination with enough hotels, restaurants, tours, nightlife, transportation and services to compete for those visitors.

Yet somehow, beneath all of that growth, pieces of the old San Pedro remain. Visitors still walk down the beach barefoot. They still stop and talk with locals. Golf carts remain the primary form of transportation. Fishermen still head out to sea. You can still find a roadside barbecue, buy food from a street vendor or sit at a small local restaurant alongside people who have lived here their entire lives. That mixture may be one of San Pedro’s greatest strengths.

https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0qjYPT0af5_YPZJ00pgMdVE?utm_source=follow.it https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0qxxIAwIjU5XZE1jK9dNXbn?utm_source=follow.it

Belize is preparing to welcome a new air connection from Europe, with Discover Airlines set to launch seasonal service between Frankfurt, Germany, and Belize City on December 16, 2027. Announced by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB), the route will open another gateway for travelers from Germany and connecting European markets to experience Belize.

The service will operate twice weekly, on Thursdays and Sundays, through mid-April 2028, coinciding with Belize’s dry season and Europe’s winter travel months. For Belize’s tourism industry, the connection represents an opportunity to reach more European visitors while expanding the country’s international air access.

Tourism Minister Hon. Anthony Mahler described the new service as an important step in Belize’s efforts to diversify its visitor markets and strengthen its presence in Europe.

Discover Airlines to Strengthen European Connection

“Strengthening our presence in Europe is a key priority, and this new connection from Frankfurt opens opportunities to attract more visitors from Germany and across the region, while making it easier for travelers to experience the best of Belize, from our world-renowned Barrier Reef and pristine islands to our lush rainforests, ancient Maya sites, and rich cultural heritage,” Mahler stated.

For destinations such as San Pedro and Caye Caulker, along with mainland tourism communities, the additional connection could help introduce Belize to travelers seeking a combination of island relaxation, outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Its seasonal schedule will bring another travel option during an important period for hotels, tour operators, restaurants and other tourism businesses.

Discover Airlines is the Lufthansa Group’s German leisure airline, operating from Frankfurt and Munich to holiday destinations around the world. Since beginning operations in the summer of 2021, the airline has expanded the group’s leisure travel offerings, with passengers benefiting from coordinated bookings and connecting flights through the Lufthansa Group and its partner airlines.

The Frankfurt connection will give travelers from other European markets an additional way to reach Belize through the German hub, extending the route’s potential reach beyond Germany itself. The BTB says it will work closely with Discover Airlines and local tourism partners to support the service, strengthen Belize’s visibility in Europe and encourage increased visitation from the region.

Click Here for More on Ambergris Today

]]> Tue, 20 Oct 2026 19:34:17 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0qxxIAwIjU5XZE1jK9dNXbn?utm_source=follow.it https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0qUGzmgG8wDh7uofv7p8eIb?utm_source=follow.it

Secret Beach is set to receive a major infrastructure upgrade as Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) and the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) announce a partnership to connect the popular Ambergris Caye destination to the national electricity grid.

For the residents and entrepreneurs who depend on the area, the project promises practical benefits, from reducing reliance on fuel-powered generators to improving lighting and supporting business operations. The agencies say the expansion is intended to support sustainable growth while improving daily life in one of the island’s fastest-growing destinations.

A grid connection could make a considerable difference for businesses that currently rely on generators to keep their establishments running. According to BEL and BTB, moving away from these costly, noisy power sources is expected to lower operating expenses and reduce the environmental footprint of businesses in the area.

Secret Beach is Growing

Long and bumpy roads leading to Secret Beach are slowing being paved

The project is also expected to improve public and commercial lighting, providing better visibility for residents, workers, and visitors. For restaurants and other establishments, improved lighting would help them safely extend their evening hours, creating more opportunities to serve customers after sunset.

Beyond those everyday benefits, the agencies anticipate that reliable electricity will encourage local entrepreneurship and attract new investment, strengthening economic activity in this growing part of Ambergris Caye. As Secret Beach continues to develop, access to dependable electrical infrastructure will be an important part of meeting the needs of both the community and the tourism industry.

BEL and BTB say they will work closely with community stakeholders and local businesses as implementation begins. The announcement did not provide a project cost or a completion date.

Click Here for More on Ambergris Today / Follow us on Instagram

]]> Thu, 15 Oct 2026 22:32:20 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0qUGzmgG8wDh7uofv7p8eIb?utm_source=follow.it https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0pMNYWees307Vulr-RdX0Gh?utm_source=follow.it ]]> Fri, 09 Oct 2026 21:26:39 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0pMNYWees307Vulr-RdX0Gh?utm_source=follow.it https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0qCsuGNHUQm9e1y71TFsyma?utm_source=follow.it ]]> Fri, 09 Oct 2026 17:17:06 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0qCsuGNHUQm9e1y71TFsyma?utm_source=follow.it https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0q9JIHfio3DGDipWcsIxzxi?utm_source=follow.it ]]> Thu, 08 Oct 2026 21:34:32 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0q9JIHfio3DGDipWcsIxzxi?utm_source=follow.it https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0qCt-zhOsu6vetp98OQTKrf?utm_source=follow.it ]]> Fri, 02 Oct 2026 16:43:12 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0qCt-zhOsu6vetp98OQTKrf?utm_source=follow.it https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0qfUYrgFZ2l1nOOsbhUF-0y?utm_source=follow.it ]]> Wed, 30 Sep 2026 22:27:42 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0qfUYrgFZ2l1nOOsbhUF-0y?utm_source=follow.it https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0pIe_eWjloUBmlG2xj0er0V?utm_source=follow.it ]]> Mon, 28 Sep 2026 17:58:22 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/wT6NEu6YK0pIe_eWjloUBmlG2xj0er0V?utm_source=follow.it