Maya in Belize with GrandMother Macarena of Rainforest Realty KW Belize

Belize Makes Top 10 on Fodors List

2017-12-12T12:07:00.004-08:00

Fodors Put Belize on the top 10 Place to travel to !

I personally put it as the Number One place to move to !

10 OF 52

Belize

Belize is full of rich history, rewarding explorations, and natural beauty that may not be around forever.

Why It’s Wonderful: Ancient Mayan secrets are being unearthed daily at historical locales all over the country. Chances are, you will see a team of archeologists at any of Belize’s Mayan dig sites during your visit. Part Caribbean and part Central America, Belize feels untouched by the rest of the planet, making it seem like a true getaway. In today’s world, how much longer will we be able to find a destination so unplugged?

Where to Stay: In the heart of the jungle, San Ignacio Resort Hotel features top-of-the-line rooms, friendly staff, and even a medicinal jungle trail. For a coastal stay, Cerros Beach Resort is an affordable option that has quality bay-side views and diving trips. Keep an eye out for the dreamy Itz’ana Resorts and Residences, opening in 2018.

Insider Tip: If you’re the adventurous type, book a spelunking trip through one of Belize’s many palatial caves.

When to Go: With its tropical climate, the country is humid all year long. So pick a month that works for you.

What to Read: Beka Lamb by Zee Edgell, The Last Flight of the Macaw by Bruce Barcott

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Belize Guide

2017-12-11T06:33:00.003-08:00

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT YOU, BELIZE

Dear Belize, you are a sunny soul, easy to like in so many ways. I like you best from my porch, where each day passes as easily as you give them. A lost art to many nowadays, happily, you have not lost the art of “porch living,” Belize. A symbol for your gracious lifestyle, a porch provides a place where life may be lived more fully. Thus, my list of likes about you, Belize, starts with my porch.

Yes indeed, from a porch a body encounters life live, not in so-called “real time” – something a more down-to-earth lifestyle, free of artificial technological intrusions, allows. Nope, nothing more kindly than a porch, except for the people that stop to sit a spell there. Happily, the old-fashioned “drop-in” visit is not dead with you, Belize.

To be sure, a good porch life attracts regular callers...wouldn't be the same without them, and with visitors comes old-time hospitality. Don't go to fretting. It doesn't take much to entertain in Belize. Some limeade and a Belizian anise bun will do very nicely when it comes to pleasing the pop-in guest. Better still, some tamarind candy will win a host high marks and a sterling reputation for neighborliness.

Ah yes, tamarind candy. One can choose from three varieties: a sweet and sour sugar-coated ball, Cayenne pepper, or chili flavors. If a caller comes and catches you flat out of tamarinds, a mango grabbed from the tree off the porch makes a splendid substitute. Coconut water, another of my likes about you, Belize, makes a good libation at any hour, including the cocktail time. It is better for the fit and won't spread the figure.

Belize, with your weather so fair and people ever genial, a porch is a natural pleasantry of life with you. Your considerate, consistent year-round temperature – hot – with nights cooler December to March and 85 percent humidity, November the most humid and May the least, a porch provides the best place to enjoy your climes. No more winter hibernating. As for the people that come calling, friendly goes without saying. Doing porch is just something friendly people do, and if you are anything, Belize, you are certainly friendly.

Bird watching along with people gazing while perched on a porch provides the perfect tonic to any contrary mood. Porch sitters in other lands know of avian aerial shows, but not like yours, Belize. Nothing can match your keel-billed touchan or your rainbow-colored macaw or the many other feathered friends that color your skies, and there's never a lack of conversation when they're around. So I'll add this like to my list of Belize favorites.

When away from the porch, a walk to the open air market takes in the colors of the tropics as reflected in the brightly painted walls of buildings right down to the garb of the locals. One could never say you are not colorful, Belize. It comes with living in the tropics. Speaking of the market, while there today, I picked up something that I cannot decide if it is for the stove pot or planting pot. This happens not infrequently, and I generally guess wrong into which pot to put my purchase.

A palm tree goes without saying here. Everywhere, yes. Boring no. Too many types to become predictable, the ubiquitous palm tree is one more pleasure to add to my list. Everyone has their favorite, from the tall, stately royal palm that could lure anyone to the tropics to the waving fan of the travelers palm, with it's spindly stem sheaths that once provided water for the weary wayfarer.

My list of likes could keep me writing many pages more. I'll stop here, though. All in all, Belize, if what they say is true about the greatest happiness being found in life's simple things, then this is most true about life here with you. I should say it is what I like about you most.

Remedies from the rainforest. The Mayas might have gotten the end of the world wrong, but

when it comes to healing, they certainly got it right with their rainforest remedies. There is a plant

for everything: rashes, earaches, deworming, belly aches, blood tonic and more. Most of the

plants are termed to be weeds, but isn’t a rose a weed by another name.

School Days in Belize

2017-12-11T06:25:00.002-08:00

“School days, school days, dear old Golden Rule days...”

Will Cobb and Gus Edwards had it right when they wrote these words to their 1907 song, “School Days.” School days in Belize means well-scrubbed, cheery children in crisp uniforms walking one mile to class on dusty, dirt roads. School days often spent in unairconditioned cinderblock buildings, where the boys and girls learn the good old curriculum of readin', writin' and 'rithmatic, just like in those “dear old Golden Rule days.”

Now then, did you read too quickly what I wrote about cheery kids...walking a mile...attending unairconditioned schools? That should stand out to the average American student who probably could not conceive of such difficulties, much less be happy about it. I know it took me aback my first day in Belize to see these behaved, immaculate children nimbly scurrying off down the dirt road in front of my house. Off to school they were...and happy about it, too.

Now, mind you, these children were emerging from modest domiciles, many of which do not have indoor plumbing...homes where the wash is hung out on a line, not put in a Maytag. Across the field from my house, two families that I know of sprint between their crudely built abodes to an outhouse shower. I often wonder how those children appear in public looking so immaculate...indeed, if they even arrive to school as fresh faced as when they left home, having harrowed the long treck into town or to the bus. Somehow, they do it...all beyond what I can imagine.

I hated grammar school. I may have cleaned up alright and made the hike; but, I would not have been happy about any of it like Belize children. Thank goodness I had a softer life. However, they say what comes difficult is more appreciated. Judging by appearances, what they say appears to be true, at least in Belize, where kids are ready to hit the books, regardless of their situation. I admire them.

School days in Belize means learnin' the three “Rs” (reading, 'riting and 'rithmatic for those too young to know the Rs allusion) according to the British academic system, where the student matriculates through three levels: primary, secondary and tertiary. The primary being perhaps akin to kindergarden, elementary and first year of junior high in America.

School days in Belize also means religious schooling. With limited or no state schools, education is provided mostly by religious groups, notably the Anglican (Church of England) and Roman Catholic. The English style of education would certainly be at home with an Anglican Church and it's religious instruction. However, the RC's follow it, too, along with everyone else. Thus, with the three “Rs,” children also learn the Ten Commandments. A moral plus that I fear may be lacking in current American public education.

That religion and education go hand-in-hand in Belize is obvious just by the names of the schools, such as Sacred Heart Primary school, Saint Andrew's Primary and Faith Nazarene Primary. All primary schools and I dare say there exists no metal detectors at the front doors of these institutions, something not uncommon in America public schools nowadays. While I've named just three schools that I know of, be assured the list of others is hard to exhaust.

I can give a firsthand account of Saint Andrew's Anglican school, having attended there for my primary education. Today, I am happy to tell you that in 2013, the school had four students rank in the top 25 primary school examinations. The prestige of this school is well known and attracts a large following that even finds parents camping out at the front door on registration day. Amazingly, cursive writing is still taugh at Saint Andrew's! Once a standard in American schools, now dropped, so I've heard. The high standards of the school are something for which I am most thankful, right down to the homework. There was plenty of it and studying for PSE exams filled not a few holidays.

Last but foremost, there is Faith Nazarene School. They get three gold stars in my book because they accept children with disabilities. Again, I can give a personal account of this school, where my younger brother, who is autistic, attends.

School days in Beliez, then, are taken seriously. Readin', writin' and 'rithmatic, yes...more importantly, the Golden Rule. So goes school days in Belize.

“School days, Belize days, dear old Golden Rule days...”

Top 9 Reasons Why to Buy in Belize ?

2017-03-01T10:37:00.001-08:00

Top 9 Reasons Why to Buy in Belize ?

Interesting question for sure. I moved to Belize in 2004, and there are many reasons why I chose here to live.

Some reasons that Belize has become a desired market for people wishing to retire and invest in due to several factors:

English Is the First Language

2 Hour direct flight from Houston

2 Hour direct flight from Miami

USD dollar = 2 Belize Dollars

Has the Largest Living Barrier Reef in the World

6)
Combination of Rainforest and Caribbean Sea living

Belize does not have any purchasing restrictions and grants full land titles to locals and non-Belizeans alike.

VERY Low property taxes- For example, a 50 Acre resort for sale on the Ocean pays 225 USD a year in Property taxes

Local Financing is available with 50% down

So you have thought about moving to Belize.

What about Real Estate in Belize prices?

Here are some examples:

Housing:

Inland - Average home 139,000 USD

Island - Average Home 350,000 USD

Oceanfront Condo- Avergage 300,000 USD

Some Listings:

Island Home

http://rainforestrealty.com/listings/ambergris-caye-island-home/

Penthouse Island Condo

http://rainforestrealty.com/listings/belize-ambergris-caye-condo-for-sale-in-san-pedro-belize/

Home for sale inland

http://rainforestrealty.com/listings/belize-home-with-spacious-lot-near-san-ignacio-town-cayo-district/

SeaView Home

http://rainforestrealty.com/listings/belize-home-for-sale-in-hopkins-village-belize/

Brand New Home

http://rainforestrealty.com/listings/new-home-in-san-ignacio-belize/

Investment

Rental Units

http://rainforestrealty.com/listings/rental-cabanas-for-sale-on-ambergris-caye-island/

Oceanfront Large Lot

http://rainforestrealty.com/listings/ambergris-caye-belize-beachfront-lot/

Restaurant and Home for Sale on the island

http://rainforestrealty.com/listings/belize-island-restaurant-sale/

Rental Income Home on the island, on the canal

http://rainforestrealty.com/listings/house-for-sale-in-san-pedro-belize/

12,000 Acres for sale on the ocean

http://rainforestrealty.com/listings/belize-oceanfront-12000-acres-for-sale/

Belize really does offer anything for anyone.

Feel free to contact us at www.BelizeRealEstateServices.com today for your questions, we are here as your Buyers agents in Belize.

2017-01-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

Dreaming of Investing in Belize Land for Sale ? Have a gift for developing Properties ?

Here are TWO Priced to sell offerings you will want to view :

180 ACRES Oceanfront in Belize:

Drone Video of the Property

Pricing of the Property ( Note Seller is ILL, and will sell for substantial reduction, possible terms) and If you are a Realtor, contact us today to get your referral !!

12000 Acres of Oceanfront in Belize :

Chinese Version- Helicopter View

English Version- Helicopter View

Pricing of the Property and If you are a Realtor, contact us today to get your referral !!

Why are People are Investing in Belize ?

1. Foreign investment is encouraged in Belize

2. There are no property restrictions in Belize. You can add any type of structure on your property.

3. You can own property in any part of Belize. There are no restrictions on foreigners owning property on the Ocean or other water ways.

4. Property Taxes are very modest in Belize

5. You can reach Belize by Air in two hours or less from Miami, Florida, Houston Texas, New Orleans, LA – Makes if very easy to get back and forth to North America

6. Belize first Language is English so no need to learn a foreign language to live in Belize. This fact makes Belize truly a lateral move.

7. You only have to be 45 years old in Belize to Retire utilizing the Qualified Retired Persons Program. Rainforest Realty provides the service for application to this program. Contact us for a fee schedule for this service.

8. US Dollar is accepted throughout Belize so no need to do the money exchange. The exchange rate is 2 Belize Dollars for every 1 US Dollar. Note when paying in US Dollars, you will receive your change in Belize Dollars.

9. Yes, you can use your ATM card in Belize if you have a Global card. Foreign fees will apply based on your home banking requirements.

10. Medical Service are available in Belize. There are both Public and Private Hospitals. Most significant procedures will be performed in Belize City Medical Centers. Belize has some very good Doctors and Dentist. You will also find Pharmacies in Belize that are very complete. However if you have a specific Medication you require daily, call a head to make sure your prescription is available in case you run out of your own medicine while in Belize. Healthcare is very affordable in Belize as compared to the USA.

For more information on Living in Belize Central America, See this blog site: Expats in Belize

Click here to Contact us for more information today ! Live your dream NOW!

Click here : Video of Areas in Belize People move to :

Retiring in Belize on a Family Compound or Belize Farm

2016-11-28T04:06:00.002-08:00

It's a new world. . .

Americans fleeing South. . . other choosing to go even further.

The USA Elections have affected a lot of people's vision of what their future is like, and others feel that the cost of living does not afford them the quality of life, that Belize does.

Remember The Golden Girls? That TV program introduced another way to live. . seniors on fixed incomes, sharing living quarters?

A friend of mine was sharing that "In the 1980s I had a couple of friends buy big old houses. . after their children had grown and left home. . ."We want to have space for any friends who find themselves homeless. .." was their reasoning. People were losing jobs (even in the prosperous San Francisco Bay Area). . .people were becoming ill and no longer able to work. . drawing disability payments that were not enough. the reasons are many. . ."

And then she saw in Asia (and new in the Middle East) people in large extended families lived in huge grand old houses (Baghdad) or in family compounds (like in Indonesia).

Here in Belize there are folks who buy homes with a farm. Like this Couple who owns a Lychee Farm in Belize that allow plenty of space to expand.

Everyone's heard of The Kennedy Family Compound at Hyannis Port... keeping the family in one area, is a time honored tradition.

In Corozal this property reminds me of this-

With three houses -

Families then can pool their resources and acquire two large waterfront lots on the Caribbean in Belize!

Three residences are already there waiting for you. . with space to grow more.

Americans do know about Family Compounds. . . .but only of the rich and famous.

The Bush Family has one in Kennebunkport Maine. . .but it is one large house. . though Jeb Bush is now building a second on the property.

Why not YOU. . .only not in cold Maine or the shores of New England. .but on the Caribbean!

Do you like the idea of a Family Compound ?

Famous People who have visited Belize

2016-09-05T08:38:00.002-07:00

As the Host of Belize Talk Radio, Macarena Rose has seen MANY famous people in Belize.

So, Why do people come to Belize ? Is it for the Vacation in Luxury style, is it for the Ecological Tours, the Diving on the Barrier Reef or for the PURE reason that Belize IS Mother natures best kept secret!??

Well, There are those who come to give back to the Community- like this video shows and this one from Keller Williams Belize .

Then there are those that come to Belize to Dive- in fact some come to meet the famous BIG SEXY and Robbie of Chuck and Robbies.
Then of course, there is my friend ,our Mayor, Danny who is a treat to interview-.

Then their are the World Known Celebrities that LOVE to sneak off to Paradise in Belize!
Just to mention a few, there has been :

Ivanka Trump on her Belize Baby-moon...

Prince Henry Queen Elizabeth Bobby Kennedy Jr Tamera Mowry-Housley
Cameron Diaz Gene Simmons Jennifer Lawrence Michael Douglas
Catherine Zeta Jones Harrison Ford Halle Berry Reece Witherspoon
George Clooney Alexander Skarsgard Travis Van Winkle Charles Michael Davis

Ivanka Trump Kayla Ewell Alexandra Cousteau Bradley Cooper

Joseph Reitman Tracy Ulman Helen Mirren Ai Carina Uemura
Bill Gates Heidi Klum Mary Steenburgen Thelma Aoyama
Tiger Woods Charlize Theron Leonardo DiCaprio Lennox Lewis
Lesley McGuire Jennifer Beals Ted Danson Tiger Woods
Lennox Lewis Francis Ford Coppola

Belize fashion Designer, my dear Joris presenting in Belize for Prince Harry his unique Designs

Some also come and then decide to Buy Belize Real Estate and Belize Talk Radio Host Macarena Rose is the Belize Buyers Agent of Choice.

Macarena Rose has been featured on HGTV House Hunters Worldwide TV Show 6 times as the Belize Realtor- and is in talks now with a Production Company that wants to do a Reality TV show with her as showing what it is like to cover the Jungle- Island and buying process in Belize.

Stay tuned !! BELIZE IS UNBELIEVABLE !!

Belize Hurricane Earl- Water: Fill bathtub and.... more TIPS

2016-08-03T10:44:00.003-07:00

Belize is batting down the hatches, and preparing for EARL.
So is it a TROPICAL STORM or Hurricane ?

Matters not in my book. Having moved to Belize over 13 years ago from Florida. I know all too well to take them ALL serious, as with Mother Nature, you just Never know!

Here are some TIPS to STOCK NOW:

Canned Foods (enough to last at least 5 days)
Water (enough to last at least 5 days)
First-aid kit (include any prescription medication you may need)
Personal hygiene items and sanitation items
Flashlights and battery radios ( with extra batteries)
Waterproof container to keep $ and important documents
Hand crank can opener
Lighters
Baby and Pet Supplies
MAKE A plan NOW for evacuation and for if family members are separated

Here are some TIPS to PREPARE:

Secure all of your windows, either with wood or tape
Tape may help glass from shattering everywhere- does not keep it from breaking
Tie down anything outside that could become a projectile - or bring inside
Stay away from windows when winds are blowing

Water: Fill bathtub and large containers with water

Refrigerator :

Turn your fridge temperature down and/or freeze any food and water that can be frozen for later to use

Earl is CLOSE

So do we stay or do we go ?

Reminds me of the song, by the Clash- Should I Stay or Should I go ?

Simple answer is-

If you have somewhere safe to go, that is more inland- then go. Ambergris Caye is bustling with people heading out, the water taxis are packed, and folks have made a plan to go inland.

Yet, I know many folks staying, that have pets ( which i can surely appreciate)... just make sure you are in a well built home- and have a looked at the above tips - and hopefully have done most of them already,, as soon Earl will be in Belize-

Ready or Not....

My prayer is YOU are ready --

Hugs and Prayers to ALL !

Macarena Rose

Hilton Meets Belize - or is it Belize Meets HILTON !

2016-06-15T15:22:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is at last a reality. After on going talks for months, it is official!

Hilton Meets Belize - or is it Belize Meets Hilton ?

The Belize Real Estate Market i feel for sure shall see a swifter upturn, in the Luxury Homes purchases in 2016.

At first it was speculated that the ongoing USA elections with Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton as the 2 candidates, was going to be good business for Belize Real Estate.
The USA Election is truly reaching across borders, with the President of Mexico, Enrique Peña Nieto speaking out against Donald Trump and Russia being reported to be prepared to release Clinton intercepted emails and now Wikileaks co-founder Julian Assange, says there are more email copies to come from Hillary Clinton's Blackberry- and that "2016 will be a BIG year for whistleblowing!"

With ALL that news- about elections and the ugliness of it all- ( to me, at least), there is exciting news to share - that Hilton Hotel shall now be in Belize!
The Hilton Hotels were originally founded by Conrad Hilton in 1919, and today is Number 4 on the list of top Hotel chains in the world:

4. Hilton Worldwide – Does the name ring a bell? Yes, this group founded by Conrad N.Hilton who is in every way related to Paris Hilton! From the 40-room hotel established in 1919 in Texas, and first hotel named Hilton in 1925, the hotel has emerged to a huge empire of 4278 hotels with over 650,000 rooms , spread across 90 countries. With the legacy of hotels like Waldorf Astoria, Doubletree, Hilton Hotels, Embassy, Curio, Conrad, Canopy, Garden Inn, Hampton and Homewood Suites, its name has soared to become one of the world’s largest brands in style, opulence and innovation.

There is a property in San Pedro Belize, that is named The Resort at Mahogany Bay that we recently had a client who wanted to buy there that we were their Buyers Agent for in Belize, who chose instead to buy a free standing home. Their thought was they wanted to have their own little area to grow fresh herbs and flowers. With this news that Hilton will have a presence on Ambergris Caye, it is only a matter of time, that Belize goes from being " Mother Nature's Best kept secret" to an ever booming market and destination to live !

Are you interested in Moving to Belize ?

When i was looking where to move in over 12 years ago home to Belize- there were so many choices- so little help !
Please do remember I am here to help you find your slice of paradise in Belize, while providing you service as an Accredited Buyers Agent with information to know ahead of time to plan correctly.

Looking forward to hearing from you !

May the rest of your day be the best of your day !

Macarena Rose
macarenarose@gmail.com

www.RainforestRealty.com

Macarena Rose shares Family Reunion Mexico 2016

2016-06-08T22:07:00.002-07:00

Keller Williams Family Reunion in Queretaro Mexico has Begun !!
Glendy and I started our 16 hour journey to travel to Queretaro form Belize- and the journey is glorious to have the opportunity to be invited guests of the KW Family Reunion in Mexico that is a triple pay of FIRSTS !

1st KW Mexico Family Reunion
1st KW Family Reunion in Spanish
1st KW Family Reunion in Latin America

FSO opening

Bill Soteroff Opening FSO

Happy Mexico KW Agents !!

Sunrise from the Hotel with the Conference center on top of the hill- awaiting the BIG opening !

Today was Day 2 and full of events- the morning started off with ALC Masterminds, MCA Masterminds, the Grand Opening event with Bill Soteroff being introduced, and welcoming everyone for attending. He spoke powerfully about Keller Williams culture, vision and mission.
At one point, I was videoing, and he caught me off guard and gave me a shout out-- with the crowd joining in-- then a high 5 to his translator, when she successfully translated ( after 2 challenging tries) the phrase " All Around the World". Here is the video- ( shaky one at that..)

If you ever get the chance to hear Bill speak- do Not Miss It ! He is a man of depth, with humor.. he speaks from his heart, and with such passion and love for KW-- you will get what KW is all about !

Stay tuned... will post more photos soon !!

Macarena Rose and WHY Belize Keller Williams

2016-05-16T09:24:00.001-07:00

People have asked me, " Why out of all the Real Estate Companies to choose- why Choose Keller Williams ?"
To me it was simple ! Their Value statement is God, Family, then Business. Having grown up being a voracious reader, I recall Shakespeare's words, " Know thyself, and to thine self be true, then canst not be false to any man." I have always beaten to my own drum, with God as my guide.

I have always been "different", raised speaking Spanish as my 1st language, as an American is a bit different. I was blessed to be part of a San Salvadorian family, raised around Ambassadors, and travelled to exotic lands with my Adventurous Washingtonian Mother. I have always known that God was who i needed to be accountable for, and judgement form others- matter not.
In faxt, last week I had to giggle, when my very straightforward ethical friend, Louis shared with me, that someone he knows, asked him, "Hey, that Macarena lady, she really cannot be that nice, as she seems to be." Louis replied to him, " yep, that Macarena Rose is what you see , is what ya get, she is the real deal."

When Louis shared that with me, I had to explain to him, why that does not offend me.
See, people, think what they want, and it is not one's job to change what they think of you- and in fact, again, with the blessing of having God as my judge, i also have him as my strength and comfort.

So back to Why Keller Williams- well, it was about the other people i met from KW- and then this video sealed the deal for me- how an office in Iowa and Keller Williams agents all over the world came to help them-
reminds me of Margaret Mead's quote, " Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."

So, for me, Keller Williams is the real deal-
" Know thyself, and to thine self be true, then canst not be false to any man." ( Shakespeare); and there for my Value statement is and always has been based on, God-Family and then Business.

Is value statement BOLD enough to include God ?

Dog House for Sale in Belize - Off Grid Home

2016-04-14T14:32:00.000-07:00

Okay folks- I am passing on a message for a friend of mine- who happens to be a DOG!

" My name is Scout, and I love my home, however my parents are moving. I want to stay here living at my Off Grid Modern Home, and am looking for a parent(s) that want to buy a Large Dog house and keep me to !
My home has a pool, although I cannot tell you how great it is to be in it, as I have my own outside river to get cooled in !

Did I mention to you, that I LOVE my home, i live right on the river !
In the morning I can hear and see all the birds you can think of, even those little Toucans that I always think are going to fall over with their long beaks !

My home is listed for sale and you can read more about it by clicking HERE:

Anyhow, back to me! I am a terrific companion, like to live outside, I might be interested in coming inside once in awhile - although, I am happy either way. I am a handsome young man, who is protective and very well behaved. I even have a black tongue, and no.. I did not eat back licorice, as some of my friends have tease me about !

So, more about where i live:

Belize is a diverse Country, we have people who live off grid by choice, some because there is no utilities in their area and some because of the cost.
My parents wanted to live off grid in Belize, while also having the comforts of having their comfort.
I love that we have Solar panels, and the fact that we do not worry when the electric goes out in the village, or the water, as we have it all !

My parents love that our home is so close to San Ignacio Town and that we are a close drive to the Mennonite town of Spanish Lookout.

Living off grid in Belize, is easy as we have SUN galore and we have the river with rain catchment system that holds 13,000 gallons of water ! Much more then i need, even on a hot day!

Since I am sharing photos of me, here is one with my Regal look- sitting on the front steps of my Dog House-

My Regal Look

So, have you ever considered buying a Dog House in Belize ?

I am here waiting for you - remember The ONLY Limit is your Imagination!

If Trump Becomes President;

2016-02-05T17:31:00.002-08:00

Interesting times we are in, Trump running for office- has given lots of humorous content for the late night talk show hosts in the USA.

Yesterday I read this article that covered the Top 5 Places to move to if Trump wins, by Sara Wolfe, and had to smile that there was even such a list- What Country do you think made the list ?
You can read it here: Where do you think Belize ranked ??

Belize keeps getting put on the map , not sure if Politics is the reason I would want people escaping to Belize. These US elections, and whether it is Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton or ??
just may give Belize Real Estate a push, of people wanting to buy in Belize, move to Belize and retire in Belize.
Belize has been in the news so much, some good news, some bad news, and I feel it is interesting that people would move from one Country to another because of Politics.
We have politics here in Belize to!
I think you truly cannot run to somewhere else, to be happy-
I moved to Belize, as I knew I was to be here. That was over 11 years ago, and today, i feel the same.

So Why Belize for me ? My friend Damion said it so well, and I paraphrase- Belize is more Love based then fear based..

So do you agree with the Top 5 places to move article, if Trump wins?

Election Day in Belize 2015

2015-11-04T05:40:00.001-08:00

Well, today is the day !! Elections will take place in Belize- and the festivities have already begun !
Here is Belize, there are 2 predominant parties, the U.D.P. ( United Democratic Party) and the
P.U.P. ( People's United Party).
Todays' election shall be interesting as the U.D.P. has been in office for 2 terms now- and the people will decide if they get a 3rd term, or if the time has come for the P.U.P. party to be back into office.

This is one citizen who is praying everyone goes and votes today, as truly your Vote Counts in Belize !

Holidays in Belize -San Ignacio- Halloween at Greedys Pizza Video

2015-11-01T03:51:00.002-08:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN to all of you

GREEDY'S PIZZA'S IN BLIZE GEARS UP TO CELEBRATE!! Macarena Rose, the Queen of Belize Talk Radio, chats with Mr. Greedy in San Ignacio, Belize about his popular pizzaria. It's that time of year -- Halloween has arrived. Follow the crowd to Greedys Pizza!! This is a noisy, popular, fun pizza party spot in San Ignacio, BELIZE. And they like to party! It's on the main street and if you like your pizza with homemade ingredients and a lot of fun to go with it -- Greedys is the place for you!

You can join the group there for a rip roaring, spooktacular Halloween celebration. First, the kids -- on Friday, October 30th from .5--7pm. All the kids are encouraged to wear their costumes and come swing at the pinata and win prizes! Of course there will be lots of goodies like candy, fresh fruit,

and pizza slices on hand! Greedys loves to host the kids and see their eyes shine with excitement . They provide an age appropriate, fun and entertaining event for the kiddies! On Saturday, Halloween itself ----ready, get set , go!! All you adults out there ----dress up, dress down, be a monster, be a clown--- just get down there to to party hearty. Greedys has a rockingingly awesome lineup of evening events, spook-tacular excitement, and awesome dj ready for you 8pm-2am.

You might spot some of the folks from Rain Forest Realty there too. Go up and introduce yourself - they love it. Take a selfie with them. Be sure to post your photos and let the world share the fun! And not to worry-- if you don't get there for Halloween antics, Greedys is there for you every day of the year! GO GREEDYS PIZZA!!!!!!!

Carmelita Gardens Belize Drone Video Homes

2015-10-23T10:47:00.000-07:00

Just outside of San Ignacio, Belize- there is a development called Carmelita.

We have just listed another home there for sale- and a lot-

If you are looking to live Off Grid in Belize, these homes may be an option for you.

This home is available for 120,000.00 USD and is perfect for the show called Tiny House Nation!

It is compact, and yet offers everything you need to live off grid.

Click here to see interior

Then in Carmelita there is this off grid home in Belize, that is for the Executive Style of living. It is a large home with many amenities, including a Gourmet Kitchen, Bar, Pool and Guest Suite.

Click here to see the Drone Video :

If Luxury Living Off Grid is for you, see more information here :

When I moved to Belize-over 14 years ago, options like this were just unheard of.
Now, we have a whole cross section of people moving to Belize looking for Tiny Nation Homes and Off Grid living with comforts.

Have you ever lived in an Off Grid Home ?

Belize History and Rainforest Realty Office

2015-10-23T08:29:00.001-07:00

Since moving to Belize in 2004, I have been privileged to learn so much of Belize's History.
One of my favorite people in the world to speak with is Mr. Hector Silva.
He is in my mind, the most formidable Historian we have in Belize.
Not only does he have the vast experience of when Belize actually became Belize- he has the photographs and memorabilia that just leave me in awe !

I was reading a wonderful article that Cruz wrote, from the Cayo Tour Guide Association- and was thrilled to see an old time photo of the road that our Rainforest Realty is on, in San Ignacio.

Then, i scrolled down, and saw this terrific video Cruz has done, and just had to share with you !
It is a terrific video with other current day photos and old time photos.
It is a stellar compilation !

You can view it here-

Have you been to any of these places in Belize ?

Belize Ambassador to Austria

2015-09-16T12:44:00.002-07:00

Belize Ambassador to Austria

To: Macarena Rose

As the Host of Belize Talk Radio- we get releases of information sent to us that have to do with Belize.

We just received this:

"Belize Ambassador to Austria
Joel Nagel was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (United States) on August 11, 1965. He speaks,

reads and writes German.

He established his private law practice in 1990 in the specialized area of international business and

asset protection. Mr. Nagel has worked for over twenty years in Belize aiding not only clients with

their business ventures, but also working with public officials, expats and locals to aid in the

development of the country of Belize in many sectors. He serves on over a dozen corporate

boards for real estate, tourism and financial services.

He began his education at Allegheny College, a small prestigious private university located in

northeast Pennsylvania where he graduated in 1986 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.

He studied abroad at Rheinische-Friedrich Wilhelms University in Bonn, Germany and The

Hague Academy of International Law as a Fulbright Scholar from 1987 to 1988.

He received his Juris Doctorate in 1989 from West Virginia University and his Masters of Law

(LL.M. with high distinction) in 1990 from Georgetown University Law Center.

He married his college sweetheart Susan Entress Nagel in 1986 and they have seven children, four

girls and three boys."

Moving to Belize with Children

2015-09-10T05:00:00.001-07:00

Families are making the move to Belize !

Yes, they are.. it is interesting to me- as when I moved to Belize over a decade ago, people were shocked i did so with 2 teenagers.
Now, i see families moving to Belize, and wonder if i was just ahead of the times !

This family pictured are Expat travelers. They move to different Countries with their Children, giving them an experience of actually living amongst different cultures.

Belize Talk Radio features the stories of people that have moved to Belize. You can listen here to the shows here.

The 3 main reasons i have seen why folks are Moving to Belize with Children are:

1) Cost of Living is lower- with a better quality of life as to less stress working to make a living

2) Fresh Foods and Local Markets

3) Opportunity to live in a new culture that speaks English ( important for Children to immerse into the local school system and culture)

I actually asked myself, would i have liked to LIVE in a foreign country growing up ? The answer i get, was that growing up near Embassy row in the DC area- i was blessed to have such a great multi cultural experience. I am honored that moving to Belize gave my Children a taste of this.

Have you ever dreamed of living in Belize ?

Copa Airlines to FLY to Belize in 2015

2015-07-29T13:28:00.002-07:00

Wow ! When i 1st moved to Belize over 11 years ago, there were very few choices as to flying to Belize. Now we have Southwest starting to fly to Belize this year and now, COPA AIRLINES announces they shall also provide serve to Belize starting in December 2015!

I used to say Belize was Nature's Best kept secret ! Now, it appears people have FOUND Belize and the secret is out !!

When i moved to Belize with 10 animals and 2 teenagers- everyone was asking me,
"Where is Belize ?"... now people not only know where we are- they want to also be Moving to Belize.

When i moved to Belize, i was enticed about the cost of living, the stunning town of San Ignacio and the ease of getting back to the USA in 2 hours to see my family and friends there.

So, the news today of Copa Airline coming - well- i am over joyed we will have more good folks find Belize as I have !

Yvette doing emails by the river............

This is the Press Release from Belize:

BELIZE CITY, Belize – Today, a press conference was held at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel, announcing airline services to Belize via Copa Airlines.

Starting December 8th, 2015 Copa airlines will be offering 2 weekly flights to Belize City from Hub de la Americas Panama City, Panama. With this new addition, Copa Airlines will now expand its route to 75 cities and 31 countries in North, Central, South and the Caribbean with Belize being the 7th in Central America.

With the addition of Belize, they are now covering all of Central America, strengthening their regional leadership.

“For Copa Airlines it is with much joy that we announce this new destination with which we consolidate our leadership in the region, strengthen our existing routes while at the same time allowing us to offer better connectivity and world class service to all of Central America, from Hub de las Americas, in Panama. The connectivity will open enormous opportunities for tourism and commercial development for this interesting Caribbean country, as well as allowing for tourist from the same region to have the opportunity to enjoy all the tourism and commercial strengths Belize has to offer”

Said Pedro Heilbron, Executive president for Copa Airlines.

Flight CM 281 will leave Belize City Tuesdays and Fridays at 2:17 p.m., arriving at ‘Hub de las Americas’ at the Tocumen International Airport in Panama City at 5:34 p.m. The return flight, CM 280, will leave Panama Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:29 a.m. arriving in Belize at 12:52 midday. All flights are local time and the flight time is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.

For its direct flight to Belize, Copa will be operating a modern Embraer 190 aircraft with capacity for 94 passengers, 10 in Executive Class and 84 in the main cabin. This aircraft is characterized for having 2 seats in each side of the isle without a center seat, which makes it more attractive and comfortable for passengers.

From Hub de las Americas in Panama, Copa airlines offers more international flights than any other airline with a center of operations in this continent. The flight from Belize to Panama was programmed to provide convenient connection to Sao Paulo, Brazil; San Jose, Costa Rica; Bogota, Cartagena and Medellin in Colombia; Santiago de Chile, Chile; Quito and Guayaquil in Ecuador; Managua, Nicaragua; Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago; Havana, Cuba; Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and Lima, Peru. The passengers in transit will not need to pass through immigration or wait in a customs line, and their luggage will be checked at their final destination. In addition, Belizeans will have access to the top 5 biggest shopping malls in Latin America, a “Stop Over” two nights free of charge in Panama, and easier access to the Caribbean and Latin America for business and vacation.

“I must reiterate how important this partnership is, as COPA will not only supply significant potential markets for Belize, but also offer excellent and competitive linkages to the Caribbean, Central and especially to the South American market. Currently, the latter represents less than 5% of overnight tourist arrivals to Belize, with the biggest barrier being limited accessibility. As a result, and in keeping with our initiation of strategic and targeted marketing efforts in South America, this partnership could not come at a more opportune time”.

Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. – Minister of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation

Randy Spelling shares his strategies to move with Macarena Rose

2015-05-19T11:33:00.000-07:00

Listen in today and hear Randy Spelling ( yes.. the Son of Aaron Spelling and Brother of Tori Spelling ) on International Real Estate Talk with our Host, Macarena Rose.

Randy Spelling is a certified International Life Coach (I.C.F.) who shares his life story of growing up in Hollywood as a child of a famous family, then as an Actor and then as a Man who struggled with multiple addictions.

Randy has recently just launched his book, UNLIMITING YOU – which he shares how our thoughts, connections and our internal guidance can either keep us from or lead us to an Unlimited Life!

The advice and WISDOM he shares with us all is priceless to listen into as he speaks to us how to move abroad Internationally- as to why to do it, why not to do it and how you are to know if it something you are to do.

Are you ready to make a move Internationally? Then listen in to be sure you truly are.

Stay tuned for another show with this fascinating Man, as we found out he has ties to Belize! He has promised to come on our Host, Macarena Rose’s Belize Talk Radio Show to!

If you would like to listen in on the interview please Click Here.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES flights now OPEN to BELIZE !!

2015-05-14T08:18:00.003-07:00

When i moved to Belize 12 years ago, there were very few choices as to airlines and the prices were

about the same on each. Some days we had only one or 2 flights in.

NOW- We have a HUGE choice as to price we will be paying for our family and clients of Belize Rainforest Realty to come in to see us!

I am SO thankful that Southwest Airlines will be flying into Belize starting October 15, 2015 !

I LOVE their free bags and funny culture all based around excellent customer centric service!

As the Host of Belize Talk Radio - I shall be looking forward to an interview with Southwest Airlines

to share more with you !

SEE YOU SOON IN BELIZE !! Book Now- !!!

DO YOU LOVE SOUTHWEST LIKE I DO ?

Forbes Names the 20 Best Foreign Retirement Havens for 2015

2015-03-27T04:53:00.001-07:00

"Forbes 20 Best Foreign Retirement Havens for 2015 " names Belize as # 2 on their list !

I have always shared that " Belize is EVERYTHING for some people, and NOT for everyone "! like what this Author writes about in the book - When Philadelphia Refinement met Rustic Living in Belize.

Now Forbes comes out and shares that :

The sole Central American country with English as the main language is a warm outdoor paradise of barrier reef diving, fishing, boating and beach. Belize aggressively courts retirees with a Qualified Retired Persons program offering permanent residency, and the cost of living is modest. Popular spots for retirees include Ambergris Caye, an island 35 miles northeast of Belize City. Health care away from Belize City can be spotty, but Miami is just a two-hour plane ride away."

Here is the Why Belize Video :

If you ant to learn more about how the transition was for me moving to Belize with 10 animals- 2 teenagers the synopsis can be read by clicking here.

Have you been thinking of Moving to Belize ?

Fashion in Belize - Belize Style

2015-03-23T09:11:00.000-07:00

Fashion Passion in Belize One of my favorite stories on this subject was when I was in Europe and showing my latest purchase there, a pair of auburn sneakers, one of the Ladies present said : “ Very pretty, but tell me…do they still wear that color in Belize ?...it is sooooo last year” That gave me a holding-my-belly laugh. Of course we try to keep up with western trends, but it is mainly about what is available and what keeps me the coolest. What is the minimum clothing and the most comfortable I can get away with. On that note, the material is very important and pure cotton is the material of choice as synthetic ones just create a barrage of “liquid body waste” running down your already sticky and clammy body. So by now you have visuals and are thinking that we all walk around like Jane and Tarzan and the bountiful coconut shells and palm fronds come in handy. Yes, with the extreme heats we are down to the minimum required for Jungle living, footwear is of course optional in the Jungle, but we DO have standards, so we flip flop and clog through the streets. I have heard that there is a status symbol here that claims: the higher your heels, the higher your social Standing. I believe the English term is: to be well-heeled. Makes a lot sense…… because with the condition of the streets and byways, you would need to buy a new pair of shoes every day. Unless you play dress-up at home and give your stilettos a spin on the tiled floors. I used to have visions and daydreams of hearing my high heels go clickety-click on a nice floor. My friends and I even invented a dressy party at one time at one of the high end hotels just so that we could take our heels for a spin before the mold would eat’em up. All fun and laughs aside, Belize is on a fast track to make its mark on the fashion world with upcoming young Fashion designers and fashionistas. 19 year old Rebecca Stirm with a wide array of stylish designs and outfits, including evening, business, classy, trendy, and casual wear.

Joris Hendrik, a young Belizean designer from San Ignacio Town who has an Avant-garde style that incorporates recycled materials such as tarp, vinyl tapes, plastic and paper. He had the honor of putting on a fashion show at a Maya ruin for the visit of his Royal Highness Prince William to this small Nation by the sea, we call Belize.
For Richard Henderson the talent behind the label RH Creation , the opportunity to show his Resort Wear collection on such an internationally recognized stage as San Diego Fashion Week is, well, a pretty big deal. He was also the winner of Best Designer at Fashion Week San Diego 2013-2014 Adrian Rocker, Jahta Caliz (JahtaXtreme) from Dangriga with her Afro-centric fabrics , Addiction by Gaby Bararra, Maureen Navarette, Francis Alfaro, Kristan Miglio and Caitlin Greer with her new clothing line, CSG by the Sea are all names to be reckoned with on the International catwalk scene. Belize Fashion Week 2013 brought out the creativity and passion of these young Belizean artists.

With this young talent, The Belize fashion movement can only go forward. With vibrant Caribbean colors, these young designers are drawing the world’s attention. So Ladies and Gentlemen, even though Belize is a very informal country, with a very casual life-style brush up on your Belizean Fashion designers, young talent and be on the outlook for a mix of bold solid corals and cobalt blues from these designers who rock the world with their casual-chic, long dresses that are bright and colorful with lace trimmings. Speaking about trimmings…Belize is rich in handmade jewelry like the Maya jadeite (Jade) valued for its iridescence and pale lavender , mahogany the national symbol of Belize and black coral a material native to the country, Treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure when in Belize as the women here are big on nail grooming, polish and nail design. No sandals or flip flops look well dressed without the little piggies being lacquered.

And then we come to the hair styles……..but I believe that that deserves a whole new article. Just 3 words: High humidity indexes.
It is best to stop torturing your hair and to try to make it do what God never intended your hair to do.
It is best to start loving your hair just the way it is New Boutiques and clothing stores are popping up like mushrooms all over the towns.
Baggy pants, flip flops and clogs are soooooo passé, although I do still wonder about the auburn color……..
Just one last tip…. it is still a good idea to leave the house in your flips flops or clogs when all dressed up to go to special event. Just please don’t forget to change shoes at your arrival, as I once did and walked into the Brazilian Ambassadors house in my little black number with my auburn keds still on my feet !

Belize Fashion Designer Joris Hendrick Interview here:

Author : Ginny Ophof

Belize HGTV House Hunters features Belize this Weekend !

2015-03-19T06:47:00.001-07:00

HGTV House Hunters International features Belize this weekend !

Read Their Story Here:

Welcome to Belize: Our little slice of heaven:

Kenney and I visited Belize for my birthday in 2012 with the intentions of looking for property just for fun. We stayed at the Jaguar Reef in a beautiful room that had a gorgeous view of the ocean that was so inviting and relaxing. The people of Belize are very nice and informative, willing to help you all they can. Also, I must brag on the lemon meringue pie I had at the Jaguar Reef restaurant...absolutely amazing. We tried several restaurants like Frog's Point, Brother's Pizza, Chef Rob's Gourmet Cafe, Iris' Sunny Side Up, or Barracuda Bar and Grill. We tried different dishes and everything we ate was fantastic. There are people from all over the world who told us that the first time they had visited Belize they knew this would be their home. On one occasion while sitting on the beach enjoying a pretty colored drink we saw a single dolphin swimming by so peacefully. Watching the sun rise on the ocean and set on the mountains with the most picturesque colors and artistry gave us that little slice of heaven we like to talk about.

We planned to meet with Macarena Rose, a Realtor with Rainforest Realty, to show Kenney and I a few properties to give us an idea of price, locations, and top priority for us... ocean view. I actually found Macarena by watching HGTV 's House HunterInternational, emailed her to tell her what we were looking for and made arrangements to meet. It was an instant connection! She is very knowledgeable and keys into what interests you and what is priority on your list. You know the old saying: "Go with your gut instinct" or " if it's right all the pieces will fall into place and you'll just know." Well that's exactly what happened to us!!

The first house we looked at had everything we wanted. It felt like "home", but of course we didn't want to buy the first house we saw and then have buyer's remorse. It did have a spectacular view of the ocean which the sun rises on, and a beautiful view of the mountains which the sun sets on, oh let me mention the fact that we can see all of this from the roof of our home which has a palapa roof!! Okay I'm getting ahead of myself!!

So, we kept the "home" feeling to ourselves and traveled to a neighboring town called Placencia. The house we looked at was nice and offered a pretty view of the ocean but way out of our budget and it just didn't have that feeling we felt at the first house. We also thought of living on a small farm but then we would be living like we are now with spending most of our time working to maintain the property instead of downsizing and spending it enjoying each other's time and all the beauty Belize has to offer.

Remember when I said, "you'll just know it's right if all the pieces fall into place?" Well as I'm sure you can guess everything went so perfectly, from the negotiation of the price, to the proper paperwork, and Kenney qualifying for the QRP, qualified retirement program. Everything worked out beautifully and we just knew it was meant to be. Macarena introduced us to the people she knew that would give us the best advice and assistance to make this life changing experience an easy transition.

Soon Macarena called and asked if we would be interested in doing an episode on HGTV's House Hunter International, which I immediately said "yes we would be delighted!!" Kenney and I were so excited and to us it was confirmation that we were doing the right thing by making this move at this time in our lives. We had so much fun with the film crew. Honestly, Kenney and I have so much fun together that we are rather entertaining and most people don't know what to think of us most of the time, as the sound guys can attest!! We learned through this experience being a movie star is more work than most people think but for us it was another adventure for us to talk about.

Adventure is how we look at our lives in Belize. Something new to learn, see, experience, and just the excitement of figuring it all out. We have future plans of opening our dream store and we are waiting "for the pieces to fall into place." As for now, we will open an embroidery shop in Hopkins, Belize. I also have a small business in the U.S. that I started called Banditware Bandanas. Kenney was the driving force for me get a patent on my face mask bandanas that we started making in December of 2012. What is a face mask bandana you ask? Well, as we ride motorcycles, usually in the winter you have trouble with anything that covers your face fogging your glasses up. With my facemasks it has a special memory strip that goes across your nose to force the air out of the nose hole. This memory strip also keeps the facemask from sliding down your nose too! They also have velcro for easy and quick closure. I know, I know, you say, "well Belize doesn't have winter." Very true. Let me explain. I have three lines of face masks: winter which is also quilt lined, summer which is: thinner, offers protection from the sun, wind ,rain, and bugs. Also there is the ATV style, which does not have a nose hole and keeps the dust out so you can breathe!! Therefore, the summer and ATV style are perfect for Belize. Visit my Facebook page, where you can learn more and purchase online. As with most properties in Belize, the business is on the first floor and the home is on the second floor. We decided to make some changes to our home and we were introduced to Danie Oosthuizen who happens to be a contractor in Hopkins and has done a great job of giving us the space we need for our business.

In closing, we are very excited about our decision in choosing Belize as our home. We have met the most amazing people who are from all parts of the world that we call our friends. We are very excited about our adventures in opening a business in Belize and taking Banditware internationally to just spending those quiet moments at our home watching the artistic scenes only the good Lord can paint from our roof top. Belize is our little slice of heaven!

By: Dory Andrejczak & Kenney Sargent