Platinum International Real Estate and Investments - Belize Division.

It is the season for Breadfruit in Belize

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 03:30:00 +0000

By: Will Moreno
2/7/2012

Yes, it sure is the season for Breadfruit in Belize. What is a Breadfruit, you may ask? Well, simply put, the Breadfruit is a remarkable food source.

The Breadfruit has long been a staple in the diets of the Pacific Islanders, but was introduced into the Caribbean in the late 18th-century when the Bristish slave masters were looking for a very cheap food source alternative that was very high in nutrients to introduce into the diets of their slaves. This is the period the Breadfruit was introduced to the Caribbean.

The Breadfruit is very rich in starch, carbohydrates, water and vitamin C, potassium and zinc. Before being eaten, they are roasted, baked, fried or boiled. When you cook the breadfruit it tastes somewhat like potato, or similar to fresh-baked bread. In reality, it takes the flavor of whatever you cook it with, so sometimes its prepared with coconut milk or with different kind of meats.

When you are selecting a breadfruit from the tree if you choose a green fruit, its green and hard on the exterior with small raised black spines and the interior is white in color and on the inside it would be very starchy and somewhat fibrous. When fully ripe, the fruit's external color remains the same but is somewhat soft, the interior would be cream colored or yellow and pasty, also sweetly fragrant.

Belizeans in Belize for years have been eating Breadfruit not knowing that it was actually introduced as a food for the slaves. It is often prepared by cutting off the outer skin and cutting the fruit into slices, then deep fried to give it a crisp texture. The amount of crisp on the fried breadfruit depends on the thickness of the slices.

Is this making you hungry yet? Then it's not too late because breadfruit is still in season in Belize. Come to Belize and enjoy the culinary experience.

Municipal and General Elections in Belize to Be Held On The Same Day in 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:21:00 +0000

It is now official from the office of the Prime Minister that both Municipal Elections and General Elections will both be held on the same day in the nation of Belize. The date for both elections has been scheduled for March, 7th, 2012, a day when all concerned and devoted Belizeans will go to the polls to elect the government that they see fit to run the nation of Belize.

Today the Prime Minister of Belize made the official announcement via this video released by the Government of Belize Press Office who also posted the video on YouTube.

In the past people have voted "Blue" or "Red" because their families have been branded but we ask that you step out of the mold and use your own sense of judgement and make an informed decision of your own. Make the decision to select who you would like to see as the ruling government of the beautiful nation of Belize.

YOUR VOTE IS YOUR VOICE.

LET IT BE HEARD!

Belize is a Bird Watchers and Birding Paradise

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:02:00 +0000

Great Heron
Photo by: Will Moreno

Belize is a Bird Watchers and Birding Paradise in Central America and the Caribbean.

Here is a list of some Birding Hot Spots in Belize listed by the Belize Audubon Society.

In speaking to Dirk Francisco of the Belize Audobon Society we found some very interesting facts.

Fact #1 - Once very popular as a household pet in Belize. The Yellow-Headed Amazon Parrot (Amazona Oratrix) is now a critically endangered specie.

Fact #2 - Some new species of birds have found thier way to Belize and two of those confirmed are the Red Head Duck and the Green Wing Teal.

If you would like more information of Birding or Bird Watching in Belize feel free to contact the Belize Audobon Society.

Ceviche a seafood delight in Belize

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 01:18:00 +0000

Ceviche a seafood delight in Belize
January 20th, 2012
By: Will Moreno

Ceviche, as with many other recipes, has so many variations. In Belize, Ceviche is a seafood delight made normally from conch, shrimp, lobster, fish, sal picon (grilled skirt steak) and, yes, chicken.

The origin of ceviche is widely disputed, however, all I can say is, thank you, to whomever started this savory dish. Ceviche is made by mixing fresh seafood with lime juice, salt and pepper to taste with additions of onions, cilantro and sometimes carrots or even fresh mangoes.
Although I have tried the chicken ceviche and not yet tasted the sal picon ceviche, I must admit my favorites still remain the seafood ceviche made with either conch, shrimp, lobster or fish.
There are only a few places I would certainly recommend highly since I have tasted their ceviche while I have been in Belize. If you are on the island of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye I would definitely recommend you try ceviche from El Divino Restaurant at Banana Beach or KayDan's Ceviche Stall on Tarpon Street, just a short walk from the Airport. In Belize City you should try the ceviche from Ceviche Hut on Vasquez Avenue.
The popular treat of Ceviche is normally shared with friends and family over beers or mixed drinks, however, the delightful taste can certainly be appreciated with various tropical fruit juices.

When you visit Belize make sure to grab a seat and make an order for your ceviche, while waiting for your order make sure to grab an ice cold Belikin Beer and simply enjoy.

Belize unveils its Maya 2012 Celendar

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 04:31:00 +0000

On Wednesday, January, 11th the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) alongside the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) launched the Maya 2012 Calender of Events. The event was held at the Bliss Center for Performing Arts in Belize City.

The opening entertainment definitely set the mood for the event. The harmonious melodies of Maya music filled the air from an amazing flutist, Pablo Collado who certainly kept a captive audience not only with his melodies, but also with his talented handiwork on the flute.

The Otaxa Deer Dancers certainly entertained the attendees with the traditional Mayan Deer Dance. They were accompanied by marimba music and the flute. The Maya Deer Dance symbolizes the important relationships between humanity and nature and was evident in the variety of masks worn by the dancers. Some of the dancers wore masks of the faces of men and women, and others wore masks with the faces of the deer, jaguar, monkey among others. All the dancers wore clothing that was very colorfully adorned.

After the opening entertainment, Pablo Collado once again played a beautiful rendition of the Belize National Anthem on his flute and was followed by a prayer by Reverend Canon Leroy Flowers.
Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Culture, Hon. Manuel Heredia gave the welcome address and invited everyone to enjoy the night's festivities. Minister Heredia's keynote was that Belize is the Heartland of the Maya.

Hon. Manuel Heredia was followed by none other than Dr. Jaime Awe, who is Belize's Director at the Institute of Archaeology. Dr. Awe has been in the field of archaeology for over 30 years. Dr. Jaime Awe has been one of Belize's pioneering and most prominent archaeologists and has worked on many of Belize's major excavations. Dr. Jaime Awe, however, did not want to take away any accolades from the guest of the evening, Dr. Mark Van Stone who was yet to present his topic of the evening. "What The Mayas Actually Said About 2012".

Then came time for the unveiling of the calendar of events for the Maya 2012 Calendar. I must admit that the calendar is filled with many events covering various parts of the country and numerous activities. There are great events scheduled for each month of the year 2012. President of NICH and Chairperson of the 2012 Committee, Ms. Diane C. Haylock, definitely stressed the importance of this years activities for 2012 and the goals they are trying to achieve by having such activities. Ms. Diane Haylock made mention again of Belize being the Heartland of the Maya. Belize is unique among its neighbors of the Mundo Maya because here, a visitor can easily experience several of the Maya sites in one day as the distances between sites are relatively small and there is a high concentration of Maya sites within Belizen borders. In most countries of the Mundo Maya, the archaeological sites are separated by long distances. Then came time for Ms. Diane Haylock to unveil the Maya 2012 Passport. A phenomenal deal is being offered where for the price of visiting two Maya ruins you get an opportunity to visit ten different Maya sites. You can get your 2012 Maya Passport stamped as you visit the different sites around Belize.

The Belize Tourism Board then officially launched its website for this year Maya 2012. You can see the website here: http://belizemaya2012.com. The website is very informative so feel free to take a look.

Before the lecture began the attendees were treated to mouth watering Maya dishes including, corn panades, tamales, chicken cooked in 'col' which is a richly spiced tomato and corn based sauce, and dukunu as well as a delicious array of fresh vegetables and tropical fruits. The Otaxa Deer Dancers took to the stage entertaining the audience as they flowed into the Center for Performing Arts Auditorium for the lecture by Dr. Mark Van Stone.

Dr Jaime Awe then introduced the guest speaker for the evening, Dr. Mark Van Stone who was to present, "What The Ancient Maya Actually Said About 2012". Dr. Mark Van Stone is a Maya expert specializing in Maya Hieroglyphs and calligraphy. Van Stone’s books include “2012: Science and Prophecy of the Ancient Maya” inspired by Maya inscriptions, astronomical knowledge, math, and myth, and “Reading the Maya Glyphs”. Responding to the recent upsurge in interest in “the Maya prophecies”, Prof. Mark Van Stone has spent the last several years researching what the Ancient Maya actually said about 2012.
Dr. Van Stone made sure to mention that nowhere in the history of the Maya is a doomsday prophecy emphasized, but they did, in fact, mention of a renewal period and a change in the Maya Calendar from a short period calendar to a long period calendar. There is also evidence from the the Maya history found on stellaes, that life and history actually continue to 4772 A.D. as can be seen below in the photo. He believes that the Sosltices were not as important to the Maya as we believe they were. He also made mention that with only 1% of the Maya civilization being unearthed that there is not much data and still so much more that we need to learn about the mystical and ancient civilization of the Maya. Dr. Mark Van Stone said that whatever data have been unearthed are contradictory since the Maya did not believe in correcting errors. The Maya did not change errors because they saw it as a sign from the gods that it was meant to be so. Maya scholars also disagree on the information that has been found and their interpretations.

The Maya 2012 Calender of events is shown below:

One of the very special events taking place this year on the calender is a very new and unique concept in Belize. The date 12-12-12 offers a great opportunity for 36 lucky couples, who are interested in being a part of the mysticism of the Maya, to get married or renew their vows on the ancient Maya Ruin of Cahal Pech in the Cayo District of Belize. This once in a lifetime event is being spearheaded by Lara Goldman of Romantic Travel Belize. For more information visit 2012 Maya Weddings.

Sunsets over the Beautiful Caribbean Sea in Belize are Amazing

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 04:32:00 +0000

Sunsets over the beautiful Caribbean Sea in Belize are Amazing!

Come and visit soon!

Belize is a very photogenic country

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:47:00 +0000

Belize is a very photogenic country. Most photographers that travel to the beautiful country of Belize knows this and normally travel with their cameras very handy.

If you are looking to photograph and capture the wildlife, landscapes, seascapes, people, food among many others you can certainly find it in the small Centeral American nation of Belize.

Belize is one of the most spectacular places to observe the Moon and the Stars

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 04:54:00 +0000

Photo taken by: Will Moreno

Belize is one of the most spectacular places in the world to observe the moon and stars.

The sunrise and sunsets are just as amazing and if you don't believe me, you can come see for yourself.

Make sure to plan a trip to Belize for 2012!

How to decide whether or not to sell and how to price your property?

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 01:07:00 +0000

How to decide whether or not to sell and how to price your property?

Understanding what your home is worth can help you decide whether or not to sell, how to price your property, and whether your property is holding its value.

Consider getting a comparative market analysis (CMA) done by a certified real estate professional like Platinum International Real Estate and Investments or an appriasal. Bear in mind that these estimates are based on local sales and prices at one point in time, and may not reflect other issues affecting your home's value.

It also helps to have a basic understanding for what drives home values. When you bought your home, you bought it for its inherent value. Inherent value is what attracted you to the house in the first place: architecture, quality of construction, landscaping, even just how the house felt to you. But property value, or market value, depends on many other factors:

What's your home worth?

Direct factors:

Community: Efficient services, adequate resources, and a thriving business district usually translate into healthy property values. So can a community's history and identity, and its perceived desirability by current buyers.

Neighborhood: A neighborhood that is attractive, safe, and well-located usually results in stable or steadily appreciating property values.

Schools: Good schools and solid property values go hand in hand.

Amenities: Parks, bike paths, libraries, and other amenities can enhance property values, provided that the areas are kept clean and safe.

Transportation: Whether it's public transportation or easy road access, easy access to transportation can be a plus for property values, especially if you need to drive to a job or the grocery store.

Zoning and planning: Property values can be positively or negatively affected by zoning decisions and community development plans.

Indirect factors:

Economic changes: A rising economy lifts most home prices and boosts sales; a depressed economy carries home prices and sales down with it.

Demographic changes: Until fairly recently, home prices grew steadily as waves of new residents competed for a limited supply of housing. In smaller areas however, prices remained low as entry-level buyers move to job-rich metropolitan areas.

Disasters: Earthquakes, hurricanes, wildfire, and other severe natural phenomena can decimate property values, at least temporarily. Recurring problems can depress values permanently, and affect a buyer's ability to obtain homeowners' insurance, without which no lender will approve a mortgage.

Perceptions: Perceptions, negative or positive, real or unreal, can drive property values into the ground or into the stratosphere.It's important to know where your neighborhood stands.

If you would like more information on determining value or would like to find out how much your home is worth call Platinum International Real Estate and Investments today.

New Year in Belize = New Travel Articles, Belizean Cuisines, Belize Photos, Cultural and Social Events, Real Estate Bargains

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:11:00 +0000

New Year in Belize = New Travel Articles, Belizean Cuisines, Belize Photos, Cultural and Social Events, Real Estate Bargains and more...

http://www.platinumrealestate.biz/listing-enchanting-3-bedroom-los-lagos-bungalow-home-70.html

Chimole a very popular soup in Belize

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 22:00:00 +0000

Chimole is a very popular food that is served in Belize. Chimole is also known as Black Dinner for its dark color after adding in all the spices and some black recado spice block.

This traditional food in Belize is predominantly Mestizo in origin but with Belize's cultural diversity has found its way to the tables of many Belizean homes.

Chimole Recipe:

1/2 Block of Black Recado

1 Chicken (cut into parts)

6 Apazote leaves

2 Tomatoes (diced)

2 tablesppons Tomato Paste

1/2 Onion (sliced)

3 cloves Garlic (Mashed)

Salt and Pepper

6 boiled eggs

Method:

Season chicken with salt and pepper and brown in a hot pot with little oil.
Once browned add enough water to cover the chicken and then add onions and garlic.
Simmer for 30 minutes.
Dissolve recado and add to the chicken.
Add the diced tomatoes and apazote leaves. Add more water if necessary.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Served hot with boiled eggs and corn tortillas

Try this recipe and see if you love it as much as we do and then let us know.

11-11-11 the date for Veterans Day and Remembrance Day in 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 19:03:00 +0000

As you have not noticed everyone is making a great deal about the date 11-11-11 and to take it even further 11:11:11 AM. This day is said to be a lucky date and next year's 12-12-12 will be the same however we do not have a 13th month so we will not see another 11-11-11 for another 100 years.

Most importantly though is the fact that American in the United States are celebrating Veterans Day. November 11th every year is a day thats a federal holiday and a time to honor military veterans who has paid the ultimate sacrifice and all veterans who are currently serving or have served the country. According to Wikipedia, 'The U.S. President Woodrow Wilson first proclaimed an Armistice Day for November 11, 1919. In proclaiming the holiday, he said:"To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country's service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations." '. With this today American are honoring those veterans with parades and monumental services at Arlington National Cemetary at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Coincidentally the United States Holiday of Veterans Day also coincides with Remebrance Day also known as Poppy Day. Remembrance Day is also a memorial day celebrated in Commonwealth countries after the end of World War I. This day is also a day to remember those that have died in the line of duty. The poppy flower is a very symbolic of Rembrance Day because some of the worst battlefields where blood was spilled brilliant red poppies now grow in abundance. The famous poem "In Flanders Field" has made the poppies very famous for this special occassion.

Whether you are celbrating Veterans Day or Rembrance Day make sure to take the time to honor those that are currently serving or have served and the many that have given the ultimate sacrifice of their lives for our freedom.

12-12-12 is another date that will not occur for another 100 Years. What will you be doing for that special date?

Amazing Opportunity To Own Land Very Close to the Beautiful Caribbean Sea in Corozal

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 17:44:00 +0000

Amazing Opportunity To Own Land Very Close to the Beautiful Caribbean Sea in Corozal!

Listing Price: $30,000 USD

Here is an amazing opportunity to own land very close to the Sea in Corozal and less than a mile away from the heart of Corozal Town.

You could take advantage of this magnificent opportunity to build your primary or vacation home making the most of the beautiful Caribbean and Corozal Bay views as well as the cool Belizean sea breezes.

Don't miss this magnificent opportunity to own land in Consejo - Corozal at a bargain price!

For more information or photos follow this link:
http://bit.ly/Land-Consejo-Corozal

Pristine 1.12 Acre Land Parcel in Mountain View Area of Belmopan For Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 17:23:00 +0000

Pristine 1.12 Acre Land Parcel in Mountain View Area of Belmopan For Sale!

Listing Price: $89,000 USD

Beautiful 1.12 Acre Land Parcel in the Mountain View Area of the City of Belmopan overlooking the rolling hills just outside the city. The property is located within the city limits yet just far enough to find peace and tranquility. The location atop the hill surely has its benefits with gentle rolling breezes and offers approximately 140 feet of street frontage.

This wonderful property would offer a wonderful setting for your primary or vacation home.

For more information or photos vist this link:
http://bit.ly/Pristine-Belmopan-Belize-Land

Beautiful 1.34 Acre Land Parcel in Mountain View Area of Belmopan For Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 17:18:00 +0000

Beautiful 1.34 Acre Land Parcel in Mountain View Area of Belmopan For Sale!

Listing Price: $89,000 USD
Few of us Real Estate Agents ever see an opportunity like this!

Beautiful 1.34 Acre Land Parcel in the Mountain View Area of the City of Belmopan overlooking the rolling hills just outside the city. The property is located within the city limits yet just far enough to find peace and tranquility. The location atop the hill surely has its benefits with gentle rolling breezes and offers approximately 300 feet of street frontage.

This wonderful property would offer a wonderful setting for your primary or vacation home.
Give us a call today for more information or to make your offer.

For more information or photos click on the link:
http://bit.ly/Belmopan-Belize-Land

Belize in Photos during the September Celebrations

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:02:00 +0000

Being chosen as the official photographers for the Belize September Celebrations for NICH, National Institute of Culture and History, has truly been an honor and we have so many photos to share with you all.

Here is a small sample of a couple of the photos we took during the September Celebrations and I promise there will be more coming soon.

More Coming Soon!!!!!!

Hurricane Preparedness Kit

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 22:37:00 +0000

Hurricane or Disaster Supply Kit

Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days

Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days
— non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
— foods for infants or the elderly
— snack foods
— non-electric can opener
— cooking tools / fuel
— paper plates / plastic utensils

Blankets / Pillows, etc.

Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes

First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs

Special Items - for babies and the elderly

Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes

Flashlight / Extra Batteries

Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio

Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set

Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods

Spare Keys

Toys, Books and Games

Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag
— insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.

Tools - keep a set with you during the storm

Vehicle fuel tanks filled

Pet care items
— proper identification / immunization records / medications
— ample supply of food and water— a carrier or cage
— muzzle and leash

Updated Results of the Belize Female Junior Volleyball Team for matches played over the weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 18:47:00 +0000

PRESS RELEASE

August 8^th, 2011

THE CENTRAL AMERICAN FEMALE U-18 VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

The Belize Female Junior Volleyball Team took on #1 ranked and host country, Costa Rica, last Friday night. Our girls started each set strong but Costa Rica would show its experience and height superiority winning in 3 sets, 25-13, 25-09, 25-21. Analisa Habet was high scorer for

Belize

with 6 points and Clara Sabal with 5 points. Costa Rica is the oldest team averaging 16.8 years old while Belize is a whole year younger than the next youngest team averaging 15.1 years old.

On Saturday evening, the Belize girls took on Nicaragua but after the emotional effort of the night before, played flat and lost 25-12, 25-10, 25-15. Analisa Habet and Clara Sabal scored 8 and 6 points respectively.

Yesterday, the girls took on Guatemala, the only team expected to challenge Costa Rica and again the girls were competitive at the start of the sets but lost 25-13, 25-17, 25-11. Analisa Habet was high scorer for Belize with 4 points.

At half way through the tournament,

Belize

’s 14 year old Sherika Burton is 3^rd best blocker.

Today, Belize plays Honduras at 6 pm. The game can be seen live at www.livestream.com.

If you require additional details please contact us. You can also find more results at:
http://www.afecavol.org/webpage/S20CRC11.aspx

Belize

Volleyball Association

P.O. Box 1839, 1 Hyde’s Lane,
Belize City, Belize
Tel: (501) 223-1725/02
Fax: (501) 223-0738/3533
Email: BelizeVB@yahoo.com
Website: www.belizevolleyball.org

ForSalebyOwner.com founder gives up on own listing, hires real estate broker

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 13:10:00 +0000

AGBeat News | August 3, 2011

Former FSBO CEO sells home the traditional way

Founder and former CEO of ForSalebyOwner.com, Colby Sambrotto listed his 2,000 square foot New York condominium on his own through online classified ads and FSBO sites, but after six months, he opted to hire New York broker Jesse Buckler who immediately advised a price change as the listing was not attracting the right buyer.
After giving up on the DIY route, Sambrotto’s decision to hire a broker led to attracting multiple offers, closing for $150,000 over the original asking price. The Wall Street Journal reports the listing sold for $2.15 million including a 6% commission.

Many FSBOs turn to Realtors

The news stands as an enormous validation of the real estate profession and while some may tease, it is no laughing matter and the former FSBO CEO made a good financial decision.
AGBeat columnist Herman Chan said, “If people want to take a stab at For Sale By Owner (ie FSBO), go for it. But well over 80% of FSBO’s eventually have to list with an real estate agent to get their house sold. It’s harder than it looks!”

Read the full article here: ForSalebyOwner.com founder gives up on own listing, hires real estate broker
__________________________________________________________

Here at Platinum International Real Estate in Belize we are experiencing a similar situation. Many For Sale By Owners have been turning to us to sell their homes after having in on the market in some cases up to two years.

If this professional who claimed he could help For Sale By Owners chose to sell his Real Estate Listing with a Real Estate Professional what do you think he is thinking of the For Sale By Owner Real Estate Market?

Team Belize Departed Today for Costa Rica to Play in the Central American U-18 Volleyball Championship

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 18:28:00 +0000

PRESS RELEASE

August 3^rd, 2011

THE CENTRAL AMERICAN FEMALE U-18 VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONSHIP – Belize Team departs for Costa Rica

The Belize Female U-18 departed today for Costa Rica to participate in the XIV Central American Female Junior Volleyball Championship. The Belize Volleyball Association is proud to announce the team members:

Analisa Habet (as the Captain) Kaitlyn Woods (as the Libero)

Sherika Burton                                                 Kadijah Broaster
Nandi Sabal                                                     Nayala Tun
Leandra Betson                                                Xiomara Quan
Alina Scott                                                       Briany Staine
Kevanna Sebastian                                          Jahshema Sauders

The coaching staff is headed by Ms. Lupita Quan and assisted by Ms. Sherlene Johnson. The team manager is Ms. Rosanni Pariente and Mr. Ken Vasquez is the physiotherapist.

The tournament is one round robin. Matches start on Friday 5^th, with Belize taking on #1 ranked Costa Rica at 8pm, immediately following the inauguration. Then Belize plays Saturday at 6pm vs. Nicaragua, Sunday at 4 pm vs Guatemala, Monday at 6 pm vs Honduras, Tuesday at 4 pm vs El Salvador and return home next Wednesday. The results and photos will be posted (and possibly streamed live) at www.afecavol.org.

The BVA is grateful to its sponsors in providing the training requirements, uniforms, and travel for the team. We wish Team Belize a very successful tournament and look forward to the good results.

Belize

Volleyball Association

P.O. Box 1839, 1 Hyde’s Lane,

Belize City, Belize

Tel: (501) 223-1725

Fax: (501) 223-0738

Email: BelizeVB@yahoo.com

Website: www.belizevolleyball.org

Team Belize Attending The Central American Female Junior U-18 Volleyball Championship

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:35:00 +0000

PRESS RELEASE

August 1^st, 2011

THE CENTRAL AMERICAN FEMALE U-18 VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

Belize will be attending the Central American Female Junior (U-18) Volleyball Championship to be held in Costa Rica from this Wednesday, August 3^rd 2011, to August 10^th, 2011. Belize will be featuring most likely the youngest team with players ranging from 12 to 17 and one player that participated in the last junior championship two years ago. The Belize Volleyball Association is proud to announce the team members:

Kaitlyn Woods as the Libero

Sherika Burton

Kadijah Broaster

Nandi Sabal

Nayala Tun

Leandra Betson

Xiomara Quan

Alina Scott

Briany Staine

Kevanna Sebastian

Jahshema Sauders

Analisa Habet as the Captain

The coaching staff is headed by Ms. Lupita Quan and assisted by Ms. Sherlene Johnson. The team manager is Ms. Rosanni Pariente and Mr. Ken Vasquez is the physiotherapist.

The BVA is grateful to its sponsors in providing the training requirements, uniforms, and travel for the team. We wish Team Belize a very successful tournament and look forward to the good results.

Belize

Volleyball Association

P.O. Box 1839, 1 Hyde’s Lane,

Belize City, Belize

Tel: (501) 223-1725/02 Fax: (501) 223-0738/3533

Email: BelizeVB@yahoo.com

Website: www.belizevolleyball.org

Belize Hosted the 2011 Central American Beach Volleyball Championships

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 12:44:00 +0000

It was that time of year again when Central American countries sent their male and female beach volleyball teams to represent their pride and glory. The Belize Volleyball Association was host this past weekend to this years XI Central American Beach Volleyball Championships.

The venue for this years beach volleyball event was the Marion Jones Sporting Complex with 2 brand new beach volleyball courts. The sun was out the sand was ready as the beach volleyball fans were in attendance to support their teams.

The teams that were known as a dominant force going into this years volleyball competition in the female division was El Salvador and Guatemala and in the male division was Costa Rica and Nicaragua.

The beach volleyball teams were fully prepared to take on the task of representing their home countries which included Belize, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras, Costa Rica and El Salvador.

Beach Volleyball excitement began on Friday the 22nd of July and continued through Sunday the 24th with teams battling for this years Gold, Silver and Bronze medals. The fans roared as the players concentrated on every service, reception, set, spike, block and dig. There were some real nailbiting games where teams rallied back and forth set after set.

In the end there could only be one one team victorious for the gold, silver and bronze in both the mens and womens beach volleyball divisions.

For more photos of the 2011 Central American Beach Volleyball Championships you may visit the facebook page of the photographer, Will Moreno.

Final Results of the Central American Beach Volleyball Championships!

Mens Division:
Costa Rica - Gold Medal, Gatemala - Silver Medal, Nicaragua 1 - Bronze Medal.

Female Division:
Costa Rica - Gold Medal, Guatemala 1 - Silver Medal, Guatemala 2 - Bronze Medal.

The Teams and Players for the 2011 Central American Beach Volleyball Championships

Male Division:
Belize 1 - Arvid Arnold and Ernest Broaster
Belize 2 - Tico Requena and Juan Marin

Guatemala - Andy Leonardo Blanco and Erick Garrido Ruiz

El Salvador 1 - Jeovanny Medrano Valle and David Vargas Correa
El Slavador 2 - Carlos Leiva Mata and Carlos Escobar Talavera

Nicaragua 1 - Gerald Lopez Umana and Danny Alvarado Lopez
Nicaragua 2 - Winston Calderon Urbina and Francisco Castro

Honduras - Walter Montoya Sanchez and Ruben Miller
Costa Rica - Esteban Escobar and Bryan Monge
Female Division:
Belize 1 - Barbara Cadle and Jasmine Anderson
Belize 2 - Emma Hoare and Rebecca Rath

Guatemala 1 - Susana Gomez Alvarado and Anna Lourdes Ramirez Sarti
Guatemala 2 - Maria Jose Arrelana Aragon and Ruth Guzman Gomez

El Salvador 1 - Diana Romero De Leiva and Marcela Avalos Pineda
El Salvador 2 - Kathya Vasquez Menjivar and Ma Fenanda Vargas Claros

Costa Rica - Ingrid Morales Munoz and Natalia Alfaro Paniagua

Escabeche Recipe - Belizean Style

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 06:10:00 +0000

Escabeche is a delicious and very flavorful meal most commonly made in Belize on the weekends when families most often gather to have a communal meal.
Some refer to this delcious meal as onion soup because the flavorful broth is filled with onions that have been cooked therein.

Here is a popular escabeche recipe brought to you courtesy of:
Platinum International Real Estate

Escabeche

Ingredients:
3-4 pounds of chicken
2-3 tablespoons white vinegar or to taste
10 Spice seeds
2-3 Jalapenos
3 pounds white onion, sliced
10 dried oregano leaves or 1 Tbsp of crushed dried oregano leaves
1 head of roasted garlic
black pepper and salt to taste

Method:
Boil spices in water, upon boiling add chicken and cook until tender.
Remove chicken and keep the chicken broth.
You may bake the chicken at 400 degrees or you may fry the chicken to create a delicious and crisp brown outer layer.
Add white vinegar roasted garlic and jalapeno peppers to the chicken broth.
Add sliced onions and cook until tender (approximately 5 minutes)

Best served hot with fresh corn torillas.

Enjoy this tasty Belizean Escabeche Recipe!

Brought to you courtesy of:
Platinum International Real Estate
"The Strenght of Teamwork...The Reputaion for Results!"

Beautiful and Spacious King's Park Home in Belize City! Completely Move-In Ready!

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 04:33:00 +0000

Beautiful and Spacious King's Park Home in Belize City! Completely Move-In Ready!

This property is a superb 4 Bedroom - 3 Bath Home in Kings Park Area of Belize City... boasting a secure, residential location, within five minutes walk from the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

List Price: $450,000 USD ($900,000 BZD)

The downstairs level is spacious, open and elegantly finished, with both formal and casual dining areas, a breakfast nook, living area, utility area, numerous storage units, an office/den and bathroom.

The upstairs level boasts three spacious bedrooms and a bath, with an additional, very large Master Bedroom and Bathroom ensuite. All bedrooms have ceiling to floor storage lockers, and the Master bath has the additional convenience of a bidet installed.

Floors and Lockers throughout this well maintained home are treated mahogany, giving a look of distinction and class to the entire home. It is fully Air Conditioned, with the added security of an Alarm System set in place.

Two of the bedrooms on the upper level have private balconies, and the Living Area on thebottom level also contains its own balcony. There is a spacious verandah overlooking the back yard, absolutely perfect for enteraining on weekends! There is a small storage facility out back for placement of washer/dryer, and this also has a bathroom, making it a perfect changing/shower room in the event that a swimming pool is installed.

This Elegant Kings Park Home sits on a large fully fenced lot (90' x 120'), is fully landscaped, and also has a basketball court.

This is the perfect home!

For more information, photos or to make your offer contact our Platinum International Real Estate Belize Agent - Michelle Rudon.

Beautiful Lot in Vista Del Mar Area of Ladyville - Perfect for a Dream Home in Belize!

noreply@blogger.com (Platinum Real Estate) — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 04:18:00 +0000

Beautiful Lot in Vista Del Mar Area of Ladyville - Perfect for a Dream Home in Belize!

Vista Del Mar is perfect for your Dream Home... located just far enough from the hustle and bustle of the city to ensure peace and tranquility, yet close enough in case of emergencies. It is only a five minute drive from Belize's Philip Goldson International Airport, a Catholic Church and School, and various large Supermarkets. There is a Marina and Park to be found within the development, along with various stores, restaurants and bars.

This lot is high, developed, and in what is considered the more residential area of Vista Del Mar. There are very large homes currently being constructed nearby, adding to the value of the lot. It is ideal for the placement of a beautiful home, and owners are guaranteed privacy and quiet since it is away from the large number of houses and stores located in the center of Vista Del Mar. All utilities available on site including water, electricity, telephone and cable.

Lot is within walking distance from the Sea, and a stone's throw away from one of the waterways scattered throughout Vista Del Mar.

List Price: $15,000 USD ($30,000 BZD)

Purchase now and start seeing your dream of a lovely home and place to live, come through!

For more information, photos or to make your offer contact our Platinum International Real Estate Belize Agent - Michelle Rudon.