Belize..the Cure for todays day to day Bullshit !

Posted on October 10, 2013 by storiesbygary
Now doesn't this look like a "No Bullshit Zone"?

Now doesn’t this look like a “No Bullshit Zone”?

Many of us dream about a better life, less stress, more cost effective especially venturing into our retirement years, and without the day to day same old bullshit when we turn on the TV. As a matter of a fact, even though I’m addicted to TV, well actually only certain programs, like Deadliest Catch, Duck Commander and Sons of Anarchy, I dream of  my escape without that TV.

DSC_0748

We are seeing advertisements for life in Belize where the dollar is stable, oh what a novel idea, cost of living is lower than the U.S. and Canada, and the environment is healthy. But before you pack your bags and jump on a plane with a one way ticket, there are some things you need to know, at least I believe it so.

I arrived on the small “crop duster” plane from the International Airport in Belize City to the San Pedro Airport in the middle of the Hurricane Season, just when I wanted to be there. My idea was I needed to see the island at the worse time of the year, because I knew the best time of year would be delightful. Actually it wasn’t so bad in September when I arrived, with temp;s in the high 70’s and sunny.

Coming in for a landing on Ambergris Caye..Oh Crap!

Coming in for a landing on Ambergris Caye..Oh Crap!

Boarding the water taxi for my short journey up the coast to my home for the next two weeks, the X’ta Nah Waterfront Resort my excitement began to gain momentum. I had chosen the X’ta Nah because it had excellent ratings on Trip Advisor, and the resort had responded to my many pre-visit questions. It also was well known to have the best beach on the island, and hell, I was there to enjoy the water as well as investigate the island for relocation, right?

DSC_0808

My pre-visit research found that although it would be much easier to investigate San Pedro if I was staying in San Pedro, it could get busy there, and it was a quick commute via the water taxi’s from my resort. So, on with my discoveries.

The first thing I will tell you is that San Pedro is like a quaint little cobblestone road village that almost solely exists for the tourist trade. Its not a luxury resort town, far from it, with its main drag filled with shops and small restaurants, hole in the wall pharmacies and of course, the “souvenir shops” which BTW are all owned by the same person.

DSC_1109

Downtown San Pedro.."Really"

Downtown San Pedro..”Really”

The second thing I will tell you is unlike many other 3rd world countries I have visited, San Pedro and in fact all of Belize that I encountered, doesn’t smell of sewerage. It has a clean smell, many times co-mingled with aromas of something wonderful being cooked in a passageway or on the street. You will find no shortage of food on the island, either in town or in one of the many restaurants and bars on the waterfront.

 

I spent my first few days roaming the streets, visiting with all the shopkeepers, restaurants, grocery stores, markets and bars of course. Looking at San Pedro from the “living full time” view, I was mostly interested in what was available for food. Let me tell you that there is an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood, and chicken, what all in Belize live on, oh ya..also beans :-). One thin lacking from diets in Belize is green salads, lettuce you know, not really a feature item here. I was mostly excited at the availability throughout the year of either the spiny lobster or conch.

 

pig

 

I will also tell you that you can find Cheerios, Corn Flakes, and Boston Baked Beens, but they will cost you. Living in Belize you will need to eat like the locals, or spend a small fortune, if and rarely, you can find U.S. products here. I did find a really sweet wine store in San Pedro, well stocked with U.S. wines, and quite excellent choices I might add as a wine consultant. However, be ready to spend some big bucks for wine here, and between the warm weather, and the Belize beer and rum, why bother.

 

All in all if you’re looking to live casual like, on the down low, you can do it very well here within most retirement budgets in my opinion. More on the cost of living, where to live, medical care and getting around, in the next blog post.

Till then I leave you and head to the kitchen to mix myself a nice Belize Rum and Coke, well..Diet Coke in fact.

Cheers,

 

Gary

 

Posted in Adventure, Ambergris Caye, Belize, Expat, Sanctuary Belize, travel, travel with dogs, Uncategorized, wine | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

Work your ass off in a 3rd world country? Why bother!

Posted on September 30, 2013 by storiesbygary

Work your ass off in a 3rd world country? Why bother!.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Work your ass off in a 3rd world country? Why bother!

Posted on September 30, 2013 by storiesbygary

The moment you realize that there might just be a better life for you somewhere else, life gets exciting again. You may have had a friend recently mention an advertisement they read or saw on TV, or you may have come across something about living in another country on the internet, maybe International Living or storiesbygary.com. 😉 However it happened, your interest was tweaked. Now where do I start.

View from your cabana

View from your cabana

This happened to me, but the start of my curiosity was with good friends that had actually experienced this first hand many years ago, and moved to Belize. They had loved the country and its people, food, culture and of course, scuba diving. Why did they leave and return to the U.S. ? They had moved there and bought an older hotel/restaurant. The plan was to work and enjoy life, but as things would have it, it turned into all work and no life.

If your looking for a better life, changing to one where all you do is work your ass off shouldn’t be it!

A Picture is worth a thousand words..right?

A Picture is worth a thousand words..right?

Lucky for meI was intrigued by Belize for a plethora of reasons. They speak english, use the U.S. currency, don’t drive cars (for the most part), eat good stuff, not the crap we eat in the states, and their banks have to have on hand at least 50% of their cash liquid at all times. Sure wish we were even close to that in the U.S. And that good stuff they eat? fresh fish, shellfish, fruit and veggies, all year long.

In addition, it stays in the 80’s all year, with a few months of tropical rain, still in the 80’s. Its a friendly population I had been told, welcoming folks from the U.S., Canada and elsewhere. I decided I really needed to see all this myself, so off to reservations I went. Luckily, I was planning this discovery tour during the rainy time of year, you know, tropical storm and hurricane season. I wanted to see Belize at its worse. An added benefit to this was during the off season, resorts drop prices, and in  my case with my journalist discount, I was able to book excellent rates at my resort which I would spend two weeks at following my discovery tour of Sanctuary Belize.

Sanctuary Belize Meeting Room

Sanctuary Belize Meeting Room

For info and no hassles about Sanctuary Belize, http://www.agentshield.com/go/?a=BrokerGary&d=227

Make sure you do your due diligence when selecting a resort or condo to stay at, based on reviews, prices, and location. I decided that I didn’t want to stay in San Pedro, the main town on Ambergris Caye, but rather 7 miles up the coast at a resort called X’Tah Na, mainly because of reviews, and the fact it is well known to have the best beach on the island. This my friends was a basic requirement of my wife, as everyone knows, you keep Mama happy, and you are happy.

Being 7 miles out of town by the way, is no real issue, because everyone travels by water taxi. These fast transportation boast run all day into the evening and take you to other resorts for restaurants, or into town for nightlife, tours, etc.

The bar at X'tah Na

The X’tah Na Resort

We flew directly into San Pedro where our driver in the met us and brought us to the dock where we boarded out “taxi” to the resort. Fifteen minutes later, there we were pulling up to the dock at a resort I could pick out of amy lineup, for its brightly colored buildings of blue, greek, red, yellow and so on. As we pulled up to the dock I could see a beautiful sandy beach, people in the water snorkeling, and a local dude, who I would learn was one of the bartenders, Hill, with a couple tall fruity rum cocktails in his hands. Yep! This was the place for sure, X’tah Na Waterfront Resort.

Just what the doctor ordered!

Just what the doctor ordered!

DSC_1144

After a short check in time, off came the clothes and out to the beach we went, yes! with suits on of course! That first afternoon was spent relaxing in lounge chairs, the water, and the poolside bar. We knew it was going to be a busy two weeks checking out Ambergris Caye and Caye Calker, so resting up with constant injections of Belizean Rum was called for that first day, and night too.

Tomorrow was another day.

Cheers all,

Gary

Posted in Adventure, Ambergris Caye, Belize, Caye Calker, Expat, Sanctuary Belize, scuba diving, travel, travel with dogs, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“I’m sick of this crap! I’m moving to Costa Rica..Tomorrow! Could this be you?

Posted on September 27, 2013 by storiesbygary

So you think your world is turning to crap in the U.S., Canada or whatever, and it’s time to start looking at a third world country like Panama, Costa Rica or Belize, where the cost of living is much lower, life is slower, and they are waiting with open arms. Maybe your fears are becoming a reality with health care in your country and you see these other countries being a better option.

moving%20van

Before you decide to pack a bag and leave for your new home, do your home work.

I was like so many others that I see daily on blogs about becoming an Expat in a foreign country. Expat Forum, Belize Forum and the like, where over and over I read people asking the same questions over and over. Can I live on $****.** per month there, can I find work there, can I find low cost rentals there, I’m leaving next week, can I drive there through Mexico, etc.

People..you can ask anyone you want these kind of questions, but you will never get the answers that you need to make such a major move anywhere, until you physically visit that country yourself, in person, for at least weeks. If I tell you Panama is perfect for you, are you going to sell everything you have and move there tomorrow? If you say yes, then you must be a charter member in the clueless patrol.

Now I’m not saying that I am the best at providing advise on relocating to a foreign country, but I can tell you I have lived in a few 3rd world countries in my life, and I quickly learned that none of them will resemble living in the United States, ever. What you will need to survive in a 3rd world country is the ability to slow down, live, eat and emulate the locals. No drive thru meals at McDonalds, visits to Costco or Walmart, and no picking from one of 100 kinds of cereal in the grocery store. It’s just not happening.

mud

Most of these countries don’t even have paved roads, so get ready for driving on rutted dirt and during the rainy times of year, getting stuck in mud. If you are lucky enough to choose a country like Belize, day to day life becomes easier for you, because most everyone speaks english.

My advise for you is to look at your life now and really determine what you don’t like about it, and what you do like. What would be your dream life style, beach, mountains, boating community, small old village or city, artsy village or whatever. You also have to look at climate, rainfall, humidity, bugs, natural disaster frequency (hurricane seasons), and such.

Hurricane Bill

The internet makes research so easy today, with tons of info from best places to live, how to move, cost of living, where the Expat communities are located, and how to rent or buy land, and so much more.

Research On-Line

Research On-Line

But again, after all your research, the best plan is to visit for at least 3-4 weeks, a month or two at least. I suggest visiting during the worst time of year, the off season for sure. My reasoning is first of all, things like resorts or hotels are cheeper during those periods so your cost’s are less. Also it will give you insight into what the country and area are like during that time. If you are fine with lower temperatures, more mosquitos, mud, or whatever, then you know you can survive it. Next trip, come back during high tourist traffic to see if you can survive that time. The weather might be gorgeous on the beaches, but if you have to share it with a million party animals, is that the life you have dreamed of?

The next thing I would like you to think about is when you do visit the country you might be calling home, try to find a local “Relocation Expert” to visit with and maybe get a tour with during your initial visit. They are there, believe me, either a local native who specializes in helping you find the best area to live, knows the Realty Offices, and can usually introduce you to other Expats who have been living there for years. You also might be lucky enough to find a specialist that is an Expat themselves, and has gone through everything that you are about to. Their experience can be a life savor, literally.

Hire a local to show you the area

Hire a local to show you the area

In my next few articles, I will take you on my own personal adventure, my target, Belize. I just returned from almost a month there doing everything I have talked about and more. I will try to give you all the ideas and suggestions I wished I had known about before my visit, even given I did all my due diligence before deciding to take a look at Belize.

I hope you join me.

Gary

Posted in Adventure, Ambergris Caye, Belize, Cavalier King Charles, Expat, Sanctuary Belize, scuba diving | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Ambergris Caye, Belize..the arrival

Posted on September 24, 2013 by storiesbygary
Belize

Belize

After spending four fantastic days in the Stann Creek area of mainland Belize, on the Sanctuary Belize Tour, I headed by air to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, Belize. This was to be the second half of what I looked at as a discovery tour / vacation. The next two weeks I would be combining total relaxation with business, by investigating the entire island, restaurants, shopping, hospitals, stores and meeting as many locals as possible.

DSC_0818

I wanted to see exactly what everyone was experiencing here on Ambergris Caye, and why once here they just didn’t want to leave..ever. Part of my plan was also to spend time getting to know Ann Kuffner, of the Escapeartist fame. Ann and her husband have lived on Ambergris Caye for some years now, and her business besides writing, is working with potential Expats so they get a good idea about life on the island.

I had made my reservations after much due diligence, at the X’ Tan Ha “Waterfront” Resort, a few miles north of downtown San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, Belize. I had decided on this resort for a variety of reasons, the ratings by visitors, the beautiful colored residences, and especially because it was touted as the only sandy beach on the island. Why would I stay anywhere in Belize on the water, without a sandy beach and clear waters?

DSC_0990

Now there were some “flags” in my research, as it seems the resort had been called the “Legacy Beach Resort” previously, and actually been closed for almost 3 years before opening recently as the X’tan Ha. Since opening this resort has received rave reviews for the accommodations, beach, accessibility, staff, management, grounds and of course, the beachfront bar. Not getting the best of reviews, the restaurant. However, the restaurant was now under new management, new owners and name, and I would reserve judgement. I already was aware of some fantastic restaurants nearby that would easily be available by water taxi, the main source of transportation on the island, besides golf carts.

Arriving by water taxi, arranged by the resort, I could pick out X’tan Ha from quite a distance away, by the brightly colored buildings. As we arrived and proceeded down the dock with the staff and out ton of baggage, mainly because of dive gear, there was Hill, the bartender with 2 exotic rum drinks in hand. Honey..I’m home!!!

The beachfront waters at X'tan Ha are clear, clean and warm, and sights are beautiful ;-)

The beachfront waters at X’tan Ha are clear, clean and warm, and sights are beautiful 😉

After a quick check ion we were escorted to our beachfront room on a second floor overlooking the Caribbean Ocean. Standing on our balcony, cocktails in hand, my wife were positively amazed at the beauty of this place. We could actually see and hear the barrier reef, which by the way, is the second largest in the world. Holy crap ! I could hardly hold back my excitement that I was going to have several dive trips this first week, out there beyond the reef.

DSC_0977

Within minutes we were in our suits, back at the bar, then on lounge chairs soaking up the sun. A little baking at 375 deg. and into the water we went. My god..the water was in the 80’s and just as clear as can be. We learned that “somehow” the sea grasses disappear from the water leaving a nice sandy body of water to swim and or lounge in right in front of the resort. As we would see and experience in the next two weeks, was all the resorts down the coast between this resort and San Pedro, had waters full of sea grasses. So if you are planning any visits to Ambergris Caye in your future, I would seriously keep that in mind.

The first evening we decided to give the resort restaurant a go, so after a quick shower and new sandals and shorts we headed to the Temple Run Tavern. When we arrived what I found was a single level building set back behind the residences, in the middle of the resort.There was a nice inside dining room, and an outside screened in dining room, all nicely appointed with comfortable tables and chairs. Nothing special or fancy, but I was here mainly to eat, plain and simple.

Inside the Temple Run Tavern

Inside the Temple Run Tavern

We both had the lobster special, fresh caught from local waters, and I will tell you it was a special. The waiter was a quiet local man, very polite with an excellent smile, when I could pull it out of him. All in all, a fine dinner, but a restaurant lacking in atmosphere, but more about that later.

We spent the rest of the evening working our way through the exotic and lengthy “drink book”, a wood encased monster at the Katanga Beach Bar, and meeting many new friends there.

My new buddy Greg and his charming

My new buddy Greg and his charming

And the sunset was fan-fucking- tastic ! Just saying

DSC_1070

Cheers all, until we meet on the continues adventure they call Belize..

Gary

Click here for Sanctuary Belize Info, no hassle, just info 😉

http://sanctuarybelize.com/?as=pRD38gETSvB3GxhJ0TvkjA%253d%253d

Posted in Adventure, Ambergris Caye, Belize, Caye Calker, Expat, fly fishing, Sanctuary Belize, scuba diving, travel, travel with dogs | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Belize..The Final Frontier,,Day 4 of the Sanctuary Belize Tour

Posted on September 16, 2013 by storiesbygary

Day four on the Sanctuary Belize Tour brings mucho excitement to many of us, especially my wife Marsha and I. After breakfast we will be heading back out via boat to Sanctuary Belize, to spend a few hours visiting our lot SR87 in Sapodilla Ridge, along with viewing some of the other homes under construction.

Entering the Sanctuary Belize Marina

Entering the Sanctuary Belize Marina

DSC_0597

I have to tell you that after totally enjoying our day relaxing on Sanctuary Caye yesterday, I al so anxious to get back to Sanctuary Belize. Today could vary well be the last time this year we visit our new home this year, if all goes right, and we make that decision today.

As the boat enters the marina, I realize that I can actually see the tops of the giant, 70+  year old trees on my building lot, in the tree line behind the marina. My heart is pumping as we pull up to the dock, clamoring off the boat, down the dock to awaiting 4×4’s. Today we will be accompanied by Chad and his assistant Pete, who will be taking us into the wooded lot, to trace the actual property lines. Chad is ever so impressive with his big ol’ machete..that we will soon see he needed.

My good friend Pedro, getting ready to head out to lots

My good friend Pedro, getting ready to head out to lots

Along with us on this day is another young man from Canada, Pedro, originally from Brazil, who was on the tour with us, looking at investment property. Pedro didn’t really like the lot he had reserved, unseen, so today he will be looking at another, one with more mature trees. We proceed to view Pedro’s lot first, with high hopes. Now you must imagine that we are now entering a massive thick woods, recently having a rough cut 4 wheel drive access road developed for it. Still muddy in spots, should we get stuck, it’s a long walk back to the dock. But no fear, we make it to the lot Pedro seeks.

The smile on his face tells the whole story to me, the moment he realizes we are in front of his new lot. That’s right, he falls in love with it immediately. After he gets a boots on the ground tour, his excitement overflows the vehicle, as we all realize, this will not only be an investment, but his home someday.

DSC_0754

These are just some of the fantastic trees on our lot #87. In person..Un-frickin real.

These are just some of the fantastic trees on our lot #87. In person..Un-frickin real.

Now on to Lot 87, and the possibility of actually walking our entire wooded acre for the first time. As we turn a corner on the dirt road, and see the sign Lot87, the look on my wife’s face will remain in my memories for the rest of my life. It’s a corner lot, wooded with massive 70+ year old trees, Palms and all kinds of native hardwoods. W already know that on the other side is direct access to the Caribbean Ocean, with nothing in between.

Chad and Pedrro, heading up road to enter Pedro's new lot

Chad and Pedrro, heading up road to enter Pedro’s new lot

We are led by Chad or “Mr Machete” and his side kick, a native Belize worker, Pete who guide us through what can only be said to resemble a scene out of Indiana Jones. I actually caught myself humming the theme song. As Chad swung his blade, taking our monster vines from the path, Pete was describing the kinds of trees, and their approximate ages to us. At one spot on the trail, they both stopped, as Chad proceeded to tell me I was going to “crap my pants” when I say this tree. There is a magical, monster of a native tree with a massive canapé seemingly in the clouds, on our lot. Chad admits he has never seen one that large in Sapodilla, and he doubts he ever will.

The Bamboo House under construction

The Bamboo House under construction

After taking quite a bit of time, which included much hooting, hollering and cheering, we completed our inspection of the property. All we had to do was make a decision if indeed, this is where we would decide to build and live for the rest of our lives. Chad told us he would meet with us later that evening back at the resort, after dinner, and of course, cocktails, to find out our decision.

Entertainment room above a completed home.

Entertainment room above a completed home.

Next we proceeded to visit some of the homes being started, worked on, and some already completed. It was great to see that there were some already being lived in, and constructed, in the area of our lot87 (notice I said our).

We met up with the other 4×4’s back at the marina, and sadly boarded the boat for our final voyage back to Kanantik Resort, before our departure tomorrow morning. Arriving at the dock at Kanantik, we all got changed, then headed to the lunch hut for another delightful meal. After, we all agreed to jump into our suits and hit the pool, and poolside bar of course.

A new Riverfron Estates Home

A new Riverfron Estates Home

During the afternoon I watched as one by one each couple was escorted somewhere by one of the Sanctuary staff, to discuss their plans, and decisions. Surprisingly, some of the couples we had become friends with, who had no plans to buy a lot, had decided in fact to do just that. One couple who we knew were struggling to make the decision, mostly because of the need to totally trust the financial aspects of transferring all their 401k’s to Belize, still were undivided.

And then here comes Chad, with a large file folder and a smile. It’s our turn to talk about our decision, to invest in our future here at Sanctuary, or not. Remember, as we were told, and already experienced, there is no pressure to buy here. This development has enough interest and buyers arriving each week, to sell all the lots that will become available. The decision here, is whether my wife and I will buy this fine lot that we have experienced, or lose it forever.

DSC_0662

You must understand that in our relationship, I am always the one that says yes, and my wife is always the one who says maybe, until she is absolutely positively sure its a good deal. There is never a “deadline” for her, because her vision is always, if not this one, there will always be a better one.

 

As we all sat down, my wife started with “We have decided to purchase the lot, where do we sign”?

The next morning during breakfast, as we talked to the other couples, and found that all but two had made the decision to purchase at least one lot. Even the couple hung up with the use of 401k mines, had been satisfied with what they learned, and were proceeding to become our neighbors.

Me greeting the Mayan Flight

Me greeting the Mayan Flight

As we boarded our flight from the Kanantik Resort private airstrip, we were overcome by sadness to leave, but confident and excited at what was to come. We had arranged with Chad, to have Pete and his crew start clearing underbrush and knurly smaller trees from our acre lot. This in anticipation of our return in February ’14, to layout the footprint of the custom home we will be starting construction on.

” So let it be written..So let it be done.” Ramsey’s III..Egypt

Cheers all.

Gary

PS- Look for my next series about my two weeks on Ambergris Caye and Caye Calker Islands, Belize.

DSC_1008

 

Posted in Adventure, Ambergris Caye, Belize, Caye Calker, Expat, Sanctuary Belize, scuba diving, travel, travel with dogs, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Sanctuary Belize Tour..Day #3, is belize for you?

Posted on September 12, 2013 by storiesbygary

Day three should prove to be very interesting I think, to all of us. It’s to be a laid back, relaxing day of Sanctuary Belize’s “Private Resort Island”, Sanctuary Caye, followed by a river boat trip, then dinner.

My Casita at Kanantik Resort

My Casita at Kanantik Resort

We start the day again with a wonderful breakfast at the Kanantik Resort, where we all have a chance again to talk between ourselves about yesterdays tour of the development. The question on everyone’s mind and lips this morning is, when do they sit us down and pressure us to sign our lives away.

Kanantik Casita Bedroom

Kanantik Casita Bedroom

First I would like to say a little more about our accommodations at the Kanantik Resort. They are first class, 5 Star, for a village resort in the middle of nowhere. Our casita’s are clean, well appointed, air conditioned, with a total wide open feeling. Great walk in closet with a safe I might ad, and a beautiful private bath with a shower that feels like it’s outside. The beach and water are a few steps away from your front door, and grounds are always immaculate.

So, during breakfast, we are introduced to the new Sustainability Guy, Frank Connelly. If I was ever doubtful about the seriousness of this whole undertaking of a community within five eco systems, I no longer am. This guy is an expert, the real deal. He explained how only months earlier he was asked to come and check out these eco systems for himself, and confirm they were real. He was so blown away, he was offered a position and accepted it, and is now in charge of the whole sustainability program, as well as tying up the boat at the dock.

We arrive at the dock on Sanctuary Caye

We arrive at the dock on Sanctuary Caye

Frank talked about things like re-use of waters whether from showers or black water, with a new system that processes and uses this purified water back to the ground flora, fauna and trees. Advanced energy saving cooling systems, solar and wind power, and so much more. Very exciting.

Relaxing in the warm waters on Sanctuary Caye.

Relaxing in the warm waters on Sanctuary Caye.

So we then proceeded to the boat for our half an hour voyage out to the private island they call Sanctuary Caye. Arriving there we were greeted and escorted to the other side, where a tiki bar was set up, and employees were busy on the grills preparing lunch. As we all lounged about, some choosing to lay about in the clean warm tropical waters, we were informed that all of us were scheduled for a waterfront private massage. How sweet it is ! They were playing my song, a rum cocktail and a massage, now just where was this leading me?

We enjoyed quite a relaxing day, sipping cold beers, rum drinks, and enjoying a superb barbecue. So you may be asking yourself, is this it, really? just hanging around, swimming, snorkeling, eating and drinking all day, plus a massage.

belizehutwater

Getting my massage..oh baby!

Getting my massage..oh baby!

I’m sure you will recognize the picture of the grass / bamboo hut in the water, just off the water. Looks like a great place to hang out with lunch or drinks, right? You can see this on the video playing on TV, advertising BuyBelize on FOX News and other channels. Well, I can tell you it isn’t used for that.

 

That bamboo hut in the water, is where Sanctuary Belize business is done. We each were called out there, and met with the SB representatives, Dave and Chad. Now I can tell you, I was expecting hard sell, at this point, after what we had been treated to so far. What they did was ask us how we were doing, what we thought of everything so far, and what we thought about about our lot and the possibility of becoming owners.

Sanctuary Belize Meeting Room

Sanctuary Belize Meeting Room

No hard line, no hard sale, they just wanted to get a feel of where we were in any decision making. They proceeded to explain how the process worked if we did decide to purchase a lot or two, with financing, down payments, and that they were willing to work out payment plans for most anything.  We ended with smiles, handshakes, and all positive vibes, telling them we loved everything so far, and were looking forward to taking another good look at our lot tomorrow, an then our decision.

That’s it my good readers. No pressure at all. Regardless of anything you might have heard or read, these people are above board, really nice, and in fact, are either already living there, or have purchased lots and are preparing to build themselves. At least..no pressure for now. ;-))

I did hear that if you don't sign, you walk this trail back home?

I did hear that if you don’t sign, you walk this trail back home?

Day #4 coming soon..what will it bring?

Posted in Adventure, Belize, Expat, Sanctuary Belize, scuba diving, travel, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Sanctuary Belize..Day 2, Is Belize right for you?

Posted on September 9, 2013 by storiesbygary
The pool and bar at Kanantik Resort

The pool and bar at Kanantik Resort

So onward to Day #2 at the Kanantik Resort, and our journey to adventure with the Sanctuary Belize folks. Last night we enjoyed cocktails by the pool, many discussions among ourselves as well with representatives of Sanctuary. I found that most of the couples attending this four day event were there for the same reason my wife and I were there. We wanted to see if this was going to be a viable investment for our future, either to relocate to and live full time in retirement, to build and rent out as an investment, or to live part time and rent out when not there. We all seemed to have the same attitude about seeing everything for ourselves after reading the forums and doing our due diligence with research. Was this going to be that large community of Expats within the folds of security in this exclusive property, which would become our new home.

Breakfast room at Kanantik

Breakfast room at Kanantik

Now let me backtrack a bit before continuing the adventure. Kanantik Resort, where you get to stay while here for the four day touring adventure, is IMO a 5 Star Resort. The Casitas where you stay are beautiful large huts, made of bamboo, open and beautiful. Air conditioned, walk in stone shower, large closet with safe. The large windows open to oceanfront views along with the constantly manicured grounds. The salt water pool and bar are hard to leave, the breakfast room with its massive high bamboo ceiling a delight. And during your entire stay, you will enjoy the specially prepared food and all bar drinks..for free. There is no final check out bill, what you paid to stay here for the tour, under $1000 per couple, is all you will pay. And let me tell you, the cost per room here at Kanantik is in neighborhood of $400 per night. So, as we enjoy breakfast the first morning, we get a project overview from David our host. He explains how the project has been moving along, how they have concentrated of finishing the marina first and why. You see, this marina at Sanctuary is now the only insured marina in the Caribbean. It has the best protection against storms of any port, and will become a major attraction for the boating community. This is a big deal, especially if looking at this for an investment.

View of the Marina at Sanctuary

View of the Marina at Sanctuary

As we are all eager to actually see and walk about Sanctuary Belize, as well as walk our lots for those of us that have reserved them ahead of visiting, off we went to the boat. Even though we could have been driven on land to Sanctuary, Taking the 15 minute boat ride up the coast and into the cove to experience the major project of this marina was well worth it. As we approached the dock, anticipation was high, and as we jumped off the deck onto the dock, in the distance I could see the homes being built. How exciting.

At Sanctuary Belize, boarding transportation

At Sanctuary Belize, boarding transportation

We were divided into groups and driven on a tour of the property in 4 wheel drive off road utility vehicles. We were shown the homes being built on the water, including a couple being lived in, along with where shops and the medical building will be located. The off to see our respective lots. As the total building lots in the different areas will total approximately 1500, let me tell you prices range between $140,000-1.5 million per lot. Waterfront, Equestrian, Savanna or Waterway lots are all about one acre in size.

Wife and I in front of our lot

Wife and I in front of our lot

After viewing my new friend Pedro’s lot near the marina, we proceeded to the area called Sapodilla Ridge, and lot # 87, the lot I had reserved unseen (for $5000). As we drove down the road looking at the stakes with lot numbers, I could see my wife Marsha’s face smiling, because the lots were very wooded, unlike the bare property near the marina. We wanted trees around our home for aesthetics, as well as to tame summer sun. When we arrived at our lot. we both started jumping like kids. It’s a corner lot with some massive 80+ year old monster beautiful trees on it, along with mixed smaller trees and palms. There will only be one other home on a lot next to it, with a setback between us of 20 yards. As we walked in from the road with Chad our guide and his guy Pete (we will talk about my new buddy Pete later), Chad proceeded with his machete to clear a path along the lot line. When we got to the back of the property, we were ecstatic. You see, there will be a narrow belt of trees that will be thinned so that from our house we will have views of the Caribbean Ocean from our decks, and no homes ! We will be able to have an access path directly to the ocean from our house. Soo cool. We did have a chance to relax a bit and get out of the heat for lunch..for lunch and cocktails by the pool at the Marina Complex.

The pool at the Marina Complex

The pool at the Marina Complex

As we proceeded with the tour of the complex our questions were answered about water and sewer. There are several high capacity wells to feed properties, with lines already in place to the property lots. Each lot will be responsible for a septic installation, and have the option of installing an eco-friendly system developed by the “Sustainability Guy”.

The Bamboo House in construction

The Bamboo House in construction

We then proceeded on a tour of some completed homes as well as homes still in construction. At present there are only a couple contractors building homes at Sanctuary, but as more lot owners seek to start construction, more will be incorporated.

Time to celebrate !!!

Time to celebrate !!!

I have to say, there was a lot to take in the first day, with many questions answered, and new ones popping up. My wife an I were thrilled with our lot #87, and almost immediately decided we were going to purchase it, no matter what. Reason? As we were shown the lot by the Sanctuary representatives, we could hear in their voices the surprise at seeing exactly where the lot was situated, as well as it’s proximity to direct Caribbean access. We quickly realized that looking at the map of lot’s and prices of those lots, the ones on either side were priced at $400,000 for the acre. For some reason, ours was priced half that, and we had a signed agreement for that price pending our on site viewing and signature of acceptance. Where do I sign !! After all the vehicles met back at the dock for our boat ride back to Kanantik, we enjoyed the 15 minute ride, each with a cold beer in hand and a smile on most faces. We were all looking forward to getting back, changed and in the pool after a stop at the bar. Later we all joined for dinner and had a relaxing social there as well as by the pool, where we all talked about the day, our experiences, questions we had, and what we had found out individually. You see, we were all on that fence, would we jump back or over into new territory. Tomorrow was to be a great day, with the whole day spent on the private island, Sanctuary Caye. Owned by Sanctuary as well as all lot owners, this island, a half hour by boat was purchased as a private island for all to enjoy. Not very big, I believe its about a mile long in a horseshoe shape, will all sandy beaches. But more about that next time. Good Night all, Gary

Posted in Adventure, Ambergris Caye, Belize, Expat, Sanctuary Belize, scuba diving, travel, wine | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Escape to Belize ? My story..starting with the Sanctuary Belize Tour

Posted on September 6, 2013 by storiesbygary
The pool and bar at Kanantik Resort

The pool and bar at Kanantik Resort

As I stepped down from the stairway of the small commuter plane onto the tarmac at the Belize International Airport, which is almost a laughable joke, I took a deep breath of fresh air. How frickin sweet was that? My litmus test of every country I have traveled to, is what it smells like, which in many cases is crap..literally. For me I have found many third world countries lacking is sewerage containment and treatment facilities which translates into what I call stank!

DSC_1110

My first experience and I can tell you, majority of experiences I encountered while traveling extensively throughout Belize, was fresh air. Walking the streets of San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Caye, with the sounds of golf carts, enticing smells coming from outdoor grills and friendly smiles from locals put relaxation on my brow.

Now don’t get me wrong, when visiting Belize, you are entering a world that has almost stood still compared to most countries. Dirt roads, multi colored shacks, and shops lining streets reminiscent of my days in the streets of DaNang during the 60’s. What is different here is the lack of that feeling that at any time someone would snatch your wallet, or like DaNang, be happy for that M16 ! This country isn’t that kind of world, rather just a tourist town with some petty crimes for the most part. More about that later.

Sanctuary Belize contour map

Sanctuary Belize contour map

But let’s not rush into that world, because that wasn’t where I started this adventure that I want to take you on. My first week was spent on the mainland of Belize, on it’s Southern Coast area just below Dangriga. I was on the Discovery Tour of Sanctuary Belize, a development of over 1500 homes in what I would call the Ultimate Expat Community in Belize. The owners have set up four day tours of the property, lot’s available and the present facilities available for groups of about 20 potential owners each week.

As we landed on the small private resort runway for the Kanantik Resort where we were to stay, I saw the single van sitting by the runway. The small commuter plane taxied down and parked in front of the van, something I have never experienced. We were shuttled to the resort, and greeted at the welcome center for check in, then guided directly to the poolside bar..oh boy, was I a happy boy now.

Our "Hut" home for four days at Kanantik Resort

Our “Hut” home for four days at Kanantik Resort

After following the porters who delivered our bags to the hut where we were to sleep, we joined what I thought were other guests in the pool. As it turned out, these were actually employees of Sanctuary Belize David and his wife Julie, our hosts for the four days, along with Jeff who works for BuyBelize.com. It didn’t take long to realize how much fun these guys were, but I had no idea how our relationship would change over the next few days.

As time went on, more of our group arrived and the conversations flowed between us. What were we expecting to find out about Sanctuary Belize, what had we heard, hoped for feared. Although most of us had done our research, there was still the stories of the failure of previous owners, now in jail. We discovered that for most of us, we were looking for the same thing, something better than we were seeing life’s trail leading us back home. A safer place for our retirement funds, better cost of living, a community feeling where we could all work together to survive comfortably, and friendships.

Sort of like the living in the days of the Pirates, cutthroats they were, but loyal to the point of their swords.

Live lika a Pirate

Live lika a Pirate

Was Sanctuary Belize that place ? Time would tell. Tonight was just about the group of us getting to know each other, and hear an introduction by David and his clan. In the morning after breakfast, we would be taken by boat to Sanctuary Belize, and the adventure will unfold.

My plan with the  next group of articles is to give a day by day experience of what I learned about Sanctuary Belize, what exactly it was, is and will become. I will share the facts, my fears, and what could change the rest of my life, and possibly yours if you choose to seek sanctuary.

Belize

Belize..Sanctuary Belize located just below Dangriga

After the blogs about Sanctuary, I will proceed with daily blogs on my two weeks on the island paradise of Ambergris Caye and Caye Calker ( pronounced key btw). You see, my plans included visiting the entire island, looking at prospective home sites, business possibilities, the politics, medical facilities and meeting as many locals and Expats as possible. Even if I don’t decide to move onto this island, I want to look at it as my “Getaway” from the mainland, just as Hawaii has been for me on the West Coast. I also wanted to make some long term friends here, and learn about all the resorts and restaurants. After all, I am a Travel Writer, and there is always a story out there and an editor looking for one.

Me on the boat to Sanctuary Belize.. The adventure begins

Me on the boat to Sanctuary Belize.. The adventure begins

So..take your seagoing medications, and get ready to board the vessel mates, for your first voyage to Sanctuary Belize. Oh what surprises are in store for you next time we meet.

Tally Ho..

Gary

Posted in Adventure, Ambergris Caye, Belize, Caye Calker, Expat, Sanctuary Belize, travel, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Something that can kill you, should never be taken lightly

Posted on July 31, 2013 by storiesbygary

Making the decision to do something out of your comfort zone, especially something that can kill you, should never be taken lightly. If there was ever a reminder of that for me, it will be this past weekend, and my quest for my Advanced Open Water Diving Certification with PADI.

The dive pier at Mikes Dive Resort

The dive pier at Mikes Dive Resort

Last year I decided to take the first courses to get certified as an Open Water Diver, for recreation. My “pool work” was done in Eugene Oregon with Eugene Skin Divers, and my Open Water 5 dives were done off the coast of Kona Hawaii. Smart move on my part. After completing and passing my certification, I found that I had gotten bitten by the bug, I was hooked, and wanted more.

getting geared up at air filling shack

getting geared up at air filling shack

This year while planning a three week vacation this August in Belize, a major dive capitol in the world, I examined my dive choices there. With awesome night dives, and of course the Blue Hole Dive, some 140-150 feet, I decided maybe I should take the next level course, Advanced Open Water. There I went, off to my computer, studying and taking exams, learning everything about deep dives, night dives, search and recovery, navigation, all cool stuff. Then it was time to do the actual diving under those situations, with underwater tests and tasks.

The problem lies in the fact that I had decided to do this here in Oregon, so it was completed, and I would be ready to dive any dive in Belize. That meant doing my 5 advanced challenging dives, in the cold waters of the Puget Sound, Washington. Not only was it cold water, but I would have to wear all that gear, including two heavy wetsuits, hood, gloves, boots, etc, and not just my bathing suit like in Hawaii.

Me all geared up heading in

Me all geared up heading in

Can you hear the echo “stupid” in the room?

The first couple dive adventures with tasks were challenging, difficult, but I found myself pushing thru. The third dive was going to be the night dive, at 10 PM, and was the dive I most didn’t look forward to. Diving at depth, at night, in current is a challenge, especially when not in tropical waters where you can actually see something. WTF was I going to see in the Puget Sound at night.

Getting geared up and cautiously walking down the ramp in the dark, to get into the cold water got my heart pumping for sure. Then we were in and gliding down to about 50 feet, and along the way, with our intense beamed flashlights, we saw a rainbow of colored aquatic growth, starfish, octopus, and giant grouper fish. I believe because of the fact that I was concentrating only on that small beam of light and nothing else, it quickly showed me why divers love night diving. Things happen during the night that just don’t during the day. I have to admit that I am now hooked on night diving, and already signed up for a Belize night dive with sharks. More about that later, if I survive.

Going in

Going in

One of the final tasks for deep diving certification, was the Sunday morning dive to a underwater platform 100 feet down, where we would spend ten minutes examining how things change in that pressure. Things like how color changes, rubber balls shrink, and plastic bottles can expand and explode, like our lungs if we don’t equalize pressure correctly. I wasn’t to worried about going to that depth, however, something you must be concerned with is keeping your buoyancy correct. If you add to much air in your suit, you can have an uncontrollable assent to the surface without a safety stop. At this stop 20 feet from the surface, you give the build up of nitrogen time to dissipate. If you don’t do this, or blow past the stop,

You can die.

I completed the deep dive and after doing it I realized one thing for sure. Unless there is something I really, really want to see that’s at 130 feet (my new PADI limit), I will be truly happy to dive as a pleasure, recreation diver up to say 60-80 feet down. There’s lot’s to see down there in that range, without putting my life at risk, and lots out there to see and do.

going under, see the light?

going under, see the light?

So my thoughts for you are go out and see and experience new and exciting things. Challenge yourself to things you never thought you would ever do. But, keep one thing in mind,

We are here to live..

Cheers all,

Gary

 

 

 

Posted in Adventure, scuba diving, travel, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment