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Abroad, Beliz, Guests

Adventure: Boris Bongolov in Belize

posted by Dario
Mar 21, 2017 1524 0 0
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The Maiden from the Rock

 

“I don’t know what are they doing here – I think they might be eating our monkeys.” – Jacob has spent the past two decades establishing an education centre and forest research station deep in the jungles of Belize. BFREE is nested in a protected area in the South of this Caribbean country where the Maya Mountains harbor a remarkable species diversity. The dawn chorus of the birds echoing around the trees can barely be heard over the barbaric screams of the howler monkey family that is on the lookout for the next portion of fig fruits while jaguars and pumas are hiding in the forest shadows. The harpy eagles are one of the biggest birds of prey and a new arrival in this forest – Jacob thinks they are feeding on the noisy monkeys.

While Belize may be occupying a small land area between Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean sea that is home to less than half a million people, its cultural diversity is impressive. Formerly known as British Honduras, Belize gained independence fairly recently in 1981 and is now an English speaking country in a region that is dominated by Spanish speakers. For such a small country, Belize harbors surprising ethnic diversity that includes significant German Mennonite, Mayan and East Asian minorities alongside at least 5 more ethnic groups. People here live life their own way. Locals do not shop in big supermarket chains but instead go to the small shop in their neighbor’s house marked with a big CocaCola sign turned orange from the tropical sun. The fast food chains are not existent but you can always find a stick of sugar cane or a piece of fruit should you need a snack.

The territory of Belize had been part of the Mayan civilization for millennia before the arrival of the Spaniards in the XVI century and the Mayan temples still remain one of the tallest strictures in the country. Local Maya say that they see a woman with red eyes dressed in white appear in front of a temple in Central Belize, climbs the steps and vanishes into the stone walls. The temple is now named “Xunantunich” meaning “the maiden from the rock” in the languages of the Mopan and Yucatec Maya.

Early attempts to excavate the site led to noticeable damage to some of the buildings due to the use of dynamite and the export of artifacts to foreign museums. Significant effort has been invested in conserving the site recently with eight buildings now unearthed and more to be found under the trees in the surrounding area. At its peak more that 200 000 people lived in and around Xunantunich before severe drought led to political unrest with the city eventually being abandoned.

Belize is well worth a visit. Although direct flights to Europe are few and far apart, Belize city is well connected to other airports in the region. The whole country is easily accessible by road and numerous organizations (such as Monkey Bay – https://www.monkeybaybelize.com) might be able to offer logistic support for visits to more remote places especially for education groups.

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Dario Dionisi



If you want to know something more about me – my soul is a traveler, my origin is Italian and my true essence is a faithful friend. I am always open to new ideas and will be very happy if you want to contact me at dario@beyondsofia.com

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Dario Dionisi • Exploring beyond Sofia
Armenia photo dump 🇦🇲 #armenia #hayastan # Armenia photo dump 🇦🇲 

#armenia #hayastan #ararat #armaniatravel #armeniaadventure #armenianculture #armenianbeauty #myarmenia
At the crossroads of Asia and Europe, little-visit At the crossroads of Asia and Europe, little-visited Armenia is worth getting off the beaten track for. Its long history and culture can be found in almost every part of the country from the many fortresses and churches scattered across the mountains to the local traditional carpet weavers and lacemakers. It can be tasted in its Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine and heard at its many festivals and different performances. That’s why Armenia is simply the perfect destination for many adventures.

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Few nations have histories as ancient, complex and Few nations have histories as ancient, complex and laced with tragedy as Armenia. And even fewer have a culture that is as rich and resilient. This is a destination where you will be intrigued by history, awed by monuments, amazed by the landscape and charmed by down-to-earth locals. It’s not an easy place to explore – roads are rough, transport is often hard to navigate and those who don’t speak Armenian or Russian may find communication difficult – but travelling here is as rewarding as it is revelatory.

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Switzerland photo dump🇨🇭 #switzerland #sch Switzerland photo dump🇨🇭 

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Icy air sweeps over your face, snow crunches under Icy air sweeps over your face, snow crunches underfoot, and the panorama almost takes your breath away: on one side the view of the Swiss Mittelland towards the Vosges, on the other the Aletsch Glacier, lined with four thousand metre peaks. Standing on the Jungfraujoch 3,454 metres above sea level, you can feel it with your first step: this is a different world. It’s one you have to experience.

Jungfraujoch lies in the heart of the Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn UNESCO World Heritage Site. Snow and ice 100% guaranteed. The Sphinx viewing building, the Ice Palace, the plateau for walks in eternal snow - these are the year-round attractions on the Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe.

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For such a small country Switzerland, a land of mo For such a small country Switzerland, a land of mountains, is spoiled by its spectacular natural scenery. In almost any part of the country, you’ll be treated to view that will take your breath away, and leave a lasting memory. Here some of my most favourite landscapes that I saw during my round trip in the country.

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Switzerland is one of the world’s prettiest coun Switzerland is one of the world’s prettiest countries. Its landscape of impressive mountain ranges and beautiful villages is sure to impress.

With so much beauty waiting for you to discover, it’s not easy picking your ideal vacation destination in Switzerland because everything you see there feels like what you once saw on a screen.

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Whether it’s the altitude, the crystal-clear wat Whether it’s the altitude, the crystal-clear water or the beauty of the surrounding landscape, there’s something extraordinary about the sparkling lakes in Switzerland. Nestled in the country’s four major river basins are hundreds of postcard-perfect lakes waiting to be explored. Switzerland’s excellent transportation system makes it easy to access all but the most remote bodies of water.

From swimming, fishing and water skiing to sightseeing cruises, each lake offers a unique set of fun-filled activities. Lakeside resorts, villages and cities feature a host of cultural attractions too, including medieval castles, one-of-a-kind museums and picturesque public gardens. Wherever your travels through Switzerland take you, no visit is complete without a tour of the country’s most scenic lakes.

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Switzerland is arguably one of the most stunning c Switzerland is arguably one of the most stunning countries in Europe. With dramatic alpine scenery, heart-warming local food, historic towns, and world-famous cities, Switzerland has something for everyone.

No matter where you go or what you are willing to do in Switzerland, you are bound to find gorgeous natural beauty, delicious chocolate and cheese, and efficient, easy-to-use public transport.

Switzerland is a welcoming country where the locals are happy and healthy. The country has maintained a neutral position in global affairs throughout history. As a result, peace, prosperity, and innovation thrive all throughout the country.

Journeys in Switzerland aren’t just about getting from A to B – they are travel moments you’ll be raving about for years to come.

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