 Ambergris Caye Beach Today the continued tourism explosion has had a marked effect on the town’s infrastructure and what was once an uninterrupted stretch of pristine sandy beach is now lined with resorts, piers, and dive-shops for as far as the eye can see. The fishing industry, once focused on local sustainability is now primarily concentrated on supplying the abundance of restaurants with a diverse array of seafood to cater to their guests. The majority of locals and an ever escalating number of immigrants from the mainland are now involved in some aspect of the tourist trade. From gift shop clerks, hoteliers, and gold cart renters to waiters, bartenders, and tour guides, everyone shares in the profitability of the growing tourism pie. |
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Home to Belize’s premier vacation haven, the island of Ambergris Caye is situated 58km NE of Belize City and a mere ¼ mile from the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere. The caye itself is 25 miles long and up to a mile wide in some areas. San Pedro Town, the central populous and bustling resort metropolis is located on the southern portion of the island. On first glance, San Pedro would appear to resemble a typical commercialized vacation hub; however, upon further inspection it is soon realized that the town is teeming with history and tradition which is clearly rooted in the cultural diversity of its people. Although the modern day economy predominantly thrives on the prosperous tourism trade, this was not always the case. In fact, tourism is still relatively new to the island and its growth is a key component of a rich heritage marked by continuous progress and the integration of many ideas and cultures. |
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