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| About IZE | Tours & Packages | South Water Caye | Blue Creek Rainforest Lodge | Venezuela | Request Info |
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| Sports & Activities > Cultural Experiences ...................................................................................... Cultural Experiences International Zoological Expeditions, Inc. (IZE) offers unique opportunities for visitors to learn about the rich history and culture of Belize. From exploring the ruins of ancient Mayan cities to homestays with the Maya in Blue Creek Village, IZE Belize will help you create memories to last a lifetime. Blue Creek Village, Belize Hidden in the Toledo district of Belize, the village of Blue Creek is located on the river and surrounded by lush rainforest. Some villagers still live in rustic thatched-roof houses that are without electricity or running water. The villagers are descendents of Kekchi and Mopan Mayans who fled Guatemala to find peace in Belize. Today, most villagers speak both Kekchi and Mopan as well as English, and the similar cultures have merged into one. With the Mayan Village of Blue Creek so close to the IZE field site, you will have a chance to meet many people from this community while you are staying at our Blue Creek Rainforest Lodge. This community is rich in culture and knowledge of the surrounding habitat. Most villagers are farmers, although there are many artisans from the village who create beautiful crafts that help sustain their way of life and maintain their cultural heritage. Homestays in Belize Feeling adventurous? International Zoological Expeditions, Inc. (IZE) can arrange homestays for visitors to Blue Creek Village, Belize. Living with a family, students and adventurers can take part in the day-to-day rhythms of Belizean life, allowing them to learn a bit about the Kekchi or Mopan Maya culture. Observing and participating in making the day's tortillas, listening to the strains of Mayan music by firelight in a thatched hut, swimming in the clear waters of the jungle forest stream – these experiences will turn into memories to last a lifetime. Mayan archeological sites Belize is a treasure chest of Maya culture. Archeologists are continually discovering new Mayan sites each year, from hidden cities to caves with artifacts that date back hundreds of years. Upon request, IZE Belize can arrange for guided tours to many of these sites, including: Lubaantun North of the Columbia River a mile beyond San Pedro is the Mayan ruin of Lubaantun ("Place of the Fallen Stones"). Located on this archeological site near Blue Creek Rainforest Lodge are 18 plazas and three ball courts. Most of the structures are terraced. The tallest structure rises 50 feet above the plaza, with commanding views of the entire countryside and the Caribbean Sea 20 miles away. Lubaantun was built and occupied by the Maya during the late-Classic period (730–890 C.E.), and from what archeologists have discovered, it flourished until the 8th century C.E. Since it's discovery in 1875, many unique artifacts have been uncovered, including distinctive clay whistle figurines and a carved crystal skull, as well as obsidian blades, grinding stones, beads, shells, turquoise, and shards of pottery. |
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| Copyright © 2004, Inernational Zoological Expeditions, Inc. (IZE). All rights reserved. | ||||||