Last week, Green Cotton had the honor and pleasure of traveling to Belize, one of the most eco-friendly countries in the world, so I thought I would take the opportunity to share a few highlights from this inspirational trip.
While Belize may not be at the forefront of fashion (and will not be hosting the next Fashion Week any time soon!), it is definitely leading the way when it comes to environmentalism and ecotourism. As one of the smallest countries in Central America, Belize has one of the largest eco-tourism industries in the region. More than a million visitors come each year to experience the endless waterfalls, limestone caves, rainforest flora and fauna as well as mystical ancient Maya sites.
It is in this light that Green Cotton is interested in this country and wants to write about it– for the passion evident among the Belizeans for their environment coupled with their successful ability to create eco-enterprises that work to conserve Mother Nature while turning a profit.
To begin, Belizean eco-tourism exposes the mystery and intrigue of wildlife—from the tropical rainforest to panoply of birds, deep caves and running waterfalls – in an accessible, adventurous and fun way for the common traveler. On this trip, my husband and I had the pleasure staying at Chaa Creek and visiting Black Rock Lodge (almost daily), both eco-tourist resorts offer an incredible window into the environment and an adventurous experience (not to mention my near death experience tubing down one of the waterfalls!).
Bungalow at Chaa Creek
Both places are exquisite and provide numerous opportunities to explore plants, birds, animals and insects as well as good food and relaxation. You might find spiny tailed iguanas or even “Jesus Christ Lizards” (who literally walk on water) as seen below, as well as “cotton trees”, snakes, dragon fruits, and coconut trees.
Jesus Christ Lizard hanging out in our outdoor shower.
Having traveled through much of Central and South America, I was also pleasantly surprised with Belizean local culture. As one of the only English-speaking countries in the region, I was sure to discover mostly British-influences at every turn; and yet, I found quite the contrary: a vibrant local community of Belizeans filled with Maya, Hispanic, Creole, Mestizo, Garifuna, among others, all of whom greeted us friendly, welcomes and conversation and created a flourishing mix of food, music, dance and lifestyle. English is the national language in Belize.
The lower deck at Black Rock Lodge overlooking waterfalls and rainforest
Another surprise came with Belize’s population density. Belize is a very small country – both with respect to its size as well as population. Despite its tiny landmass: approximately 8,866 square miles as well over 200 cayes (islands) along the barrier reef, Belize does not have an overpopulation issue (as in Bangladesh for example). A mere 320,000 people live in the country (!), thus leaving acre upon acre of sheer rainforest and open protected lands. For perspective – the population of New York City alone is approximately 8 million and LA is 3.8 million – so Belize is a relatively small city at best by US standards!
Nonetheless, it is stunning paradise to visit and explore should one have the opportunity. For me, there were two highlights that stand out in my mind: Xunantunich, one of the largest ancient Maya sites in the country, and our hike to the mountain peak at Black Rock.
Both highlights will follow in part II of this Belizean series.
In the meantime, I’d like to close by sharing a few words on my (and Green Cotton’s) new-found respect for Mother Nature and all her complex beauty. I must admit that I am excited and invigorated – despite our flailing economy and tense political situation….everywhere I go, I see more and more people participating in environmentalism in some way. It also seems that now more than in any other time in history, this is a good thing and that we should celebrate this momentum! What could be bad about increasing urges to conserve, to grow organically, to recycle, to buy Green and for each of us to carve our own green path?
So a call of appreciation to all of you out there who are channeling your passion for the environment in some way meaningful to you. Personally, I have chosen to do so through this blog and through the company I recently launched Jute and Jackfruit. But for others of you, that might mean recycling clothes, going vintage, buying organic…. hiking, biking and/or starting a green business….its all terrific. Hats of to all of you and if you happen to have an interesting green story, I’d love to hear about it on Green Cotton. Let’s keep the momentum going!
