International Destinations

Belize is new destination for culinary travel

(Special)—Culinary travel has been making its mark among travel destinations around the globe, and is being swiftly added to travellers' itineraries worldwide.

While Belize is better known internationally as a scuba diving and eco-adventure vacation spot than a travel destination for foodies, that may be changing.

With its diverse cultural make-up and the recent launch of a highly regarded program for local chefs, certified by the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, Belize is well- positioned to raise the bar for culinary travel in the Caribbean.

"We recognize culinary travel is an emerging trend, which is why we're working hard to build Belize's reputation as a culinary destination in a number of ways. Including the development of our new chef program, and through the steady creation of new culinary-focused events where our talents can be shared with travellers," said Tracy Panton, Director of Tourism for the Belize Tourism Board.

"We cherish our diversity and are excited to share its multi-cultural gastronomic influences with people around the globe. And, what better way to do it than by providing some of the best culinary talent in the Caribbean."

The Certified Culinary Program training course, offered by the board in conjunction with the Organization of American States, is designed to enrich the abilities of Belizean chefs, and give them credentials needed to enhance their positions, increase their marketability and elevate their appeal.

Chefs and culinary enthusiasts from around the country are invited to participate, and training is offered specifically in Belize City and Dangriga in Belize's Stann Creek District. Those completing the program will receive certification from the Culinary Institute of America, the world's premier culinary college.

Belize puts on several culinary events throughout the year, including the annual Taste of Belize, which challenges local culinary masters in categories like "professional chef," "apprentice chef," "bartender" and "cake decorator," all while hundreds of locals, tourists and culinary enthusiasts gather round to watch.

Another popular culinary attraction is Belize's Lobster Festivals. To celebrate commencement of the lobster season in June, events take place in the country's beach towns of San Pedro, Placencia and Caye Caulker, and feature exquisite lobster fare, music and entertainment.

The San Pedro Lobster Fest was named one of the 300 greatest events in the world by Frommers and What’s on When and boasts special events like a cocktail party and beach barbecue.

Belize also offers travellers experiential tours that provide a true taste of Belizean culture. Visitors can experience the delights of chocolate like no other, with Southern Belize's Maya Chocolate Making Tour.

The experience provides a hands-on workshop, giving travellers the opportunity to work their way through the entire process of making their favourite sweets from scratch, starting with the cacao fruit on the tree and ending with the delectable chocolate in their mouths. Belize's Toledo District also hosts an annual cacao festival, during which visitors will learn local Mayan chocolate preparation techniques, attend lectures on the history and politics of chocolate, meet members of the Toledo Cacao Grower's Association and attend a chocolate-making workshop.

For those looking for a hands-on Maya cultural experience, the Maya Village Homestay program offers travellers the opportunity to stay with a Maya family in villages near Punta Gorda in Belize's southern region, to learn the customs of the ancient culture. Visitors who take advantage of this cultural exchange program have the opportunity to harvest corn, work in the fields and make traditional tortillas.

For more information see the Belize Tourism Board website, www.travelbelize.org.