Belize Promoted in the Dive Market in Europe - London International Dive Show

Belize was proudly represented at one of the biggest diveshows in Europe on March 28th and March 29th at the London International Dive Show (LIDS).

It gathered an impressive list of top names from the diving world. Belize representatives included Nick Davies and Mike Preston of the Belize Hotel Association, Teresa Parkey of Belize Adventure Lodge and Melecia Banks of the Belize Tourism Board.

The two day show showcased the very best of diving and more than 250 exhibitors. Organized by Diver Magazine, this year’s LIDS had something for everyone – from dives for the children and non divers to the latest kit, clothing, advice and training plus the very best of diving holidays worldwide.

Twice a year, the diving world gears up for the highlights of the sport’s calendar – the London and Birmingham Dive shows. At each event, hundreds of leading suppliers of the latest diving gear, holidays, training courses, leisurewear and boats meet with thousands of experienced and wanna be divers from the UK, Europe and beyond.The Dive Shows also attracted world-renowned diving experts to the speaker programmes that run alongside each event. Recent high-profile speakers included diving environmentalists Jean-Michel Cousteau, record-breaking freediver Tanya Streeter and underwater explorer Monty Halls.

The London Dive Show was the culmination of a series of shows that the Belize Hotel Association had organized to bring Belize to the forefront of the European Market. The first was the Vakantiebeurs Show held in Holland in January, the second was the Destination Show in February in London that had the representation of the Minister of Tourism, Hon. Manuel Heredia, Jr. and the third was the TUR Shows held in Sweden in mid-March.

At the show, Belize gave away a full prize package courtesy of Belize Adventure Lodge and Cahal Pech Village Resort. The package included a 8 day diving package courtesy Belize Adventure Lodge, 3 nights at Cahal Pech Village Resort and 3 days of car rental courtesy Discount Car Rental. The European Marketing Initiative group of the Belize Hotel Association also furnished the winner with international air as a part of the prize package. The winner of the prize package was Ms. Edit Darabos.

Top Caribbean property for 2009

Belize on the list of top Caribbean investments in 2009

The global economic downturn has seriously affected the world's property markets. Many countries are reporting a sluggish turnover of property and decreased value on previously purchased real estate.

However, keen investors are finding that there are still some areas which are riding the storm and flourishing. A company that has been monitoring the markets in the 26 Caribbean countries is now sharing what they feel are the top locations for purchasing property in 2009.

International Property advisor, Wini Dean, states that "It is simply not true that everything is in decline, in fact I am as busy as ever with clients seeking property in the Caribbean region. Of course some areas are doing better than others and we feel obligated to let people know where they will get most value for their investments."

One of the countries remaining popular with buyers is Belize. As it is the only English speaking country in Central America, there is an increased ease of conducting both personal and business affairs for expats and investors. Real estate is readily available as Belize is the least populated country in Central America and has one of the lowest population densities in the world. Belize is popular with those who enjoy pristine environments with rainforests and exotic wildlife. In addition the coastline of Belize is lined with tropical beaches which offer snorkeling and diving into the 2nd biggest coral reef in the world.

Retiring to Belize is made more appealing through government incentives for qualified retirees. These include tax-free income status and duty free concessions to import all household items, a car and even boat or a light aircraft. They have also recently reduced the stamp duty tax on real estate title transfers. The new rate is 0% up to US$10,000 in purchase price and 5% for any amount above US$10,000.

Whilst many of these Caribbean countries are popular with retirees, Wini Dean adds a word of caution to prospective buyers of working age. "It is important to realize that there are few job opportunities within these countries and anyone who wants to live there should be prepared to create their own avenues for employment. Setting up new business which brings new jobs for locals is also a way of giving back to a country that has embraced you."

When in Belize don't forget to check with Platinum International Real Estate and Investments about some of these investments. They will be sure to have a few you might like.