600 pound man in Belize! Thyroid problem has him dying for help

News 5 - Belize
Apr 28, 2011
600 pound man! Thyroid problem has him dying for help

Weighing close to six hundred pounds, Alberto Neal may very well be the heaviest man in Belize but it isn’t a title that the Santa Elena resident is celebrating; in fact, it is life-threatening. Up to a few years ago, the truck driver was living a normal life unaware of an underactive thyroid condition. The thyroid slows down causing fewer hormones to circulate; the result being a slowing of body functions and weight gain as well as the inability to lose the weight despite diet and exercise. So tonight, Neal, who is unable to walk, says he needs the public’s assistance to get medical attention that may save his life. News Five’s Andrea Polanco went west and weighed in on Neal’s story.

Alberto Neal, Needs Immediate Surgery
“I’m asking the public to please help me to get out of this pain that I have because it’s real hard for me. It’s real hard that’s why I’m begging.”

Andrea Polanco, Reporting

That is the plea of forty one year old Alberto Neal, living with a thyroid condition that is the cause of his obesity. A few years ago he peaked at almost eight hundred pounds but today he is down to almost six hundred pounds but his condition is worsening. Neal, who is unable to walk and has no means of getting around, said that a day for him is a simple routine, one confined to his bed.

Alberto Neal
“Well the only thing I could- sit on my bed, turn and right yah cyaa guh nowhere.”

And while his bed has become a resting place for his many aches and pains, the long stay in bed has has also caused him great pains, like these bed sores and ulcers.

Alberto Neal
“Right now I’m gaining more weight because I can’t exercise. I only exercise on my bed and that’s not enough to lose weight.


Yolanda De La Fuente

  Andrea Polanco
“Describe to me what it’s like when you’re going through all the pain.”

Alberto Neal
“It’s not nice. The amount of pain that I have to cry and deh got me di have to be sitting down stretching my legs putting it anyway to bear the pain. My tail piece-my back, my bones and my arm- cause its broken right now.”


Yolanda De La Fuente, Wife
“Hmm it’s hard for him to be like this. It’s been three years being like that and I’ve been up and down to the hospital with many sleepless nights. Hard to see him suffering like that.”

But Neal’s complications of his massive weight includes high blood pressure. He also struggles to breathe with an oxygen tank. And though the tank helps him to cling on to life, it is almost empty.

Alberto Neal
“It’s hard because I have to use my oxygen then I start get tired then I can’t breathe cause only I wouldn’t talk a lot , it’s like squeezing my lungs or something yuh nuh.”

Andrea Polanco
“Suh how often do you use the oxygen tank?”

Alberto Neal
“Well right now like when I go sleep like for lie down and sleep I have to use it. Yea. Right now my oxygen is low so I can’t sleep I can’t lie down I have to be sitting down.”

Chyna Smith

Chyna Smith, Assisting Mr. Neal
“What happen is that we need to send full the oxygen tank and right now he has very little left and like I said if you don’t have money you don’t have anything. He has very little oxygen left for him to breathe at night and like how its hot he suffers at night.”

The biggest need is for a hip surgery. Neal broke his hip in accident shortly before his weight gain.


Alberto Neal
“They tell me that if I go around and get the em the surgery on my hip that they will em drill my hip and I could be able to walk again. But I wil stay like cripple still but I’ll be able to walk. I need help because I can’t do it myself. I can’t walk I can’t work and if I go around asking for help deh nuh wah give me job cause I can’t work. Hmm mien it’s hard, it’s real hard because when I don’t have I have to beg. Yuh s idem some ah dem bring me something. This guy bring provide lee food for the house and that’s what we do. My daughter won’t go to school because I don’t have no money to pay the school.”

It’s also an emotional torture for this family, because as Chyna Smith who volunteered her services to the family will tell you, it’s a daily struggle.

 Chyna Smith
“Well taking care of Mr. Neal, umm, we go through a lot of lifting and we try our very best. Sometimes it’s only me and his wife and sometimes the little girl chip in because she have to stay home to help her father. We have to turn him like I said every two hours and do his dressing two times daily. He has distressed breathing, he complains about a lot of cramps. We’re asking for help if you have money or anything else to contribute to Mr. Neal pertaining to his surgery he really needs financial assistance because what’s happening right now dah the financial assistance he need to keep up his diet and right no he doesn’t have anything. He doesn’t know what will be his afternoon meal because he has nothing, nothing at all.”

And today, one of the first donations to the family was made to the family on behalf of the King Jesus Ministries who also called on other churches do their part.
 

Pastor Richard Woolley


Richard Woolley
“There are churches throughout all of Belize a lot of churches that have connections not only to God but to people in the United States. And the Bible says in Matthew 25, it teaches us that we’re supposed to be doing things like this. We donated a walker, medical supplies, some shirts, antibiotics and a hundred of beans. I make a call to the churches especially in Belmopan. They are always on TV so let’s do something of you can’t help with finances you can help with things.”

Reporting for News Five, I am Andrea Polanco.



If you’d like to assist Alberto Neal you can make a deposit to Belize Bank account number 10802. You can also call 627-9110 or 668-6772.

Royal Wedding Guest List

BBC News
23 April 2011

ROYAL WEDDING GUEST LIST
Clarence House has released a list of guests who are confirmed as attending the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey on 29 April 2011. The list is not complete:

Members of the Royal Family

The Queen

The Duke of Edinburgh

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall

Prince Harry

The Duke of York

Princess Beatrice of York

Princess Eugenie of York

The Earl and Countess of Wessex

The Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Timothy Laurence

Peter Phillips and his wife, Autumn

Zara Phillips and her fiance Mike Tindall

Viscount Linley and Viscountess Linley

Charles Armstrong-Jones

Lady Sarah Chatto and Daniel Chatto

Samuel Chatto

Arthur Chatto

The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester

The Earl and Countess of Ulster

Lady Davina and Gary Lewis

Lady Rose and George Gilman

The Duke and Duchess of Kent

Earl and Countess of St Andrews

Lord Downpatrick

Lady Marina-Charlotte Windsor

Lady Amelia Windsor

Lord and Lady Nicholas Windsor

Lady Helen Taylor and Timothy Taylor

Prince and Princess Michael of Kent

Lord and Lady Frederick Windsor

Lady Gabriella Windsor

Princess Alexandra, Lady Ogilvy

Mr and Mrs James Ogilvy

Marina Ogilvy

Lady Saltoun

Members of Foreign Royal Families

The Prince and Princess of the Asturias

The Queen of Denmark will be among about 2,000 guests Prince Philippe and Princess Mathilde of Belgium

The Sultan of Brunei and Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha

King Simeon II and Queen Margarita of Bulgraria

The Queen of Denmark

King Constantine and Queen Anne-Marie of the Hellenes

Crown Prince Pavlos and Crown Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece and Prince Constantine of Greece

Sheikh Ahmad Hmoud Al-Sabah of Kuwait

Prince Seeiso Bereng Seeiso and Princess Mabereng Seeiso of Lesotho

The Grand Duke and Duchess of Luxembourg

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong and Raja Permaisuri Agong of Malaysia

Prince Albert II of Monaco and Miss Charlene Wittstock

Princess Lalla Salma of Morocco

The Crown Prince and Princess of The Netherlands

The King and Queen of Norway

Sayyid Haitham bin Tariq Al Said of Oman

The Emir of The State of Qatar and Sheika Mozah bint Nasser Al Missned

King Michael I of Romania and Crown Princess Margarita

Prince Mohamed bin Nawaf bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia and Princess Fadwa bint Khalid bin Abdullah bin Abdulrahman

The Queen of Spain

The King of Swaziland

The Crown Princess of Sweden and The Duke of Vastergotland

Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand

The King of Tonga

The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi

Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine of Yugoslavia

The Princess Elizabeth of Yugoslavia

Dignitaries

The Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda

The Governor-General of Australia and His Excellency Mr Michael Bryce

The Governor-General of The Bahamas and Lady Foulkes

The Governor-General of Barbados

The Governor-General of Belize and Lady Young

The Governor-General of Canada and Mrs David Jonhnston

The Governor-General of Jamaica

The Governor-General of New Zealand and Lady Satyanand

The Governor-General of Papua New Guinea and Mrs Michael Ogio

The Governor-General of the Solomon Islands and Lady Kabui

The Governor-General of St Christopher and Nevis

The Governor-General of St Lucia

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard will attend with her partner The Governor-General of St Vincent and the Grenadines and Lady Ballantyne

The Prime Minister of Australia Julia Gillard and Tim Matheison

The Prime Minister of The Bahamas Hubert Ingraham and Delores Miller

The Prime Minister of Barbados Freundel Stuart

The Prime Minster of New Zealand John Key and Bronagh Key

The Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea and Lade Somare

The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia Stephenson King and Rosalia Nestor King

The Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and The Grenadines Ralph Gonsalves and his wife

The Premier of Bermuda Paula Cox and Germain Nkeuleu

The Premier of The British Virgin Islands Ralph O'Neal and his wife

The Premier of the Cayman Islands McKeeva Bush and Kerry Bush

Sharon and Rodney Halford (Falkland Islands)

The Chief Minister of Gibraltar Peter Caruana and his wife

The Chief Minister of Montserrat Reuben Meade and the Reverend Doctor Joan Delsol Meade

John and Vilma Cranfield (St. Helena)

Members of government, Parliament and devolved administrations

Samantha Cameron will accompany her husband, David Prime Minister David Cameron and Samantha Cameron

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and Miriam Gonzalez Duantez

Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs William Hague and Ffion Hague

Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne and Frances Osborne

Secretary of State for Justice and Lord Chancellor Kenneth Clarke and Gill Clarke

Secretary of State for the Home Department and Minister for Women and Equalities Theresa May and Philip May

Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport Jeremy Hunt and his wife, Lucia

Labour leader Ed Miliband and Justine Thornton

Speaker of the House of Commons John Bercow and Sally Bercow

The Presiding Officer of the National Assembly for Wales and the Lady Elis-Thomas

The Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament Alex Fergusson and his wife

The Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly William Hay and his wife

The Lord Speaker Lady Hayman and Martin Hayman

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones and his wife, Lisa

First Minister of Northern Ireland Peter Robinson and Iris Robinson

First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond and Moira Salmond

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson and Marina Wheeler

The Lord Mayor and The Lady Mayoress

Sir Gus and Lady O'Donnell

The Lord Mayor of Westminster and Count Paolo Filo della Torre

Mr and Mrs Simon Fraser

Representatives from the Church and other Faiths

Rowan Williams, who will officiate at the wedding, is among numerous leaders of faith The Most Reverend Gregorios, Archbishop of the Greek Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain

The Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams and his wife

Rabbi Anthony Bayfield

Anil Bhanot

The Archbishop of Armagh, Cardinal Archbishop Sean Brady

Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church, The Most Reverend David Chillingworth

The Right Reverend John Christie, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland

Malcolm Deboo President, Zoroastrian Trust Funds of Europe

The Rt Reverend Doctor Norman Hamilton

The Archbishop of Armagh, The Most Reverend Alan Edwin Harper

Monsignor Philip Kerr, The Convener, Action of Churches Together in Scotland

Commissioner Elizabeth Matear, Salvation Army

The Archbishop of Wales, The Most Reverend Doctor Barry Morgan

The Reverend Gareth Morgan Jones, President of the Free Church Council of Wales

Cardinal Cormac Murphy-Connor

The Archbishop of Westminster, The Most Reverend Vincent Nichols

Cardinal Keith Patrick O'Brien, Archbishop of St. Andrews and Edinburgh

Rabbi Alan Plancey

Imam Mohammad Raza

The Chief Rabbi (Lord Sacks)

The Venerable Bogoda Seelawimala, Acting Head Monk, The London Buddhist Vihara

Maulana Syed Raza Shabbarm, Muhammadi Trust

Mr Natubhai Shah, President, the Jain Academy

Dr Indarjit Singh, Director, Network Sikh Organisations (UK)

Canon Christopher Tuckwell

The Reverend Martin Turner

The Archbishop of York John Sentamu and his wife

Senior Members of the Defence Services

Major General and Mrs William Cubitt, Major General Commanding Household Division and GOC London District

Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen and Lady Dalton, Chief of the Air Staff

General Sir Nicholas and Lady Houghton

Air Vice-Marshal David and Mrs Murray, Defence Services Secretary

General Sir David and Lady Richards, Chief of the Defence Staff

Admiral Sir Mark and Lady Stanhope, First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff

General Sir Peter and Lady Wall, Chief of the General Staff

Other guests

These are celebrities or people who have an official link to the couple. All have been invited with their spouses or partners if married or in a civil partnership.

David Allan, chairman of Mountain Rescue, England and Wales. Prince William has been patron of the organisation since 2007.

Major Tom Archer-Burton, Prince William and Prince Harry's Commanding Officer in the Household Cavalry. He also led the Burnaby Blue expedition to southern Africa - an African community project supported by Sentebale, in which Prince Harry was involved.

Charlie Mayhew, chief executive of the Conservation Charity, Tusk Trust.

Alison Moore-Gwyn, chief executive of Fields in Trust.

Seyi Obakin, chief executive of Centrepoint.

Peter Cross, chief executive of the charity SkillForce, of which Prince William has been Patron since 2009.

Amanda Berry, chief executive of Bafta. Prince William has been president of Bafta since 2010.

Ann Chalmers, chief executive of the Child Bereavement Charity. Prince William has been Patron of the Charity since 2009.

Julia Samuel, chair of the Child Bereavement Charity and also a family friend of Prince William. Prince William has been Patron of the Charity since 2009.

Tessa Green, chairman of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. Prince William became President of The Royal Marsden in May 2007 having undertaken two days of work experience there in 2005.

Simon Johnson, worked closely with Prince William as Chief Operating Officer of the FA's 2018 World Cup bid.

Sir Clive Woodward, former coach of the England Rugby Team and the British and Irish Lions, will attend

Sir Trevor Brooking, Football Association's Director of Football Development.

Sir Clive Woodward, former coach of the England Rugby Team and the British and Irish Lions.

Gareth Thomas, met the prince several times in his role as Vice Patron of the Welsh Rugby Union.

Ian Thorpe, Australian Olympic swimmer who met the prince on a visit to Australia in 2010.

Barty Pleydell-Bouverie, led the Cycle of Life charity bike ride across Africa in 2008, which raised money for the Tusk Trust.

Rear Admiral Ian Corder, Rear Admiral of Submarines. Prince William was appointed Commodore-in-Chief of Submarines by The Queen in 2006.

Brigadier Ed Smyth-Osbourne, Prince William and Prince Harry's Commanding Officer in the Household Regiment and acted as their military mentor.

Major William Bartle-Jones, Prince William's Squadron Leader in the Household Cavalry Regiment based at Windsor.

Wing Commander Steven Bentley, Prince William's Search and Rescue Force Squadron Leader at RAF Valley, Anglesey.

Sergeant Keith Best, colleague of Prince William's at RAF Valley, in Anglesey, North Wales.

Squadron Leader Paul Bolton, colleague of Prince William's at RAF Valley in Anglesey, North Wales.

Wing Commander Kevin Marsh, met Prince William through his service in the RAF.

Lance-Corporal Martyn Compton, from the Household Cavalry. He was injured in an ambush in Afghanistan in 2006.

Holly Dyer, sister to 2nd Lieutenant Joanna Dyer, who was killed by a bomb in Iraq in 2007. Joanna was a close friend of Prince William's at Sandhurst.

Susie Roberts, the widow of Major Alexis Roberts, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2007. Major Alexis Roberts was Prince William's Platoon Commander at Sandhurst.

Bryn and Emma Parry, founders of the charity Help for Heroes to assist wounded service men and women.

Edward Gould, Master of Marlborough College when Miss Middleton was a student.

Andrew Gailey, Vice-Provost of Eton College, who was Prince William's Housemaster.

Edward Dawson-Damer, ex-Irish Guards officer, who was Equerry to Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in the 1980s.

Sam Stevenson, Prince William's New Zealand equerry during his visit to the country in July 2005.

Sir John Major, appointed a guardian to Prince William and Prince Harry with responsibility for legal and administrative matters when Diana died in 1997.

David Beckham, with his wife, are among the invited celebrities Rowan Atkinson, close friend of The Prince of Wales.

Tom Bradby, journalist known both Prince William and Miss Middleton for some time.

Ben Fogle, television presenter and adventurer and has met Prince William on a number of occasions.

Sir Elton John, performer who sang at Diana's funeral.

David and Victoria Beckham, have met the prince as President of the Football Association, on a number of occasions.

Guy Ritchie, friend of Prince William and Miss Middleton.

Joss Stone, singer.

Mario Testino, photographer who took Prince William and Miss Middleton's official portrait photographs to mark their engagement.

Tara Palmer-Tomkinson, friend of The Prince of Wales and his family.

Sam Waley-Cohen, amateur jockey and a friend of Prince William and Miss Middleton.

Galen Weston, friend of the Prince of Wales and his family.

Belize is Among The Top Ten Places to Live in the World

Top Ten Places to Live in the World

Simply Beautiful - Belize

Belize, considered one of the most beautiful countries in Central America, has it all. Belize touts great beaches, subtropical climate, diverse wildlife, and a low cost of living. The scuba diving and snorkeling is fabulous. The gorgeous waterfalls underneath the Maya Mountains are rivaled only by the hundreds of colorful species of birds flying the skies. Rent of a large house in Cayo district is only $300/month. Food at the local markets is very reasonably priced. The official language is English. The Retired Person’s Incentive Program starts at the ripe young age of 45 and allows tax free living.


Consider a snowbird lifestyle when it comes to living in Belize. The wet season is May to October. It rains all the time and there is a chance for hurricanes. But I’d stay November through April in this beautiful land, which is just where I’d like to be rather than the cold snowy land I call home that time of year.

The other locations include: Amsterdam-The Netherlands, New York City,- USA, Malta, Virginia-USA, Brazil, Cape Town South Africa, Frankfurt-Germany, Paris-France, Miami, Florida-USA

This is an excerpt from an article we found and the entire article can be read here: Travelers Tips 'n' Tricks

By: Terra L. Fletcher, owner Fletcher Freelance

11.647 Acre Land in Scenic Mount Pleasant Area of the Cayo District of Belize

11.647 Acre Land in Scenic Mount Pleasant Area of the Cayo District of Belize

PRICE REDUCED more than $35,000 USD for Quick Sale!

11.647 Acres of pristine land in the scenic Mount Pleasant Area excellent for private home, small farm, ranch, recreational, agricultural use or investment opportunity. The property is located just steps away from the banks of The Belize River and just minutes outside the Capital City of Belmopan on the road to Banana Bank.

The road in front of the property is the main road to the crossing for Banana Bank which is just across the river from the property. Banana Bank is a working ranch with a lodge that offers a jungle equestrian adventure.

This land is an excellent location for your private retreat or commercial endeavor. Be sure to give us a call to schedule an appointment to view or for more detail about this spectacular location.

For more Photos or Information: CLICK HERE

Studio Apartment in Highly Desirable Location in Belize City

Studio Apartment in Highly Desirable Location in Belize City

This third story Studio Apartment is ideal for the single person requiring comfort and security. The space is open and boasts the most beautiful hardwood flooring and high ceiling, allowing for lots of light. There is a kitchenette already furnished with mini stove, refridge, coffee maker and microwave. There are wall shelves and storage compartments for placement of personal items, and the tenant would be able to always have peace of mind knowing that not only is the building secure, but the Heritage bank located right beside it has 24 hour security.

For more Photos or Information: CLICK HERE

Excellent Commercial Location Available for Lease in Highly Desirable Commercial Area of Belize City

Excellent Commercial Location Available for Lease in Highly Desirable Commercial Area of Belize City

This is the perfect Commercial Rental boasting three major advantages: 1. SUPERB LOCATION (The highly desirable Princess Margaret Drive) 2. SECURITY (not only is the entire building highly secure, but the Heritage Bank located right beside it has 24 hour security) 3. ATTRACTIVE, PROFESSIONAL Interior (always a plus for an office).

For more Photos or Information: CLICK HERE

Stunningly Spacious 8 Bedroom Two-Storey Home in the Bella Vista Community of Belize City

Stunningly Spacious 8 Bedroom Two-Storey Home in the Bella Vista Community of Belize City

This one-of-a-kind two-storey home is located at the forefront of the upscale Belize City neighborhood called "Bella Vista". There's four bedrooms and two bathrooms conveniently located on each floor of the home. It boasts a beautiful wooden staircase in the entry way and wooden cabinets in the kitchen. The home is fully-fenced and burglar barred and comes complete with a water pump, water hear and fresh water tank. Don't let this opportunity pass you by to own a remarkable home in this exceptional neighborhood.

For more Photos or Information: CLICK HERE

LMU students spend Spring Break in Belize

LMU students spend Spring Break in Belize
The Middlesboro Daily News

The Lincoln Memorial University ART/BIO 395 class is pictured with the Standard 1 class at San Miguel, Toledo District school in Belize. Pictured above in the back row from left are LMU students Kelly Scharffbillig, Sonia Sayani, Biology Instructor Jessica Evans, Assistant Professor of Art Elissa Graff, LMU students Rhoni Daikoff, Abby Amix, Whitney Gibson, Natalie Campbell, chaperone Micah Davis, LMU student Brandon Cross and Apolinaro Ical, first year teacher of Standard 1 class, San Miguel Toledo District.

HARROGATE, Tenn. — While Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) was on spring break last month, seven students accompanied by two faculty members and a graduate chaperone spent a week in the Central American nation of Belize. The students, enrolled in LMU's interdisciplinary ART/BIO 395 class, participated in the field experience service learning component of teaching lessons prepared by students Whitney Gibson and Kelly Scharffbillig. The entire group taught the lessons to elementary and middle school students in San Miguel, Toledo District of Belize.

Reese Witherspoon, Jim Toth Enjoy "Happy" Family Honeymoon in Belize

Reese Witherspoon, Jim Toth Enjoy "Happy" Family Honeymoon in Belize
Credit: Kevin Mazur/Wireimage.com
Saturday – April 09, 2011 – 2:05pm



Less than two weeks after tying the knot, newlyweds Reese Witherspoon and Jim Toth touched down in Belize for a romantic six-day honeymoon stay.

"They didn't ask for any VIP treatment, walked off the plane like regular tourists, waited in the immigration line and waited to get their bags from the baggage carousel," an eyewitness tells UsMagazine.com of the pair, who brought Witherspoon's two kids, Ava, 11, and Deacon, 7, along for the tropical getaway.

Witherspoon, 35, clad in a white T-shirt, jeans and a brown hat, went nearly unrecognized when the couple touched down in the Central American country April 4.

Adds the witness of the foursome, who browsed gift shops and visited other tourist attractions: "They definitely looked like a happy family. The kids seemed like they had no problem with him around."

Sources close to the newlyweds -- who swapped vows March 26 at Witherspoon's 6-acre Ojai, Calif. ranch -- tell Us they're the perfect match. Says one pal of Toth, 40: "He's a very confident guy who takes care of her."
"Reese really wants to be married and have that security with someone," another insider says. "They feel like they've hit the jackpot in this relationship!"

Places to Visit in Belize City

Belize has many wonderful places to visit in various districts but we thought we could focus on telling you about some of the places to visit in Belize City, the largest City with a population of 65,042 according to the most recent Population and Housing Census. Belize Town which is now Belize City was once the Capital City of British Honduras which was changed to Belize in 1973.

The origin of the name Belize is unclear, some say its from the native Maya word beel-is, meaning "muddy water", applied to the Belize River, others say that it is derived from a Spanish pronunciation of the name of the Scottish buccaneer Peter Wallace, who was located in an early settlement along the Belize River.  Belize once being home to the slaves had a sizable population of Africans from the ancient Kingdom of Kongo, who could have brought the name with them, as there is a Belize in Angola as well.

Belize City was founded as Belize Town in the mid 17th century at the mouth of the Belize River by the British Buccaneers who used thousands of slaves to harvest lumber and float them down the rivers for export. Today we can still see remnants of the British influences here in Belize City. Two of the major streets in Belize City namely Regent Street and Albert Street are of times gone by when the British had influences in Belize as well as names as Bliss Promenade and Marine Parade. Today we can still see customs that are still being observed without the Belizean citizens knowing their true origins. One of those such customs are people wearing their best clothes and going out to the parks on Sundays to enjoy the parks with their kids. This custom was brought to us by the British who on Sundays would wear wear their best suits and the women their best dresses with parasol in hand took off to the parks for a day of relaxation and meetings with other settlers and their children or a leisurely walk along the promenade or parade.
 
Today we can still see many remnants of those influences in the British Colonial Architecture located in buildings all over the city. We will cover a few locations for you to see the beauty of Belize City as well as a few historic locations. These locations are certainly a must see because of their historic and architectural value when visiting Belize City.
 
The first Location we will tell you about is what is currently known as the Belize Supreme Court Building. This was Built in the British Colonial Style with a clock tower facing the four points on the compass. The original courthouse was destroyed by fire in 1818 and in 1926 the courthouse was rebuilt to house the Supreme Court and is currently being used today.

Belize Supreme Court

The second location is Saint John's Cathedral located at the intersection of Albert and Regent Streets and across from House of Culture which was formerly the residence of the Governor General. The Cathedral was built in the Early 1800 using slave labor with bricks that were brought as ballasts in the hull of ships travelling from Europe. This is not only the oldest surviving colonial building in Belize but the oldest Anglican Cathedral in Central America. It is said that the building started in 1812 and it is believed to have taken 8 years to build which puts completion in the year of 1820. You can find great architectural touches on the interior with the mahogany pews, stained glass windows and even an antique organ.

Saint John's Cathedral - Belize City

Immediately across from Saint John's Cathedral you can find what is now known as the Belize House of Culture.

Built in 1814 this home was once called "Government House" housing both the administrative offices and the living quarters for the Governors and was the symbol of the British Colonial rule in the former colony of British Honduras. Before the mansions name was changed in 1996 to the name we know today it was the residence of the Governor General of Belize who is a representative of the Queen in Belize. Extensive renovations have been made to maintain the architectural integrity while converting it for public use. Today you can still tour this marvelous location exhibiting furniture, silverware among other things of the British colonial days past as well as exhibits of Belizean artists. The House of Culture is still used today for public events and open air concerts.

Belize House of Culture

The next location known as Baron Bliss Lighthouse is of historical significance to the country of Belize. What is of great importance is the person who lies in the tomb at the base of the lighthouse overlooking the entry to the Belize River.

Henry Edward Victor Bliss commonly known as Baron Bliss (16 February 1869 – 9 March 1926), was a British born sailor who unfortunately contracted polio and decided to travel the world in a luxury yacht named the "Sea King". After spells in the Bahamas, Trinidad and Jamaica, he arrived in Belize harbor, where he found Belize's climate suitable for him, He became fond of the local people and because of his physical condition never set foot on Belizean soil. He died in Belize only 2 months after he arrived. Loving the people and the nation so much he willed an equivalent of approximately 2 Million US Dollars at that time to a trust fund to benefit the people of then British Honduras. Today many buildings have been named in his honor Bliss Center for the Performing Arts formerly Bliss Institute, Bliss School of Nursing and many others. Belize Celebrates in his honor every March 9th, National Benefactors and Heroes Day formerly known as Baron Bliss Day.

Baron Bliss Lighthouse - Belize City

The Belize Swing Bridge was the first bridge that was built in 1922 connecting the north and south sides of the city. This Belize Swing Bridge is the only manually operated swing bridge that is still functioning today. The bridge was swung every morning and every evening allowing sailboats access to the inner parts of the river. Today the Belize Swing Bridge only swung on special request. This is truly a site to see when its swinging.

Belize Swing Bridge

Holy Redeemer Cathedral was originally built in 1853 just a short distance away from its present location on North Front Street in Belize City. Just 3 years after the construction of the Cathedral was completed in 1856 it was tragically destroyed by the Great Northside Fire. With the determination of the people and the catholic church, just one year later in 1857 the church started rebuilding at its present location to be completed 1 year after in 1857. Its plastered brick walls, massive columns of solid mahogany, and its soaring high altar of classic Greco-Roman design withstood the ravages of catastrophic hurricanes and nearby conflagrations over the years. The passage of time and termites, however, have left their marks. The Holy Redeemer Cathedral has undergone several additions and renovations and today is in dire need of repair that in 2001 they launched a renovation campaign to save its roof, bell towers, stained glass windows, interior woodwork, central portico and side entrances. The Cathedral is still in use today as it was over 150 years ago.

Holy Redeemer Cathedral

Our next location is a narrow strip of  land in front of the Caribbean Sea on the coast of Belize City that was called Barracks, Lindbergh's Field or Lindbergh's Landing.
There was once a time in Belize when travel was by horse and carriage and the flight of a well known pilot known as Charles Lindbergh changed the face of Belize and opened up the doors for air transport in Belize.
Colonel Charles Lindbergh also known as the "Lone Eagle" after his triumphant transatlantic voyage was approached by Pan American Airways to fly a goodwill mission to scout new routes in Central America and the Caribbean. He departed Washington D.C. in his famous plane "The Spirit of Saint Louis" just before Christmas on his way to Mexico City then Guatemala City before landing in Belize.
Charles Lindbergh arrived in Belize on December 30th, 1927. Coming across the southern border of Belize in overcast weather, Charles Lindbergh  strayed over water and while coming through the clouds turned westward to make landfall around Stann Creek however the only available place with weather permitting him to land was to the north in Belize City. Charles Lindbergh and the Spirit of Saint Louis landed safely in Belize to the excitement of the waiting crowds who immediately surrounded the plane after he landed. This location that Charles Lindbergh chose is a well known area known as Barracks on the north side of Belize City which was once a site used by the Golf, Cricket and Polo Clubs for matches. The site for many years was known as Lindbergh's Field or Lindberg'sh Landing. Today this location has seen development and is now home to BTL Park, Princess Hotel and Casino, Bowen Field as well as Marina Tower.

BTL Park - Marina Tower in Background

Belize has a long standing history in Central America and the Caribbean and is certainly has alot of history that can be seen everywhere you turn. If you would just know where to look you can find many great locations that hold stories if the past. We will cover some of these locations later in great detail revealing their history. We will also cover other sites to visit in other Districts in Belize to include, Orange Walk, Corozal, Cayo, Stann Creek and Toledo.

Make sure to come back and visit our blog for more fabulous locations in Belize.

Brought to you courtesy of Platinum International Real Estate who has the privilege of working around such great locations in Belize. If you or someone you know are looking to Buy, Sell or Lease Properties in Belize be sure to contact them immediately.

Golfing in Belize - A Picturesque Escape for Golfers

Golfing in Belize - A Picturesque Escape for Golfers
By: Will Moreno
April 7th, 2011

Golfing in Belize is just catching on. With beautiful weather and a vast array of landscapes you would think there would be more courses. Maybe we should invite Jack Nicklause, Tiger Woods, Jiyai Shin, Sergio Garcia, Christi Kerr, Lee Trevino, Ai Miyazato, Geoff Ogilvy, Lorena Ocoa, Rory Sabbatini, Suzann Petterson, Matt Kucher, and Sean O'Hair among other top golfers to come to Belize to develop more top rated golf courses around the country.
At the moment you have 2 golf courses to choose from the first being Roaring River Golf Course situated on the mainland at mile 50 just past the capital City of Belmopan and Guanacaste National Park. Roaring River Golf Course is a 9 hole executive-style golf course. A par 64 course that measures a total distance of 3,892 yards. The course has double tees that measure 1,933 yards on the frontline and 1,959 yards on the backline. The fairways are lined with indigenous trees and natural jungle growth offers small jungle trails with iguanas and various species of tropical birds when not golfing. If you are a serious golfer or just looking for a round of golf with your friends complete with clubhouse and refreshments then this is the course you want to visit.

Roaring River Golf Course

If you are looking to golf on an island surrounded by the spectacular waters of the Caribbean with views of the Barrier Reef then you might want to visit Caye Chapel Golf Resort. Located just 12 miles off the coast of Belize City and a couple hours away from the US, this resort has been seeing its share of famous golfers to include Tiger Woods. This golf resort is the only one of its kind in Belize and can boast the only Par 72, 18 Hole Championship Golf Course with four Par 5 Holes measuring a total of more than 7,000 yards. Caye Chapel Golf Resort offers a deep water marina that can accommodate 140 foot yachts and a private airstrip for even the most discerning of guests. A 25,000 square foot Clubhouse with 5,000 square feet of verandas perched from heights of over 60 feet, located between the back and front nine of the spectacular golf course, with restaurant, bar, fitness center and conference facility is surely an added bonus to this already luxurious golf resort. Golf at Caye Chapel Golf Resort is golf at its finest without tee-times, round timing or round limits. There are certain dates that the island is closed to the public due to large weddings, corporate events and celebrity visits.

 



Caye Chapel Golf Course

Are you now convinced that BELIZE is the place to be during those cold winter months? Are you looking for a Second Home or a Retirement Home in Belize?

Make sure to contact Platinum International Real Estate and Invesments for all your Belize Real Estate Needs.

This article is an except from an article previously written:
Belize a Wonderful Second Home Destination for Cold Winter Months, Written by Will Moreno, December 21st, 2010.