Hopkins' Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort has just been named as one of the top 10 hotels in the world for guest service in TripAdvisor's 2011 Travelers' Choice Awards. Coming in at #2 in the Central and South America list and #10 in the world, Hamanasi received rave reviews from past guests about its top notch staff and stellar customer service. As a part of the resort's sound reputation in providing service, Hamanasi's staff regularly participates in guest service workshops, tour guide field training for inland excursions, and wine and service training for on–property staff. Hamanasi provides guests with a range of inland and offshore excursions, and various overnight accommodations including treehouse lodging in a lush forest and beachfront lodging along the Caribbean Sea. For more information on Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort or to book your reservation, visit www.hamanasi.com.

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Kanantik Reef & Jungle Resort is proud to announce its remote Stann Creek hideaway has been named to Conde Nast Traveler's exclusive 2011 Gold List. Chosen by the publication's readers through its annual Readers' Choice Survey, the list touts what travelers believe to be the world's finest hotels. As the only Belizean resort to receive this prestigious recognition, Kanantik received an overall score of 90.4 based on rooms, service, food, location, design and activities. In addition to boasting premier accommodations, Kanantik offers various activities including scuba diving with its onsite dive operation; wildlife tours, including bird watching and visits to the neighboring Jaguar preserve; trips to ancient Mayan ruins; kayaking; river canoeing; snorkeling; and more. For more information, visit www.kanantik.com.

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The Phoenix Resort has been recognized for their unparalleled guest service and spa offerings by happy guests with top rankings in TripAdvisor’s 2011 Travelers' Choice Awards. San Pedro's luxurious resort was recognized on the Central and South America top 10 lists for "Relaxation and Spa" and "Best Service," ranking #2 and #7 respectively. With rave reviews from travelers such as, "Your expectations will change forever," or simply, "Awesome," The Phoenix Resort has wooed travelers from around the world with unique, quality amenities. Among The Phoenix’s perks, guests can enjoy complimentary use of iPads, Kindles and Wiis; private snorkel and sailing charters; VIP discounts at partner establishments and a weekly complimentary cocktail mixer. To learn more about new offerings and renovations at the Phoenix Resort, or to book your stay, visit www.thephoenixbelize.com.

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SeaKunga Adventure Tours has announced construction of four new dorm rooms to accommodate growing numbers of travelers participating in its vast array of thrilling adventure tours. Located in southern Belize on the Placencia peninsula, SeaKunga is nestled within nature's beauty, featuring the Caribbean Sea on the east and the Maya Mountains on the west, showcasing the best of Belize from one unique vantage point. With more than 15 years of experience, SeaKunga's certified guides bring a wealth of knowledge to adventure and sea kayaking tours that explore Belize's natural wonders. To learn more about participating in one of SeaKunga's thrilling adventures, visit www.seakunga.com.

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As the epicenter of Maya culture during the Classic Period, Belize has retained its vibrant Maya community and strong influence throughout time, along with an array of ancient Maya temples, artifacts and more. The magic of Belize's Maya culture will come alive in 2012 in celebration of when the world starts anew with the close of the Maya calendar. Here's a snapshot of what's to come in March 2012 and some of the fascinating events taking place across the country.

• La Ruta Maya River Challenge, March 4–7 — Teams of all skill levels can join this multi–day canoe race traveling a perilous river route across Belize to win various prizes.
• Women's Summit — Hosted by the Women's Department, the summit will focus on contributions to Belize by Mayan women.
• Tumul K'in Maya Day, Date TBD — Held by the Maya organization Tumul K'in Center of Learning, Maya Day is the culmination of a weeklong celebration of the culture's rich history and presence in Belize.

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All media memos, press releases, and high res images of Belize can be accessed from the Belize Tourism Board's media center Web site, www.belizemediacenter.org. For press trip inquiries, b–roll requests and more specific needs, please contact David Heinzinger. ###