SAN IGNACIO, Belize (AP) — The same turquoise waters that lure tourists to Caribbean destinations slosh around Belize's island chain. But tiny Belize has a major advantage in reeling in the holidaymakers — spectacular Maya ruins tucked away in lush jungle. The nation is home to more prehistoric buildings than modern-day ones, according to its Institute of Archaeology.

That ancient appeal draws in backpackers eager for adventure as well as divers ready to gawk at its bustling reefs or plunge into its famed Blue Hole. Belize has all the ingredients for a surf and turf vacation — at least for those who don't mind the odd giant cockroach or neon green frog that may invade their jungle dwellings.

HOPKINS VILLAGE, Belize - Permit, bonefish and tarpon beckoned from mangrove-flocked cays dotting glistening saltwater flats, but our bountiful reward had nothing to do with recompense gained via measured swings of a fly rod.

In reality, the true treasures of this small country nestled below the Yucat?n Peninsula in Central America are its people, culture and distinct places, including some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world featuring an abundance of amazing species.

Philip Goldson International Airport

Sunday, June 22, 2014. PATRICK E. JONES Reporting: A new board of directors for the Belize Airports Authority has been named.

According to media reports late last week, the new chairman is attorney at law Mikjail Arguelles, with San Pedro businessman Severo Guerrero taking up the post of vice chairman.

Leila Peyrifitte is the secretary of the board while other members are Elodio Aragon, Junior, Nyani August, Tracy Panton Gary Grief and John Waight.

The new BAA board comes six months after the Prime Minister asked the previous board to step down following a scandal involving checks for thousands of dollars issued to junior minister Edmond Castro.

“The Belize Water Services Limited should live for the people, not the people for BWSL” ~ R Sydney H

Belize is blessed with an abundance of ground and surface water….and over six months of rainy season. Our environment is still clean, so that our rain water is very close to pure.