News Release

October 23, 2001

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Experience the Natural Beauty of Belize

Travel to exotic Belize in a tour offered by Oakton's travel/study program. Three trips are scheduled in 2002: Jan.12-20, Feb. 16-24 and March 2-10.

Located on the northeast coast of Central America, Belize is a country of exotic, natural beauty and ancient history. Its flat, coastal lands rise to 3000 feet inland, with jungle and rainforest covering its north central and southern regions. Once the heart of Mayan civilization, it is home to more than 600 archeological sites. An independent democracy since 1981, Belize is a member of the British Commonwealth and its official language is English.

Highlights of your Belize adventure include a visit to Altun Ha, a Mayan site where the famous jade carving of the head of the Mayan sun god, Kinich Ahau, was excavated in 1968. You'll cruise to South Water Caye, a private island on Belize's barrier reef. The reef stretches 165 miles from the Yucatan Peninsula to the Bay of Honduras and is home to a multitude of colorful fish and other forms of marine life.

In the Maya Mountains, you'll visit Caracol, the largest archeological site in Belize and one of the great cities of Mayan civilization. In the tall pine forests of Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, you'll observe unusual species of birds and butterflies. Along the edge of limestone ridges are caves, whitewater rivers, hardwood forests and sharp escarpments with breathtaking views. At the Ix Chel Farm and Tropical Research Center, you'll learn about the curative powers of many Central American plants. Throughout your travels, you'll sample native dishes at specially arranged meals. A visit to a private home will give you a glimpse into the everyday lives and customs of the people

An optional, two-day trip extension will take you across the Guatemalan border to Tikal National Park. This wildlife sanctuary is home to 285 species of birds, including blue and white herons, parrots and hummingbirds. Next, you'll tour of the Mayan ruins at Tikal, once a powerful and thriving city until its decline in the 10th century.

For a complete itinerary and more information about the trip to Belize, contact Bea Cornelissen at (847) 635-1812.