By Belize Live News Staff: Former Punta Gorda Mayor Ashton McKenzie says the loss of air service to PG should push Belize to rethink how it promotes the Toledo District.
McKenzie says most tourists arriving at the international airport head straight to San Pedro, with little knowledge of what Toledo offers. He said much of the district’s promotion is left to tourism businesses themselves, and that is not enough.
He pointed to what the south has to offer. The Snake Cayes are 45 to 70 minutes away by boat, with the Sapodilla Cayes about 30 minutes further, offering sandy beaches and turquoise waters. San Antonio Waterfalls and Big Falls River are about 30 minutes from PG, while Nim Li Punit and Lubaantun are about 45 minutes away.
McKenzie also asked why Punta Gorda has not been explored as a cruise ship destination. He noted that Toledo residents already rise before dawn to pick up Harvest Caye visitors for tours in the district.
A monthly cruise ship call to PG, he argued, would create massive spinoff for tour operators, restaurants, transport providers and ancient Maya site tours.
His message is clear: Toledo depends on air access, and it is time to go back to the drawing board.
