Ambergris Caye - Costa Maya Festival

ABOVE: Seven beauties gather at Ambergris Caye. At center is Miss Belize Universe and 2003-2004 Costa Maya Queen Leihla Pandy.

August is not boring on Ambergris Caye. The San Pedro Town Board puts on an international cultural and music show when other parts of Belize are in the summer doldrums. The Costa Maya Festival is a week-long celebration that brings musical groups, artists and beauty queens from the neighboring countries of Guatemala, Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador and Costa Rica.

The festival includes lobster cookouts, beach volleyball, mechanical rides, football marathons, a big all night fair, the International Costa Maya Beauty Pageant, and capped off by a dance with world-class music groups.

Picture: Traditional Central American cotton candy made while you watch.

Held at the old football field every night, visitors can enjoy world-class events in one place. There are folklore, ballet and modern dance groups, accompanied by star musical bands and singers.

The last night usually features an international film star or recording artist along with an all-night dance. For beer lovers tired of the same old Belizean beer produced by the local monopoly brewery.

It's a great respite as excellent Mexican beer is available along with the cuisine of the neighboring countries.

ABOVE: Modern dance group from El Salvador.