Left of nowhere : the paradoxical role between sustainability and tourism and how Belize can successfully promote them both : an honors thesis (HONRS 499)

Abstract

Belize has always been left of nowhere. Recently, though, this Central American country finds itself in the center of attention. Tourism, arguably the world's largest industry, is pushing Belize to the brink of popularity.In today's fast paced global society, developing countries are desperately trying to catch up with the West and all too often willingly exploit their greatest natural resources in an effort to become "civilized." They feel mass tourism is the only way to leapfrog into a postmodern existence. Tourism's negative side effects, however, can easily cast a shadow of gloom on a developing country's attempts to progress.Belize, too, is turning to tourism as a viable option to better their future. Unlike other developing countries, however, Belize is making cautious efforts to advance without sacrificing its cultural diversity and environmental sanctity. Belize hopes to utilize sustainable tourism to venture from the doldrums of obscurity.Still, sustainable development is a tricky business. Fortunately, Belize is well suited for the challenge. The first part of this paper relates Belize's unique past, the second outlines the intricacies of tourism development and the third illustrates how Belize can continue to promote itself through sustainable tourism."The use of traveling is to regulate imagination by reality, and instead of thinking how things may be, to see them as they are. "-Samuel Johnson.