A Beach In Belize

By the looks of it its a self-printed card, but a nice one isn't it :) I don't know which beach it is but I'd sure like to pop over there for a bit of a proper relaxation. Lovely stamp! Thank you Karolyn :)

UNESCO - Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System

The Belize Barrier Reef is a series of coral reefs straddling the coast of Belize - its a 300-kilometers-long section of the 900 kilometers of Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, which is continuous from Cancún in Mexico through the Riviera Maya to Honduras. Reef is home to a large diversity of plants and animals, and is one of the most diverse ecosystems of the world, with 70 hard coral species, 36 soft coral species and 500 species of fish; and only about 10% of the area has been thoroughly researched..!

The reef is under threat from oceanic pollution as well as uncontrolled tourism, shipping, and fishing; also the hurricanes along with global warming and the resulting increase in ocean temperatures, which cause coral bleaching. This is why the back of the card also invites you to help to protect this unique environment...

Many many thanks to Jason for this awesome card and Harpy Eagle stamp! :))

The Symbols Of Belize

Belize is a country on the eastern coast of Central America; it is the only country in the area where English is the official language (although Kriol and Spanish are more commonly spoken). It gained independance from the United Kingdom in 1981.

The symbols are as follows: national bird is Keel Billed Toucan, national flower is Black Orchid, the national animal Baird's Tapir (endangered and protected by law) and the national tree the Mahogany Tree - the latter was heavily exploited by British settlers in past centuries. It is now featured on the national emblem/coat of arms.

Many thanks to Carrie! Brilliant colours :))