Archaeology and Ecotourism Part 3

Through the coordination and forging of alliances with numerous organizations the negative side of cultural and heritage tourism as well as ecotourism can be balanced out by the positive effects of these partnerships and programs. The Lamanai Archaeological Project along with its affiliates: the local residents, archaeologists, tour operators, government officials, and non-profit organizations hope to continue to foster the positive impacts of heritage tourism in the area surrounding Lamanai, in northern Belize. We will continue to seek expertise and assistance from individuals within these organizations to further our efforts.

Laura J. Howard holds a Masters of Science degree in Anthropology with a specialization in Maya archaeology. After researching in Belize for five years after her graduate work she now splits her time between south Florida and Belize. She has been active in Belize tourism and Maya archaeology since 1996, and now has a unique ecotourism company, Beyond Touring, that focuses solely on Belize, the ancient Maya, and natural history. Beyond Touring also offers an authentic cross-cultural experience that allows clients to 'give back' to the wonderful areas they visit in Belize. The projects Beyond Touring supports aim to provide sustainable economic endeavors for local residents of Belize, specifically Indian Church Village, located in northern Belize and adjacent to the Lamanai Archaeological Reserve.

Belize or Travel Information: http://www.beyondtouring.com

Community Development: http://www.beyondtouring.com/Giveback/Scholarship.htm