Center for Engaged Learning Abroad (CELA-Belize)

Tropical Marine Ecology

WELCOME TO YOUR PROGRAM

This course focuses on the biotic and abiotic components of coral reef systems and their global ecological significance. Through hands-on research and fieldwork from Ambergris Caye to Caye Caulker, students will assess the health of the reef and examine human impacts on marine environments. You'll learn how local findings can be applied to reef systems worldwide and explore strategies for sustainable reef management. With over 500 fish species and hundreds of invertebrates, the Belize Barrier Reef offers a rich, immersive learning experience.

Housing

You will be staying on-site at TREC. Your meals will be provided here. There is a small library with many resources for students and a hammock garden to relax in! There is also a pool for students to enjoy if you feel like you did not spend enough time in the ocean! Rooms are dorm-styled, shared with CELA Belize students of the same gender.

Food

All meals are included and provided by TREC. They are buffet style with typically a mix of American and Belizean-style food. There are opportunities to stop for snacks and drinks almost every day, but these would be on your own budget.

FLIGHTS

Remember, the Marine program is 10 days.

At the start of your program, our group shuttle from the airport on arrival Saturday will leave the airport at 4:30pm. Therefore, you should plan to arrive on a flight that arrives at BZE by 3pm on SATURDAY. Staff will arrive at the airport by 11am. If you arrive prior to 11am, please wait in the arrival hall. There is only one airport transfer per arrival day. If you miss the group transport, there is a fee for solo transport.

At the end of your program, our group shuttle to the airport on departure Saturday will arrive at the airport at 9:30am. Therefore, you should plan to depart on a flight that departs BZE after 11:30am on TUESDAY.

ALL FLIGHT INFO HERE

PACKING

The only items you are required to bring are those on the “required” lists. General required items (like your passport) are found on the ALL PROGRAMS packing list above. Program specific required items are found below under the REQUIRED section. For the rest of the items, you are welcome to use your discretion. There may be items missing from this list that you’d like to bring, and there may be items on this list that you don’t want to bring. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask!

ALL PROGRAM PACKING INFO HERE

REQUIRED FOR THIS PROGRAM

Proper Snorkel equipment to get the most out of the course (recommended brands, Cressi or Mares)
Standard Dive Mask and Snorkel (see the syllabus for more details)

*FULL FACE MASKS WITH THE SNORKEL BUILT IN ARE NOT PERMITTED Fins (15 to 22 inches long) (Long blade only -- no short fins!)

Several bottles of Reef-safe Sunscreen (bring enough to apply multiple times a day)
Bathing suits (you will want at least 3 and we suggest 4 or 5 so they can dry. Something you can move comfortably in.)
UV Protection clothing. We suggest 2 - 3 rash guards for everyone and also highly recommend leggings or swim pants for those sensitive to sunburn. (Basic quick-dry workout leggings are just fine). (The Belize sun is extremely strong and snorkeling magnifies its effect - you will be very happy to have these!)
Rain gear/Travel umbrella

SUGGESTED FOR THIS PROGRAM

Small flashlight or headlamp (with extra bulbs and batteries)
Small packable towel, handkerchiefs, or bandana.
Shirts or tops (short sleeve, sleeveless, cool & easy to dry)
Shorts
Hat for sun protection
1 pair of sandals/flip flops (waterproof is good, but not necessary)
1 pair of sneakers or tennis shoes
Laundry bag (or garbage bag or pillowcase for laundry)

FAQ

Belize is hot and humid with a chance of rain. Come prepared to deal with a variety of weather. It can be warm/hot and humid during the day, but it will cool down at night.

Epi Pens are not available in Belize. If you normally carry an Epi Pen in the United States, please bring one with you to Belize

WIFI: Students will have WIFI at the housing location, but WIFI is not always reliable. If you are interested in a travel phone plan, please talk to your phone provider before your program starts.
Bedding: We will provide you with sheets, pillows, and blankets.
Towles: Students are required to bring at least one towel for days out on the water. We recommend a fast-drying towel or bringing two.
Laundry: May be available for a $10 - $15 USD fee per load, at your accommodation.
Outlets: Outlets are the same as the US.
Dress Code: You will be snorkeling 4-6 hours per day in the direct sunlight, every day. Long sleeve rash guards/ a very light wetsuit / or swim pants are highly recommended for those sensitive to sunburn. Basic quick-dry workout leggings can also help protect your legs.
Money: USD is accepted in Belize at an exchange rate of 1USD:2BZD. There is no need to exchange your money at a bank or the airport. USD is accepted for all payments, and any change will be given in BZD. US coins are not accepted in Belize. Most places will not accept US bills larger than $20, so make sure to bring smaller bills with you. So, "cash is king" if looking to purchase souvenirs or personal items!

Students will have an optional excursion day and one day where they go into town. Please bring extra cash if you wish to book additional excursions. Keep in mind that things are pricey on San Pedro.

Snacks, drinks, and souvenirs - $300 USD

Beach Day/Town Activities - $125 USD

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