Belize Tourism Board launches groundbreaking ‘No Barriers Reef’ project in celebration of World Oceans Day

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11-06-2024

BELIZE CITY, Belize, June 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) is proud to announce the launch of ‘No Barriers Reef’, a groundbreaking initiative designed to showcase the breathtaking natural wonders of Belize accessible to every Belizean. This innovative project, which went live Saturday June 8in honor of World Ocean Day, is proof of that from Belize commitment to the appreciation and conservation of our oceans and natural heritage.

In partnership with The Zimmerman Agency, Belize introduced an innovative virtual reality (VR) experience last March that immerses viewers in the stunning beauty of the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest living reef in the Northern Hemisphere. The primary goal of this initiative is to provide Belizeans, who may not have the ability or opportunity to explore this natural wonder firsthand, a unique opportunity to experience its splendor virtually. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Belize Barrier Reef attracts millions of travelers from around the world every year. But knowing that there are locals who never had the chance to see one of the world’s greatest wonders, despite it being in their own backyard, was something that BTB felt it necessary to change.

Captured on camera, the awe and joy of Belizeans when they first encountered the reef via VR was incomparable. Many expressed a deep sense of pride and wonder, underscoring the emotional and cultural significance of our natural heritage. This project vividly demonstrates that by overcoming barriers to experiencing the Reef, we open endless possibilities to make other natural wonders accessible to all. It also demonstrates the progress made in technology to bridge this gap. Without these advances in virtual reality, a project like this would never have been feasible.

“Our natural heritage is an integral part of who we are as Belizeans,” said Hon. Anthony Mahler, from Belize Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations. “The ‘No Barriers Reef’ project not only celebrates the beauty of the Belize Barrier Reef, but also allows every Belizean to connect with our incredible landscapes and history. We have seen firsthand the emotional and cultural impact it has had on the locals who participated in the project, and we are happy to finally share it with the rest of our fellow Belizeans. This initiative marks an important step forward in making our natural wonders accessible to all.

A great first step, the 360° Belize Barrier Reef video is just the beginning. Belize has exciting plans to create more immersive VR experiences, including virtual adventures where you explore the ancient wonders of the ATM Caves, take a flight over the magnificent Great Blue Hole and visit the awe-inspiring Mayan temple sites. Everyone, including Belizeans and non-Belizans, is invited to stay tuned for these upcoming VR films. These experiences will make the wonders of Belize to life, allowing people around the world to explore and appreciate them.

With the launch of No Barriers Reef and the announcement of plans to create even more VR videos in the future, BTB reaffirms their commitment to from Belize natural heritage that is accessible to all and ensures that every Belizean can take pride in and connect with such a remarkable environment.

To view the No Barriers Reef campaign, visit travelbelize.org/no-barriers-reef. For more information about the beautiful country of Belizevisit travelbelize.org.

About the Belize Tourism Board
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) is a statutory body within the Belize Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation and is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation. The BTB works with members of the private sector, including the Belize Hotel Association, Belize Tourism Industry Association and Belize National Tour Operators Association, and is committed to building tourism in the most economically and environmentally sustainable way. As part of its responsibilities, the BTB promotes Belize as a premier tourist destination for both domestic and international consumers. As part of its activities in the international travel market, the BTB brings the country’s unique attractions to the attention of travelers, travel industry members and media outlets in key markets. The BTB is also committed to developing and implementing tourism programs that will help strengthen and grow the tourism industry in Belize; promote good destination management; and ensure high quality standards for accommodations and travel experiences. For more information about the BTB and its services, visit www.travelbelize.org.

Contact:
Brooke Jongbloed
[email protected]

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SOURCE Belize Tourism Board