Anthropology in Belize:
Eco-tourism in Southern Belize 2009
Anthropology 597T
About
the Course
This is a course on the anthropology of Belize as viewed through eco-tourism. Belize is a developing country committed to preserving and protecting its rainforest and indigenous people. For this reason the country has resisted globalization, industrialization, and the infiltration of multinational corporations. Balancing its economic development with the needs of the Belizean people has been an ongoing challenge. The gross national product is dominated by agriculture but this is followed by tourism. Eco-tourism provides jobs in the service industry for many Belizeans.
In this course we will visit the tourist coopts of two cultural groups, the Kekchi Maya and the Garifuna who will serve as our hosts. We will also visit the seaside towns of Punta Gorda and Placencia, the archaeological site of Lubaantun--a reconstructed ancient Maya ceremonial center, and the Monkey River forest reserve--all located in Southern Belize. These venues provide a backdrop for the study and evaluation of eco-tourism from the standpoint of the "authentic" experience.
We will visit:
Punta Gorda Town, a small market and fishing town
San Miguel a Kekchi Maya Village
Garifuna Communities: Barranco and Seine Bight
Lubaantun archaeology site
Ancient Maya Cave: Tiger Cave in San Miguel
Walk in the jungle and see howler monkeys
Cost:
Total Cost of the Belize trip is $2160.00. A deposit of $500 is required no later than Nov. 15, 2008. The balance of $1660.00 is due no later than January 20, 2009.
Included within the class fee is round-trip airfare to Belize and within Belize, class materials, ground transportation in Belize, lodging, entrance fees to archaeology sites, the Monkey River tour, 11 meals, and any village tours, demonstrations and lessons.
Students will be responsible for 12 meals, beverages, and the optional snorkeling trip. The fee does not include tuition and fees for those taking the trip as a course. You are encouraged but not required to enroll.
Required:
A valid passport! Apply early.
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and tetanus shot
Attendance at 2 three-hour meetings on campus is required prior to departure for Belize
Students registering for college credit must enroll through normal channels at WSU, paying tuition and fees to the registrar.
November pre-registration for the course is required. Prior approval to enroll in this 3-hour course is required for all enrolled participants. Contact Holley Moyes or Peer Moore-Jansen.
There are no prerequisites. The course may be taken for either graduate or undergraduate credit. Participants must be at least 18 years old. Entry is limited to 16 total participants on a first-come basis.