Belize is a country located on the northeastern coast of Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north, the Caribbean Sea to the east, and Guatemala to the west and south. “The Jewel” shares a water boundary with Honduras to the southeast. Belize is the only Central American nation where English serves as the official language, with Belizean Creole being the predominant dialect. Spanish ranks as the second most commonly spoken language, trailed by Mayan languages, German dialects, and Garifuna (spoken by descendants of enslaved people who escaped from the Caribbean islands).
In the heart of Belize lies the vibrant island of San Pedro. With its azure waters, swaying palms, and colorful streets, is a hidden gem beckoning travelers with its irresistible allure. Explore ancient Mayan ruins hidden deep in the jungle or indulge in the island's delectable cuisine (food is central to the culture), infused with bold flavors and fresh seafood. The Belizean coast boasts numerous islands and cayes, composing the Belize Barrier Reef, the longest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere.
My goal was to escape the world's chaos and embrace a culture steeped in ancient traditions as I arrived on the tropical shores of this charming island, immortalized by Madonna's song "La Isla Bonita.” As I wandered amidst palm-lined beaches and bustling golf cart filled roads, I felt the enchanting rhythm of the song echoing in the air…. colors, sea-bright and faded at once, and the houses on stilts, the painted wood, the outside stairs, and the trees rocking their heads in the breeze. But San Pedro is more than just a muse for music legends; it's a vibrant destination brimming with adventure and culture.
Prior the Shyne coming up on the rap scene when I was a teenager, I hadn’t heard that much about Belize. His lyrics were influenced by the struggles and triumphs of living in Belize City, echoing the voices of a generation seeking to be heard. Born Moses Michael Levi Barrow in Belize City, Shyne moved to NYC’s Flatbush, Brookyn as a child and began to rap as a teenager. As a child, Barrow split his time between New York City and his father, a lawyer and politician. Years later, in 2008, his father was elected as Belize's first black Prime Minister.
Best known for his 2000 hit "Bonnie & Shyne," his life took a pivotal turn in 1999. Accompanying his mentor, Sean "Diddy" Combs, to a nightclub, a dispute erupted into gunfire, injuring three bystanders. Consequently, in June 2001, he was convicted of assault and received a 10-year prison sentence.
Following his 2009 release from prison, Shyne faced deportation to Belize. He was named the Belize Music and Goodwill Ambassador, tasked with fostering the sustainable growth of the country's music industry. Shyne was elected to the Belizean House of Representatives in 2020. His story reminds me of Belize City’s indomitable spirit and enduring legacy of its people.
”Sub umbra floreo (Iwill flourish in the shade)” - Latin Motto