In each interview, we ask the same 10 questions of a local Belizean person.
What is your name? Shamin Burns.
Where are you from? San Ignacio, Belize
What’s your age? 24 years old
What do you do for work? For work, I’m a licensed tour guide and tour operator with my family business, Yute Expeditions Ltd. I specialize in adventure and cultural tours, especially the ATM Cave, and I also help travelers plan their trips and transportation around Belize.
What’s your favorite thing about Belize? My favorite thing about Belize is the balance. In one day, you can be deep in the jungle, exploring ancient Maya history, and by evening be by the sea. That mix of nature, culture, and laid-back life is something special.
What are the biggest changes you’ve seen? The biggest changes I’ve seen are how tourism has grown and how much more connected Belize is now. There are more visitors, more opportunities, but also more pressure to protect what makes Belize unique.
What do you hope/wish for Belize? What I hope for Belize is sustainable tourism. I want to see Belize grow without losing its identity, where local families, guides, and communities benefit, and our natural and cultural heritage stays protected.
How has tourism impacted your life? Tourism has impacted my life by giving me a way to share my country with the world while building a future with my family. It’s allowed me to turn something I grew up with into a career I’m proud of.
What do you look forward to? What I look forward to is continuing to grow Yute Expeditions, welcoming travelers who truly want to experience Belize, and helping shape tourism in a positive way for the next generation.
What are 3 words to describe Belize? Wild, Welcoming, Authentic.
Enter Belize 
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