TOLEDO, Belize (CitizenWire) — Machaca Hill Rainforest Canopy Lodge, located in southern Belize, is demonstrating its commitment to supporting the community with its involvement in a drumming project for local Garifuna youth.
“By being involved with and sponsoring Chukuru & the Tribal Vibes drumming group, we help keep the Garinagu culture alive,” stated Brian Gardiner, general manager. “This initiative also provides a skill set that allows participants to pursue employment in the hospitality or entertainment industries and provides alternative opportunities to possible other less than perfect avenues.”
The Garinagu are descendants of Carib, Arawak and West African people and today live primarily in Central America. The drum remains an integral instrument in Garinagu music. Contributions from the resort allow Chukuru to support to purchase drums and uniforms, pay for entries into competitions and actively teach drumming.
Furthering their mission to show support of the local Garifuna community, Machaca Hill also acts as a Diamond Sponsor for the annual Battle of the Drums event. Held each year on the Saturday preceding November 19, Garifuna Settlement Day, the occasion showcases not only drumming, but also food, dancing and traditional clothing. The Battle of the Drums competition draws groups from throughout Belize, as well as Guatemala and Honduras.
While the Battle of the Drums 2010 takes place on November 13, Machaca Hill is inviting travelers to walk to the beat of their own drummer by coming to support the Garifuna community at the 2011 event. The Machaca Hill Battle of the Drums 2011 package will be available from $500 per person, including two nights’ accommodation, all meals, VIP event seating, local transportation, complimentary guided lodge activities and souvenir t-shirts or caps. A portion of the proceeds from the packages will go back to support the drumming programs. Space is limited and will sell out quickly, reserve now by contacting info@machacahill.com or calling 888-299-9940.
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Perched in the verdant hills above the Caribbean coast of southern Belize, Machaca Hill Lodge is a self-contained sanctuary from the everyday world. The main lodge is the communal heart of the resort, offering dining and lounging areas, concierge, gift shop and observation decks with views of the coast, Maya Mountains and the pristine rainforest. Accommodations consist of 12 private, individual canopy suites with screened fresh-air verandas and luxurious tiled spa-style baths overlooking the treetops. Activities include birding, jungle excursions, river adventures, snorkeling, diving and fishing. For more information and reservations, visit www.machacahill.com or call the resort directly at +501.722.0050.
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