How You Spending Your Labor Day?

Welcome to the beautiful Belize Biltmore Best Western. There would be a view, if the pesky plywood wasn't in the way. Well imagine how I feel here in Belize, having traveled thousands of miles for many scheduled meetings, to suddenly feel like persona non grata, all because of a jerk named Felix. Okay, a little slack should be cut since people here are preparing for the worst and coral reef conservation is the last thing on their minds. And a big thanks to Imani and Melanie who, in the midst of scrambling for bottled water, candles, and batteries, took time to meet with me. Sorry for the evacuation interruptus ladies.

No chance of getting out to Placencia or San Pedro as they are both being evacuated. Last advisory indicated that Felix is headed for the Honduras-Nicaragua elbow, and could cut across land a bit before threatening Guatemala and Belize. Any land crossing will weaken the hurricane. If this scenario holds true, storm surge and winds should be more like a tropical storm here in Belize City. But since the path can change, Belize has issued a national emergency until Wednesday night.

Everywhere around town, things seem very quiet for the nation's capital. Most of the streets are empty, and only the stores with any water, food, or other provisions are hubs of activity. Many stores have just decided to close. The Biltmore Hotel (where I'm staying) has suspended housekeeping, boarded-up the windows, and packed away all the gifts from the gift shop. Kudos to the Biltmore for putting their local employees needs in front of business during this time. Meal availability should continue, though a sign in the lobby says this might change at any time.

Man, I'm sure missing the relaxing Labor Day hot dog roast back home.