A Day in Dangriga
Dangriga, affectionally called Griga by those of that live here, means sweet water in Garifuna. (Garifuna is a language spoken by the Garifuna that is a mixture of several different languages, including Arawark, Carib, and European languages.) The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared the Garifuna language “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangibles Heritage of Humanity.”
Dangriga is a business center where people go to pay their bills and do their banking. There are hardware stores, building supplies, and other stores that sell construction supplies and such. It used to be folks in Hopkins used to “go to town” but more and more ‘Griga is coming to Hopkins for dining, entertainment, and beach days. Most tourists find themselves in Dangria to catch a boat out to the cayes or taking a puddle jumper at the airstrip. If one has some extra time on their hands, here’s a few things to consider checking out:
Gulisi Garifuna Museum on Hummingbird Highway. A small museum with informative staff that tells the story of the Garifuna culture. Open 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday. On Saturdays, Open 12noon to 5pm, Closed Sundays.
Tony Rath Gallery. The Gallery is located in the Pelican Beach Resort, next to the airstrip. It captures Belize beautifully in through his brightly colored photographs of village life, the sea, and its creatures. Located inside Pelican Beach Resort and Open Daily.
Cayetano Studio Gallery. The Cayetano’s pride themselves in being ambassadors of the Garifuna culture and music. Their passion for such is displayed in their craft through their museum, gift shop, and workshops devoted to preserving and promoting the Garifuna culture. Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Weekends by Appointment.
Places to Eat:
Alexis. A favorite of locals for rice and beans, fry fish, and fresh juices. $10-$15BZ
Island Breeze Grill. This is where folks can have a bite to eat before catching a boat to the cayes as the boat captains dock is just across the street. Island Breeze has a large menu with a variety of dishes such as kabobs, burgers, fajitas, salads, and more. $20-$30BZ
Ma-K’s. Known for their burgers-beef, chicken, lobster and home of the Gordo Burger. Stew Chicken, Chili Cheese Dog, and Pasta Specials. $8-$25BZ Half Mile, Melinda Rd (toward the airstrip)
