Relating to a few of Belize’s most marvelous sights, many locals, regardless of calling Belize dwelling, wouldn’t have the privilege of witnessing these sights for themselves. This week, nonetheless, the Belize Tourism Board is making strides towards altering that—and in probably the most distinctive methods. The just-launched “No Limitations Reef” venture goals to deliver the Belize Barrier Reef to these unable to go to the pure marvel. Utilizing cutting-edge digital actuality expertise, the venture will enable Belizeans a first-hand have a look at the marvels that lie simply beneath the floor of their nation’s waters.
The BTB Strikes to Eradicate Limitations to Belize’s Most Beloved Locations
Reef diving in Belize. Picture through PADI
So far as accessible locations in Belize go, the Belize Zoo is usually considered one of many solely wheelchair-friendly websites. For a lot of Belizeans with disabilities, getting round can show difficult. That’s doubly true with regards to exploring native sights. And, that’s precisely the case for Sharon Samuels, left wheelchair-bound with a C7 spinal wire harm after an accident. Samuels was one of many first to check out the BTB’s new digital actuality expertise. Within the launch video for the No Limitations Reef venture, she and three others strap on their VR headsets and expertise the Belize Barrier Reef by way of a 360-degree first-person standpoint.
The venture went stay on Saturday, June 8, 2024, in honor of World Oceans Day. By way of the headset, the 4 Belizeans have been in a position to rise up shut and private with marine life. That included nurse sharks swimming by, faculties of fish, and loads of vibrant corals.
Comparable: 31 Issues You May Not Know About Belize
“As a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, the Belize Barrier Reef attracts thousands and thousands of vacationers from all around the world every year,” stated the Board. “Realizing, although, that there are locals who’ve by no means had the possibility to put eyes on one of many world’s biggest wonders, regardless of it being in their very own yard, was one thing BTB felt wanted to vary.”
For one of many individuals, the VR expertise evoked reminiscences of his days of underwater journey.
“As soon as I see water, I see freedom,” he stated. “I’m not confined to a wheelchair and I can be at liberty and I can simply transfer round.”
By way of the ability of digital actuality, the BTB says it hopes to make Belize’s pure wonders accessible to all. No Limitations Reef is a collaborative initiative between the BTB, OCEANA, MARAlliance, the Belize Alliance for Individuals with Numerous Skills (BAPDA), and the Nationwide Council for Households and Kids. The making of the 360-degree video itself took a group of specialists from the world over. Watch all the launch video beneath.
