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| Rebecca, Vilma, Elito and Dylan Arceo
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Belize has been
blessed with magnificent attractions that lure a multitude of visitors to this
part of the world. Many come for the spectacular adventures available, some for
rest and relaxation and others to enjoy the hospitality of the locals. Although
the attractions found here are a great asset for this country, it is the warmth
of the people that truly makes a visitor's day. This week The
San Pedro Sun is pleased to feature one "charmer" from San
Pedro who, through his business, "SEAduces" visitors into touring the wonders of
Belize - Elito Arceo. Elito was born on February
20 th, 1966 to Francisco and
Vilma (deceased) Arceo who raised him with much love and affection. In the
company of his three brothers and eight sisters, Elito grew up a very friendly
and inquisitive young boy, thirsty for knowledge about his surroundings. Elito
has very fond memories of his childhood, especially the long hours he spent
swimming and fishing with his close friends, some which he still "hangs out"
with today. After school, Elito joined other Sanpedranos
aboard the Carmencita for week-long lobster
fishing expeditions to the outer atolls of Belize. In time, as the fishing
industry started to decline, Elito saw great potential in the tourism industry
and went to work for his cousin, Martin Leslie in the tour guiding business.
Over the years, Elito perfected his tour guide skills making him a "pro" at
diving, fishing, site-seeing and inland tours. Elito then devoted five years of
his life to guiding tourists through the magnificent beauty of the underwater
world found along Belize's barrier reef working as a dive master for Reef
Divers. On March 9 th, 1995, Elito joined his life in
marriage to Rebecca Vucinich, originally from Santa Fe, New Mexico. This
union produced two beautiful children: Dylan (six) and Vilma (four).
Having started a family, Elito felt he was ready to
venture into a business of his own. Already he was the owner of a skiff and was
armed with a wealth of experience. This prompted him to start his own tour guide
business, which he named SEAduced by Belize. Although he was an excellent dive
master, Elito opted for more on- land tours since he possessed a wealth of
mainland information and was frustrated by not being able to talk much
underwater. Elito's success with this business was no surprise as he took all
the necessary measures to ensure that his clients were satisfied with his
service. SEAduced by Belize soon became a recognized name on the island and a
shining example of a well-managed operation. Unfortunately
on Christmas Day last year, Elito experienced a tragic accident. During a day
trip to Caye Caulker, while checking his outboard engine, a spark caused the
motor to explode, causing first and second degree burns to about 24 percent of
his body. Being the professional he is, Elito withstood the excruciating pain he
was suffering to drive his clients back to San Pedro. Back on the island, he
received emergency medical attention before being transported to Belize City and
eventually the US. After many treatments and a short leave of absence from work,
Elito was able to recuperate and heal. Elito has also
served the community of San Pedro as deputy mayor and town councilor. In his
spare time, he enjoys playing football and is a member of the San Pedro
Veteran's Football Team. He also enjoys kayaking with his children; something he
says reminds him of his childhood days. Because of Elito
Arceo's skills - specializing in beyond ordinary adventures, it is no wonder why
tourists are SEAduced into returning to Belize and "Our Community."
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