It seems to me that with progress and growth anywhere you get more problems and crime. We stopped going to Jamacia when we felt it too dangerous to stay outside of all inclusive resorts, which we hate. So far our trips to Belize have been wonderful, we love the people, the reef, food, etc, and have never been in fear. But, one of our guides did mention that a boat was stolen from Hol Chan while everyone was diving, so that now many of them will leave someone aboard. He was very sad about how things have changed. And one morning after cashing travellers checks at the bank I felt we were being followed by a couple of suspect men, we calmly crossed the street, and didn't look back as they made comments. We got to our property and they moved on. That's not to say the same thing couldn't happen here too. We were there last week and didn't have phone, internet or ATM service until Thursday, but it really wasn't a problem. There have been sporadic power and water outages both times were were there, you just have to go with the flow or don't go. It was actually kindof fun when the power was out for a couple of hours one night, we lit candles and sat on our balcony. There is no doubt that there are some issues there right now, hopefully they can be resolved quickly and peacefully. The building and growth on AC is ever present, hopefully it won't change the character of the island. But none of this is new, it happens everywhere, and won't prevent us from coming back, not even this itchy pica pica !!