And while Kartel's trip to Belize might entice other tourists to visit, did the shark attack near Turneffe dissuade them? It's been three weeks since 15 year old Annabelle Carlson was bitten as she snorkeled off Half Moon Caye. But Mahler says the news hasn't negatively impacted the industry.
Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism
"I don't think so. Obviously you don't want to have that type of exposure but I must commend the dive operator and the tour operator, they did a wonderful job ensuring that young lady survived under extreme duress and I want to commend them for the work they did, they executed how a tour operator should operate in times of emergency like that."
Carlson continues to receive treatment and rehabilitation at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami.
