Apart from experiencing Belize?s natural wonders; the sand, sea and sun, the family also plans to spend time with youths here in Belize, and particularly down in Dangriga, Pen?s hometown, to exchange music and culture.

Pen Cayetano, painter and musician, is acclaimed as the innovator of Punta Rock music, birthed in Dangriga with elements such as the turtle shell, the shacka and the drums. Even as a musician in Germany, Pen and his family continue to preserve Punta Rock in their music.

His daughter, Mali, 21, told us that while she has recorded ballads, sung in English and German, she plans to broaden her repertoire of music to include the more up tempo reggae and punta rock, as well.

Beni, 19, loves artistic illustration and plans to explore his talents in that field, as well as pursuing his musical talents.

Ibo, 15, is fascinated by languages and loves playing the drums. In fact, he is drummer/percussionist in the family band, dubbed the Cayetanos.

Mali is a songwriter, keyboardist and guitarist. Beni plays the bass and guitar. Ingrid is a percussionist and background signer.

Pen said that while he wants his children to continue learning and playing music, they must also focus on getting an education in a profession of their liking?even though he still encourages them to continue the musical legacy in the long-term.

Mali is a graphic designer and she designs her own CD jackets and those for the Cayetanos. She also studies jazz singing with Billy Akeem in Germany.

Beni just graduated from a technical school in Germany, where he studied glass art and ceramic.

The family takes great pride in their work and Pen lauds the talents of his daughter, Mali.

?When Mali sings in Germany, the people feel the difference, because she has a different soul from them,? he remarked.

She has just recently released a limited edition 3-ballad CD, which she did as a project for her school, Peter-Joerres-Gymnasium. It is titled longing?a collaborative effort with a group of musicians on violin, flute, chello. Mali sings the lead on the CD album.

Incidentally, Mali?s schoolmate, Johannes Klein, 20, is visiting Belize with the Cayetano family and he is impressed with the serenity he has found here.

After our interview with the Cayetanos on KREM?s rooftop today, the family left for San Pedro Town, where Pen will be exhibiting his music and art at Fido?s on Friday. Later on, they will be touring the country, taking in the scenery, and relaxing with the family.