by Karl Velasquez

Belize is located next to Mexico and Guatemala in Central America. Its shores are lined by the Caribbean Sea, and it’s a beautiful tourist destination that is often ignored. Belize is mainly Creole, and the people are peaceful, friendly, and welcome tourists. Many find this a nice change from some of the Caribbean destinations where tourists often feel unwelcome.


Belize is English speaking, which makes it a great destination for people who feel uncomfortable when out of their element. Some Westerners find it hard to adjust when they first arrive to Belize since the attitude of the people is very laid back and relaxed. No one is ruled by their wristwatch here.

Belize offers all kind of accommodation, resorts, hotels, even budget hotels. It is neither inexpensive as some of the other destinations of Central America nor is it too expensive. In fact it is okay for all kind of tourists to stay here.

Belize has great outdoors it is home to many natural habitats, coral reefs and rainforests to name a few. Belize is a naturist’s paradise, having many different types of sea life such as fishes and mammals can be found in its waters. Belize has something to offer to everybody. It also has archaeological attractions, in the form of Mayan ruins. You can take a day off to experience for yourself the rich historical background that these ruins display.

One such Mayan site having 60 structures is Lamanai, dating back to 1500 BC. This ruin is 90 minutes away by boat showcasing various forms of seal life on the way such as crocodiles. Another very interesting Mayan site is Xunantunich.

Be sure to take or rent scuba or snorkeling gear and visit the underwater world around Belize. The Cayes is the longest reef in the Western Hemisphere. You will find hundreds of species of tropical fish here, and at the Belize Reef, another stunner.

When packing for your trip to Belize, bear in mind that the weather is hot and tropical year round. Belize is extremely humid, even more so in the summer months. Shorts, t-shirts, and bathing suits are necessary all year. However, bring a few sweaters, as the evenings can get a bit cool during the winter.

Belize is best visited from November to May or June as the summer months sometimes get too hot to handle, making visits and excursions, such as those to the Mayan ruins, almost unbearable in the hot weather. Also July to November, are the months of the hurricane and thus best avoided. Belize City has its own airport which has regular flights from almost all the major United States and Central American cities.

Belize is a perfect holiday destination particularly for those, active tourist who like to do something more then lazing on a beautiful beach. They have the option of choosing between a rich underwater sea world and the spectacular Mayan ruins.