BELIZE IT OR NOT!!

 

Now if you're looking for less adventure but more sun and sea, we move on to Central America and visit Belize. But who's to say you can't do both? You better BELIZE you can!!

 

Belize, formerly known as British Honduras is the only country in the region that has English as its official language and did you know that chewing gum had its birthplace here?

 

Wedged between Mexico and Guatemala, the tiny and eclectic country of Belize has become a very popular eco tourism destination. The weather is always stunning with the temperature being almost a constant 29 degrees all year round. It is one of the best places for snorkelling and diving with over 200 islands or cayes.

 

Some great reasons to visit Belize:

 

1. Apart from the climate being stunning  the natural jungle and rain forest are not only great for exploring but provide some cool on the warmer days.

 

2. Home to the Blue Hole - The gigantic underwater Blue Hole off the coast of Belize is believed to be the world's largest hole measuring 1000 ft across and 412 ft deep. The Blue Hole was made famous in 1971 by Jacques-Yves Cousteau, the French Explorer in the television series - The Undersea world of Jacques-Yves Cousteau.

3. Belize boasts the second largest barrier reef in the world and has a stunning array of colourful coral and marine life, a snorkelers paradise.

 

4.Once the epicentre of the Mayan world - Archealogists believe that almost 1 million Mayans  lived in present day Belize and flourished during the Classic Period from 300 to 900 AD. Maya temple sites like Caracol and Cahal Pech are just two of the spectacular sites that can be explored in Belize.

 

5. And not forgetting the pristine beaches for swimming, tanning or just relaxing. Belize has some of the most unspoiled coastlines in the world and with the warm, crystal clear waters of the Caribbean sea lapping on the shore, this could be the only reason for going to Belize and it would be so worthwhile.

 

6. The food in Belize is unusual but delicious given the many different ethnic influences like Mayan, East Indian and Creole. You must try Fry Jacks(eaten for breakfast, a kind of fried dough) , Johnny Cakes (a kind of cornmeal tortilla), Gibnut (stewed rabbit) Escabeche (a kind of poached or fried fish)  and Tamales. But if you're up for a little fine dining, then a visit to Crave or Portofino or Hidden Treasure is a must.

 

7. Last but not least, the nightlife,clubs and bars....and there are many.

From the Lazy Lizard at Caye Caulker - You can sip your drink while tanning or snorkeling next to the bar. A few tables are placed in the water, but don't worry, the water is not deep enough for you to drown in - if your drunk body gives out to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye or Barefoot Iguanas. The thing is, Belize is a party destination, there are bars and pubs and cafes galore. Try a different one every day if you can, the hospitality is the same everywhere, friendly and inviting.

 

Dress Code: No shoes, no shirt, no problem

 

There's just one thing to remember this is Belize, dress codes need not apply, so pack your favourite slops and swimming costumes and head off to paradise.

 

 

Also, you won't be bowled over by shopping opportunities here, in fact Belize is the last place to visit if you want to shop, but if you're looking to relax, unwind and have loads of fun, Belize is the answer.