DESTINATIONS Belize
www.travelbelize.org Belize Tourism Board
64 Regent Street, P.O. Box 325, Belize City, Belize Tel: 011-501-227-2420 Fax: 011-501-227-2423
info@travelbelize.org
As one of the last unspoiled places on earth, Belize offers travelers the richly rewarding authenticity they seek in a Caribbean getaway. With direct flights from the U.S. and Canada, this tropical paradise is nestled between Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south. For generations, the English-speaking people of Belize have demonstrated a commitment to preserving the country’s unique charms. Belize offers a land rich in natural beauty and the history and culture of its Mayan past. Renowned for having the second largest barrier reef in the world, Belize’s pristine waters, exotic marine and wildlife, lush, unspoiled landscapes and superb diving truly make it Mother Nature’s Best Kept Secret.
Caribbean Challenge
Shark Ray Alley . . . plunge into the calm Caribbean Sea with the nurse sharks.
Divers and snorkelers alike encounter a diverse and abundant selection of marine life as well as a kaleidoscope of colour in a variety of locations spanning the length of this 185-mile Belize Barrier Reef. This includes subterranean coral gardens featuring over 70 types of hard corals, nearly 500 species of fish, the distinguished Blue Hole, playful dolphins, fascinating whale sharks, subdued sea turtles and graceful eagle rays. With visibility usually extending hundreds of feet, diverse dive sites and extensive marine life, Belize will not disappoint either the first-time or most experienced
diver or snorkeler. Visitors never cease to be amazed by the awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites inside the caves, though the ancient Maya took a very different view of these magnificent structures. The Maya believed the caves, or ac-tuns as they were known, were a portal to Xibalba, the underworld and used them for religious ceremonies. The Maya offered sacrifices to these “gods of death” in these very caves. As a result, nearly every cave in Belize has some evidence of Mayan occupation. Findings have ranged from gifts such as carved jade, storage vessels and decorative pottery to embedded footprints and even human skeletal remains.
A headlamp’s ray on a glistening crystal formation, an intact Maya pot and the whispering echoes of ancient ceremonies add to the awe and excitement in the cave explorer’s experience.
Hidden gem
Adventure through the thick jungle which envelops you with its freshness and lead you through an exciting hike passing sapphire pools of water which lead to the entrance of the Blue Creek Cave where the only echoes you hear are your thoughts.
Did you know?
Diving and snorkelling with whalesharks are offered during the full moon between February and May and the most whalesharks observed in one dive is 23 in one location.
What’s Hot
Jungle Tumble at Jaguar Paw Resort and kite surfing in Caye Caulker and San Pedro
Size: 23,300 square miles Currency: Belizean dollar Dialing code: 011 501 Population: 287,730 Main City: Belmopan
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www.CaribbeanTravel.com
Local beer: Belikin Beer Dish of the Day: Rice and Bean, stew chicken, potato salad, and fried plantain
Photos courtesy of Belize Tourist Board
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