Belize Overview: The Outdoors

Belize has a little bit of everything you would want in a tropical location: jungles, caves, islands, and clear blue water. We experienced the jungles and caves in San Igancio, where we went cave river tubing and on an iguana tour. Then we experienced the islands and water blue water by taking a water taxi out to Caye Caulker for some snorkeling and sailing. Although it is a small country, it still takes a few hours to get from one side of the country to the other so buffer a little extra time for transportation.

Belize Overview: Historical Influence

Belize is a former British colony, which is how the official language became English. But long before the British arrived, Belize was home to a thriving Maya civilization. The evidence can still be found throughout the country with ruins and ceremonial centers. You can discover some of the offerings left behind in the caves or visit ruins just outside of San Ignacio. We opted to go big and see the incredible ruins of Tikal National Park in Guatemala, which are 2 hours away from San Ignacio. But before heading out of San Igancio, we decided to get a little more educated on sugar cane and how the Caribbean influenced the production of rum in Belize.

Belize Overview: The People

From my experience, the people of Belize are kind and loving. The people we met were almost always willing to lend us a hand, offer up a recommendation, or help us get on the bus. I felt very safe in the country and one guide was very proud how they have slowed the movement of drugs through the country. Everyone should still take normal travel precautions. We did not stay in Belize City, where more crime is likely to happen. I didn’t sense that many people were in a rush and was even told to “go slow” when walking too fast on Caye Caulker. Love that slow island life!