The world is full of exotic and exciting places to visit – London, Paris, Rome, New York, Hollywood for starters. Then, of course, are the amazing beaches of Spain, Australia, the Seychelles, and the coasts of the US, to name just a few.
Most people have some type of bucket list of where they would like to travel. And at least some of the places mentioned above are probably on that list.
What may not be on most lists is Belize. And this is not surprising. When most people mention Belize, others will say, “Where is that?” The answer? It is a tiny country just below Mexico, sitting on the Gulf Of Mexico – 8,867 square miles and a population of 450,000.
So, what might be the attraction of Belize? The answer lies in the climate and the vast variety of topography in this little paradise, not to mention the wonderful people. Read on to learn all about why it may make its way to the top of your travel bucket list.
A Bit of History
Unlike the rest of Latin America, Belize was colonized by the British. Much before that, of course, it was home to an advanced Mayan civilization. Descendents of those early people still live in Belize today.
As a British colony, English became the official language. Today, there are a variety of languages spoken, although English remains official. There are combinations of languages because of the slave trade and other migrations. But all English and most Spanish-speaking people will navigate easily throughout the country.
Belize is an independent democracy with its own constitution, and a democratically elected president and legislature. But more important, it is a paradise for tourists of any type.
The Waters
Crystal clear and beautiful. Water sports include boating, kayaking, deep sea fishing, and diving. Belize is home to the second largest coral reef in the world, protected by the strictest laws and regulations. Divers come from all over the world to experience this ecological marvel.
The beaches are beautiful up and down the coast. A lot of couples choose Belize for vacations as well as their weddings and honeymoons, and it is becoming more and more popular, as evidenced by conversations in digital spaces like the Hily dating app, social media, and other online platforms.
Mountains and Waterfalls
These are not equal to the huge mountain ranges found in other places on the planet. But they are beautiful with amazing waterfalls. Many restaurants and resorts are nestled into these mountains with stunning views of the country, the Gulf, and villages and towns dotted across the landscape.
Tropical Rain Forests
Anyone who is interested in exploring the ecosystem of rainforests will find no lack of opportunity in Belize. And all of the plant and animal life found in rainforests all over the globe will be found here.
Mayan Ruins
Temples, shrines, remnants of living structures and more are dotted throughout Belize, some of the largest being in Caracol in western Belize, Cerros in the north and site of both living and ceremonial structures, and Lamanai where three of probably the most famous temples can be explored.
Local guides take visitors on tours of the ruins – wear sturdy and slip-proof shoes if you intend to climb on many of the pyramidal structures.
The Culture
The People
The background of the Belizean population is as varied as its topography. There are Kriol (aka Creole – mixtures of African slaves and British and Scottish loggers), Mestizos (mixture of Spanish and Native Americans),Garifuna (escaped Nigerian slaves and local Belizean population), Mennonites (of German descent), and Chinese immigrants. Other more recent groups include expats from the US, Canada, Germany, and Russia.
With all of this mixture, Belize is a true melting pot of customs and languages – one of the things that makes life there so interesting.
The Music
At any given time, visitors will hear a variety of music coming from bars and restaurants, resorts, and just on the streets during festivals. Reggae is very popular along with other Caribbean, Mexican, and American styles.
One of the most notable experiences will be listening to and watching the Garifuna drummers – they play their drums and often mix in singing and dancing, as well as other instruments. The Garifuna have a national holiday – Garifuna Settlement Day – celebrated in November every year. There’s a lot of folklore in Garifuna culture too.
Social Customs
No matter what the ethnic background of a Belizean, courtesy and friendliness are hallmarks of this society.
Total strangers will greet one another in a friendly manner. Visitors can expect to be greeted and to be asked how their day is going or be told to have a great rest of their day.
Respect for elders is also important. Older people will be addressed by “Mr.” or “Mrs.” Acquaintances will chat for a few minutes when they meet up. And of course, close friends will be greeted with hugs and even kisses.
Young people are putting off marriage and many prefer “living together” arrangements. On the other hand, many young people remain living at home with their parents well into their 20s.
Intergenerational households are common, with grandparents often caring for the grandchildren while parents are at work.
Sports and Recreation
Football (soccer) and basketball are the most popular sports in Belize, but in high schools, there are also volleyball, cricket, track and field, and even martial arts.
For recreation, many Belizeans take local vacations to many of the surrounding islands (called Cayes), especially if they live in interior urban areas.
Mealtime
This is worth mentioning. Meals are important family gatherings for Belizeans. School children who attend locally in their villages or towns go home for lunch and have an hour-long break to do so. Many businesses also close from noon until 1 pm for lunch.
By the way, visitors who eat at local restaurants will discover that meals consist of lots of beans and rice and small amounts of chicken or fish. Higher end restaurants, though, offer a full fare of all types of dishes.
Something for Everyone
Belize is rather a “best kept secret” of the Caribbean nations. Put in on your bucket list, make that trip, and you’ll never regret it.
