When we think of the word “Caribbean” we likely think of beaches, crystal clear waters, and relaxing on the shore in a hammock, while drinking a colada with one of those little umbrellas protruding from the top. Or possibly Johnny Depp running around playing pirate. Either one.
If you're planning a vacation to the Caribbean, it can be a little overwhelming choosing where to start and where to go. Fortunately, there's plenty to do and lots of places to see!
There are many beautiful islands in the Caribbean: St. Maarten, Cozumel, and of course the Bahamas. But I personally recently took a trip to Belize and couldn't have been happier with my destination of choice. Whether you're seeking a relaxing vacation that revolves around sand, waves, and food, or perhaps you're the more adventurous type: scuba diving, zip lining, or horseback riding—Belize offers it all.
Unlike many Caribbean islands that typically speak some measure of Spanish, Belize is an all English speaking country, which makes it eminently easier to communicate with the locals, not to mention less stressful not having to carry a translation book or app everywhere you go.
Another massive perk is that if you're paying with United States currency, then everything is 50% off. No joke. Belize recognizes the United States dollar as having twice the buying power of their own native dollar, so if an item is $10.00 BZ, then it's $5.00 USD. Something to consider when choosing hotels and local eateries.
A quick search on Expedia.com or Airbnb will bring up several options, the first likely being the most attractive hotel: The Princess Casino. This 160 room hotel overlooks the turquoise Caribbean waters, equipped with a swimming pool and fitness center, which are reserved for hotel guests only, and as the name implies, a fully operational casino. A typical night's stay will cost you an average of $220.00 BZ ($110.00 USD).
Along with a several lesser known hotels, you have the option of renting a vacation house or cottage for the week. Depending on location, size, and availability, most rental homes cost between $400.00 and $800.00 BZ ($200.00 - $400.00 USD) weekly. Not a bad alternative if you're splitting the cost amongst other travelers.
Belize features a plethora of touristic attractions, namely its world-known diving spot: The Blue Hole, which is located off the coast of Ambergris Caye. Not a diver? No problem. There are plenty of land attractions, such as zip lining canopy tours, hiking the Mayan ruins, and cave tubing. Most tours cost less than $150.00 BZ ($75.00 USD) per person.
Belize has adopted multiple culinary cultures, mainly Mexican. The farther you go inland, the more common it is to find restaurants that serve tacos and quesadillas. That said, most kitchens are most obliging when it comes to custom requests; they can usually prepare a juicy burger, to chow mein, and even a full size pizza providing you're fine with waiting a little longer for it to arrive at your table. Most people will be disappointed to discover that “free refills” is a very foreign concept to most restaurants; however, most sodas are served in individual cold, glass bottles and are typically cheaper than what you will find in other countries.
Belize is a peaceful country full of breathtaking evening skies and rugged topography that morphs into the fuzzy horizon. Such stunning views can only be witnessed in select regions of the globe, Belize being one of them.
Along with the local Mayan culture, many Amish and Mennonite communities settled in Belize from Russia and Canada during the 18th and 19th centuries. Naturally, I found these people to be more passive and kind than your average person elsewhere; they were friendly and willing to help with anything I needed. To add, I noticed the vegetation and produce that they sold locally tasted fresher and bolder than what you find in your mainstream grocery stores.
Overall, I had a wonderful experience for the 10 days I vacationed in Belize. And to settle any unwarranted accusations, Belize is equally as safe as most other countries of greater wealth and establishment. Although it's advised that if you are walking the streets at night to use common sense and be on guard, there, however, is no need to fear being robbed, assaulted or worse more than you would if you were right in your own home town.
All in all, whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or as a group, Belize is a great vacation spot to visit before you die. You surely won't regret it!
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