Central America plays host to tourist at its many Caribbean destinations. One such lesser known destination is Belize, located near Mexico and Guatemala. It is a peaceful & beautiful place with the Caribbean Sea right at its doorstep. Belize is primarily Creole and its people friendly and welcoming. This very factor makes it different and better than other Caribbean destinations which are not so welcoming.

Belize is English speaking, which makes it a great destination for people who feel uncomfortable when out of their element. Some Westerners find it hard to adjust when they first arrive to Belize since the attitude of the people is very laid back and relaxed. No one is ruled by their wristwatch here.

If you are used to the inexpensive destinations of the rest of Central America, Belize may be a bit of a shock. However, it is still relatively cheap to stay and play, more so then many of the other Caribbean Islands. There are many beautiful resorts here as well as hostels and budget hotels.

Belize is great for the outdoor lover. You'll find protected natural habitats, as well as coral reefs and rainforests. Fish and mammals abound so nature lovers will be in their element. If archeology is your passion you won't want to miss the ancient Mayan ruins. You can schedule day trips with tour guide agencies and learn much about the meanings of the ruins as well as their rich history.

Lamanai is a Mayan site that is a must see. It consists of 60 or so structures that were inhabited from 1500 BC until the Spanish arrived. To reach this site you must take a 90 minute boat trip where you can see plenty of species of birds along with crocodiles. Xunantunich is another archaeological site that holds much history and is a fascinating area.

Be sure to take or rent scuba or snorkeling gear and visit the underwater world around Belize. The Cayes is the longest reef in the Western Hemisphere. You will find hundreds of species of tropical fish here, and at the Belize Reef, another stunner.

You will wear shorts, t-shirts, and bathing suits year round in Belize, especially during the summer months. Pack a sweater or two as the evenings cool off in the winter. In general though, the climate is hot and humid, like most tropical areas.

Belize is best visited from November to May or June as the summer months sometimes get too hot to handle, making visits and excursions, such as those to the Mayan ruins, almost unbearable in the hot weather. Also July to November, are the months of the hurricane and thus best avoided. Belize City has its own airport which has regular flights from almost all the major United States and Central American cities.

Belize is a beautiful little country with plenty to see and do. It's perfect for people who are interested in not only lying on a breathtaking beach, but experiencing a rich underwater sea world, and the history of the area's original inhabitants as well.