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Ambergris Caye
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With a promising location, on the Caribbean coast of Central America nestling between Mexico and Guatemala but seeming to have avoided the social unrest of its neighbouring countries, Belize is a haven of peace and tranquility as well as a place of tremendous natural beauty and diversity, nearly 40% of its territory being part of a reserve of some kind or other. This is a country where you can embark on an adventure, exploring majestic mountains and traces of Mayan culture or else opt for the amazing underwater world of the longest barrier reef in the western hemisphere. The scope both for relaxation on sun-kissed beaches, or action and excitement for the sports enthusiast, is endless.
The main sport in Belize is cycling, and the most important annual event drawing amateur cyclists world-wide is the Cross Country Cycling Classic. Its 127 offshore Cayes (islands) offer excellent fishing and boating as well as scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities, while its numerous rivers can by navigated by raft or kayak via various jungle reserves and prime bird-watching locations. The facilities on offer to take part in all this action are first class, while its ecotourism industry is now also growing in popularity.
While English is the official language of the nation, colonisation, slavery and immigration have long since played a role in generating an incredible diversity of cultures and ethnic groups who reside here. Ambergris Caye is a superb diving site, but was once inhabited by the Mayans over 1500 years ago, who supposedly dug a narrow channel to separate the Caye from Mexico. It is to be found in the northern most waters of Belize and used to form part of the Yucatan Peninsula. The town of San Pedro welcomes visitors who come here to enjoy the stunning azure waters of the Caribbean, the mangrove forests and the sparkling beaches and lagoons. One mile west of the Belize Barrier Reef is Caye Caulker, known historically for its plentiful supply of exposed fresh water which made it a favourite stopping-off point for British and Spanish sailors. It remains relatively untouched by the large-scale development of many areas in Belize, retaining the charm of the fishing village and boat building heritage which are still in evidence today.
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Mayan Temple
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Away from the tourist hotspots, the north of the country has jungles which provide the habitat for the jaguar and five species of wildcat indigenous to the country. Its coastal lagoons are vast feeding grounds for colonies of storks, herons and egrets, and its rivers abundant with crocodile, turtle and tarpon. Southern Belize too, features pristine rainforest and the mysterious unexplored territory of the foothills of the Maya Mountains, far off the well-worn tourist trail but an exciting challenge for the adventurer. Near the town of Punta Gorda you can experience the rich ethnic mix of this nation by visiting the Mopan and Kekchi Mayas living in over 30 different villages in the area.
All of these regions and destinations can be reached from the capital of Belize, Belize City, itself offering all the facilities of a bustling metropolis as well as a host of attractions. Visit the world class Belize Zoo, a new museum, historic government buildings, churches and a stunning Mayan site at Altun Ha. The laid-back native Belizeans will no doubt greet you with typical charm as you spend time here getting to know the history of the country and planning your itinerary before setting off on your adventure further afield.
|
|
Ambergris Caye
|
With a promising location, on the Caribbean coast of Central America nestling between Mexico and Guatemala but seeming to have avoided the social unrest of its neighbouring countries, Belize is a haven of peace and tranquility as well as a place of tremendous natural beauty and diversity, nearly 40% of its territory being part of a reserve of some kind or other. This is a country where you can embark on an adventure, exploring majestic mountains and traces of Mayan culture or else opt for the amazing underwater world of the longest barrier reef in the western hemisphere. The scope both for relaxation on sun-kissed beaches, or action and excitement for the sports enthusiast, is endless.
The main sport in Belize is cycling, and the most important annual event drawing amateur cyclists world-wide is the Cross Country Cycling Classic. Its 127 offshore Cayes (islands) offer excellent fishing and boating as well as scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities, while its numerous rivers can by navigated by raft or kayak via various jungle reserves and prime bird-watching locations. The facilities on offer to take part in all this action are first class, while its ecotourism industry is now also growing in popularity.
While English is the official language of the nation, colonisation, slavery and immigration have long since played a role in generating an incredible diversity of cultures and ethnic groups who reside here. Ambergris Caye is a superb diving site, but was once inhabited by the Mayans over 1500 years ago, who supposedly dug a narrow channel to separate the Caye from Mexico. It is to be found in the northern most waters of Belize and used to form part of the Yucatan Peninsula. The town of San Pedro welcomes visitors who come here to enjoy the stunning azure waters of the Caribbean, the mangrove forests and the sparkling beaches and lagoons. One mile west of the Belize Barrier Reef is Caye Caulker, known historically for its plentiful supply of exposed fresh water which made it a favourite stopping-off point for British and Spanish sailors. It remains relatively untouched by the large-scale development of many areas in Belize, retaining the charm of the fishing village and boat building heritage which are still in evidence today.
|
|
Mayan Temple
|
Away from the tourist hotspots, the north of the country has jungles which provide the habitat for the jaguar and five species of wildcat indigenous to the country. Its coastal lagoons are vast feeding grounds for colonies of storks, herons and egrets, and its rivers abundant with crocodile, turtle and tarpon. Southern Belize too, features pristine rainforest and the mysterious unexplored territory of the foothills of the Maya Mountains, far off the well-worn tourist trail but an exciting challenge for the adventurer. Near the town of Punta Gorda you can experience the rich ethnic mix of this nation by visiting the Mopan and Kekchi Mayas living in over 30 different villages in the area.
All of these regions and destinations can be reached from the capital of Belize, Belize City, itself offering all the facilities of a bustling metropolis as well as a host of attractions. Visit the world class Belize Zoo, a new museum, historic government buildings, churches and a stunning Mayan site at Altun Ha. The laid-back native Belizeans will no doubt greet you with typical charm as you spend time here getting to know the history of the country and planning your itinerary before setting off on your adventure further afield.