people
In Belize, there are various traditions and customs representing over eight diverse cultures. For generations, the people of Belize have demonstrated a cultural commitment to preserve the country’s unique features.
Although containing a population of only 370,000, Belize is truly a melting pot of colorful personalities. Belize consists of people of Maya, Mestizo, Kriol, Garifuna, East Indian, Mennonite, Arab and Chinese descent. In Belize (formerly British Honduras), English remains the official language, but the most diverse language in Belize is Kriol (Belizean Creole). Other languages spoken include Garifuna, Mandarin, Spanish and Maya.
Although containing a population of only 370,000, Belize is truly a melting pot of colorful personalities. Belize consists of people of Maya, Mestizo, Kriol, Garifuna, East Indian, Mennonite, Arab and Chinese descent. In Belize (formerly British Honduras), English remains the official language, but the most diverse language in Belize is Kriol (Belizean Creole). Other languages spoken include Garifuna, Mandarin, Spanish and Maya.
history
The first people to settle Belize were the Maya around 1500 B.C.E. As shown in archeological records, they established a number of settlements here, including Caracol, Lamanai and Lubaantun. The first European contact with Belize occurred in 1502 when Christopher Columbus reached the area's coast. In 1638, the first European settlement was established by England, and over the course of 150 years, many more English settlements were set up.
In 1840, Belize became the "Colony of British Honduras" and in 1862, it became a crown colony. For one hundred years afterwards, Belize was a representative government of England, however in January 1964, full self government with a ministerial system was granted. In 1973, the region's name was changed from British Honduras to Belize and on September 21, 1981, full independence was finally achieved.
In 1840, Belize became the "Colony of British Honduras" and in 1862, it became a crown colony. For one hundred years afterwards, Belize was a representative government of England, however in January 1964, full self government with a ministerial system was granted. In 1973, the region's name was changed from British Honduras to Belize and on September 21, 1981, full independence was finally achieved.
geography
Belize is located in Central America and is bordered to the north by Mexico, to the south and west by Guatemala and to the east by the Caribbean Sea. We have the lowest population density in Central America with 35 people per square mile or 14 people per square kilometer. The coast contains a swampy coastal plain with mangrove swamps, and in the south and central region there are hills and low mountains. Most of our land is undeveloped and is forested with hardwoods.
biodiversity
As a result of its low density and large tracts of undeveloped land, Belize is also known for its extreme biodiversity and distinctive ecosystems. It is a part of the Mesoamerican biodiversity hotspot and has coastal floodplains, pine forests, tropical forests, wildlife reserves, a large variety of different species of flora and fauna, and the largest cave system in Central America. Some of the many species of Belize's flora and fauna include the black orchid, mahogany tree, toucan, jaguar and tapir.
weather
The weather in Belize is classified as tropical wet climate, typically ranging from warm and dry to warm and wet. Belize’s dry season is between February and May and has significantly lower rainfall than the rest of the year. When it does rain, it is usually in mild, short bursts.
June through December is the wet season, when parts of the country receive up to 150 inches of rain. The most frequent rainfall usually happens in June or early July and is punctuated by a break in late July or August known as the "little dry."
June through December is the wet season, when parts of the country receive up to 150 inches of rain. The most frequent rainfall usually happens in June or early July and is punctuated by a break in late July or August known as the "little dry."
local resorts and housing
Due to Belize quickly becoming a popular tourist country, flights, housing and certain activities (such as visiting Laughing Bird Caye) get fully booked months ahead. Therefore, you may want to book early to secure your desired stay and activities.
RESORTS:
Chabil Mar
Maya Beach Hotel
Naia Resort and Spa
ISLANDS (CAYES):
Coral Caye - Turtle Inn
HOUSE RENTAL (or check Homeaway website):
Sunset Pointe (click link for an example of Sunset Pointe units)
Los Porticos Villas (click link for an example of Los Porticos units)
ADVENTURE PACKAGE (highly recommend):
Ian Anderson's Caves Branch Jungle Lodge (tree houses)
RESORTS:
Chabil Mar
Maya Beach Hotel
Naia Resort and Spa
ISLANDS (CAYES):
Coral Caye - Turtle Inn
HOUSE RENTAL (or check Homeaway website):
Sunset Pointe (click link for an example of Sunset Pointe units)
Los Porticos Villas (click link for an example of Los Porticos units)
ADVENTURE PACKAGE (highly recommend):
Ian Anderson's Caves Branch Jungle Lodge (tree houses)
fun things to do
OCEAN
Fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, island tours, whale shark tours
LAGOON / RIVER
Bioluminescence night tour, crocodile, wild birds
JUNGLE
caves tubing, horseback riding, Belize zoo, ziplining
MAYA RUINS
Tikal National Park (in Guatemala bordering Belize)
CULTURAL
Chocolate Farm, Taste Belize Tours
Spice Farm
Maya Medicinal Trail
Fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, island tours, whale shark tours
LAGOON / RIVER
Bioluminescence night tour, crocodile, wild birds
JUNGLE
caves tubing, horseback riding, Belize zoo, ziplining
MAYA RUINS
Tikal National Park (in Guatemala bordering Belize)
CULTURAL
Chocolate Farm, Taste Belize Tours
Spice Farm
Maya Medicinal Trail