Belize
A unique land of natural and cultural diversity, Belize offers an extraordinary experience. It is home to the second largest barrier reef, vast jungles, ancient Maya ruins, incredible caves and a vibrant Caribbean culture. This is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. In addition, the hospitality at this beautiful country is genuinely warm, and will make you feel right at home. The diverse personalities and traditions of so many different ethnicities will surprise and delight you. For generations, the people of Belize have consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to preserving not only their natural heritage but also the cultural heritage that gives the country its distinctive charm.
Its easy to travel between the areas of attraction across the country. You can do so by road, plane or boat. With so many exciting things to see and do Belize is the perfect destination if you are looking for an unforgettable tropical vacation in the Caribbean sun.
History
Belize was a former British Colony until it received it’s independence in 1981. It is the only country in Central America with English as the official language. Everyone in Belize speaks English. Other languages include Spanish, Chinese, Garifuna and various Native Indian ethnic languages such as Mayan and Ketchi.
Long before its independence on September 21, 1981, Belize was home to a wide variety of people. The Maya were in Belize around 1500 B.C., and built an empire that flourished for hundreds of years, with the peak being between 250 A.D. and 900 A.D. In the 1600’s, the British began to settle in Belize and by the 1800’s, the settlement became a British colony called British Honduras. The British log cutters, known as the Baymen, mixed with African slaves. Their descendants are the Creoles, one of Belize’s largest ethnic groups. Not too long after, the Garifuna came to Belize. They were a new people born of the mixture of Africans who had escaped slavery, and Caribs in the Eastern Caribbean. Meanwhile, in the north, many thousands of Mayas and Mestizos fled to Belize during the Caste War of Yucatan. All these groups have come together to create what is commonly referred to as a melting pot of cultures.
Today, Belize truly is a land of cultural diversity, with immigrants from all corners of the globe. East Indians, Chinese, Mennonites, Lebanese, North Americans, Central Americans, Europeans and many others now call Belize home. This blending of cultures has created an environment where people can exist in harmony. Belizeans are warm and friendly people that enjoy welcoming visitors to their nation. In fact, Belize has a widespread reputation of being one of the happiest and one of the world’s friendliest tourist destinations.
Location
This beautiful and unspoiled country is located at the southern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula approximately 150 miles south of Cancun. This location is the heart of the Caribbean Basin hence Belize is more Caribbean than Central American. The landmass is about the size of Massachusetts, (8,876 square miles). The length of the country is 185 miles and it is 85 miles wide. Its borders are Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the south and west and the Caribbean Sea on the east.
Population & Natural Resources
What sets Belize apart from most other countries in the region and the world is the richness of its natural resources and a very low population density. While neighboring countries with similar landmasses have millions of inhabitants, Belize population is just a little over 405,000 people. A third of country’s land and marine environments have been designated as protected areas, and most are managed for tourism.
Off the coastline lies 185 miles of adjacent reef, the largest in the Western Hemisphere. the reef attractions include hundreds of cayes, three magnificent atolls and the Great Blue Hole. Inland, an unspoiled rainforest, rivers, cave systems, Mayan archaeological sites, the world’s only jaguar preserve and much more awaits you. With so many great tours and attractions to see, it’s no wonders why Belize was recently voted ‘Best Adventure Destination in Central America’ at The Prestigious World Travel Awards.