TOP TEN THINGS TO DO IN BELIZE
Take a trip down Monkey River near Placencia. A local guide such as Percy will point out howler monkeys, crocodiles and even take you for a home-cooked lunch at his sister’s house
The Blue Hole – best seen by small sea plane or take a dive tour with many of the operators here.
ATM Caves. Swim into the Actun Tunichil Muknal or ATM cave to see evidence of Maya sacrifices including a crystallized skeleton Involves a hike, swim and short climb in caverns. Not for the claustrophobic but suitable for all age groups.
Garifuna drumming: take a drumming class in Dangriga or visit the Lebeha cultural centre in Hopkins where there are regular gigs and shows.
The Mayan Attraction: walk to the Cahal Pech archaeological site from the centre of san Ignacio town, or visit some of Belize’s other Mayan sites such as Min Li Punit (The Big Hat) and Xunantunich
Birding: even non –twitchers will be captivated by the birds here. As well as the gorgeous toucan, expect to see scarlet macaws and yellow-headed parrots among other colourful species.
Beaches and Bars. The beaches in the cayes are clean and dotted with shady spots, shacks for buying cold beers or cocktails and bars with names like Sandy Toes or Bambooze
Enjoy some peculiar Belizean oddities. Watch eccentric events such as the Thursday ‘Chicken Drop’ in San Pedro which attracts locals and tourists like. Chickens wander around a large board while onlookers place bets on which square the birds will defecate. It’s not Monte Carlo, but it is hilarious!
Eat: The national dish is rice and beans usually serve with beef, chicken pork or lobster but don’t miss the opportunity to sample Lionfish. Although the fins are venomous the meat is not and makes a delicious meal.
TAKE TWO: A two centre trip - make the most of a Belizean stay by adding on a trip to Mexico or Guatemala. A comfortable bus ride takes you from Belize City over the border to Flores, Guatemala (close to the amazing ruins at Tikal) or north to the Yucatan, Mexico for visiting Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Chichen Itza.
www.travelbelize.org