Life in Belize

What I have found living here for the past four and a half years is a diverse and welcoming nation.
The Mayan and Garifuna in the south, the Nortenos in the north and a melting pot of Latins, Germans and expats across the rest of the country. It is a very harmonious atmosphere, warm and friendly people who are always willing to lend a hand and give directions.
Unlike its neighboring Spanish-speaking countries, Belize’s official language is English, a relic of the British rule over the ex-colony, ultimately making any interaction with locals or logistic challenge much easier to manage.
Amazingly, the country’s history and cultural heritage are well-reflected in its cuisine, ranging from 5 star restaurants to local delicacies from roadside food stands, so there is always something for every palate.

The Sleeping Giant as seen from the Hummingbird Highway

Fried Breadfruit

Sunset from my private tree-house

Exploring Belize

One of the greatest ways to discover the wild beauty of Belize is by zip lining, easily accessible via several great zip lining tours throughout the country, while Angel Falls and Bocawina are particularly recommended.
Zip lining experience is exhilarating, as moving above and through the rain-forest canopy provides a fascinating perspective of the jungle that otherwise would be out of reach. If you decide to go one of the zip lining tours, wear good and durable shoes, since it usually entails a bit of hiking, but more importantly, bring your Go Pro!

Zip Lining at Angel Falls

Belize has thousands of acres of virgin rain-forest just waiting to be explored, and the best way to do so is by firstly booking a place in one of the country’s myriads of jungle lodges, serving as a gateway for intrepid explorers who wish to venture out, deep into the woods, while alternatively some resorts and operators offer horseback riding through the jungle, perhaps better suited for the ones among us who prefer a more regulated form of traveling in this wild environment.
One of the most recommended deep-jungle accommodation options in Belize is Martz Farm Treehouses and Cabanas, from here, you can take a trip into the rain-forest on horseback, guided by the remarkably professional Mr Joe. After coming back from the journey, you can take a dip in your own personal waterfall at your tree-house and or go for a pontoon boat ride on the nearby lake, where you will get a glimpse of several spectacular waterfalls

A Sunrise Horseback Ride at Martz Farm

Mountain Pine Ridge

Established in 1944, Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve is a remarkable 100,000 acre protected area, home to several caves and waterfalls, most notably Rio on Pools, Rio Frio Cave and Big Rock Falls, 300-meter-high falls, powerfully cascading in the middle of the rainforest, into an upper pool that drains into a large tranquil pool. As for today, the formidable falls are only accessible by pre-scheduled appointment, but there is a great overlook to witness its grandeur.
Rio on Pools on the other hand is considered as a popular destination among locals, swarming its large sprawling rock formation of natural swimming pools and mini-waterfalls.

Additionally, Mountain Pine Ridge is adjacent to Chiquibil Forest Reserve, which is home to the Caracol Mayan Ruins, an awe-inspiring place to visit, where you could virtually spend weeks here and never be bored.

Big Rock Falls

Vitamin Sea

Suffice to say, it’s not possible to talk about travel destinations in Belize without mentioning its stunning beaches and cays, as this country is blessed with some of the world’s most beautiful shores and snorkeling/diving sites, one of which is Palcencia Peninsula, a magnet for retirees who choose to spend their new life in this speck of heaven.
Belize is home to roughly 450 cays, with Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker being the two most well-known, and while the former is split between Belize and Mexico, dominated by the town of San Pedro, probably the best place in the country for snorkeling and diving, the latter is a laid back destination, where you get around by golf, cart or bicycle, enjoy dipping your toes in the golden sand and relaxing.

The Beautiful Blues of San Pedro

Moonrise at Placencia

Final Words

I highly encourage you to make Belize your next vacation destination. From 5 star resorts to backpacking hostels, there is something for every taste and budget. From fully guided tours to “choose-your-own-adventure” and everything in between, as they say here, “You betta Belize it!”

About Me

Born in the US, but having discovered the feeling of wanderlust many years ago. I love exploring and experiencing new places and cultures. Belize has turned out to be the perfect melting pot of culture and a great jumping off spot to explore around Central America. You can usually find me out exploring around on my motorcycle and pulling over to take pictures.

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