Mara Vorhees - Belize

With one foot planted in the Central American jungles and the other dipped in the Caribbean Sea, Belize blends the best of both worlds.

Offshore, kayakers glide from one sandy, palm-dotted islet to another, while snorkelers swim through translucent seas, gazing at a kaleidoscope of coral, fish, dolphins and turtles. Inland, explorers investigate ruins of ancient civilizations, and birders aim their binoculars at some 570 species. Between national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and marine reserves, more than 40% of the countrys area is protected in one form or another, creating a haven for countless creatures of land, sea and sky.

The value of these natural resources is unquantifiable, but Belize attracts more than 850,000 annual visitors eager to climb a Maya temple, spot a toucan, snorkel the reef and otherwise partake of paradise. Tourism is the countrys top source of employment and investment. The irony is that it is also the countrys biggest environmental threat.

Belize does not yet have the infrastructure to support the massive numbers of tourists that arrive, especially by way of cruise ships. It does not have the resources to truly protect its sanctuaries and reserves and their inhabitants. And it does not have the political will to stop the rampant coastal development, which would mean turning down millions in investment dollars. According to sources such as Tropical Conservation Science, as much as 80% of coastal land has already been sold to foreign interests with the intention of building condos and resorts.

Fortunately, Belizeans are environmentally aware and indefatigably active. Thanks to a progressive populace, Belize offers myriad ways for travelers to tread lightly, from beach resorts powered by solar energy to jungle lodges built from reclaimed hardwoods. Licensed guides not only direct, but also educate their clients about the fragility of the reef, the medicinal uses of flora and the threats to the jaguars habitat.

Its never easy to maintain the delicate balance between preserving natural resources and cashing in on economic opportunity. But most Belizeans are proud of their natural heritage and they recognize that the goals of environmental conservation and economic prosperity are not mutually exclusive. This is the enlightened approach that has earned Belize its reputation as a paradigm of ecotourism.

Sub Umbra Florero reads the motto on the Belizean flag. It refers to the mighty mahogany tree, and it means Under the shade, I flourish. The mahogany may not be as prevalent as it once was, but with its loss has come an understanding of its value. Belizeans recognize that their countrys greatest asset must be respected and protected, and that tourists have an important role to play.

Its no wonder that Belizeans extend such a warm welcome to travelers. These easy-going people are eager to share the staggering scenery, the bountiful biodiversity, all that exists in the shade of the mahogany tree.

Belize has something for everyone. If you are an impulsive adventurer seeking an adrenaline rush, you will find it in Belize. If you prefer to spend quality time with a good book on a sunswept beach, there are a few of those, too.

Despite its variety, Belize is a tiny place; its relatively easy to get anywhere, even the deepest jungle or the most isolated island. Transport around the country is easy enough, but it can be expensive. Local buses and water taxis travel frequently along the main routes, but as soon as you venture off these primary highways and waterways, youll have to rent a car, hire a taxi or book a tour. Domestic flights and charters are also useful for reaching the more remote corners.

Accommodations range from bargain-basement cabins, campsites and hammock hotels, all the way up to first-class resorts loaded with luxury. Lodging is abundant and its usually easy to find someplace to stay when you arrive in town. However, if you have your heart set on staying somewhere in particular, it is wise to book in advance. Plan ahead for the weeks between Christmas and New Years Day, and before and during Santa Semana (the week preceding Easter Sunday). It is also a good idea to book accommodations ahead of time during the school vacation in January and February.

Note that because Belize has a high standard of living, prices here tend to be a good deal higher than those of other Central American nations.

In Belize the high season for tourists corresponds roughly with the dry season: December to May. The shoulder months especially December receive a fair amount of rain, but not enough to scare away the multitudes of travelers who want to spend their holidays in the tropics. Most hotels and resorts are more expensive during this period (high-season rates are quoted throughout this book).

The biggest influx of tourists comes between December 15 and January 15, and during the weeks around Easter. Some hotels and resorts, especially top-end accommodations, charge extra-high prices during these peak periods. If youre using top-end or some midrange accommodations, youll certainly save money by avoiding these seasons. for more on accommodations in Belize.

The rainy season runs from June to November. The early months, especially May and June, are actually a wonderful time to travel to Belize: you can avoid the tourist bustle and lodging is slightly cheaper. The only ownside is are dangerous and therefore closed to the public. Southern Belize is especially precarious during the rainy season; this relatively remote region receives two to three times as much rain as the rest of the country.

Travel costs are significantly higher here than in most Central American countries, but cheaper than in the USA or Europe. If youre arriving from inexpensive Central American nations such as Honduras or Guatemala, get ready to bust that wallet wide open. High taxes, many imports and the fact that much of its tourism industry is geared to North Americans on fairly short vacations are the factors that keep prices high.