Explore Belize's Secrets: The Ultimate Vacation Guide

In his book, *How to Have the Perfect Belize Vacation*, Gary Peterson shares his extensive knowledge of Belize, gained from travelling the country many times and deciding to make it his home. The book covers everything from the best time of year to visit for tanning and scuba diving, to the best resorts for your needs, and what to pack. Peterson also offers insight into the local culture, including where to shop for groceries and how to navigate the bar scene. With this book, you can avoid common pitfalls and have a perfect vacation in Belize.

Best time to visit Belize and top places to go

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Belize is during the dry season, from late November or December to mid-May or August. During this period, you can expect warm temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rain. February and March offer idyllic weather, with azure waters that are perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling.

However, the dry season is also the peak season, so you'll have to deal with crowds of tourists. If you want to avoid the rush, consider visiting in September and October, during the rainy season. Keep in mind that some establishments shut down during this off-peak period, and there is a slight risk of hurricanes.

Top Places to Go

Belize, a small country with diverse attractions, offers something for every kind of traveller. Here are some of the top places to visit:

• Ambergris Caye: Belize's largest island and the most popular place to visit. San Pedro, its only town, offers a lively downtown scene with great restaurants and beach bars. It's known for world-class diving and snorkelling due to its proximity to the barrier reef.
• Caye Caulker: A tiny island near Ambergris Caye, perfect for travellers seeking a budget-friendly, laid-back Caribbean vibe. Like its neighbour, it offers excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities.
• San Ignacio: A large town on Belize's western border, offering easy access to incredible rainforest adventures, Maya ruins, and eco-lodges. It's an excellent hub for outdoor adventures and exploring the country's Central American side.
• Placencia: A popular coastal resort town on Belize's mainland, known for its luxurious resorts, beautiful sandy beaches, and easy access to the Southern Cayes and Reef.
• Hopkins: A former Garifuna fishing village that has retained its seaside charm. It's ideal for those seeking a quiet coastal base to learn about the local culture and experience eco-tourism activities, including diving and snorkelling.
• Belize City: Home to the country's only international airport, most travellers pass through here. It offers historical sites, attractions like the Belize Zoo, and most hotel chains. However, it has a reputation for crime and gang violence, so caution is advised.
• Glover's Reef: A remote atoll in Southern Belize, popular for underwater adventures like diving and snorkelling. It's also a great spot for watersports enthusiasts.
• Punta Gorda: The largest village near Belize's southern border, offering dense jungles and a concentrated Maya community. It's a great base for adventure travellers seeking to explore nearby cayes or Maya ruins.
• Corozal: The northernmost district of Belize, popular with expats seeking a laid-back lifestyle in small coastal villages. It offers Maya sites, the Shipstern Nature Reserve, and a glimpse into the simple life of small fishing villages.

Things to do in Belize: Top tourist attractions and activities

Belize is a small country but has a lot to offer. Here are some of the top things to do and see:

• Explore Belize's Barrier Reef by diving the Great Blue Hole and Half Moon Caye Wall or snorkelling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve and South Water Caye Marine Reserve.
• Learn about Belize's ancient Maya civilisation by visiting Maya sites such as Xunantunich, Caracol or Lamanai, and Maya caves such as Actun Tunichil Muknal and Caves Branch for cave tubing.
• Visit Belize's many islands, known as Cayes. Popular Cayes include Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, and less-visited Cayes include Tobacco Caye and Glover's Reef.
• Visit National Parks and Protected Areas such as Mountain Pine Ridge in Cayo and the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Go wildlife spotting by visiting the Belize Zoo or the Baboon Sanctuary. Alternatively, go hiking at the Cockscomb Basin or Monkey River.
• Experience the unique Garifuna culture of Belize.

There are also many great accommodation options in Belize, catering to different budgets and preferences. These include:

• The Lodge at Chaa Creek: an eco-friendly jungle resort located in a private nature reserve near San Ignacio.
• Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort: an eco-friendly resort in Hopkins, specialising in scuba diving and offering easy access to Maya sites and caves.
• Pelican Reef Villas Resort: modern beachfront condos in southern Ambergris Caye, offering a pool, onsite restaurant and bar, and a dock for snorkelling and fishing.
• Island Expeditions: small group Belize adventure packages, including stays on Glover's Reef Atoll.

Establish your travel budget

Belize is a small country, but it has a lot to offer. The first step in planning your trip is to establish your travel budget. This will help you determine what kind of trip you want to have – will it be a low-budget adventure, or will you be splurging on luxury?

If you're looking to travel as cheaply as possible, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the time of year you'll be visiting. Room rates can vary depending on the season, so it's worth checking if you can get a better deal by travelling outside of peak times. It's also a good idea to research the different areas of Belize – you might find that accommodation, food and activities are more affordable in certain regions.

On the other hand, if money is no object, then you'll want to look into the best luxury hotels and resorts that Belize has to offer. There are plenty of options to choose from, including eco-lodges, beachfront condos, and even over-water bungalows. You can also look into all-inclusive resorts, which can often provide excellent value for money.

Of course, most people will be working with a budget that's somewhere in between these two extremes. Belize has a range of mid-range accommodation options, and you can also save money by being selective about where and what you eat. For example, you might choose to eat at your hotel or resort for convenience, or you could opt for cheaper local products and produce from stores and markets.

Whatever your budget, it's important to do your research beforehand to avoid any nasty surprises. For example, it's worth noting that there is an exit fee when leaving Belize, and you'll need to budget for this. Similarly, it's a good idea to check whether your accommodation provides drinking water, as tap water in Belize is not safe to drink and you'll need to factor in the cost of buying bottled water.

By taking the time to establish your travel budget and plan your trip accordingly, you can ensure that you have a perfect vacation in Belize that suits your financial situation.

Where to stay in Belize

Belize has a wide variety of accommodation options, from beach resorts to jungle eco-lodges. Here is a guide to help you decide where to stay during your perfect vacation in Belize.

Belize City

Belize City is the largest city and main port in Belize. It offers a lively and colourful atmosphere, reflecting the multitude of cultures that come together to form its unique charm. While it may not be the most popular destination for tourists, it is a great place to experience local urban culture, entertainment and cuisine. The city also serves as a convenient jumping-off point for excursions to nearby attractions, such as the caves and Mayan ruins in the Cayo District.

San Ignacio, Cayo District

San Ignacio is the second-largest city in Belize and a popular starting point for visitors wishing to explore the country's natural and historical wonders. Located in the heart of Belize's spectacular rainforest, San Ignacio provides easy access to significant Mayan ruins, expansive cave systems, and a bustling market. It is also a convenient base for those interested in canoeing on the Macal River or hiking to the nearby Mayan ruins at Cahal Pech.

Placencia

Placencia, a 16-mile peninsula on the Caribbean coast, is known for its white, palm-fringed sand beaches and excellent facilities. It is a popular choice for families, offering a range of restaurants and great diving and snorkelling opportunities. The peninsula is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea to the east and a lagoon to the west, providing a tranquil and idyllic setting for visitors seeking a beach vacation.

San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

San Pedro is the ideal destination for those seeking a mix of beach relaxation and water activities. Located on Ambergris Caye, it offers some of the best views and waters in Belize. It is a prime spot for diving and snorkelling, with easy access to the world-famous Blue Hole and an array of coral reefs teeming with marine life. Above the surface, San Pedro also boasts a vibrant town with a range of dining and entertainment options.

Dangriga, Stann Creek District

For those interested in delving deeper into Belize's island culture and history, Dangriga is an excellent choice. As one of the largest towns in southern Belize, it offers a similar vibe to Belize City but on a smaller scale. Dangriga provides a convenient base for exploring the surrounding areas, including the nearby Placencia peninsula and the Stann Creek region, known for its outdoor adventure activities.

Belmopan, Cayo District

Belmopan is the purpose-built capital of Belize, located almost at the country's centre. While it may not have the same historic charm as some other destinations, Belmopan offers a range of great restaurants and easy access to nearby attractions. These include the caves, ruins and National Parks of eastern Cayo, as well as the spectacular Guancaste Park and the Hummingbird Highway.

Accommodation Options

When it comes to accommodation, Belize offers a range of options to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are some highly-rated hotels and resorts to consider:

• Victoria House, San Pedro: A luxurious beach-side resort with elegant rooms and easy access to Belize's barrier reef.
• Turneffe Island Resort, Turneffe: This secluded resort is located on a private coral island, offering unrivalled diving and fishing experiences.
• Hidden Valley Inn, Cayo District: Set within a 7000-acre private reserve, this intimate property provides guests with incredible rainforest views and a luxurious spa experience.
• Copal Tree Lodge, Punta Gorda: A luxurious resort in the heart of Belize's rainforest, with spacious rooms, a chic pool and an elegant restaurant.
• Ka'ana Resort, San Ignacio: A collection of small cottages set amidst lush tropical gardens, offering a secluded and tranquil escape.
• Robert's Grove, Placencia: A charming and good-value hotel located on a pristine white beach, just minutes from Belize's barrier reef.
• Itz'ana Belize Resort & Residences, Placencia: A luxury beachfront resort offering stylish suites and private villas, ideal for families or groups.

These are just a few examples of the many wonderful places to stay in Belize. Whether you're seeking beachfront relaxation, jungle adventures or cultural exploration, Belize has something for everyone.

What to eat and tipping guide

What to Eat in Belize

Belize offers a wide variety of delicious dishes, from fresh seafood to traditional ethnic cuisine. Here are some mouth-watering options to consider:

• Rice and beans, the quintessential Belizean dish, is a spicy and smoky delight, flavoured with recado (or achiote), salt pork, onions, peppers, and coconut milk. It's often served with a side of stewed chicken, fish, or pork, and can be enjoyed for a modest price of around US$5.
• Along the coast and on the cayes, you'll find an abundance of fresh seafood. Indulge in grilled, broiled, steamed, or fried spiny lobster during its season (mid-June to mid-February). Alternatively, snapper or grouper, prepared over a grill with lime juice, is equally delicious and more economical.
• Conch, in season from October to June, is a must-try. It's delicious grilled or stewed in lime juice as ceviche, but for a true Belizean experience, try it in fritters—chopped and fried in a light batter.
• Explore the diverse cultural flavours of Belize with dishes like Serre and hoodut, a Garifuna specialty of fish cooked in coconut milk with plantains. Or try the Creole favourite, Boil Up, a hearty stew of fish, plantains, yams, and potatoes served with tomato sauce and boiled bread.
• Sample the Maya dish that's a hit with tourists: pibil. It's a slow-cooked delight of pork and other meats seasoned and wrapped in banana leaves, then cooked in an underground oven.
• With Mexico as its neighbour, Belize also offers a plethora of Mexican dishes, including tamales, burritos, garnaches (fried corn tortillas topped with beans, salsa, and cheese), and panades (deep-fried tortillas filled with fish).

Tipping Guide for Belize

Tipping in Belize is discretionary and not mandatory. However, it is a nice way to show your appreciation for good service, and it can significantly impact the quality of life for those in the service industry, as the minimum wage in Belize is very low. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

• In restaurants, it is customary to tip around 15% of the total bill for good service, and at least 10% if the service is not up to par.
• When paying by card, you may have the option to add a gratuity, but it's better to tip in cash to ensure the money goes directly to the staff.
• Hotels may include a 10% service charge upon checkout, but this may not always be distributed to the staff. It is considerate to tip bellboys, porters, and housekeeping staff directly, with 5-10% of the overall bill being a reasonable amount.
• For tour guides, a tip of 10-15% of the total cost of the tour is appropriate. If your tour includes scuba diving or a visit to the Great Blue Hole, you can also tip $5-$10 BZD per oxygen tank.
• Taxi drivers do not usually expect tips, but if you do, they may go out of their way to assist you.
• Other roles that typically don't expect tips include street food vendors, arts and crafts vendors, and fast-food restaurant staff.

Frequently asked questions