Why I Love Belize
By Paul Harding, Writer
It’s a cliché to say good things come in small packages, but with Belize it just feels right. No bigger than New Hampshire or Israel, Belize doesn’t quite fit the mold of Latin America or the Caribbean, but proudly considers itself both. I love the low-key nature of its people and the seamless mix of cultures – Belizean, Creole, mestizo, Garifuna, Maya and even expat. I love the fact that you can be snorkeling on the barrier reef one day and hiking in the jungle the next. Belize is endearingly rough around the edges, but thoroughly traveler-friendly.
With one foot in the Central American jungles and the other in the Caribbean Sea, Belize may be small but it’s packed with adventure and culture.
Best times to Visit
Low Season (Jun–Oct)
Heavy rainfall from June to mid-November, especially at night. Hurricanes possible between August and October. Few tourists; prices for accommodations drop significantly.
Shoulder (Nov & May)
Chance of dry days in November and hot and humid in May. Fewer tourists and lower prices. Most attractions open.
High Season (Dec–Apr)
Expect sunny skies from January to April. Prices for accommodations increase by 30% to 50%. Extra-high ‘peak’ prices from mid-December to mid-January.
Proposed Itinerary
Sunday, March 31, 2019
American Airlines
Depart Chicago 8:04 AM, connecting through Dallas
Arrive Belize 1:30 PM
Tropic Air (Warning: Puddle Jumper)
Depart Belize City Gldsn Intl – BZE at 2:40 PM (flights every hour)
Arrive San Pedro – SPR – 2:54 PM
Ambergris Caye (5 nights)
Scenic island featuring white sand beaches, a famed barrier reef for diving & The Great Blue Hole.
Potential Activities
- Altun Ha Helicopter Tour – Experience an aerial view of the most extensively excavated ruin in Belize, Altun Ha, which was a major ceremonial center.
- Biking, Kayaking, Paddleboard, Beach!
- Snorkel Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley
- Day Trip to Caye Caulker
- Secret Beach
- Restaurant Guide for Ambergris Caye
Las Terrazas Resort
Booked 5 nights
3.5 miles North of San Pedro, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye
Friday, April 5, 2019
Tropic Air
Depart San Pedro – SPR at 12:00 PM
Arrive Belize City Gldsn Intl – BZE 12:15 PM
American Airlines
Depart Belize at 1:33 PM, connecting through Miami
Arrive Chicago 10:07 PM
Tim Off: March 31, April 1-5 (working both Saturday March 30 and April 6)
Challenges
Need to check on crime rates and safety.
Gay friendly?
Being Gay in Belize
Is Belize Gay Friendly?