Brilliant Belize ready for discovery

I first discovered paradise in 1995. To my surprise, and considerable relief, it is not a supernatural world in some far off place in the afterlife, but rather, a mere five-hour flight from Winnipeg.

Don’t believe me?

You better Belize it!

“Mother Nature’s best-kept secret,” Belize is the perfect destination for those with unquenchable curiosity – an adventurer’s bliss.

Overflowing with mystery, the country is a captivating blend of tropical forests teeming with fascinating wildlife, endless sandy beaches on colourful cayes (islands) dotting the coast, majestic mountains, gorgeous shorelines, and ancient Mayan ruins.

A small, Central American country bounded by 174 miles of Caribbean coastline and sandwiched between Mexico and Guatemala, Belize is a rare jewel – 40 per cent of the country’s landscape is designated as protected national parks and natural reserves. There are few places on earth that remain as unspoiled as Belize.

While this Caribbean gem offers countless opportunities for exploration, its size allows for convenient access to its diverse landscapes and unique cultures.

International flights to Belize depart from Toronto or Minneapolis and usually involve a layover or change of aircraft in a U.S. hub. Alternatively, passengers can fly from Winnipeg to Cancun, from where a four-hour comfortable bus ride transports them to Cozumel and then across the border.

Next to domestic flights, busing is the most efficient mode of travel within Belize; however, to fully experience the country’s diversity, a vehicle is imperative, providing access to most of the country’s must-see destinations.

Most roads, although improving, are in poor condition, so a durable vehicle is essential. Three main highways – Hummingbird, Western, and Northern – are paved, while the other primary roads – the Southern and Coastal highways – need serious work.

There are many sections of washboard and potholes which shake one’s teeth out, but Winnipeggers should be immune to such dental destruction – driving on our crumbling streets for any extended period of time is tantamount to traveling along Belize’s deteriorating roads.

Poor infrastructure aside, Belize offers an array of activities, natural wonders, exquisite cuisine, and cultural opportunities.

The nation’s nearly 270,000 people represent a host of ethnic backgrounds, and although there is a diversity of languages, English is universally spoken and understood.

The route is best-followed if one flies into Belize. Leaving Belize City, start your vacation by spending time on the many Cayes. There are many places that offer excellent accommodation – at a wide range of prices.

Ambergris Caye is the most popular, attracting hordes of sun seekers and tourists.

No trip is complete without a snorkeling or diving adventure to the Hoi Chan Marine Reserve – part of the second largest coral reef in the world. You will be absolutely amazed by the colourful sealife and coral.

Moving south, travel to Lamanai, a Mayan term meaning “submerged crocodile.” Knowledgeable, local guides offer exploratory trips down the Belize River to ancient Mayan ruins.

Expert guides locate animals unique to this country and are happy to point them out along the way. Keep your eyes out for jaguars, tapir, howler monkeys, and a variety of reptiles and birds – especially colourful toucans and great blue herons. Standing at four feet tall with a six-foot wing span, these giants are one of the largest birds in the world.

Lamanai is also an excellent place to experience an astonishing array of local flora, fauna, fruit farms, and vineyards.

The final days of your trip should be spent relaxing in the scenic community of Placencia.

The three-mile long beach is arguably the most beautiful beach in the country. Dolphins frequently swim close to the shores of the deep, azure water.

Belize – astoundingly beautiful – more than any words can describe. I’m going back – soon.

Won’t you join me?