Your Top 3 ‘Must Visit’ Islands in Belize

Belize is a natural beauty filled with an array of diversity. In Belize islands are commonly called ‘cayes’, pronounced ‘keys’. This tiny English speaking country is certainly blessed with many beautiful and immaculate islands, which are but only a short distance away from one another. My top three must visit islands are: San Pedro Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and Laughing Bird Caye National Park.

San Pedro Ambergris Caye is known to be the largest of Belize’s offshore islands and the most developed island- here you can dive the Christ of the Abyss.  The town, San Pedro, is where you will find the most populated part of the island, equipped with an array of lodging, dining, shopping, and nightlife. The island is known as ‘La Isla Bonita’, translated in English as, ‘The Beautiful Island’, a nickname given by Madonna’s hit song, ‘La Isla Bonita’. Tours and activities on the island range from easy, moderate, to strenuous. Choose your adventure: have a relaxing sunset cruise with your loved one, or take a short boat ride out to the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, to snorkel or dive.  San Pedro is said to have been a Maya Trading Post, and the evidence of this exist today, be sure to visit the Marco Gonzalez Maya Site, and unfold the mysteries of the Mayas. With all this said, sure enough it is no surprise that this island has been rated the #1 Island in the world on TripAdvisor.

Take it easy and simply ‘Go Slow’ visiting Caye Caulker. Caye Caulker is located nearby to San Pedro Ambergris Caye, but it is a distinctive atmosphere to San Pedro- here be sure to dive the Hol Chan Marine Reserve for a great reef experience. Looking for paved roads? This cannot be found in Caye Caulker! Kick off your shoes and experience the island life, strolling on the sandy streets. This island has a laid back Caribbean vibe and is popular amongst backpackers, budget travelers and lately even honeymooners, looking for an island escape.  The friendly people of Caye Caulker gives Caye Caulker the nickname, ‘La Isla Carinosa’, translated in English as, ‘Charming Island’, and charming it is. Many locals as well as visitors enjoy the entertainment and swimming at ‘The Split Beach’, a narrow channel that has divided the Island in two. I definitely recommend experiencing the true meaning of Caye Caulker’s motto, “Go Slow”.

This upcoming ‘must visit’ island takes you to Southern Belize. Laughing Bird Caye National Park is located approximately eleven miles off the coast of Placencia Village, Stann Creek District. What is most unique about this island is that it stands on an elongated ridge of reef (faro). Due to its location and form it attracts an abundance and variety of coral habitats and marine life. Unlike, San Pedro Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker, this island is secluded, and uninhabited by humans. Laughing Bird Caye is a protected area and is also listed as a World Heritage Site. Diving, fishing, and snorkeling in this area, is a true natural marine experience that can easily be arranged through licensed tour operators such as: Splash Dive Center Belize.

Belize is a natural beauty and is filled hundreds of picturesque islands. However, if you are planning to experience Belize we do recommend visiting these top three ‘must visit’ islands.

Needing more information on Belize and its Islands be sure to contact Patty patricia@splashbelize.com  or visit us at www.splashbelize.com

September a Festive Month- Independence Day and Jump Up Time

Independence Day and Jump Up Time

Belize: Adorned in Red, White, and Blue, the sound of the marching bands and the loud trumpets can be heard, commemorating the history of what has become Belize. Belize is the Land of the Free, and by listening to Belize’s many national, and historical September Celebration songs including Belize’s National Anthem, we can feel the vibration of the drums and the rhythm of the proud patriotic march.

Belize gained its Independence on September 21, 1981 and it was on this day that the Belizean flag was raised, and the Belize’s National Anthem song by all inhabitants, who proudly called themselves: ‘Belizeans’ for the very first time. Today, the entire month of September is packed with events, all aimed at celebrating Belize. This year September celebration theme is “Belize in you, Belize in me, Land of the Free!”

The Celebration began with the National Song Competition that was held on Saturday, August 10. On this day Belizeans gathered to participate in a three-song category competition: Junior, Patriotic, and Carnival. The winning songs will be used extensively throughout this year’s September Celebration.

Other popular historical events that will be taking place this year September includes: Carnival Mass Camp, Queen of the Bay Pageant, Carnival Queen and King Competition, St. George’s Caye citizen parade, Carnival Jouvert, Carnival Road March, and on the 20^th midnight Belize Independence Ceremony and fire works display.

For many and myself included September is one of the best times to celebrate with locals and experience the patriotism of Belizeans. The Belize Carnival is one of the most colorful, energized, and creative, event in September. The soca and punta music on this day will have you shaking your bum as you view the bright, and picturesque costumes.  Plan on visiting Belize this September celebration and experience the festivities on this tropical Caribbean paradise. Be sure to check out the official Calendar of Events click here.

Learn more about Belize by contacting Patty at patricia@splashbelize.com and learn how you can be part of the celebrations!

Belize: Summer in December

Belize - Summer In December

Usually December means winter: one of the coldest seasons of the year. Fortunately this is not true for Belize. Belize is a tropical country all year-round! The average high in Belize during this time is is 80 F. (26 C.) and the average low is 71 F (21 C.).  Belize is the perfect escape from winter as it is a mere 2 hours flight from the United States of America.

Why not take a family winter vacation in the small tropical English-speaking land of Belize?

Who says that you cannot take a family dream winter vacation in the deep blue? The waters in Belize are warm and perfect for snorkeling or diving, even in December. Extend your summer days to December scuba diving, snorkeling, or just relaxing in the inner cayes near Placencia, Belize. Visit Belize’s Great Barrier Reef and the three atolls: Glover’s Reef, Turneffe, and Lighthouse.  You will surely not regret this winter vacation.

Forget about packing your sweaters and coats this winter and bring along your hiking boots or sundresses. Spend time on land exploring the natural beauty of the rainforest, the mysteries of the Mayan Temples, the largest cave system in Central America, and last but not least visiting the only Jaguar reserve in the world. With all the natural wonders found in this tiny country it is not surprising that 80% of the rainforest in Belize is under government protection. Belize is home to a diverse number of animals, birds, and other unique species.

As winter sets in the Northern Hemisphere many species of birds flock to warmer areas such as Belize. Why not join them?  If you enjoy birding I would definitely recommend visiting Belize. Belize covers 44.8% of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, uniting goals of conservation in the Central America Region and Mexico. Experience more than just the evergreens this winter in Belize.

Start planning your great winter escape today by contacting Patty at patricia@splashbelize.com

Summer in December awaits you in Belize!