"Stay in the Heart of the Cayo District Centrally located in the heart of the Cayo District, the award-winning San Ignacio Resort Hotel offers guests convenient access to the region’s best sights and activities. San Ignacio Resort Hotel features 24 rooms and has the distinction of being named “Hotel of the Year” in 2012 by the Belize Tourism Board. Room options include a honeymoon suite, regal rooms, deluxe balcony and garden rooms and one spa suite. The on-site restaurant features a number of tantalizing dishes and some of the best traditional food I’ve had in Belize. Check out the on-site Green Iguana Project and learn about San Ignacio Resort Hotel’s conservation efforts in Belize. Be sure to start at least one morning off by bird-watching over breakfast."

"Go Cave Tubing at Jaguar Paw Cave tubing is one of the most popular adventure activities in Belize . Like so many things in the country, it is another chance to learn more about Maya culture. In Maya mythology, caves were the entrances to the underworld, known as Xibalba. A rough translation might mean “place of fear,” but there’s no reason to worry these days. Cave tubing requires safety gear and is always done in groups with respected guides who are trained in safety and proper procedure. There are many options for cave tubing companies at Caves Branch and many have been leading tours since 1995. Pick one, go through the safety training, don a slick-looking helmet and life vest, grab an inner tube and you’ll be ready for your adventure down the river into a cave. Best conditions for the experience don’t involve heavy rainfall, so occasionally tours can be canceled, but your operator will judge whether it’s wise to still depart or not. As all companies have to adhere to safety requirements instituted by NICH, there’s no need to worry."

"Ka'ana Hotel Ka'ana is described as a “boutique resort,” and it appeals to guests who want a sense of being in the Belizean rain forest while also enjoying the comforts and amenities of a full-service resort. Rooms and villas here seem to blend into the jungle, but it's clear that all is carefully tamed to ensure that guests don't feel overwhelmed by the wildness. Rooms are decorated in earth tones, with textiles and design accents all locally crafted. Furniture is sturdy local hardwood. Master suites have outdoor showers, and there are two spacious, private villas, each with its own plunge pool, garden, and outdoor terrace, among other luxuries. Staff can arrange land and sea excursions to the country's most popular cultural, historic, and natural sites."

"The Cayo District is home to many of Belize ’s ancient Maya sites, including one of the largest, Xunantunich. Located atop a ridge near the Mopan River and the Guatemala border, Xunantunich’s "El Castillo," the main pyramid, is certainly the most impressive. Visitors who brave the steep steps to the top are rewarded with unsurpassed views into Guatemala and neighboring areas of Belize . While the climb up can be pretty steep and rough, there are other routes to get down along the backside that make the descenta little easier. It took me multiple visits to finally gather the courage to climb to the top, but I’m grateful I did, as the views were absolutely worth it! Organized tours to Xunantunich often combine with other activities like zip-lining, cave tubing, or even trips to the Belize Zoo. Travelers who wish to explore all of Xunantunich’s six plazas, which contain more than 26 temples and palaces, shouldplanto book a private tour or visit on their own."

"Encountering Caracol The massive ruins of Caracol were once a major Maya metropolis in prehispanic Belize, during the Classic Period. The majority of the site is yet to be reclaimed from the forest, but the structures that have been uncovered are truly impressive. The main structure is still the tallest building in all of Belize and places you "on top of the world." The jungle surrounding the site is teaming with wildlife, and a pair of binoculars come in handy. The ruins are located south of San Ignacio along the rough Mountain Pine Ridge Road. There are several worthwhile stops on the way, such as Rio Frio Cave and Rio On Falls, but the best stop is a cool libation at the Blancaneaux Lodge Bar. By Dijedal"

"On the banks of the Macal River, atthe edge of downtown San Ignacio, you'll finda sprawling Saturday market where everything from shoes and clothing to housewares and fresh produce is for sale. Local people shopfor suppliesand gather to catch up on gossip atthe food stalls. The market is somewhat divided betweenproduce sellersand souvenir vendors, but as the market has grown, theseparation seems to have floundered a bit. Leaveenough time to wander every aisle and stall to ensure no gem is left undiscovered. Locals recommend the tacos and pupusas as the best choices for lunch, and the snow cones topped with evaporated milk for a snack. Buses also park just next to the market in a dirt lot, so transportation is not difficult if you’re coming from outside of town."

"Eat Breakfast at Pop’s Restaurant Pop’s Restaurant is on a side street close to the heart of San Ignacio. Colorful booths and brightly painted walls welcome you in, and the menu focuses on breakfast, served all day. Pop’s feels cozy, the kind of place you want to linger over several cups of coffee. Most guests are locals, who rave about the breakfast as being the best in town, but visitors are enthusiastically welcomed. Most meals come with fruit and I thought their fry jacks were the best I had in Belize . Pop’s is open from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., every day."

"Unlikely Art: Public Service Announcement I found this striking wall mural while walking around in San Ignacio, Belize . There are a lot of hand painted advertisements on empty walls acting as billboards. Safe sex is a big issue in Belize , as it is thoughout Central America, and this no nonsense mural really drives home the consequences of unprotected sex. By Dijedal"

"Often referred to as Belize 's original eco-lodge, Chaa Creek opened in 1981 as a simple rain forest hotel. In the decades since, it has become one of the country's most popular options for upscale jungle accommodations, winning awards for its hospitality and its practices emphasizing environmental sustainability. Guests have two main options in terms of room types and price points. Luxurious rooms and suites are in the main lodge, featuring polished wood or tile floors and locally made furniture; the simpler, more budget-friendly casitas sit along the Macal River. The latter are sparsely furnished and offer few distractions. Guests of either room type have access to the property's amenities and grounds, which include a natural history center and butterfly exhibit, a rain forest medicine trail, binoculars for bird-watching, and canoes for paddling along the river."

"Eat Dinner at Rolson’s Hotel in San Ignacio Rolson’s Hotel and Restaurant is high on a hill, overlooking the town of San Ignacio, not too far from the ruins of Cahal Pech. The restaurant’s tables are mostly outdoors, and the view provides a wonderful backdrop to meals that showcase the best of Belizean and Mexican cuisine. My favorite was a chicken burrito drowning in cheese and salsa. I also thoroughly enjoyed the horchata, fresh-squeezed lemonade and michelada. At happy hour, Monday through Friday between 5 and 7 p.m., the michelada is a welcome refresher. Wireless Internet is available, making Rolson’s a great place to get some work done while enjoying wonderful food served with a smile. The longer you linger, the merrier the atmosphere becomes, as locals seem to favor enjoying a late dinner on Rolson’s breezy patio. Dinner is served from 6 to 10 p.m."

"Explore the Ruins at Cahal Pech On a hill just above the town of San Ignacio, on a site that only covers about two acres, lie the Maya ruins of Cahal Pech. Like so many of the Maya sites around Belize , steps have been taken to ensure that what remains is preserved and that visitors are able to explore structures at their leisure. The name apparently means “place of ticks” and was chosen because the area around the ruins was used as land for grazing animals. Cahal Pech, settled in 1000 BC and no longer inhabited by 800 AD, was a royal palace for a ruling Maya family, and the site consists of seven plazas plus structures that include temples, a ball court, homes and an altar. Not all of the ruins are in excellent shape but climb to the top for wonderful views of the surrounding river valley. There is also a visitor center and museum on site."

"Visit Maya Ruins of Lamanai In the Orange Walk district, in Northern Belize, lies one of the largest Maya ruins in the country: Lamanai. It is accessible by road but I arrived after a one-hour boat ride up the New River. The name “Lamanai” is roughly translated as “Submerged Crocodile.” Apparently, there was once a thriving population. The ruins may date back to 700 B.C. and estimates put the number of structures, which are part of the ruins, at around 700 buildings; however, less than 5% has actually been excavated. Thick jungle, filled with howler monkeys, birds and jaguars, conceal the remaining structures. The walk through the jungle from the landing dock is certainly evocative. Tall palm trees form a dense ceiling and thick underbrush conceals everything around the path, still littered with pottery shards and artifacts because excavation is still ongoing. The Mask Temple has the most well preserved details but the view from the top of N10-43 (or High Temple) is thrilling. I don’t recommend it for those who are afraid of heights because the climb down is steep and challenging. If you can make it, it’s worth every moment of struggle. I am no expert judge, but I would revisit Lamanai again in a heartbeat; of all the Maya historical places I have been, it was the most interesting and complete in terms of narrative and historical detail. A museum toward the entrance to the complex could easily take an entire afternoon to get through because of the volume of information it houses."

"Understated Luxury The 20 or so guest cabanas that make up the living quarters for Lamanai Outpost Lodge are scattered over a small area on the banks of Crab-Catcher lagoon not far from the boundaries of the ruins of Lamanai. It’s a rustic-looking complex at first glance but a deeper inspection reveals understated luxury and well-planned details. The dining lodge served the best hibiscus juice and beef stew I have ever had. While on the property, I met researchers studying the area’s jaguar population, a wrangler who had previously worked in Africa on big game hunts and tourists who were endeavoring to explore all the ruins in Belize in one trip. The lodge attracts a diverse group of people, perhaps for its amenities and location as much as its natural beauty. While it has all the modern conveniences of a property far closer to civilization, it also has the feeling of being absolutely in the middle of nowhere. There’s a peace and serenity that imbues the property. All-inclusive packages include accommodations, meals, two activities per each night’s stay, transfer to/from Belize International Airport, refreshments, taxes, guide and entrance fees, porter service, and Internet access. Rates are available by request to 888-733-7864 or reefsruins@aol.com."

"See the exotic animals you hear at night This zoo in incredible for a few reasons: obviously, primarily for the animals there. Being in Belize , there are jaguars, ocelots, scarlet macaws... everything you wish you could stumble upon when hiking in the rainforest (if only hiking boots were less noisy!). Most noteworthy perhaps are the scarlet macaws, which are endangered. If you like to research places before visiting, you MUST read, The Last Flight of the Scarlet Macaw by Bruce Barcott: it tells about the Scarlet Macaw, Belize itself, and Sharon Matola- the woman who started the zoo and fought to save the macaws a while ago. If you're lucky, you might even be able to hold a boa constrictor (I did!) or meet Matola, who my friends ran into while touring the zoo. By Sarah Kollmorgen"

"Try Rice and Beans with Stew Chicken Undoubtedly, one of the most popular dishes in Belize is “Rice and Beans,” usually served with stewed chicken, beef, or pork. Locals pronounce it “rice n beans with stew chicken” and it’s available almost everywhere throughout the country—from food stalls to resort restaurants. The signature red color comes from red recado, an achiote-based paste common in Belize and other parts of the Yucatan peninsula."

"Belize September Celebrations Belize’s liveliest time of the year comes in September, when the entire country celebrates independence for three entire weeks leading up to Sept. 21. The major towns and cities host various events, and a countrywide calendar is published on Sept. 1, allowing you to follow along with the fun wherever you might find yourself in Belize . The most popular events are a steel pan concert called Pan Yaad, held in Belize City, and two full-blown carnival parades. Belize City Carnival, with soca and Caribbean music blaring, is held in mid-September, while Orange Walk Carnival takes place on Independence Day and celebrates Mestizo heritage. Take advantage of low-season fares to get a unique culture-filled experience in Belize in September."

"The Crocodile Lagoon Turneffe Atoll’s sprawling central lagoon is a beautiful natural playground marked by thick mangrove islands and littoral forest, and hosts dozens of remarkable marine species – including crocodiles. Yes, the central lagoon is pretty to look at and one of the best places in Belize to watch the sun rise, but I wouldn’t recommend you go for a dip. Crocodiles spend their days escaping the heat in the thick mangroves, then swim out into the open ocean at dusk to feed. I saw two crocs during my time on the island; a very young juvenile whose curiosity had brought him right up to the sandy patch of beach behind the Blackbird Caye Resort, and a suspicious adult who kept his distance (thankfully). Still, the lagoon is a great place to spy on the aforementioned crocodiles, photograph marine birds, and more. Photo Finish: Nikon D800 | 24-70mm f/2.8 lens | Aperture f/6.3 | ISO-400 | Shutter 1/60 sec."

"Visit the Lighthouse at Big Caye Bokel Located at the southern end of Turneffe Atoll, not far from Southern Lagoon and a variety of wonderful dive sites, the Lighthouse at Big Caye Bokel is just one of the many in the extensive reef system that guards mainland Belize . Hire a local to take you by boat and plan for time to snorkel or dive in the area. Also nearby is Caye Bokel Marine Reserve."

"Swim the Emerald Forest Though the name Emerald Forest would suggest a lush, green plot of land, in fact the Emerald Forest in Belize is a paradise for divers that is part of Glover’s Reef Atoll. Because it is somewhat shallow, it offers idyllic conditions for snorkelers to easily see the huge green Elkhorn coral that have now been given the name “Emerald Forest.”"

"And here we go – down into the deep blue sea, at the Great Blue Hole, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most remarkable underwater kingdoms the world has to offer. I didn't get a change to visit the stalagmites and stalactites deep down in the hole – I'm not quite ready to go that deep as a diver – but I was able to explore much of what the hole has to offer. Even burgeoning divers like me can get down with their crew and explore a world they never knew existed. GoPro Hero3+ Silver | Aperture f/2.8 | ISO-100 | Shutter 1/610 sec."

"Visit the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary The Northern Jacana, the elusive Sungrebe and the Yellow-Headed Parrot are all easily found within the boundaries of the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary’s 16,400 acres. It is a birding destination, and considered to be a globally significant wetland. Belize has the largest nesting population for the Jabiru Stork and Crooked Tree is an excellent place to spy on the famous resident. The surrounding communities play host each year to celebrations that are part of World Wetlands Day. A bus can bring you to Crooked Tree from Belize City every day except Sunday and the sanctuary is located three miles off the Northern Highway, about 30 miles from Belize City or Orange Walk. The sanctuary is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and offers horseback riding, boat tours and hiking for those not strictly interested in bird watching."

"Order Gelato From Tutti Frutti On a sandy street, in a building with Victorian trim, near the Purple Monkey Bar and across from a tour company, there’s an unassuming storefront that guards what some people told me is the best gelato in the world. Tutti Frutti Gelateria serves up a constantly changing variety of flavors. From rare Provence lavender to simple chocolate to bracing mint and all kinds of fresh, fruit flavors, every scoop is a welcome relief from the tropical heat. The owners divide their time between Placencia and a home in Italy, so there are months when the shop is closed. During my visit, every customer who came in was a repeat and every one raved about the gelato they’d previously tried, exclaiming that it was indeed the “best.”"

"Experience a Maya Homestay Maya history and heritage is a large part of the culture of Belize , and the best way to really learn about this native group of people is to stay in a Maya home overnight. During the cultural exchange program you can learn how to harvest corn, kill and clean a chicken, make tortillas or clean laundry in the creek. Guests will stay with Maya families in their homes, which are usually thatch roof houses with few modern conveniences, and eat their meals with Maya. Meals are simple, consisting of corn tortillas, eggs, beans, hot peppers and sometimes a protein. The opportunity began in the early 1990s, and there are approximately 20 families currently participating, spread out over three villages: Aquacate, San Jose, and Na Luum Ca. For more information, check out www.belizeexplorer.com/Maya-Village-Homestay-Network.html."

"Copal Tree Lodge Formerly Belcampo. Each of the 16 rooms at Copal Tree Lodge is a spacious villa-style suite set on the edge of the jungle, which gives a sense of privacy and peacefulness. Guests shouldn't be surprised to see coatimundi, agouti, and other wildlife while showering in the spa-style bathrooms with their floor-to-ceiling windows. Tile floors, comfortable beds wrapped with gauzy mosquito nets, and private verandas are standard in every suite, as is Wi-Fi and complimentary laundry service, and the hotel has a pool and a restaurant/bar. The numerous outdoor activities include exploring Copal Tree Lodge's chocolate trail and kayaking or canoeing on the Rio Grande River at the base of the property; various trips can be organized off-site, too. The hotel is closed from mid-September to late October."

"One of Caye Caulker’s best beach bars is also its friendliest. Set right onthe Split—a narrow channel dividing the island’s north and south portions—Caye Caulker’s most social cornerinvites tourists and locals to gather for a swim off an extended dock, or to enjoya cocktailand music. Lazy Lizard’s recently upgraded look includes a variety of umbrella-covered wooden picnic tables, seating under palapas , and a new beach extension with steps leading into the shallow sea areas for easy entry. On the menu, you'll find typical bar bites: burgers, fish tacos, and full meals like alobster plate. Thebar holdsoccasional full-moon parties, live music, family-fun days, and beach volleyball tournaments."

"Learn About Garifuna Culture in San Pedro Ambergris Caye may not be the ideal spot to holiday if you want to immerse yourself in the local Garifuna culture; however, the island is not completely devoid of its influence. Head south of San Pedro and stop by the Black and White Garifuna Cultural Center. Opened in 2012, owner Julia Martinez has worked tirelessly to promote and educate visitors on traditional Garifuna culture. Visitors to Black and White Cultural Center are educated on what a typical day is like for a traditional Garifuna woman, including a demonstration on how to make cassava bread – a culinary staple in Garifuna cuisine. There are junkunu dancers and Garifuna drummers, and guests can also view a 30-40 minute video presentation to learn more in-depth facts about the Garifuna culture. The experience culminates with my favorite part – sampling a number of traditional Garifuna dishes. Travelers wanting to schedule a visit to the Black and White Garifuna Cultural Center in San Pedro should contact Julia directly at 605-2895 or 625-5204."

"No visit to Ambergris Caye is complete without an afternoon at the Palapa Bar. Situated at the end of a dock surrounded by turquoise waters and cool breezes, Palapa Barattracts a mix of locals, travelers, and some of the coolest bartenders on the island. On a warm day, eschew the barstools and opt instead to floatin inner tubesbesidethe dock; you can even have cold buckets of Belize ’s Belikin beers lowered down to you. In addition to beer and standard cocktails, funcreations like Scotty’s Palapa Punch (three different types of rum, triple sec, mango, pineapple, and a squeeze of lime) offer some island-inspired refreshment. Upinthe palapa , recommended items fromthe menu include sausage dip, pulled pork sandwiches, andthe immense half-pound burger.Palapa Bar is 1.5 miles north of town and easily reached by golf cart, taxi, bicycle, or water taxi, which drops you right off at the dock."

"Snorkel and Swim With Sharks at Hol Chan Marine Reserve Hol Chan Marine Reserve, located just a few minutes' boat ride from San Pedro, is the place to go for snorkeling in Northern Belize . This small, protected area (Hol Chan means "little channel" in Mayan) is home to part of Belize's barrier reef, which is the second largest in the world (after Australia 's reef), and the largest healthiest. There are many tour operators out of San Pedro that can take you out for a half-day of snorkeling the reef, and you'll see colorful coral, rainbow fish, and manta rays, among other marine life. Make sure your guide brings you to Shark Alley, where nurse sharks come to feed on the fish scraps boats leave behind. There, you'll be able to swim mere feet—or even inches, if you dare—from the creatures."

"Spend the Afternoon at Rojo Beach Bar The long trek miles north is definitely worth it for a day at Rojo Beach Bar. This swanky yet casual beach bar is easily one of my favorite spots in Belize and I’m obviously not alone. Rojo has received a lot of international acclaim and was recently named one of the top ten beach bars in the world by Huffington Post. Rojo's imaginative drink menu and tantalizing cuisine are a departure from your average beach bar. Then again, Rojo is definitely not your average beach bar. Be sure to try a Rojo Poison, made with Chinese chilies, fresh ginger, a trio of rums, local ginger wine, fresh juice, and perhaps a few other secret ingredients. Do not leave without ordering the lobster pizza —when in season. The dumplings and spicy noodles satiate my craving for quality Asian food in Belize, and don’t forget to save a little room for Rojo’s homemade desserts. From ‘entertainment’ provided by the bartenders Finn and Dani to some of the best drinks and eats I’ve had on my travels, it’s worth allotting an entire afternoon at Rojo Beach Bar. Getting there can be an adventure in itself however. It’s possible to go by golf cart, but after extensive rains, the dirt road may be nearly impassable. It’s easiest to take Coastal Express water taxi for the fastest and least stressful trip. Rojo is closed Sunday and Monday. Open Tues - Sat noon to 10pm. +501-226-4012."

"Elvi’s Kitchen Before I went to Belize , anyone I spoke with who had already been told me that I had to have a meal at Elvi’s Kitchen. What started out as a take-out burger window in 1974 eventually became a sit-down restaurant serving lovingly prepared Caribbean dishes such as conch soup and fritters, mojo de ajo , fried green plantains, and street corn. During high season you might have to wait in line to eat dinner at the restaurant, but most of the time, there isn’t much delay. Save room for dessert. Elvi’s Kitchen is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Saturday."

"Chill with the Locals at Wayo's Bar This understated beach bar is one of Ambergris Caye’s best-kept secrets that is quickly getting out. Owned by “Wayo from Cayo”, Wayo’s has become my regular hang out spot over the past two years. Wayo and his wife Dee can be found at the bar every day, often sharing a drink with many of the regulars. They've developed longstanding relationships with countless locals and a number of tourists, many of whom come back every few months to see Wayo and the crew. The main bartenders, Ruby and Archie, will not only serve up some great drinks, they are a wealth of information on what to do and see in San Pedro. You’d be hard put to find a more chill spot to relax right on the beach. Be sure to try a local specialty — the Michelada. Made with beer and a mix of spices, this is Belize’s version of the Bloody Mary and the best cure for a hangover! Open daily, 10am to midnight."

"Drive a Golf Cart Through San Pedro When I was a kid, I visited a place called Mackinac Island. No cars are allowed and most people get where they need to go via their own two feet, a bicycle or one of the many horse-drawn carriages that populate the busier streets along the harbor. So when was told that no cars were allowed in San Pedro, except those needed for maintenance, I felt a simple nostalgia for the experience of my childhood and I wondered what form of transportation locals favored on Ambergris Caye. It turns out, golf carts rule the road in and around San Pedro and if you’re going to enjoy your stay, renting a cart is the best way to fit right in! Our cart was procured through Island Golf Carts and while there are a number of options in town I thought their terms, pricing and service were the very best."

"Blue Water Grill is an open-air restaurant right on the beach in a quieter end of San Pedro. Simple and rustic in its decor, with wood walls and colorful paintings, it’s a space that allows the food to be the star of the show. Breakfast features good, predictable Belizean favorites such as fry jacks and scrambled eggs with beans, but dinner is the real attraction. The crispy fried pork dumplings with hoisinpeanut sauce, served over an arugula, hearts of palm, and daikon radishsalad, was my favorite dish, though the Mongolian-style ribs, the bacon-wrapped filet mignon, the key lime pie, and the crème brûlée were also delectable."

"Belize’s top two tourism hot spots, Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, are its two mostpopulous islands, some21 miles off the coast of Belize City. In San Pedro, Ambergris Caye’s main town, tourists spend their days diving, snorkeling, and fishing: The coral reef’s white froth is visible less than a mile from shore. Nights are for partying and bar-hopping. The southern and northern ends of Ambergris are more suited toseclusion and romance. Sister island Caye Caulker is asmaller, laid-back Caribbean version of the two, with sand-only streets (no cars here), more local eats than fine dining, and a deeply rooted Creole culture. Caye Caulker'soffshore adventures and treasures include a marine reserve, mangroves for kayak exploration, and breathtaking sunsets. Hop on the ferry to experience both."

"Eat Breakfast on the Beach at Estel's Good breakfast spots are on the rise in San Pedro, but one of the most beloved places to grab a bite will always be Estel’s Dine by the Sea. Aside from its perfect beachfront location where you can eat with your toes in the sand, the food is pretty darn good as well. At Estel’s, you won’t find menus on the table; you must walk inside to check out the board. Don’t be surprised to find a crowd on the weekends, especially Sunday mornings. Just follow the smell of Charles Jr.’s famous BBQ specialties cooking on the grill, and you’ll understand why people are ordering plates of ribs first thing on Sunday! Aside from some impressive barbecue, Estel’s has a number of dishes that might leave you feeling the need to return once or twice more for breakfast. Personal recommendations include the Mayan Eggs, which is scrambled eggs with tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and sausage, served with a side of refried beans and fry jacks, or try the breakfast burrito. Don’t forget the Marie Sharps hot sauce on top! Breakfast is served all day. Closed Tuesdays."

"Hol Chan Marine Reserve “The Hol Chan Marine Reserve. You can swim with sharks and stingrays at Shark Ray Alley and you are pretty much guaranteed to see a huge variety of fish and other sea life. All of our guests are excited when they come back from a day there after seeing the many shades of the sea, which is 82 degrees and crystal clear, while the skies are usually blue and the sun bright, bringing out all the colors below. Huge fish, sharks, sting rays, sea turtles — you never know if there is going to be a dolphin or manatee joining everyone. The sea is our playground.” Kirsten Miglio, owner Ak’boL Yoga Retreat Sponsored by Belize"

"Try Local Cuisine at Caramba Restaurant From the first time I set foot on the island of Ambergris Caye, Caramba became my favorite restaurant in San Pedro. And that’s not changed, even ten years later. Rene Reyes, Sr. and his wife Patty have done a remarkable job with the restaurant. Every season brings something new and exciting – whether it be décor changes, menu enhancements or even new cocktail creations. The Reyes’ sons Jonathan and Renesito are now involved in day-to-day operations, keeping Caramba one of the long-standing family-owned and operated businesses on the island. Personal recommendations include Conch Fritters (seasonal), Sopa de Lima, Fish Tacos, Pibil Pork Sub and the Coconut Shrimp. Any of the seafood dishes are spectacular – go for the Maya or Tour Guide cooking options. Be sure to try one of bartender Charlie’s cocktails, like the Strawberry Beerita, King Margarita, or a special mojito. Not a drinker? Caramba has some of the best fruit smoothies on the island. Closed Wednesdays. Check Foursquare for current specials."

"Mountain Retreat Over 7,000 acres of adventure await visitors to Hidden Valley Inn and Reserve. This intimate luxury resort is situated in a guest-exclusive reserve in the Mountain Pine Ridge area of the Cayo District. The boutique property features 10 Estate Rooms and two Estate Suites. It’s one of the only properties where you are likely to find fireplaces, and with good reason – it does get rather chilly in the Mountain Pine Ridge area and the real wood-burning fireplaces are not only romantic, but provide an excellent source of heat on those chilly nights. The Lodge is the estate house where guests can dine in the restaurant, relax in the common areas, or visit the library lounge. The lodge was originally designed as a family vacation home and the personal touches show. It’s an ideal spot to spend the late afternoon having a cocktail, catching up on emails, or reading a good book. Hidden Valley’s plantation-style décor and the more rustic stone hearths in the Lodge provide a very welcoming and warm atmosphere. Be sure to check out the property’s jungle platforms and resting areas. These are great spots for yoga and meditation and even feature Sanskrit names. Whether you do yoga or not, these platforms are prime spots for stopping and relaxing along the water’s edge – a few even offer waterfall views. And speaking of waterfalls, do not miss taking a hike to Butterfly Falls as it’s one of the most picturesque spots in Belize and it’s reserved for guests of Hidden Valley Inn!"

"Bet on the Chicken Drop If you’re in San Pedro on a Tuesday or Thursday night, head over to Wahoo’s Lounge on Front Street for the weekly Chicken Drop. It’s definitely one of the most unique experiences you’ll have on your Belize vacation. Place your bets, watch the lucky person who gently blows on the chicken’s butt and sets him loose on the bingo like board. As you can probably gather by now, expect the chicken to wander around until he finds some lucky person’s number to poop on. Join in the festivities by yelling for your number, as the pot can easily get up to several hundred dollars ( Belize ). However, before you are quick to run up and claim your winnings – guess who has to clean up the chicken poop?"