In 1998, we packed our bags and traveled down to Belize in Central America for fun in the sun and native exploration.  Bordered by Guatemala to the west and Mexico to the north, the first thing that we learned was that this country offers the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere... second largest in the world to Australia's famous Great Barrier.

Divers come from all over the world to explore this underwater playground. Thousands of marine species of fish, coral and other seaworthy creatures can be seen from almost every snorkel and dive spot, especially at a popular location like Laughing Bird Caye.  Snorkeling and diving during the day + drinking rum concoctions in a hammock in the evenings = The Ultimate Tropical Vacation!  So here we are...

We chose to stay oceanside among its beautiful southern beaches along the Placencia region... lured by activities and adventure.  Our tropical accommodations included breakfast and dinner of fresh local flavors and a selection of day tours that allow you to experience ocean, jungle and rivers.

Many of our days were spent enjoying their main attraction of diving and snorkeling along the reef or around deserted cayes.  We discovered several atolls where they could have doubled as Gilligan’s Island with untouched beaches and shady majestic palms.  If you look hard enough in the photos, you can see us sunning under the palm trees enjoying our brief moments away from civilization... our just imagine yourself there!

After one of morning dives, we happened upon a whale shark double the size of our dive boat... where we all quickly jumped in the water to experience the incredible wonder of this plankton-eating fish.  Just seeing the width of its mouth... longer than the length of any of us... and watching its spiral dive to the depths was a magical moment never to be forgotten.

On land, we found that bicycles provided a great way to explore the peninsula.  First, we peddled north to the village of Seine Bight, only to find this native town still reflecting the effects of Hurricane Hattie of 1961.  Unaware of tourism, the only amusements were a hut-size grocer who was closed for their midday siesta and a beach that could use a cleanup brigade.

Enjoying the freedom of transportation on our trusty bikes, we cruised down to the community of Placencia where we found several of the homes built up on stilt.  This raised living not only prevents flooding during rainy season but also offers an opportunity to receive afternoon's ocean breezes.  Sandy soil and shady palm trees provides for a simple life for the locals who fish daily for their meals as well as maintain their own vegetable gardens. 

We noticed that the tree next to the Market served as a post for news and local announcements.  Most interestingly, their famous sidewalk, noted as the worlds’ longest and narrowest single concrete walkway by the Guinness Book of Records, is the only thoroughfare through town's thick, sandy grounds and bikes were not allowed.  Arrrgh!

Our favorite spot in town was a thatched-roof bar situated at the end of the village's fishing dock, offering the one and only Belizean beer available and a much desired cool oceanside breeze. 

One of the most interesting daily tour recommendations from our inn was a jungle river cruise to explore the wilds of the Monkey River in the southern end of Belize.  We discovered that the term cruise was overly descriptive for our five-person jon-boat mastered by a young local, named Cagey.

Go to our Monkey River blog to read more on this exciting river exploration.

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