BELIZE BACKGROUND INFORMATION

With a population of about three hundred thousand, Belize is bordered by Mexico ’s Yucatan Peninsula and the green Guatemalan Peten Forest on one side and Caribbean Sea on the other.

It is the only English speaking country in Central America . Spanish is also widely spoken, especially in Orange Walk, Corozal and the Cayo districts.

Belize is mainly known for its Mayan monuments and culture, and its incredible marine life, a paradise for snorkel buffs and scuba divers. But Belize is also famous for its longest Barrier Reef in the Americas , its coral atolls, jungles and scenic waterfalls, cave systems and islets and colorful wild life.

• San Pedro

San Pedro, a former fishing village, has become the major Belizean’s tourist destination, with excellent accommodations and fishing and diving facilities.

• Bolmopan

Belmopan, the capital, is a young city. Besides the National Assembly, Belmopan features a museum housing many of the country’s Mayan treasures. Guanacaste National Park, a reserve, is just a short drive away.

• Belize City

Belize City, the former capital, is not a popular destination with tourists, but its Battlefield Park , St. John’s Cathedral, the oldest Anglican Church in Central America, the Bliss Institute and the Factory Art Foundation are well worth a visit.