- 1). Eat seafood. Belize has a long coastline that offers an abundance of seafood. Try fresh red snapper, conch ceviche or any of the options at your favorite seaside restaurant for guaranteed quality. If you go on a fishing tour, some restaurants will prepare fish that you have caught. Ask your server for his recommendation, and when in doubt, go for the special. It's likely to be the catch of the day and the freshest option.
- 2). Go diving. The aquamarine waters off of Belize's coast offer spectacular diving and snorkeling opportunities. Countless seaside dive shops offer training, lessons, certifications and guided tours, or you can rent equipment and head out on your own. Belize has three large atolls and the second largest barrier reef in the world. The Blue Hole, in the Lighthouse Reef atoll, is one of Central America's most famous dive spots.
- 3). Visit the Cayes. Off of the northern coast of Belize lies a group of peaceful islands, called "Cayes." Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker are the two most popular, and several other less visited islands are also accessible by boat. The pastel-colored buildings, palm trees and sandy streets make for an idyllic setting for water sports, fishing, diving, eating and relaxing. Accommodations are available for a variety of budgets, and the cayes are accessible by water taxi or small airplane.
- 4). Try local transportation. Buses in Belize are notorious for poor maintenance, a trouble compounded by an undeveloped road system. For short trips, however, they are an interesting way to travel with the locals and to see the countryside. Watch your head, though, as the pot holes and bumps in the roads are likely to throw unsuspecting passengers into the air. The buses are an inexpensive, entertaining way to see the country, and are easily survived with patience and a sense of humor.
- 5). Head for the jungle. A large portion of Belize is covered with thick, lush jungles. Head out on your own or book a guided tour to experience the wildlife and stunning flora. Don't forget to bring a camera for monkey sightings, and be careful to bring a map if you set off without a guide. Look in any of the major guidebooks to find hiking trails and vantage points, and ask your hotel staff for advice.
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