The Caribbean is a vast area home to many stunning islands and beaches perfect for a tropical getaway.
Oftentimes, within those borders are lavish resorts, cultural cities, and lush jungles that can be overlooked by the mesmerizing blue waters found across this paradisal region of the world.
Central America can be forgotten as a “Caribbean” vacation, but there are some phenomenal destinations along the Caribbean coastline that are well worth visiting.
While other Central American nations, like Costa Rica and El Salvador, continue to boom in popularity, another just so happens to be the fastest growing destination in the Caribbean.
Nobody can argue the beauty of Belize, but visiting here comes with mixed reviews. Let’s dive in!
Is Belize Dangerous To Visit?
Not to shoo anyone away from wanting to visit the eye-popping landscapes and seascapes of Belize, but there are some safety risks attached with visiting.
Anyone remember John McAfee, the founder of the popular McAfee anti-virus software?
Turns out he was a madman. Netflix released a documentary in 2022 showcasing his wild life on the run. Where was his safe haven of choice? Belize.
That’s not a compliment. This is due to the country’s inability to properly investigate serious crimes.
The first line of the U.S. State Department’s Belize travel advisory goes as follows:
“Violent crime – such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder – are common even during daylight hours and in tourist areas.”
Of course, it would be unfair to cast judgement on the entire country. Many vacationers go home unscathed ‘ooh’-ing and ahh’-ing over the drop-dead gorgeous beaches and easy-going lifestyle Belize has to offer.
That being said, there are legit safety concerns in certain areas.
Sometimes the biggest cities are also the biggest duds. That’s the case for Belize City, where crime runs rampant and offers little to nothing for travelers other than its airport and cruise port.
For what it’s worth, I’ve been to 30 countries now.
While it was years ago, I’ve never felt more unsafe in my travels than I did crossing into Belize from Chetumal and traveling to the coastal town of Corozal.
Head To Belize’s Pristine Islands And Beaches
Beyond the eyesore of Belize City lies countless areas that are the textbook definition of “paradise”.
While many travelers book beach trips to Mexico without thinking twice, the neighboring country of Belize offers so much more in terms of beauty and idyllic experiences away from the Cancun crowds.
The most iconic site of Belize is the famous Blue Hole, which is just as it sounds.
But, what tourists seek even more are pristine beaches. Good news is they are plentiful throughout Belize’s scenic coastline, especially past the Corozal Bay onward to the Caribbean Sea.
As you’d expect for just about any Caribbean destination, the coast is lined with beautiful blue waters, white sand beaches, and nice stays from beachside cottages to ritzy hotels from the low $100s to $400s.
Some areas are more touristy than others but it’s relatively easy to find your beach vibe. Your best bet is if the destination ends with ‘Caye’, you will be living your best life on of the prettiest beaches in the world.
Better yet, unlike many international beach destinations, Belize is an English-speaking country to make your vacation experience even smoother without needing to whip out Google Translate.
Underrated Destination For Mayan Ruins
Circling back, this is Exhibit A for how easy it is to overlook some amazing attractions while we’re mesmerized by glistening Caribbean beaches.
In the Dominican Republic, you may overlook the bustling cultural city of Santo Domingo. In Jamaica, you may overlook the best kept secret beach in the country.
Here in Belize, you may skip the untouched jungles and miss out on some amazing, well-preserved Mayan ruins and postcard-worthy waterfalls.
These are the top 3 sites to witness Mayan ruins in Belize:
- Altun Ha
- Caracol
- Xunantunich
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