Belize Travel Forum

I was in Belize last year at the end of a long, long trip and am returning this year on a quick two week vacation. I hit a lot of spots very briefly on my way through but wonder what I have missed. Anyone have thoughts on their top five favorite places in Belize? We are into everything - diving, snorkeling, beach time, partying, cycling, trekking, wildlife, etc. I appreciate any input –

Where, and most importantly, Why?

Scott

Easy: Caracol, Xunantunich, Lamanai, Altun Ha and San José...

Well, I don't have 5, but we stayed at DuPlooy's, a jungle lodge near San Ignacio, and had a marvelous time! There are all sorts of activities and tours available if you want, or you can relax around the facility and enjoy the wildlife that comes to visit.

They even have their own resident birding guide, Philip Mai ~ if you want to see as many of the 300 species available nearby as possible, Philip's your man!

You don't say what your budget is, but I'll give you my favorite spot to stay in Belize (and after all, you have that individual yearly "windfall" money coming from the Alaska oil revenue). It's the Francis Ford Coppola (film director)'s lodge on a beautiful cascading river in the pristine jungle. You fly in on the lodge's private small plane, and then enjoy -- gourmet food and wines, hiking, river sports, and other activities. It's fun just to tour his massive organic farm, which grows everything for the restaurant. Check it out on Google. He also has a beach-type resort near Placencia and one near Tikal in Guatemala. Good luck and best wishes for a great trip!

Yeah, I wish I was getting the free government money this year. Unfortunately when you travel out of state for more than three months, resident or not, you don't get your big fat check. Go figure. So I should now mention that I am on a moderate to low budget. Thanks for the replies so far but I am interested in hearing more. How 'bout favorite dive spots as well?

Scott

Oh, too bad about the non-receipt of the Alaskan check. Most budget travelers go to Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye. That's where you'll find some diving, snorkeling, and partying. Also, try Googling the area around Placencia. The most fabulous place for diving is Lighthouse Reef/Half Moon Caye/the Blue Hole, which you need to go to with a tour operator.