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A pocket of British paradise finds itself ensconced in a sea of Spanish influence on the Bay of Honduras. Swampy coastal plains, hills to the south and interior, forests and jungles throughout, the largest cave system in Central America—this brilliant mix is blended beautifully in Belize. Here, over 500 species of birds add color to the treetops, while the second-largest coral reef on earth, the Belize Barrier Reef, draws visitors into the deep blue. Divers and snorkelers sink into the famous Great Blue Hole, or come up for air on Ambergris Caye, famed for its spectacular location and car-less charm. Red-footed boobies and exotic lizards roam freely at Half Moon Caye's national park; locals on two legs are more often found in Belize City, where the famous Sea Wall brings everyone together. A little further exploration leads to Mayan ruins like Caracol in the Cayo District; the sound of Garifuna punta drums in Hopkins; and all the cave- tubing, canoeing, and horseback riding one could ever want. As the country's tour guides like to say, it's simply "un-BELIZE-able." BELIZE Country of Cayes 0 20 miles 0 20 km Belmopan Belize City C A Y O D I S T R I C T T O L E D O D I S T R I C T Orange Walk San Ignacio M E X I C O G U AT E M A L A Hopkins Village Placencia H O N D U R A S B E L I Z E Ambergris Caye Caye Caulker Cave Tubing & Zipride Start the day with a jolt of adrenaline as you crisscross the rainforest canopy via overhead cables. An informative jungle trail hike teaches you about plants, roots, and herbs once used by ancient Mayans as you make your way toward a relaxing cave, where you'll begin tubing down to a buffet lunch at the Canopy Cave at Caves Branch Outpost. SNUBA – Go Beyond Snorkeling!, Ambergris Caye Blend the immersive experience of scuba diving with the simplicity of snorkeling at up to 20 feet below the surface. No experience is required to walk through crystal-clear waters, flanked by vivid coral reefs and even brighter tropical marine life. Xunantunich Maya Temples & Barton Creek Cave, San Ignacio Climb to the top of El Castillo, the largest of the temples on one of the highest plateaus in the area, and take in a panoramic view of the Cayo District and nearby Guatemala. Continue to Barton Creek Cave in unexpectedly Amish territory, and paddle a canoe into Xibalba, guided by the beams of high-powered lights. VACATION ENHANCING TOURS You'll hear English everywhere, yet remain at a loss for words in Belize. Pre-arrange these tours, and understand why this country leaves visitors awestruck and speechless. Consult your travel agent for more details on these and other tours. 14 | Belize