Are you seeking a less crowded vacation spot? Let’s talk about it! Picture this: You’re dreaming of a Caribbean getaway, sinking your toes in warm sun-kissed waters, surrounded by swaying palms but instead, you find yourself in long lines and surrounded by crowds. Not exactly the relaxing escape you had in mind, right? Belize is here to redefine your vacation experience.

The coastline of Belize stretches some 240 miles. The Belize Barrier Reef runs parallel along the length of the country and boasts a high diversity of creatures. The best way to get up close and personal with the marine life of Belize is to plan a snorkel or scuba diving excursion on your vacation. Use this as a primer on what to expect under the sea. Peruse these fun facts of some of the common and less-likely species to see on the Belize Barrier Reef.

Belize is known for its great food and rich cultural heritage. If you are missing the warmth and fun of a Belize vacation this winter holiday, why not incorporate a tropical dish or two in your celebration? We’ve rounded up links to some of the local favorites that Belizeans across the country will be enjoying over Christmas. From a festive cocktail to the main event or a sweet treat- you may just find a new holiday tradition.

The holiday season is a great time to vacation in a tropical destination. School is out for a long winter break and the temperatures are hovering near freezing. With Belize just a few short hours away from many flight hubs in North America, you can bring your celebration to a warmer climate. You might think that the lack of snow would coincide with a lack of holiday spirit. But that’s not the case! Read on to get a small taste of what to expect when celebrating Christmas in Belize.

From the tiniest of hummingbirds to the prehistoric-looking Jabiru stork, the flying beak that is the Keel-billed Toucan and the awkwardly graceful Brown Pelican, birds are everywhere in Belize. The tiny country has nearly 600 species of birds on record. The sheer number and diversity of birds present in Belize is reason enough to pause and observe what you can see.

Are you a thrill-seeker? Craving an adrenaline rush, even on vacation? The Black Hole Drop is an adventurous tour in Belize that will leave your heart racing. Located deep in the jungle in the Chiquibul National Park, this tour is not for the faint of heart. Take one part jungle hike, one part rappel, one part rock climb and you end up with this UnBelizeable adventure.

With much of its land still forested and under protected status, Belize has countless hiking opportunities. On the mainland, you can hike in the jungle, scale the tallest peaks in the Maya Mountains, rappel into a sinkhole and walk through howler monkey habitat. There is something for all abilities and interests. The many national parks, cultural monuments, and forest reserves ensure that these natural wonders stay pristine and preserved for future generations. The most popular hikes are highlighted below, with some insider tips to ensure that your hike is the best that it can be.

The beaches in San Pedro, Belize, have a character all their own. Sheltered by the Belize Barrier Reef just offshore, the shoreline of Ambergris Caye trades rolling surf for calm turquoise water, coral-based sand, and a slower kind of beach day. No matter where you stay on the island, the sea is not too far away.

By now, you’ve probably heard the hype about scuba diving in Belize. The Belize Barrier Reef stretches the full length of the country and is peppered with hundreds of islands, or, Cayes (pronounced, “keys”). In addition to the world-class scuba diving to be found under the waves, there is much to do back on shore, as well. The combination of luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, fun beach bars, and excellent jungle adventures on the mainland ensures that your nights and interval days will not be wasted.

Belize is a world-renowned fishing hotspot. Come try your luck in the crystal waters off of Ambergris Caye. Whether you are looking for a trophy, dinner, or just the experience of being out on the blues with a line in your hands, Belize is the destination for you. There are three main types of fishing in Belize: fly fishing in the flats, deep-sea fishing across the reef and reef fishing. Each type of fishing trip takes you to a different marine habitat near Ambergris Caye where you can target different sport fish.