The Nomadic Vision

I went to Belize with no expectations, other than hearing about the famous Blue Hole. But, as I quickly discovered, the country has so much more to offer than just its world-renowned natural wonders. From the unique mix of cultures and the relaxed Caribbean vibe to the impressive Mayan ruins, Belize surprised me in the best way possible. English is the official language here (a rarity in Central America), and the country’s blend of Creole, Mayan, and Spanish gives it a distinct flavour. With a population made up of many different religions and traditions, Belize offers a peaceful, multicultural experience that makes it stand out from its Central American neighbours. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples,snorkellingg in crystal-clear waters, or enjoying some of the best local street food, Belize has a way of capturing your heart.

Things to Do in Belize:
Caye Caulker
If you find yourself on the Caye Caulker, which is a small, laid-back island in the Caribbean, make sure to take a half-day snorkelling tour. I went snorkelling for about $45 and saw everything from colourful coral reefs to schools of fish and even swam with nurse sharks. For a bit more of an adventure, you can opt for a full-day tour for $90, which will also include swimming with the sharks and stingrays, plus the opportunity to see more of the island’s underwater wonders.

One of the most memorable experiences I had was feeding tarpon fish. These large, silvery creatures are super hungry, and it’s wild to see them up close. The cost for feeding the tarpon was around $10–$15, depending on where you go. It’s a small price to pay for such a unique encounter!

And if you’re in the mood for a picturesque moment, don’t miss the sunset on the island—paired with a feed of stingrays (a small tip for the guides, around $5–$10), it becomes an unforgettable evening.

The Blue Hole
For something more epic, consider a flight over the Blue Hole—a massive underwater sinkhole that looks like a black eye from above. It’s one of the most famous sights in Belize, and flying over it will leave you in awe. The flight is a bit of a splurge, usually around $150–$200, but it’s totally worth it to see this natural wonder from the air.

Local Eats and Vibes:
Belize is full of delicious, hearty food. While you might be tempted by the touristy spots, it’s the street food where you’ll find the true local flavor. I had an amazing meal at one of the BBQ food stalls on the streets of Caye Caulker—charcoal-grilled meats, beans, rice, and fried plantains. It cost around $10 for a filling meal that had me coming back for more.

For dinner, the best meal I had was at Reina Restaurant in Caye Caulker. It wasn’t fancy—just a cozy, local spot—but the food was fantastic, and the atmosphere felt authentic. Don’t expect fine dining, but if you want a taste of Belizean-style comfort food, this is the place to go.

San Ignacio & Ancient Ruins:
I then made my way to San Ignacio, about a 1 hour boat ride to Belize City, then 4 hour drive from the cities main bus station, and it was worth the trip. San Ignacio is a small town surrounded by lush jungle and Mayan ruins, making it an ideal base to explore the country’s rich history. I took a local bus to get there—super cheap and always an adventure in itself, but be prepared for a chaotic ride. For just a few dollars, you’ll be dropped off right near the ruins.

The ruins themselves are impressive. I visited Xunantunich (a Mayan archaeological site) where you can climb the ancient temples and get a view over the Guatemalan border. The entrance fee is about $10 per person, which isn’t bad considering the experience. What’s great is that the site isn’t overrun with tourists, so you can channel your inner Indiana Jones while exploring the jungle temples without crowds pushing you around.

Budgeting for Belize:
Belize is not the most budget-friendly destination in Central America, especially when compared to places like Guatemala or Nicaragua. However, with a short visit of 5–7 days, you can absolutely experience the country without breaking the bank. The key is to eat at local eateries—you can easily find meals for about 10 EUR, and the local buses are super affordable (but be prepared for an unpredictable ride!). They may be crowded, but they’re part of the authentic Belize experience.

If you’re mindful of where you eat and travel, you can make your visit more affordable, though activities like the Blue Hole flight and snorkeling can get expensive. The costs for activities like ruins tours or meals at local spots are fairly reasonable, and the locals are incredibly friendly, always happy to share tips on how to keep things affordable.

In just a few days, Belize offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, history, and adventure. Whether you’re snorkeling with sharks, exploring ancient temples, or just eating your way through local BBQ stalls, it’s a country that offers something for everyone. It may not be the cheapest destination in Central America, but it’s definitely worth the visit, especially if you’re after a bit of everything.