I'm planning on traveling to Central America this June. Just haven't been there yet and my friend and I wanted to go somewhere cool. We were looking at Belize because of the snorkeling, scuba, beaches, jungle, and the fact that it's not too expensive. We were also possibly thinking Guatemala, or going in between the two. If anyone has any recommendations or advice it would be greatly appreciated. Has anyone been to Belize and knows what to do and where to go?

I know several people have been to Central America on here. We don't want to go to Costa Rica even though it looks really nice because it's too touristy and expensive, we were more looking for off the beaten path. That's how we did China and it worked out great.

4/27/2007 11:52:56 AM

My Dad went to San Pedro belize and had a blast. THe beaches are pristine and the water is amazing. Also, try the conch salad.

4/27/2007 2:19:16 PM

Considered Nicaragua? It's how Costa Rica used to be. Still cheap and local, and possesses all of those things you mentioned doing.

4/27/2007 2:54:28 PM

The only parts of Guatemala I've been to are the more central cities. It's a beautiful country, but Guatemala City is rough.

I've heard good things about Belize.

4/27/2007 3:02:33 PM

Roatan, Honduas might fit the bill. It's a small island with absolutely no chain-type anything (hotels, restaurants, etc). Just very small local hotels and restaurants. Lots of diving and canopy tours there. If you're into diving, you can dive about 3-4 times a day for about $20-25 each time (and that includes equipment rental).

I've never heard anything bad about Belize, either.

El Salvador looks nice in brochures, and is pretty nice if you stay in the rich sections, but there's a lot of gang activity in that country, so I'd advise against it.

4/27/2007 3:05:56 PM

The Bay of Pigs in Cuba is very nice for snorkeling and scuba. Getting there is the only hard part.

4/27/2007 3:12:32 PM

belize was nice when we went. we checked out the ruins of Altun Ha, which was alright. downtown in the port city was a bit shady, but its interesting how many different cultures are crammed together. chinese one block, indian the next, local mayan decent (i forget what they call themselves), african, etc.

4/27/2007 3:23:51 PM

I've traveled to Central America, South America, and Africa, and I say without a shadow of a doubt the place I love most is Costa Rica. Great culture, great food, beautiful scenery, and a dwelling sense of environmentalism. PM me more if you want more info.

4/27/2007 4:00:48 PM