Belize (formerly British Honduras) has been an independent nations since 1981 and is a member of the British Commonwealth of Nations. It's a parliamentary democracy with two major political parties, the United Democratic Party (UDP) and the People's United Party (PUP). The PUP currently holds power, led by Prime Minister Said Musa (took office March 5, 2003). Belize has a Constitution, which includes a Bill of Rights.
Belize is on the eastern coastline of Central America, bordered on the north by Mexico, on the west and south by Guatemala, and on the east by the Caribbean Sea. Belize has the second longest barrier reef in the world and the largest in the western hemisphere. This makes for different waters and beaches. Since the reef protects the coast from waves and undertow, Belize has narrower beaches as a rule and clearer, calmer waters. The only surfing here is done in Internet cafes, but diving, snorkling, swimming, fishing, tanning and beachcombing are enjoyed by our visitors.
Belize is approximately 8,866 square miles. The mainland is about 180 miles long and up to 68 miles wide. There are also about 200 cayes (islands, pronounced "keys") ranging in size from a few hundred feet to 25 miles long and four miles wide; most of which are located inside the 200 mile barrier reef.
The population of Belize is approximately 280,000 and extremely diverse. Belizeans include Hispanics, Creoles (African-European), Mestizo (Spanish-Indian), Mennonite, Garifuna (African-Indian), Mayan, Anglo-European, Middle Eastern and Asian. According to the latest censis, the largest single group is Hispanic.
The official language is English, so it is taught in the schools and is widely spoken. Spanish is also widely spoken. Other languages include Creole, German, Garifuna and several Mayan dialects.
Belize weather is characterized by two season: a rainy season and a dry season. Most of the rainfall occurs between June and November (annual rainfall ranges from 60 inches in the north to 160 inches in the south).
In addition to water sports, people come to Belize to see our beautiful rivers and countryside. We have mountains, rivers, rain forests, Mayan ruins, cave tubing, monkey, jaguar and manatee reserves and much, much more.
We encourage all our guests to come and visit. Contact us in advance as we have friends that are in the tour business so we'll put you in touch with them for discounts on hotels and tours, etc.
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