Belize Bound

I've been bitten by a bug. Of course, the infection started out small and localized, I indulged scratching the itch here and there in Maui, but it has since internalized. I fear it has spread to the part of my brain responsible for strategic leisure mobilization (vacation planning) and has become symbiotic with the existing iteration of Travel Bug occupying my mind. This particular contagion mutated when it came into contact with a Japanese strain. Now I'm pretty sure it's terminal. Yes, dear reader, I have caught a powerful bug: scuba diving.

Fortunately, most of my immediate family caught it first. So we're off to Belize to see how the bug develops in the warm ocean waters off Placencia. 

Let's start our differential diagnosis by taking a brief background. Belize has roots in Mayan and Carib Indian history as well as British governance. Due to the intricate and protective nature of the reef system, clever pirates sought to use Belize as a base of attack on wealthy Spanish frigates. It was granted independence by the British in 1962 and was settled by a group of independent islanders. 

Now on to the symptoms of my incurable infatuation. Tourism is a strong part of the economy, especially ecotourism. Belize boasts not only spectacular ocean ecosystems, but also jungle and pine forest, and sun soaked beaches. It is home to the second largest barrier reef in the world. Between temperate ocean waters, proximity to deep ocean, and mangrove tributaries, the marine life ranges from saltwater crocodiles, to dugongs (aka manatees, aka the magestic sea cow), to manta rays, to tiny sea horses, to toadfish, to colourful wrasse, to whale sharks, to blennies, to groupers, to... Well, you get the picture. 

Prescription: whale sharks in large doses. 

And that's just off shore! Inland there are more than 500 species of birds. Although we don't expect to spot one (ha!), jaguars reside in some of the jungles that cover 93% of the country. Belize also houses the largest cave system in Central America. 

Hello kitty!

The local residents are rumoured to be incredibly friendly and laid back. The diversity of cultures mean we could hear English, Spanish, Garifuna, Maya, and Creole. 

Belize promises to be hot as balls, nearly 100% humidity and an extremely high UV index rating. I will certainly be sporting a lions mane and lobster-esque sunburn in no time. 

Bring on the next mutation, Belize, this bug's going viral.