:: Belizean American Expatriate Association ::

 
Belize is a land of diverse and unspoiled natural wonders located on the east coast of Central America in the heart of the Caribbean Basin. Featuring 185 miles of adjacent reef, "the largest in the Western Hemisphere," dozens of cayes and three magnificent atolls, Belize is unique, a paradise for scuba divers and snorkelers as well as wildlife and nature adventure seekers. Inland attractions includes one of the most unspoiled rainforest, the largest formation of limestone caves found in the Americas, numerous nature and wildlife preserves including the jaguar preserve, falls, rivers and over 350 species of exotic birds and animals. Even more astounding is the strong sense of history from the Mayans of the classical era that still remains at numerous archeological sites scattered throughout the jungle.

The waters of Belize's offshore reefs and cayes are warm, clear and rich with corals, sponges and fish. There are more than 300 species of fish and many hundreds of invertebrates, more waiting to be discovered. Each year during the months of April, May and June whale sharks migrates to the spectacular waters off the coast of Placencia. Whale sharks are the biggest fish in the sea; they are gentle giants that feed on plankton's and the spawn of tropical snappers. Diving or snorkeling with these magnificent creatures can be an experience to last you a life time.

Besides its natural wonders of nature and wildlife Belize also offers many interesting cultural celebrations and presentations including a three day long annual Lobster Fest held in Placencia and Ambergris Caye during the month of June. The Battle of St. Georges Caye Celebrations on the 10th day of September and the Garifuna Settlement Day Celebrations on the 19th of November.

CULTURE: English is the official language and is widely spoken, as is Spanish, Maya, Garifuna and Creole (broken English). The main ethnic groups are Creole (African- European Descent), Mestizo (Spanish-Maya), and Garifuna (African Descent). There are also a number of people of Spanish and East Indian descent. The ethnic groups however are heavily intermixed except for a small Mennonite community of European origin. Chinese, Arabs and other ethnic groups are also included in the multi-racial make-up.

STATS: The population is approximately 250,000. The climate is subtropical with and average annual temperature of 80 degrees. The rainy season is June to mid August. The water temperature is 75-86 degrees Fahrenheit year round.