What would you do with 21 days in Central America? (for a couple)
 

Hi All -

It all started with a desire to explore Belize. And that's definitely on the list.. but now I'm looking at ways my partner and I can turn it into a longer adventure, including more of Central America - maybe as long as a month. (We're thinking January). I don't know where to start so I'm hoping some fellow travellers can help with inspiration.

A little about our tastes.. We both love nature. Keith is very fit (a mountain climber and marathon runner) but I am not as athletic- but I would love casual trail hiking or biking, snorkelling, as much as I can keep up with him. We both love history, culture, places of spiritual importance. I seek out art galleries wherever we travel. We'd be interested in ruins - so long as we're not putting them at risk. Some beach time is an absolute must too. Authentic food. We want to see how people really live - not hole ourselves up in resorts. We haven't quite figured out how we'll pay for this adventure just yet so consider us budget travellers (cheap tips appreciated!).

So.. dear experienced travellers, please tell us what you consider the must-sees of Central America. What would you do with 21 (or so) days in that part of the world?

Thanks so much,
Carrie

First, I would get a good Central America guidebook to start planning. I'll put in a plug for Fodor's book since this is their site. :)

While 21 days sounds like a long time (and it is), I'd still limit it to two or three countries. It's easy to combine Belize and Guatemala and maybe Honduras too.

Without a doubt I'd split your time between Guatemala and Belize. In Belize don't miss out on Poustinia, an earth sculpture park near the Guatemala border that is rarely visited. For other recommendations check out my travelogues and photos linked below; I split 5 weeks between Guatemala and Belize this summer and hope to get my travelogue and photos up in the next few days (I know I keep saying that but my intentions aren't keeping up with my other obligations). Happy trails!
www.flickr.com/photos/staceyholeman/collections

Sorry to butt in here, but, hopefulist, your latest photos are AMAZING! Just so great. I MUST get to Guatemala soon... Thank you.

Thanks for thanking me. :) I think you're the 1st to see them besides family.

Thanks for the replies, all.