Calling all Belize experts
Mar 25th, 2002, 11:16 AM
#1
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Calling all Belize experts
Just back from Costa Rica and am wanting to start planning the next trip. Would love to go back to CR but have heard alot about Belize. Suggestions on best place to call home for a week that would allow for either plain old R&R and/or day trips would be appreciated. Wondering if surfing/windsurfing is also big there. Thanks.
Mar 25th, 2002, 01:23 PM
#3
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Well, I guess I have alot of research to do! Maybe some of each - basically want to visit some Mayan ruins, hike, beach, snorkel, surf. A little bit of this and a little bit of that sort of thing. Sorry I'm not being more specific - just beginning to check out this gem of a place.
Mar 25th, 2002, 02:33 PM
#4
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I've written or co-written six books on Belize (the latest one just out this week -- San Pedro Cool, the first and only guide to Ambergris Caye) so I know a little about the country.<BR><BR>But would need to know more about your budget, interests, etc. to make any intelligent recommendations.<BR><BR>Like Costa Rica, Belize offers a variety of choices, both on and off the beaten track.<BR><BR>There is no surfing in Belize, but windsurfing is excellent, especially this time of year.<BR><BR>--Lan Sluder
Mar 25th, 2002, 06:49 PM
#5
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What a timely subject! I am just digging through a travel book on belize (not written by you!) and can't figure out what the heck to do. I want to spen 3-4 days on ambergis caye, that's easy. but then i have 4-5 days to kill on the mainland and i would *REALLY* like to see mayan architecture (particularly a large temple) and do some nature hiking (or kayaking) through the deepest rainforests i can safely do.<BR><BR>ideas on places to stay or any help would be SUPER appreciatted!!! (i am leaving in 10 days!)<BR><BR>Thanks<BR><BR><BR>Bo<BR>
Mar 25th, 2002, 06:58 PM
#6
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Hey Mr. S., many thanks for your response. I actually was planning on hitting the bookstore and will search out your books to get further details on Belize. We don't go in for big resorts but appreciate charm, character and good taste - love B&B's. Budget - ~$100/night +/-. Interests are in windsurfing, snorkelling, hiking and exploring. Thanks for any advice.
Mar 26th, 2002, 06:02 AM
#8
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We stayed at the Banana Bank Lodge in the Cayo District for a week. They are very friendly and the food is great. They have excellent horse back riding for all levels. Some of the day trips that we took for the week were: San Ignacio and Xunantunich, Tikal, Snorkeling on the reef, Belize Zoo. We booked everything through the Banana Bank. Most of our day trips were with a private driver so we were the only ones and were able to do and see a little more. I hope this helps a little bit.
Mar 26th, 2002, 08:41 AM
#9
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The solution would be to split your trip between the beach and one of the riverside jungle lodges in the Cayo district for ruins, caving, horses, birding, hiking and more. Banana Bank is in the Cayo district and there are many more nice lodges to choose from who will offer all these activities.<BR><BR>No surfing, but great windsurfing. <BR><BR>Katie Valk<BR>Belize
Mar 26th, 2002, 02:03 PM
#10
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Thanks for all the great replies folks. Spending time in two different places sounds like a good plan. Banana Bank also sounds great and I would be interested in hearing about other lodges worth checking into. Just wondering what is the best way to get around the country. Survived driving in CR but am not sure about distances here say between Ambergris Caye and Cayo district. I think I'd better get that book - soon! Thanks again for all the advice.
Mar 26th, 2002, 02:46 PM
#11
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Barb,<BR><BR>You will most likely fly into the Intl airport in Belize City. From there it's about a 2-3 hour drive to lodges in the Cayo district depending on which lodge you're staying at. You can book a complete package through the lodge including transfers to/from the airport. You don't need a car unless you want to do things on your own instead of through the guides at the lodge. To get to Ambergris Caye, you can take a short flight or ferry from Belize City. There are no rental cars on Ambergris, just golf carts. Hope this helps.
