Belize offers a good choice of yacht charter and this includes; bareboat yacht charter, luxury crewed yacht charter, skippered yacht charter, monohull and catamaran charter and both sail and motor yacht charterBelize is the only official English-speaking country in Central America.

Belize was a British colony for more than a century and was known as British Honduras until 1973. It became an independent nation in 1981. The Maya civilization spread over Belize between 1500 BC and AD 300 and flourished until about AD 900. European settlement began with British Jews, privateers and shipwrecked English seamen as early as 1638. The early settlement of Belize in the Bay of Honduras grew from Belize Town and St George’s Caye into a colony of the United Kingdom during the late eighteenth century. In the early nineteenth century the settlement was called British Honduras, and in 1871 it became a Crown Colony. British Honduras became a self-governing colony in January 1964 and was renamed Belize on June 1, 1973. Full independence came on 21st September 1981 after delays caused by territorial disputes with neighbouring Guatemala, which did not formally recognize the country.

A yacht charter in Belize enables you discover some of the most unspoiled islands of the Caribbean. The luminous turquoise waters of the Belize archipelago are made up of over 200 deserted tropical islands and coral atolls and boast some of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean. Belize has become a popular spot for yacht charters and diving vacations. Most yacht charter companies have catamaran fleets because the shallow draft will assure easy navigation.

The coast of Belize encompasses has an unlimited abundance of wildlife and sea life waiting to be discovered. Schools of tropical fish, Manatees, and coral gardens abound here making snorkelling and diving expeditions an exciting adventure. There are many archaeological and national parks along with marine reserves in Belize. Check with your yacht charter company for help in making plans for land expeditions to the Mayan ruins or the rainforest.

Belize International is the main airport and is only little more than two hours from 3 gateways in the United States. San Pedro, Ambergris Caye or Placencia are reachable by a 15 minute commuter plane with several connections a day. English is the official language and is widely spoken, as is Spanish. Other languages include Creole, German, Mayan and Garifuna. US Dollars are used and major credit cards may be accepted in hotels, restaurants and some shops.

The yacht charter season in Belize is restricted by the hurricane season to the months of November through to May. From mid-December to May the trade winds blow. Temperatures are always around 25º – 30º C.

Most people are very comfortable sailing the waters of Belize but it does come with some challenges. Navigation is relatively easy and by line of site. The most difficult part is learning how to read the shallow waters and recognize coral. It is imperative to keep a proper watch at all times. Bare boating outside the reef is prohibited. The outer reefs are not well charted or marked making for the danger of running aground. Once inside the atolls the shoal waters are full of coral rock formations that lie in so many areas and in such numbers that the charts simply do not give clear insight to their locations. Communication on VHF is also non-existent, with mobile phones the most reliable means of communication, search and rescue is not very reliable and all this combined makes bare boating outside the reef untenable. However with so much to see within the barrier reef venturing beyond is not necessary.

Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize and the most commercially developed. Ambergris Caye has been the hub of maritime trade in Belize for hundreds of years. In the last twenty to thirty years the incredible surroundings of Ambergris Caye has led to a large growth in both the Belize dive and scuba trade, yacht charters and ecotourism.

The main town of San Pedro still maintains itself as a quaint fishing village although here one will find a lively nightlife. San Pedro only has a few streets with interesting shops, a few homes, and several restaurants and bars. The airstrip is also located here, so getting to your charter yacht is literally a stone’s throw away. The island is home to tropical savannahs, sparkling white beaches and mangrove forests. It has become the most popular tourist destination in Belize.

The amazing coral reef system lies half a mile east of the shoreline and runs the entire length of the island. It is the second largest barrier reef in the world and has made the town of San Pedro the dive and water sports capital of Belize and Central America. It is easy for snorkellers to discover hundreds of species of fish right off the beach. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, the transparent waters of Ambergris Caye are a paradise for divers, snorkellers, bird watchers and fisherman alike.

Begin your yacht charter in Placencia and you can explore the southern half of Belize. Placencia is known for its lovely white sandy beaches and beautiful mangroves. The main street is a three-mile stretch of sidewalk in which there are a few local services, including a laundry service and small grocery. However if you are planning to leave on your yacht charter from Placencia, it is a wise idea to have provisions planned in advance with your yacht charter company. The grocery store is not equipped to handle the needs of a charter boat. In most cases the provisions that you order are flown in from Belize City. This is not an active spot for nightlife and restaurant dinners. This is paradise on earth, very tranquil and serene. Many sailing connoisseurs have compared their experience of Placencia to memories reminiscent of the BVI 30 years ago before it was developed. Placencia is also the gateway for a land-based tour of the many cascading waterfalls and the archaeological ruins of the Mayan culture.

If sailing south from San Pedro or north from Placencia there are numerous beaches that provide great yacht anchorages. There are hundreds of cayes to explore with clear waters and white sandy beaches. Some are deserted while others have amenities for tourists. Those places that are undeveloped will offer complete solitude to those looking to get away from civilization on their yacht charter. Whilst there are too many to mention them all individually here are a few highlights to give you an idea of what awaits you on your yacht charter in Belize.

Caye Caulker is a four mile long island is divided in two and lies just about a mile east of Belize’s Barrier Reef. This is a quiet town with friendly people and some nice restaurants. The most popular dive destination is Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley. A boat must be hired to visit and it is approximately 30 minutes north of Caye Caulker. With so much to see at various depths, all levels of snorkellers and divers can be accommodated here.

Caye Chapel is the island that is home to the rich and famous and boasts a new state of the art marina and championship golf course. It was developed for those searching seclusion. This is the most exclusive island in Belize where every amenity is available. The marina welcomes yachts up to 45 metres in length. Once here there are many picturesque beaches and exotic wildlife to discover as well as the natural beauty the island views has to offer.

St George’s Caye is located south of Caye Caulker, this island is one half mile from the barrier reef. St. George’s Caye is quiet and serene and a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Very few services are offered here with just a restaurant, hotel and a bar. The diving is incredible with visitors sighting many dolphins just before descending down the caye’s wall.

Goff’s Caye is a tiny island on the reef just north of the main channel, English Channel. It has good snorkelling and a beautiful beach.

English Caye has a lighthouse that marks the south side of English Channel. This island offers superb snorkelling 1000 feet south on a huge coral patch.

Rendezvous Caye is a jewel of an island also located right on the reef. Another beautiful beach with excellent snorkelling all around, this is also a good location for scuba diving on the 60 foot outside wall. It is not however a safe overnight yacht anchorage with its coral all around but a ‘must see’ day stop.

Bluefield Range provides a safe yacht anchorage and the two fish camps usually offer a choice of fresh seafood for dinner.

Colson Cayes is another safe anchorage with several fish camps. The Cayes offer a shallow lagoon to explore by dinghy with plenty of coral nearby for snorkelling.

Tobacco Caye is a fine overnight anchorage, unless in a northerly wind. There are several choices for basic meals and a few bars on the island. There’s a dive shop for those who enjoy scuba diving and plenty of good snorkelling.

Laughing Bird Caye is just 11 miles from the coast of Placencia; the caye is located within a “faro”, an atoll on a continental shelf. It is steep sided and encloses a central lagoon. The attraction is the diverse variety of coral reefs. Because of the large amount of visitors steps have been taken to ensure the reefs and lagoon will be protected. There are mooring buoys and channel markers in place to protect the fragile ecosystem.

South Water Caye is about 25 miles from Placencia. South Water Caye is a reserve protected by the World Heritage Organization. Like the other marine reserves in Belize it has an amazing array of underwater life and palm trees that line the waters edge. The clear blue waters of South Water Caye give way to white sandy beaches.

Sapodilla Cayes is another marine reserve that sits in the most southern portion of Belize’s barrier reef. It is comprised of 14 mangrove and coral islands with unspoiled white sandy beaches. The waters are very shallow with some areas being less then 5 metres. On Huntington Caye you will discover the lighthouse and a Belize Guard Station. The beaches here are the nesting grounds for turtles. Lime Caye is often the most crowded with tourist boats arriving from Punta Gorda. The best place to anchor the yacht and spend the night is either Nicholas or Frank’s Caye. The incredible reef system with an abundance of colourful fish species will provide for a great snorkelling experience, even for beginners. Because Sapodilla is off the beaten path it is not over run by tourists and remains a magnificent and pristine group of islands that have very little in the way of amenities.

Just 25 short miles south of the Sapodilla Cayes lies the port of Livingston on the Rio Dulce of Guatemala where you are required to check in and out of Guatemala. A local restaurant provides a great stop along the way where they’ll pull your choice of fresh fish out of the live trap at the dock.

Outside the Barrier Reef there are some well-known dive sites that are popular. Since bareboat yacht charters are not permitted to venture outside the reef, it is in your best interest to hire a local dive company if you wish to go there. If your yacht charter is crewed, then have the skipper contact the local dive company to make arrangements for a meeting place in order to explore with an experienced dive master.

Glover’s Reef Marine is located 36 miles off the shore of Belize. It is a group of islands encircled within a turquoise lagoon and surrounded by a coral reef that has one of the richest tropical marine environments called Glover’s Reef Atoll. All six sand cayes within the atoll are privately owned. The diving is legendary and cannot compare with any other place in the world. There are over 80 square miles for snorkellers and divers to explore with an incredible variety of fish. The southern part of the atoll is a conservation area that is used for research and recreational activities. Visitors are forbidden from taking anything from the area. Dive boats require a license to be there and divers must register with the reserve manager. There is a resort located here as well but amenities for boaters are limited.

Lighthouse Reef Atoll is the farthest atoll from the coast of Belize. There is one charming colonial style beachfront resort located on the island and the primary focus of activities is diving and relaxing on the beach. The famous “Blue Hole” is actually located in the centre of the Lighthouse reef lagoon. The 400 foot deep hole is perhaps one of the most amazing underwater experiences in the western hemisphere. Some of the best wall diving exists here and many consider it the greatest dive site in Belize. Coral surrounds the entire 75 square miles of Blue Hole. Visibility is an amazing 100 feet in clear turquoise waters that are calm with no currents running. If considering a dive here hire a local dive master to meet your boat and take you there. He will have the expertise necessary for a safe diving experience.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/belize-yacht-charter-1450935.html

About the Author:

Ken Jones runs a Crewed Yacht Charter Guide.
Follow this link for info on Yacht Charter in Belize.
And this link for Caribbean Yacht Charter

If you are worried about there being any luxury hotels and resorts when you plan a Belize Adventure vacation, then if your plans include the amazing area of San Ignacio, please don’t worry, because the great pleasure of the Ka’ana Boutique Resort could well await you. If your Tour Operator doesn’t have this lovely boutique hotel and resort on your list then make sure you make them put it on!!

Ka’ana Boutique Resort can be described very well in one syllable and that has beautiful and immaculately kept grounds. It sits in a valley surrounded by the Mayo Mountains in the Cayo district which is the local name for San Ignacio. This is the boutique resort of choice for travellers and adventurers with taste and the money to go with it.

There are a lot of things to do, places to see, and adventures to have, based on the Ka’ana Boutique Resort. It sits virtually slap bang right in the middle of some of the best cultural, historical attractions Belize has to offer. You can choose from Mayan ruins, Caves to explore, jungle tours, zip lining, canoeing, being just some of the sights and activities you will take part in. It is important to go and talk to the tour guide at Ka’ana Boutique Resort, whose name is Wilbert. Just tell him what you want to see and do, and then he will plan your days for you. He is very knowledgeable and visiting places like the Xunantunich ruins, and the Jaguar Paw he will be a joy.

On the other hand if all you want to do is to lie around and relax, then Ka’ana Boutique Resort is very well designed for you to do just that. In fact each casita is very private for each guest who sits outside on the terrace

Just imagine what awaits you after a day out in the surrounding countryside. What you will find here is absolutely top class dining, a lovely swimming pool to relax beside and great spa services.

There are only fifteen rooms, but there are all luxuriously furnished, extremely comfortable, and have real state of the art accompaniments such as LCD Flat Screen TV’s, IPod docking stations, even coffee makers.

You’ll find huge bathrooms, huge beds, air conditioning, and ceiling fans often preferred to the refrigeration caused by air conditioning, although when it is hot and humid and you have been in the jungle all day it is just amazing to step into an air conditioned room.

To return to the dining, you will have your taste buds, and visual senses blown away by the amazing food, and great menus.

Overall the Ka’ana Boutique Resort will be everything you hoped it would be. If you are planning on back packing in Belize, then what you have in wait is some good old fashioned pampering in a resort where the personal touches are quite outstanding.

If you plans are somewhat more luxurious you will still feel you are being pampered and spoilt in what must be amongst the top couple of luxury hotels and resorts in up country Belize

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-luxury-hotel-and-resort-on-a-belize-adventure-vacation-701582.html

About the Author:

Jim Brown recently began developing Belize Vacation Spots as well as contributing several articles about Worldwide Vacation Spots and he recommends Caribbean Vacation Spots but given a choice he would choose Belize before anywhere else

A famous beachfront resort owned by Francis Ford Coppola in Placencia Belize called Turtle Inn would make a great romantic honeymoon destination

Described as a Caribbean Paradise this five star beachfront resort owned by Francis Ford Coppola consists of a small cluster of thatch roof cottages on the beach just north of the small town of Placencia.

With only 12 rooms, a mixture of palm thatched villas and cabanas or casitas depending on which name you prefer, Turtle Inn very much fits in with the boutique hotel concept, and is quietly exclusive. It seems to manage the almost impossible by being a great family vacation destination whilst at the same time being a romantic honeymoon destination.

The Casitas here are just lovely. Large rooms, and laid out to be spacious, amazing décor, and a nice porch. They have indoor and outdoor showers and a large private deck. To organise one on the beach would be a huge bonus, and there is a special cabana/casita as a honeymoon suite right on the beach, so if this is your romantic honeymoon destination, you know what you need to book!! You may be slightly alarmed at the prospect of no air conditioning in the cabanas, but in fact their design and position meant you didn’t really miss it. Bug spray as with almost everywhere else in Belize is necessary.

The whole atmosphere at the Turtle Inn is one of complete relaxation and escape from the world, and they manage this very well indeed. The food by and large is exceptionally good, if a little expensive, but worth it. The continental breakfast is complimentary, and the fresh baked breads and pastries are quite superb. There are three restaurants, all different, and all are worth trying, and they will even prepare and cook for you any fish that you catch if you go deep sea fishing. You may or may not be aware that the food here is Italian, and if you want to get away from that you may decide to eat out in the village, and there are some decent restaurants there, but if you decide to rent bicycles to get you there be careful of the cars that go very quickly past, so if you aren’t that happy on a bike, get a taxi. Service in the village restaurants is pretty slow, but as long as you understand the pace of life here, then that is fine.

The thing about a Caribbean paradise is probably about pace of life as much as anything. You really don’t want hustle and bustle and you certainly won’t get that here. The Turtle Inn is a total chill out place, in fact the whole are is so laid back as to almost horizontal. This mind you doesn’t apply to the staff, who are very much there to serve. Unobtrusive, apart from asking every evening about the activity you want to choose for tomorrow, which can be a bit wearing, especially if your plan is to sit by one of the two nice pools, or on a sun bed on the beach, and read, or enjoy the glorious views of the sand and turquoise sea, with a book, and a cold drink in your hand, occasionally dipping into the beautifully warm water.

The Turtle Inn can be described as a Caribbean paradise with some justification. It makes a lovely romantic honeymoon vacation, and even a good family vacation destination. Two things however, you need to like Italian food, and if you don’t like small planes you won’t enjoy the flight in.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-caribbean-paradise-in-placencia-belize-491990.html

About the Author:

Jim Brown recently began developing Belize Vacation Spots as well as contributing several articles about Worldwide Vacation Spots and he recommends Caribbean Vacation Spots but given a choice he would choose Belize before anywhere else

If you want a top exclusive all inclusive Belize resort, then a few miles offshore you will find St. George’s Caye Resort, which needs checking out before you book anywhere else

An exclusive resort sitting on a very private island, just twenty minutes away from the mainland of Belize sounds more than perfect. The island is called St George’s Caye and it is home to the terrific All Inclusive St. George’s Caye Resort.

St George’s Caye is the closest inhabited island to mainland Belize it is far enough away to give you, as a guest, all the seclusion you want.

To describe St George’s Caye as a combination of beautiful palm trees, shimmering white sand that almost hurts you eyes to look at, beautiful orchids, and backed by the incredible turquoise Caribbean. Words cannot hope to do it justice, but when you add in the tranquility, and the completely relaxed yet exclusive atmosphere, you still can’t do St. George’s Caye Resort justice.

Like an exclusive resort should be, whether it is a Caribbean Exclusive resort or anywhere else you look for great service, and that is exactly what you get at St. George’s Caye Resort. You will be made to feel like royalty such is the quality of the service, and trying to mark it out of 10 would mean 10+ without any question of doubts at all.

Whilst the all inclusive option does include three gourmet meals every day, plus coffee and fresh juice delivered to your door, evening appetizers, and unlimited use of Hobie Cats, windsurfers, kayaks, snorkeling equipment, plus wireless internet service it does not include bar drinks or in room minibar.

The all inclusive meal plan gives you three splendid meals every day, eaten family style so you get to know the few other guests there are at St. George’s Caye Resort. The meals are of uniformly high quality with lots to choose from, but if you are a bit picky then that is taken care of without fuss. What you will discover is that they make the best fruit juices you can imagine

St George’s Caye is quite narrow and long, and you have the lagoon view cabanas on one side, and the ocean view on the other, and it only takes two minutes to get from one side to the other. The lagoon side has the amazing sunsets, and the view of a tiny island with a very attractive house standing alone, plus views of the mangroves. The ocean side watches the sun come up in all its splendour, and it’s here you have the beach, the pier, the coconut palms, and the thatched sunshades on the beach. The thing to do is to get up early and grab a hammock, and watch the sunset with the coffee that arrives at your door every morning.

Unfortunately whilst the beach looks good it isn’t great for swimming, so the hotel organizes trips to a sandbar, so the guests can swim there.

The accommodation choices are either Oceanfront Cabanas, Lagoon Cabanas, Garden Cabanas, or Resort Rooms, and Resort Reef Rooms which are in the main resort where you take meals. As a preference for privacy the 4 Oceanfront Cabanas, or the 2 Garden Cabanas would be best because the Lagoon Cabanas sit in a semi circle on the decking over the water. They have all been refurbished and are well equipped.

If swimming off the beach is important to you then St. George’s Caye Resort may not be to your liking, but for scuba divers this place is a good choice. If you want service then you will soon discover why this place is a top exclusive Caribbean Resort.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/belize-has-a-top-exclusive-all-inclusive-caribbean-resort-467429.html

About the Author:

Jim Brown recently began developing Belize Vacation Spots as well as contributing several articles about Worldwide Vacation Spots and he recommends Caribbean Vacation Spots but given a choice he would choose Belize before anywhere else

If a Belize Adventure vacation is in your schedule, then you will almost certainly go to the Toledo District in South Belize at some point, and if you are going to be anywhere near Punta Gorda, then you must ensure you book into the Hickatee Cottages for at least a couple of nights. This is more than a bed and breakfast inn because it also serves dinner, but it is a definite must do, and comes at USD60 per night double occupancy.

Hickatee Cottages is a very comfortable, extremely attractive jungle lodge with outstanding hosts called Ian and Kate.

It is difficult to believe that this inn is less than a mile and a half from laid back Punta Gorda Town, because it is very much in the jungle.

The three cottages on the property are very Caribbean style, and very comfortable clean rooms with nice verandas, where you can sit with a coffee in the morning, and listen to the sounds of the jungle waking up, and perhaps even see a family of howler monkeys ambling through the grounds. You will almost certainly see and hear loads of parrots and toucans. You will find there are lots of little extras, like extra fluffy towels, insulated water bottles to take out with you, and huge umbrellas, because when it rains here in south Belize, it rains!!

There is a plunge pool to refresh after walking one of the inn’s nature trails. You can use the inn’s bicycles, which by the way are free, to go exploring, or visit Boom Creek Village, take a canoe trip on the Moho River, or take one of the range of tours of the District. There is indeed plenty to do and see, and it’s not far from the Southern Cayes, so if they are part of your Belize Adventure Vacation, then Hickatee Cottages is an ideal stopping off, recharge your batteries point

The food is home cooked at Charlie’s Bar, and much of the ingredients come from their own farm, or the market at Punta Gorda. This is a great bed and breakfast establishment that also serves up great dinners as well, with three dinner choices. If you want to eat out, then the owners will ensure you pick the right places to eat.

One of the great joys of Hickatee Cottages are the owners Ian and Kate who seem to know everything about everything in this region. This means that you will be directed to everything that you think you want to see, and even more importantly things and places you didn’t know about, but end up jolly glad you found out about. Not only is their knowledge supreme, so are their contacts, so they will set up your excursions as well. You won’t need or want for anything, during your stay here.

It is difficult in a short article to do justice to Hickatee Cottages, and there is a thought that what is now a place to unwind in the middle of a Belize Adventure vacation, that is so much more than a bed and breakfast inn may become unavailable due to popularity. Whilst that would be no more than it deserves, this home from home, place of calm, comfort, and discovery and adventure all in one, would in a perfect world be kept a secret, known only to a trusted few.

Ian and Kate deserve the recognition that they run the best inn in South Belize, if not all Belize, and the custom this deserves. You can be certain they will not allow the atmosphere and ambiance to change at all.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-bed-and-breakfast-inn-on-a-belize-adventure-vacation-463068.html

About the Author:

Jim Brown recently began developing Belize Vacation Spots as well as contributing several articles about Worldwide Vacation Spots and he recommends Caribbean Vacation Spots but given a choice he would choose Belize before anywhere else

Read this review on Xanadu Island Resort on Ambergris Caye in Belize before you select your Caribbean Island getaway this year.

Why choose Xanadu Island Resort for your Belize vacation this year is a question to be answered. Why for that matter choose an Ambergris Caye vacation in the first place. That initially is probably easier to answer, because it has great beaches, and it is only half a mile away from the second largest coral reef in the world, and it runs the entire 25 mile length of the Caye.

The drawback here is the natural explosion of tourism, and the huge variation in quality and price of places to stay on Ambergris Caye, so choosing the right resort is where Xanadu Island Resort comes in.

In describing Xanadu Island Resort as a Caribbean Island getaway, this is the right description because it is a place to relax and unwind, and generally rejuvenate yourself, away from the hustle and bustle, stresses and strains of modern living and working.

The resort is hidden away on the beach, amongst the palm trees, overlooking the Caribbean, and yet if you choose, it is close enough to San Pedro Town for the restaurants, and yet far enough away to be quiet and relaxed.

There are 19 Condominium style suites, all luxuriously and individually decorated and furnished, and you can choose between Studio, Loft, then 1 or 2, or 3 bedroom suites. Each suite is air-conditioned, has ceiling fans, cable TV, safes, hair dryers, telephone, unlimited internet access, and beach towels are supplied. They all have large well shaded sun decks where it is a joy to sit with a coffee in the morning or a beer in the evening. The rooms are well looked after, and are always beautifully clean.

Each suite has a well equipped kitchen and there is a supermarket right outside the resort if you want to cook. You should understand right away that Xanadu Island Resort doesn’t have a bar or restaurant, which is somewhat unusual for a resort. This does mean it is very quiet and peaceful, and there are a number of bars and restaurants close by, or within easy walking distance, and that is great fun to be able to eat in a different place all the time, but can be a little inconvenient when you want a drink during the day, but there is always your fridge.

Whether this lack of eating and drinking facilities means that Xanadu Island Resort isn’t a hotel/resort is a moot point, but to save any doubt, it is how effective the staff are that makes you realise how good a resort this is.. You can run an account when booking excursions or scuba diving, and the politeness and willingness of the staff is an example to many other un named and unshamed places.

Whatever you want to know, the office staff have the answer. If you want a recommended restaurant, then they can and will tell you, and they are seldom wrong. You always have the impression that it is important to the staff that you enjoy your Belize vacation at Xanadu Island Resort.

If your idea of a Caribbean Island Getaway is peace and quiet, good accommodation, and an escape from the world on an island beach resort, them Ambergris Caye and Xanadu Island Resort could be the right place for you.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-caribbean-island-getaway-on-ambergris-caye-belize-457888.html

About the Author:

Jim Brown recently began developing Belize Vacation Spots as well as contributing several articles about Worldwide Vacation Spots and he recommends Caribbean Vacation Spots but given a choice he would choose Belize before anywhere else

Located in the Toledo District of Belize- Cotton Tree Lodge, offers luxury vacation packages with an eco-adventure twist.

Founder Chris Crowell planned the Belize resort as an off-the-grid jungle retreat with limited impact on the surrounding environment. The lodge’s electricity is drawn from a combination of solar panels, batteries, and generator. Composting toilets return nutrients to the soil through self contained banana plantings rather than a traditional leach field which prevents waste water from contaminating the nearby Moho River.

Only organic methods and local plant species are used in the vegetable garden which produces nearly 50% of the fruits and vegetables used by the Cotton Tree Lodge kitchen. The garden is also used by Sustainable Harvest International, an NGO that teaches environmentally sustainable agriculture techniques to local farmers.

Crowell has done his best to incorporate the local environment into the lodge’s activities. Guests are encouraged to take advantage of the swimming, kayaking, and bird watching along the Moho River which abuts the Cotton Tree Lodge property. Guided medicinal plant walks led by a local bush doctor teach the benefits of plants found on the Cotton Tree Lodge grounds and in the nearby jungle.

Guests are also encouraged to participate in the effort to keep their Belize resort vacation as “green” as possible. Guests are asked to be mindful of electricity and water usage. Additionally, guests are assigned a reusable water bottle to refill with purified water for the duration of their stay.

Cotton Tree Lodge guests typically purchase an all-inclusive package that includes accommodation, meals, on-site activities, and day trips to local natural and cultural sites. Scheduled trips might include hiking through the jungle, diving from waterfalls, snorkeling, or exploring caves. Cultural excursions include Mayan ruins, Garifuna drumming, and trips to village homes to learn about tortilla making or chocolate making.

While this Belize resort is marketed as a “green” resort, Cotton Tree Lodge is a luxury property and keeps guests comfortable in private, handcrafted cabanas with traditional thatched roofs, rosewood detailing, private bathrooms, ceiling fans, and comfortable queen or king beds. In-house systems ensure that fans, lights, and hot and cold running water function all night without interruption. Private porches with hammocks and river views give guests a great vantage point from which to enjoy the natural beauty around them.

Cotton Tree Lodge, Belize resort combine “green”, luxury, and the exotic for a unique experience. Cotton Tree Lodge, All Inclusive Belize Resort includes: accomodations, meals, and activities.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/all-inclusive-belize-resort-cotton-tree-lodge-404162.html

About the Author:

Cotton Tree Lodge, Belize resort combine “green”, luxury, and the exotic for a unique experience. Cotton Tree Lodge, All Inclusive Belize Resort includes: accomodations, meals, and activities.

A Belize Vacation has everything you could wish for if you are an outdoor enthusiast and you like a bit of adventure on your travels. Belize offers almost unlimited opportunities to do a wide range of things.

You might well choose a Belize Fishing Vacation, as Belize is a mecca for fisherman, because you aren’t just restricted to game fishing, although this is pretty good with all the lagoons and the ocean side of the reefs with all the big fish you could crave for.

When you add the many rivers that empty in to the Caribbean you will realise that you can add spinning and fly fishing to your repertoire on a Belize fishing vacation. Most guides and boatmen speak English.

If you hanker after a Belize Adventure vacation then there is caving, canoeing and kayaking, as well of course as hiking and walking. The best hikes in Belize include Cockscomb Basin Forest reserve in Southern Belize, Guanacastle National Park, Blue Hole National Park, Tikal National Park, and all need further investigation.

The best Belize adventure vacations might include things like chartering a boat and sail to isolated Islands, kayaking and camping around Glover’s reef Atoll. Why not try riding an inner tube through the Caves Branch River Cave System, which is real easy caving for beginners.

Similarly try canoeing, kayaking or inner tubing on the Macal or Mopan Rivers in Western Belize, and finally horseback riding in Western Belize through the Cayo District.

You can of course do all or some of these things on a Belize honeymoon, but the likliehood is you will be looking for a gorgeous Belize beach resort, the best Belize luxury resort you can find, perhaps a Belize all inclusive vacation.

You are almost spoilt for choice for your Belize Honeymoon vacation, and of course Belize isn’t restricted just to honeymooners, it is a family friendly place as well, and a vacation on a Belize Caye is unforgettable. There are several levels of accommodation from the luxury resort to the cheap Belize hotel, so it is important that you do your research before you book.

At the luxury end of the market in Belize.

If you are looking for a Jungle adventure you might consider the Maruba Resort Jungle Spa, or if it is caving, then the Jaguar Paw near Belmopan.

Ambergris Caye has Captain Morgan’s Retreat, Victoria House, and off Ambergris Caye is almost a private island called Cayo Esperanto, which is absolutely perfect for the Belize beach honeymoon.

Turtle Inn at Placencia is almost the ultimate Belize Beach honeymoon destination designed by Film Director Francis Coppola, El Pescador South at Punta Gorda a real luxury Belize resort.

For a cheap Belize Hotel it is worth investigating Ambergris Caye, where you will find the San pedro Holiday Hotel, Tides Beach resort, Ruby’s, to name a few.

At Punta Gorda there is the Coral House Inn, and at Placencia there is Tradewinds.

Belize has it all, the weather the best beaches, beautiful cayes, and an exciting interior to explore and have fun.

Belize needs a visit, why not start investigating it now!!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-belize-vacation-package-has-something-for-everyone-290069.html

About the Author:

Gordon Steven writes about Caribbean Vacation Spots as well as Worldwide Vacation Spots He also recommends in Kenya Safaris.

A Western Caribbean cruise vacation is popular with families interested in exotic ports that have sun, sand and surf, exciting and adventurous eco-tourism, history of ancient civilizations, and fantastic beaches. Cruise ships that depart for the Western Caribbean set sail from cities close to this region like Galveston, Texas, New Orleans, Louisiana, Tampa, Florida, and Mobile, Alabama. This makes cruises to the Western Caribbean more accessible to first time cruise travelers and for those wanting a shorter cruise such as a 3 or 4 day weekend cruise.

Here are four popular destinations in the Western Caribbean found on cruise itineraries:

Belize – For the nature adventurer and eco-tourist, Belize is known throughout the world for its abundant and diverse natural environments. Having the longest living barrier reef in the western hemisphere and boasting of the abundant marine life, Belize is a great place for scuba diving and snorkeling. Inland, Belize is dotted with ancient ruins and caves that were inhabited by the Mayan. The ruins at Cahal Pech are easier to get to for families by car. Cave tubing is becoming a popular way to experience the ancient cave dwellings as well as canoeing. Spectacular beaches with the soft sounds of Reggae playing cannot be missed when in Belize.

Cayman Islands – Grand Cayman, the largest island and most visited of the Caymans, offers the most in family activities. Visit the Turtle Farm at Boatswain’s Beach, Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, Pirate’s Caves, and more. There are many shore excursions to plan when in the Cayman Islands. Scuba diving, snorkeling with sting rays in Sting Ray City, ride the Atlantis Submarine up to 100 feet deep to explore shipwrecks and coral reefs, tour secluded shorelines, inlets, and the tranquil beauty of mangrove communities by kayak, or tour inland by jeep or horseback riding, shop the duty free stores in George Town., and many others. Caymanians enjoy high standards and quality living and are a friendly people. Peace, serenity, on this tropical island paradise is what they enjoy and willingly share with others.

Dominican Republic – Having the highest and lowest recorded sea level points in the Caribbean basin, the Dominican Republic’s landscape is anything but monotonous. Mountains and cliffs provide excitement for climbers, hikers, and the adventure enthusiast who would like to try cascading or canyoning. Walking and hiking tours through the Dominican Republic’s national parks and preserves expose visitors to the diverse wildlife and plant life. White water rafting and tubing over rapids provide intense adrenaline rush. Sandboarding is a popular activity for those who can’t get enough of snowboarding in the winter months. The many water sports on the crystal clear turquoise blue waters and white sand beaches will make you want to stay for a long, long time. Windsurfing, kiteboarding, scuba diving and snorkeling, deep sea fishing, catamaran sailing, and many others are offered with instructions and guides from local businesses. Whale watching between January and March features humpback whales, one of the largest species of the marine mammals. Compared to other Caribbean destinations, the Dominican Republic is quite inexpensive. Just be sure to keep to the tourist spots.

Jamaica – The birth place of reggae and jerk cuisine, and home of what is considered the best coffee in the world, Jamaica is one of the most popular choices in cruise destinations. Ochos Rios on the north coast is where cruise ships dock. From there, you will find the cascading Dunn’s River Falls where you can take a guided hike up the falls for a breath taking view of the rain forested canopy. Street market vendors sell art, food, seasonal fruits, t-shirts, just about anything. Enjoy horse back riding through the lush tropical forest and the tranquil Jamaican countryside. The powdery white sand beaches provide plenty of water sports and recreation to choose from. For something a bit different, rent a glass bottom boat for a few hours and sail around the coast and view the inhabitants of the coral reef. Jamaica is both laid back and exciting, lively and serene. Whatever you’re looking for in Jamaica, you are sure to enjoy your stay there.

With so many sites to see, places to visit, and things to do, a Western Caribbean cruise possesses an enchanting allure that will you make you want to return to the cultures, music, cuisine, and friendly people this region has to offer.

Begin planning your western Caribbean cruise now.

For family vacation planning resources and ideas, visit Best Family Vacation Destinations

http://best-family-vacation-destinations.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Michaels