Belize is said to be Mother Nature's best kept secret, and only two hours away from 3 major US gateways. Here, the opportunities for adventure abound. You can hike under the shade of the rainforest canopy, soak up some sun, sea and sand while relaxing on the beach, canoe down a wild forest while observing rare and protected wildlife, go island hopping while kayaking, or take a refreshing dip in the river under a cascading waterfall, just to mention a few.

The official language of Belize is English, although Spanish, Creole, Garifuna and Mayan are widely spoken throughout the country. It is located on the Caribbean coast, nestled between Mexico and Guatemala and offers an intriguing mix of tropical forests rich with wildlife, majestic 3,675 foot mountains, mysterious Maya temples, and diving and fishing experiences beyond compare. In a single day you can go from tropical forest to the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, and the people are as warm and friendly as the climate.

While the country of Belize is divided into 6 districts, you'll find it easier to plan your visit by looking at the 9 tourism destinations.

• Corozal
• Orange Walk
• Belize
• Ambergris Caye
• Caye Caulker
• Cayo
• Stann Creek
• Placencia
• Toledo

Most people visit attractions in at least two of these destinations during their trip often a combination of inland and marine.

In recent years visitors to Belize have rated the "marine attractions" as the primary reason for coming to Belize. With an unrivalled barrier reef in this hemisphere the marine attractions are as varied as the natural formations that make up this 176 ml. coastal treasure. Divers and snorkelers can experience the barrier reef, coral atolls, fringing reef, patch reefs and faroe, each offering differing underwater coral formations and a variety of flora, fish and marine creatures.

Belize is a perfect place to indulge in the fabulous sport of windsurfing. The Cayes have it all, flat water created by the reef and the constant onshore/sideshore wind provide an ideal location for the beginner to try a first lesson or take a course. For the intermediate it is fantastic for blasting and chop hopping. Runs of 10 miles plus are possible on either tack; perfect for practicing waterstarts and carve gybes. The water below is so clear that you can see fish and stingrays and it is not unusual to see dolphins as you sail. For the more experienced sailor, there are several wave sites and of course access to the swells of the big blue. The windy season is historically February through April where the trades provide wind of 11 to 17 knots and above 70% of the time. The rest of the year expect at least 2 or 3 6.0 days per week.