Just a short non-stop flight away from a number of US cities, Belize has been hailed as a top Caribbean destination on quite a few occasions. And with good reason, too. One of the beauties of this small but eclectic nation is its duality. Not only is it culturally and historically Caribbean, but it is also geographically (and culturally as well) Central American.
In fact, one of the main draws of Belize is its ability to grant travelers a “best of both worlds” type of experience. Within the span of 24 hours, a person can experience both reef and rainforest while in Belize. And according to Forbes Magazine, this dynamic destination in Central America is deserving of some more love. According to the global media company, Belize is an “under-the-radar” destination that Should Be On Your Travel List. Here’s a snippet of what Forbes writer Judy Koutsky had to say about Belize.
Why This Under-The-Radar Central American Destination Should Be On Your Travel List

Verdant vistas await at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Photo by Kevin Quischan Photography
Belize, a small country in Central America, has flown under the radar for many travelers. But that’s about to change if the Honorable Anthony Mahler, Belize Minister of Tourism & Diaspora Relations, has anything to do with it.
Belize, like many countries, is still recovering from the drastic economic downturn that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Regaining momentum for our tourism industry has required a lot of human and financial resources,” says Mahler, who was officially sworn in as Belize’s new Tourism Minister in 2020, but has a history with the Belize Tourism Board (BTB), having worked there for 12 years.

Hon. Anthony Mahler
“Our economy is small, so we cannot outspend larger destinations. Thankfully, our recovery has been positive and steady.”One of the big focuses for the country is sustainability. “On the global scene, Belize has worked diligently to put in place all the requisite elements to lead the sustainable tourism model,” says Mahler. “We have included the philosophy in our short-term and long-term goals.”
He wants to establish Belize as a low-impact/high-value destination. That involves getting buy-in from locals. “It is important for our tourism that Belizeans not only see the financial benefits coming from the industry, but that they understand that the industry’s success is tied to their own appreciation and love of our country,” says Mahler.
Read the entire article by Forbes here.
Belize Travels: Where to Go

Photo by Belize Tourism Board
Planning to visit this underrated Central American destination? Here’s some travel inspiration for where to go:
Visit Maya Cities and Caves
Belize is dotted with towering Maya, ruins like Xunantunich and Caracol, as well as countless cave systems, many of which were once ancient Maya ceremonial sites.
Experience the Small Town Charm of San Ignacio & Santa Elena
Belize twin towns are a warm and vibrant destination that make a great hub for all your inland adventures. Caves, rivers, and even the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest reserve all all easily accessible from them.
- Enjoy A Jungle Pontoon Tour in Cayo. Photo courtesy Belizing
- Xunantunich Maya Site. Just 20mins away from San Ignacio and Santa Elena. Image courtesy Dylan Hetelle
- Sarteneja Village – one of Belize’s most picturesque villages. Photo by Marcus Hjelm
- Breakfast tacos goes best with orange juice or horchata. Image by Belize Food Tours
Go Off-the-Beaten-Path in the Northern Districts
Orange Walk and Corozal are two districts that make for amazing travel experiences far away from the usual crowds. Visit the lesser known villages and Maya sites. Indulge in culinary delights inspired by the Mestizo culture. Or simply relax by the sea at the under-the-radar Corozal Bay.
Featured Photo by Marcus Hjelm on Unsplash
This article was adapted from the Forbes Magazine article "Why This Under-The-Radar Central American Destination Should Be On Your Travel List" by Judy Koutsky.