Maya Angelou once said, “Every person needs to take one day away. A day in which one consciously separates the past from the future. Each person deserves a day in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for.” That day is now, and if you’re looking for where to go, Belize is the perfect place. Keep reading to find out more about what Belize has to offer and why you should consider it as your bucket list country to visit when flying solo.
How to Enjoy a Solo Getaway to Belize
Going solo might seem scary or even lonely to some, but it is an experience that can also empower and bring fresh new perspectives. Solo traveling means freedom, independence and a chance at an unforgettable adventure. Traveling solo allows you to create your schedule when and where and how you want it to be, however you like, with no compromises. Belize is the ideal location for a solo getaway.
Similar: Solo Travel in Belize: Why Not?
Why Belize?
Xunantunich – Maya Site © Roeming Belize
Belize is a small Central American nation bursting with Caribbean culture and history. It benefits from being one of the most diverse yet least populated countries in the region. And, thanks to its unique identity as it was the only former British colony in Central America, English is its primary language.
Known to some as the “Jewel of Central America”, it’s an adventurer’s paradise – home to ancient Maya sites, wondrous caves, gorgeous islands and breathtaking rainforests. Belize is not only regarded for its geographical features but also its people. Belizeans are known to be friendly, welcoming and warm. You’re sure to leave Belize making at least one good friend.
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- Photo Courtesy: Leonardo Melendez
Here, you can set your own pace. Its laidback and relaxing lifestyle can reel you in to kick back and enjoy some vitamin sea without a care in the world. Or, you can opt for a rush of adrenaline while hiking in jungles. Belize is a destination blessed with all the right elements for an epic solo travel experience.
When is the best time?
This all depends on budget and preference of high or low season. The choice is yours:
The high season for tourism in Belize is November until April, during its dry season. This peak season draws thousands of tourists fleeing from the harsh cold winters to the warm tropical temperatures of Belize. The nice weather calls for the scheduling of fun activities such as aquatic sports and jungle adventures. However, the peak season also means certain towns and sites might be crowded along with higher rates.
Photo by Kevin Quischan Photography
The low season for tourism in Belize is from May to mid- November during its rainy season. Its most rainy months being September and October. This period is also considered hurricane season. Despite these points to keep in mind, this is the best time for those avoiding crowds and traveling on a tight budget. During the slow season, there are lots of good deals and rates for tour packages as well as accommodations and flight tickets.
3 Top Solo Travel Spots in Belize
Although Belize is a safe country, when traveling solo its best to hit the more popular spots such as the following:
PLACENCIA:
Located in southern Belize (a 35-minute flight from Belize City), this mesmerizing emerald peninsula has 16 miles of sandy beaches. The Caribbean Sea is on the east and the Placencia lagoon lies on west. It was once a sleepy fishing village but is now an increasingly popular travel destination.
Placencia is the perfect base to explore many of Belize’s natural attractions. Inland attractions such as the Cockscomb Basin, Victoria Peak, Monkey River, Red Bank, and ancient Maya Ruins. Placencia is also the gateway to some of the best diving in Belize- an underwater paradise. This destination offers a variety of deep-sea, fly, lagoon, trolling and spin fishing adventures and tours.
CAYE CAULKER:
The second largest of the Belizean Cayes, this island is 4 miles long and 21 miles northeast of Belize City. It is home to a complex network of undersea caves. Additionally, Caye Caulker is a popular destination for snorkelers, scuba divers, anglers and tourists who long for the beach at a budget-friendly location.
Surrounded by the spectacular Belize Barrier Reef about a mile away, it is the perfect base for underwater adventures at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and diving in the famous Great Blue Hole. One of the best places to visit on this island is “The Split”. This is where the Caribbean Sea splits the surface of the island in half. It is a launching point for swimming, diving, and snorkeling. The Split is also a popular hangout spot with a convenient bar and grill.
CAYO:
The largest district in Belize is known to be the eco-tourism center of Belize. It is situated in the west of the country, with a population of around 75,000 inhabitants spread out between villages and towns. Also, it is a popular travel destination, boasting pristine rivers, mysterious limestone caves, captivating waterfalls, and breathtaking lush landscapes. It is also the center of the Mundo Maya Empire, hosting two of Belize’s biggest Maya sites: Xunantunich and Caracol.
Cayo holds the biggest market day in all of Belize every Saturday. Watch as San Ignacio town comes alive with its multicultural blend of colors, flavors, sounds, crafts, and fresh fruits and vegetables on display. Cayo provides educational centers such as The Butterfly Exhibit, Natural History Centre, and Rainforest Medicine Trail at the Lodge at Chaa Creek. This district is filled with local craft shops and plenty of places to enjoy an array of ethnic cuisine.
Take a chance at traveling solo to Belize! It can be one of the most exciting, eye-opening and freeing experiences in a lifetime. No matter what your age, going solo opens the window of opportunity for self- reflection, growth and endless freedom.
Written by Jiyoung Chehade. Note: This article was first published on February 17, 2020.
