Mantidae (also known as praying mantis) is the common name for an insect of the order Mantodea which are mostly tropical or subtropical. The insect is named after the distinctive way they hold their front legs up and together and is in a prayer, and in Greek the word “mantis” means prophet or fortune teller.

It’s a country of freedom-seekers. The pirates came to ply their pirate trading out of view. The Mennonites came from Germany and the Netherlands so they could be Mennonites without anyone bothering them. The British came to do their banking in private. And the folks from the surrounding countries have made their way across Belize’s borders over the decades in search of safety.

If you are looking for a holiday destination that is small and friendly, plan a trip to Belize. This beautiful country is often overlooked by those searching for a Caribbean paradise, but their loss is your gain because if you take a trip to Belize you will soon discover paradise on earth. And there is more than enough to keep you occupied 24 hours a day as you will see from the following list of the 25 things you can do on a Belize vacation.

Many North Americans have this misconception that Belize is a distant and forgotten land deep in the rainforests of Central America. It is, in fact, only a two hour flight from Florida or a just a few hour drive from Mexico. This tiny country with an area of 8,867 square miles is unique because it was the only British colony in the region where English is the official language and Elizabeth II is still the queen.

After two days of hiking, climbing and swimming, I was ready for a bit of a change of pace, so we headed to the eco jungle resort, Chaa Creek. At this 365 acre resort, you’ll have everything at your fingertips to customize your own jungle adventure. I had met someone from Chaa Creek a few years ago at a travel trade show and had been staring at their promotional disc for years, waiting for the day I’d get to Belize so I could stay there. After checking in to our private thatched cottage, we met with the concierge to organize the activities for the following day. Many are included in your stay, but a few such as horseback riding and canoeing carry a small surcharge.

Belize is a hidden gem when it comes to tourism, especially if you’re looking to go scuba diving or simply relax on a gorgeous beach. The unique culture and flavors of Belize also offer some excellent souvenirs to take back from your trip.

As far as Central American countries go, Belize has not always been known as a “must-see” travel destination as compared to its more famous neighbors, Mexico and Guatemala. But over the last 10 years, Belize has built a reputation founded on its determination to protect the rainforests and farms of its land. With the rise in the popularity of ecotourism, Belize has positioned itself as a leader in the field, with the government protecting 40% of the land for conservation purposes.

Flight stats for Belize – did you know?

There are 19 airports in Belize and the 5 biggest are
Philip S.W. Goldson Intl Airport (Belize City, Belize)
Right now, 11 airlines operate out of Philip S.W. Goldson Intl Airport.

Belize is a rewarding, authentic destination for travelers in search of unique, intimate experiences in a Caribbean/Central American getaway. A Belize vacation will stir your soul, expand your mind and change your life.

Travel and Leisure is one of the world’s most recognized magazines. Published 12 times a year, the publication has just shy of five million readers. As for the World’s Best Awards, every August since 1995, these awards have been determined by an annual reader survey which asks travelers and travel providers to rate destinations, hotels, airlines, cruise lines, river cruises, and car-rental companies.

The Lodge at Chaa Creek is continuing an innovative approach towards creating greater awareness about its all-inclusive Belize vacation packages with a repeat of limited time surprise Super Tuesday discounts, marketing administrator Larry Waight said today.

In our fast-paced, material-heavy modern world, it can be difficult enough at home to live sustainably: Practicing environmental and ecological ethics on the road is sometimes that much tougher. There’s less under our control; we’re often beholden to local practice and custom about which we know little; and we may, like it or not, be part of a massive tourist horde, the impacts of which are substantial.

We recommend Chaa Creek to any soft-adventure traveler – and really want to support the conservation incentives of the Flemings. Jean & I visited Chaa Creek in the fall of 2009. Boy, had it changed since I was there in the early 90′s – back then it was a few thatched huts and outdoor deck / restaurant set on the banks of the Macal River. Of course the location hasn’t changed! But there’s tons more cabanas, an infinity pool that looks like it could be at a luxurious resort (which actually Chaa Creek is now), a proper restaurant aside from the bar….

From here I really was part of the forest. Light mist hung in the trees and caught the early rays of the sun. Birds awoke from their slumbers and began their usual raucous rituals especially the Macaws and Tucans. Not to be outdone, in the distance, began the cries of the Black Howlers, fighting over territory, mates or just happy to be alive. As usual, basking in the early sun, eying me up, was my resident Green Iguana. He just lay on the railing of my deck as if he owned the place, perhaps he did?

I would like to visit a Belize rain forest for a once -in-a-lifetime opportunity to see nature up close and learn about the lush variety of plants and animals that still live in their natural habitat before they are lost – just the way the diversity of life has been lost where I live. The diversity is greater, the colors are brighter and more exotic in Belize, with rare tropical birds and lush native flowers. The Mayans that lived in Belize long ago have left archaeological treasures that I would love to explore and learn about. A trip to Belize would be an experience I will always remember, especially if I get to see the Great Blue Hole.

From the snorkeling and canoeing to the beautiful animals and resort, I wouldn’t even know where to begin. My mother has spent the last thirty years devoting all of her time and energy to everyone except herself and to see her happy in such a beautiful place would mean the world to me. It will not repay her for all the she has done, but it sure would make a tremendous gift. Everything about this trip seems surreal.

I’d snorkel, savor local foods, relax at an Eco Spa, visit ancient Mayan ruins, and hopefully find some wonderful crafts to share with loved ones back home. I am sure I’d take more pictures than anyone would care to see, and talk for years about my wonderful experience! I’d Facebook, Twitter, and blog about my Belize Adventure. I’d shout from the rooftops that Chaa Creek Rocks!

After reviewing your website, I cannot say it any better than your list of 10 Reasons Why Families Should Travel To Belize .  I have added my own thoughts so this covers it all!
1. Belize is mind bogglingly beautiful. A nature lover and photographers paradise.  Beautiful scenery, rainforests and beaches.  Amazing native birds and  animals.
2. Belize is affordable. With the current US economy, affordability is a top priority.
3. There is plenty to do for the entire family. A family …

Belize is a very diverse little nation, which makes travel in Belize very simple and straightforward. Belize’s interior hides Mayan ruins, tall waterfalls, rainforests, and rivers you can explore. Down near Sittee Point is a jaguar preserve where you can venture into the jungle in search of the elusive cats.

Birdwatching in Belize’s interior is a treat, too. You’ll be able to spot parrots, toucans, flycatchers, and herons in their natural environment.

No longer a secret to the adventurous traveler, Belize is most famous for its virtually unspoiled coast. Just off the shores of its beautiful beaches is a 176-mile barrier reef, the largest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere, and second only to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Belize’s reef has long been a mecca for skilled divers, snorkelers, and fishermen.