Caye Caulker, Belize

The next day we prepared to leave Guatemala for the last time, journeying to Belize for a few days of laid back beach life. The contrast between both countries became apparent as soon as we reached the border. Firstly, Belize is an English speaking country, secondly it is populated by Caribbean Negroes instead of spanish and Mayan indians. Belize is a very small country, relatively poor but with very good roads and transport. Although there are several historical Mayan sites in Belize, we were all "ruined out" and bypassed them.

Our destination here was Caye Caulker, a small atoll like island 40 minutes by boat from Belize City. Situated next to the worlds second largest barrier reef, Caye Caulker is a popular place for snorkeling and diving, windsurfing and sea kayaking. It's possible to snorkel and swim amongst baby sharks and rays, and brightly coloured fish so numerous you sometimes try and push them aside to look down at the large shell fish on the sand. With very clear water that is very salty, even the worst swimmers can enjoy the delights and, if not forgetful, take along a few underwater photographs. Fuji and Kodak both make "one-use" underwater cameras that cost less than US$20, a wise investment.

The island has two roads, aptly named The Front Road and The Back Road, tourists travel by foot and locals by electric golf carts. A large sign on The Front Road says "SLOW DOWN", I think it is aimed at the tourists and we all quickly chose to obey and adopt the local pace of life. That pace of life is very casual and relaxed, and the swimming beach is conveniently located right next to a couple of restaurants and a bar, the latter offering an extended happy hour every night. I was once accosted by a local crossing The Front Road who stopped and proudly proclaimed in a Caribbean drawl "Hey man, I'm the laziest man in town". I think he may have been right, he certainly didn't have the energy or willpower to move from his spot and when I looked back several minutes later, he was still standing there.