Location Belize is a small country on the east coast of Central America, next to the Caribbean Sea. It is the only official and practically English-speaking country in Central America. Spanish is the second most widely spoken language, followed by … Read More … Read More
Read MoreWelcome to Rustic!
Jungle paradise in Belize
WHY BELIZE?
Independent country
Belize’s national beer, much loved by beach-goers
Our jungle lodge from a bird’s eye view
Birding paradise
Belize is one of the hidden gems of Central America.
Seventy percent of the land territory is protected by some form of ecological conservation, including the entire offshore area, where offshore drilling has been banned.
Belize also has a vibrant jungle ecology. Our guests find themselves right in the middle of it.
There are countless world class birding opportunities. At least 200 of the bird species that live here or migrate through Belize may be observed on our property. We are near the largest jaguar reserve in the world…and on occasion, we have found jaguar paw prints on our property!
The second largest reef in the world (after the Great Barrier reef), called the Meso-American reef, lies off the coast of Belize, with immense opportunities for diving, fishing and snorkeling.
Two of the best points of departure for exploring these are from Placencia and Hopkins, both a short drive from our property.
Belize is at the centre of Mayan culture. The majority of the Belizean population today is either Mayan or mestizo (Mayan and European mix). Did you know that at the height of the Mayan empire (AD 250-900), the area now occupied by Belize supported four to five times its current population?
We are within a one hour drive of two of Mayan ruins of medium significance, Nim Li Punit and Labuntum; a third site of major significance, Xunantunich is a little more than two hours away.
Belize has not yet been discovered by mass tourism. Amazingly, there are no international fast food chains. There are no high rise buildings — very few buildings reach 5-6 stories.
Belize is blessed with wonderful weather. “Snowbirds” from North America and Europe enjoy our winters, with high temperatures in the 25-30 celsius range (high eighties low nineties Fahrenheit). Even in the rainy season (October to December) you can usually enjoy a good many hours of sunshine every day. Caribbean hurricanes and tropical storms often pass further to the north. Most tourists find the ocean warm enough for swimming year-around.
Most Belizeans are gentle and hospitable to tourists. The fact that English is the national language makes communication very easy.
Belize has something for everybody!
Did you know?
1. What is the currency in Belize? Can I use US Dollars?
The vast majority of vendors will accept US dollars as well as international credit cards. The Belize dollar is pegged to the USD, 1 USD = 2 BZD. Use of currency is easy peasy!
2. What is the language in Belize?
English is the one and only official language in Belize—the only country in Central America with English as the official language. (A large minority also speak Spanish, and those of Mayan origin often speak one of the Mayan languages).
3. How is the security situation in Belize?
Belize City is an important port town, and there are certain suburbs of the city known for crime which should be avoided. But on the whole, most tourists feel secure throughout the country. Belize City is not the object of much tourism.
4. More frequently asked questions...
Visit Exotica Lodge Accommodation page at section FAQ for more answers about your questions.
Explore our blogs about Belize
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