Belize is divided into two: a subtropical and sylvan inland and a caye-strewn coastline – so much to explore on a luxury family vacation. English is the official language, which makes traveling easy, but you may also encounter local languages like Kriol, Garifuna and Maya.
You can explore the lagoons and jungle of the Orange Walk District, or visit the organic cacao producers of Toledo District where there are secluded Mayan communities where you can make a difference, but more of that later.
For those who like their fun deep, you can go spelunking in the network of caves riddling the lowlands. Buried in the rainforests of the Cayo and Orange Walk Districts are pyramidal Maya ruins, some well-known (Caracol), others barely touched. Here you’ll also find fabulous luxury ecolodges offering immersive wildlife experiences.
Your vacation in Belize won’t be complete without spending time in the calm, clear waters of the Caribbean, with its numerous offshore sandy cayes and atolls. You don’t need to be a fish or a mermaid to enjoy Belize but some of the best places to visit in Belize are underwater: the extensive reefs, corals and marine creatures encircling the cayes and atolls are crowned by the epic Blue Hole dive site. In season, you can also encounter manatees and even whale sharks.
Belize is a very relaxed place to explore because life seems to move at a slower pace, and can easily be combined with Guatemala or Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula.
Now you’re probably wondering: where is the part about how my kids can discover how fortunate they are? Well, you can make a lasting impact in the lives of a remote rural family by helping install a fuel-efficient stove, interacting with the locals and learning about Mayan culture. In the same village you can also build a public toilet block. These are perfect for bonding as a family, and to provide insights into how others live, which is sure to make a big impact on your children – they will return home changed.
If you and your family dive, you can play a part in preserving the Belize barrier reef (the world’s second largest) for the future generations. You can have a family contest to see who can remove the most invasive species such as Lionfish…and make Lionfish ceviche!
Explore the ancient ruins, spot amazing wildlife, kayak, rapell, snorkel, and learn how to make chocolate in a Bean to Bar class…then inspire your kids to be future world changers by engaging in one of the above service projects. At Hands Up Holidays we will create a tailor-made luxury family volunteer trip specific to your preferences and goals. Contact us now and explore Belize (ask us for your definitive guide to making luxury trips meaningful).
