Belize is not as well-known as Mexico. It’s one of the world’s best-kept secrets. Not a lot of people flock to Belize for a vacation. Despite that, it’s one of the best vacation destinations ever. Being in Central America, it’s an undiscovered gem that is filled with nature’s wonders and blessings. A serene atmosphere will welcome you, but if you want adventure, Belize is ready to offer it, too.
Mexico, on the other hand, is known by the world as the ideal vacation destination. It’s famous for the unique adventures and breathtaking views that it has. Mexico is a vibrant and colorful location, electric throughout the day. Mexico is blessed with abundance in all aspects, from culture to beauty to history. There’s nothing else you will need in Mexico.
Belize
With only more than 400,000 locals living in Belize, it’s considered a small country. At first look, it might not seem like a country worthy of a vacation but it offers more than what people expect. Because it’s nothing like anyone expects, it’s surprising and fresh. Despite being small, it has everything you need.
Belize is tucked away between Mexico and Guatemala, which makes it an undiscovered but worthy gem of a country. Belize offers a laid-back atmosphere but will give you thrilling adventures should you seek them. Despite being in Central America, it’s very much like a Caribbean paradise.
If you dig a little deeper, you will be surprised at what you can find in Belize. It’s known for its world-class snorkeling and diving, but it offers more than that. Belize will welcome you with breathtaking jungles, pristine beaches, and unbelievable attractions.
What Makes Belize Unique?
The Belize Barrier Reef
If one of the largest barrier reef ecosystems in the world doesn’t reel you into Belize, nothing will.
The outstanding Belize Barrier Reef System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is composed of seven protected areas in Belize. These seven areas are Bacalar Chico National Park, Half Moon Caye, Blue Hole Natural Monument, South Water Caye Marine Reserve, Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve, Laughing Bird Caye National Park, and Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve.
Because it’s one of the largest barrier reef systems, it also boasts the most diverse marine wildlife. The fact that this ecosystem has the most diverse marine habitats in the world makes it an ideal destination for snorkelers and divers. It’s filled with exotic marine life, wherein some were once considered endangered.
There are hundreds of islands sprinkled all over the World Heritage Site, so in just this part of Belize, there’s already so much to explore and discover.
Unbelievable Archaeological Sites
The great thing about Belize is that it doesn’t stop at natural wonders like the Belize Barrier Reef. It also has archaeological sites that anyone will want to visit and explore.
Once the heart of the Mayan civilization, it now boasts impressive archaeological structures. These structures give visitors a deeper look at the Mayans. Whether you’re into sites like this or not, it’s hard to deny that they will reel you in and pique your interest.
Here are some of the best Mayan Ruins in Belize:
Altun Ha
If you’re looking to just visit one of the Mayan Ruins, Altun Ha should be the site that you go to. It’s the most accessible of all sites, but more than that, it is the best excavated Mayan ruins site in Belize.
Despite this site being smaller compared to others, there’s much to explore. There are pyramids, temples, and even residential constructions at Altun Ha. However, what really makes Altun Ha special is that on this site, you can find a carving of the Mayan sun god, Kinich Ahau. This carving of the Mayan sun god is the largest jade carving item from the Mayan ruins.
Xunantunich
If Altun Ha is the most accessible, Xunantunich is its counterpart. The site of Xunantunich is one of the least accessible Mayan ruins sites in Belize. The only way you can see this site for yourself is by riding a cable ferry over a river.
Xunantunich is believed to be one of the oldest sites in Belize. The main attraction in Xunantunich is the El Castillo, which is a pyramid that is covered with painted decorations of the gods and the tree of life.
Cahal Pech
Cahal Pech is breathtaking on its own, but it’s often overshadowed by more famous ruins such as Xunantunich and Caracol. For visitors that prefer to visit ruins that aren’t as crowded as the others, Cahal Pech is a great place to start.
Cahal Pech is also the oldest ruins in the Belize River Valley. It served as a gateway for people to get more information on the life of the Mayans on this side of Belize. Cahal Pech also has a visitor center wherein people are able to get explanations of the history of Cahal Pech.
Ideal Vacation Weather
Traveling to Belize is worry-free, mainly because you don’t have to think about when to visit. Regardless of when you’re free, you can just book a flight to Belize. This is because the weather all year round is the ideal weather for a perfect getaway.
Belize barely gets cold, and when it gets too hot, you have a wide array of beaches that you can enjoy. Belize barely experiences rain, but when it does, it will be replaced by the sun right away. The perfect vacation should not be ruined just because of the weather. This is where Belize comes in. Regardless of your itinerary, your days will be filled with fun and sunshine.
Colorful and Diverse Culture
Despite being in Central America, Belize is more similar to its Caribbean neighbors. Much like many places in the Caribbean, Belize is a melting pot of different cultures. The vibrant cultures and traditions that Belize now enjoys come from several cultures. Some of these cultures come from the Mayans, Chinese, and East Indians.
The incredible mixture of ethnicities, traditions, and languages in Belize makes it vibrant. The diversity in Belize is something that you don’t see in many other countries. The people in Belize are warm and welcoming, something you can expect from a place that gathers many different ethnicities in one place.
Another thing that benefitted so much from the mixture of cultures in Belize is the Belizian cuisine.
The food in Belize is unique and something that you cannot compare to anywhere else. The reason behind the unique taste of Belizian cuisine is the fact that it has roots in different cultures’ cooking styles and spices. Your taste buds will be more than happy to explore unique dishes in Belize.
Everything from seafood to fruits and vegetables in Belize is served fresh. You know you’re getting nothing but the best when it comes to the food here.
Unending Attractions
When you give Belize the chance and explore it, you will realize that there’s absolutely no reason to travel to other places. Belize holds its own. Belize has enough adventure and attractions for you to enjoy and explore. Despite being a small country, it offers so much more than anyone expects.
Regardless of what kind of adventure or attraction you prefer, there’s something in Belize that will catch your attention. Here are some of the most breathtaking attractions in Belize:
Actun Tunichil Muknal
The Actun Tunichil Muknai is a ceremonial cave in Belize. It’s awe-inspiring and unique. The Actun Tunichil Muknai cave, which is also known as the Cave of the Crystal Sepulchre, houses Mayan altars and artifacts.
In the cave, you will also find the famous “Crystal Maiden.” It is the intact skeleton of a young female, but what really grabs people’s attention about it is that it sparkles. The reason the Crystal Maiden eerily sparkles is because of the calcium carbonate covering it has.
If you want to see more of the famous ceremonial cave, there are tours available to enjoy. There is a lot of hiking and swimming involved, so it’s a great adventure and activity on its own.
Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve
There is only one jaguar preserve in the whole world and you can find it in Belize. The Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve boast over 150 square miles (388 kilometers) of felines. Jaguars, pumas, and the like you can think of are in this sanctuary. This whole area is an untouched tropical forest.
In this sanctuary, there are many activities to be done and sights to be seen. You can hike, swim, and even go river-tubing. There are many ways to immerse yourself with nature in this pristine wildlife sanctuary. The sights, paired with the adventure, are something that you will not get your mind off of.
Bocawina National Park
The Mayflower Bocawina National Park can be found in the southern district of Belize. It’s roughly 1.1 square miles (2.85 square kilometers) of forests, waterfalls, and an ancient Mayan city.
The Bocawina National Park is typically explored by people who seek adventure and thrill. There are plenty of areas to hike and swim in. More than that, you can spot many species of animals, from birds to monkeys, in the national park. After going on an adventure in this park, there are waterfalls where you can swim in and relax to wind down.
The Living Maya Experience
If you’re one to enjoy immersing yourself in traditions, the Living Maya Experience tour will be the best activity or attraction for you.
In the Living Maya Experience tour, you will visit the traditional Mayan village. There, you can immerse yourself and participate in their daily activities. There are various activities that guests can do, including making corn tortillas and building a thatched house.
Going on this tour will give you a better glimpse of the indigenous people of Belize. It will give you a better idea of how truly diverse and vibrant life in Belize is.
Mexico
Traveling to Mexico doesn’t need a lot of persuasion because it’s already Latin America’s most visited country. Mexico offers more than its unique and relaxing resorts. Mexico also boasts and offers its vibrant culture, breathtaking architecture, and rich history.
Each year, Mexico welcomes millions of visitors, and this is for good reason. Mexico is festive, bright, and colorful. All the fun in the world can be found in Mexico. Pair this positive vibe with the fabulous beaches and delicious food to match, and you’ll want nothing more than to be in Mexico for as long as you can.
The diversity and vibrance of Mexico are enough to reel anyone in.
What Makes Mexico Unique?
Iconic Mexican Cuisine
Mexican food is unmatched. Mexican cuisine is so delicious that it’s well-loved all over the world. Imagine trying Mexican food where it originated; it will be so authentic and delicious that you’ll never think of it the same ever again.
Most Mexican dishes are a perfect blend of Mayan and Aztec dishes. This fusion is what created the famous Mexican dishes that everyone loves. However, it’s not only about the famous tacos or tortillas. In fact, the more you explore Mexico, the more you will realize that the food here is diverse.
One thing is for sure about Mexican food: regardless of what kind of taste you’re looking for, you will find it in Mexico.
And if you decide to visit Mexico during the holidays, prepare your taste buds. During festivities, everyone passes around some pan de Muerto and Rosca de Reyes that both locals and visitors enjoy.
Warm and Welcoming Environment
Along with the vibrant atmosphere of Mexico, no one can deny that the locals are warm and friendly. No tourist gets left behind because locals in Mexico are all about helping. Everyone is always willing to give a hand, whether it’s to give out directions or just to chat up. What’s truly touching about Mexicans is that they go out of their way to help anyone.
Mexicans truly are one of the most hospitable and friendly people in the world. They may not get the best press, but a trip to Mexico will prove to you that you’re safe and welcome there.
Unbelievably Gorgeous Beaches
If you’re looking for the best beaches in the whole world, you should look no further than Mexico. Whether you’re going to the beach for a family outing or a honeymoon, there’s a beach that’s perfect for what you’re looking for. Mexico has many beaches, and each one offers a unique experience, all equally relaxing and breathtaking.
Here are the some of the best beaches in Mexico:
Playa Carrizalillo, Puerto Escondido
Playa Carrizalillo is the beach destination that’s a crowd favorite for Mexico locals. To get to this beautiful gem of a beach, you have to take more than a hundred steps going down. However, this trek to the beach is more than worth it. Once you get to Playa Carrizalillo, you will be welcomed with clear turquoise water and a beach lined with towering palm trees. If you didn’t know better, you will think you were inside a postcard.
This beach is beginner-friendly for surfers, so locals offer various surfing lessons here. Although underdeveloped compared to other beaches, it has enough amenities for you to enjoy your stay here.
Playa Mujeres, Cancun
Playa Mujeres is one of the most quickly-growing beach destinations in Mexico. If luxury is what you’re after, then there’s really nowhere else to go.
Playa Mujeres is well-loved because of its silky soft white sands and crystal clear waters. It’s a little away from the electric vibe of Cancun, which makes it feel like a secret spot for many. Playa Mujeres has the perfect blend of luxury, hospitality, and relaxation. No one who visits Playa Mujeres leaves unsatisfied.
Playa Blanca, Zihuatanejo
Sometimes, all you need is the whitest of the white-sand beaches. Playa Blanca has exactly that.
The charm of Playa Blanca comes from the fact that it appears to be an endless strip of undeveloped beach. There’s nothing else to do here but laze around and enjoy the sights. Of course, there are amenities here, but the main point of this gem is to give you the most relaxing beach trip ever. In Playa Blanca, it feels like you’re on your own private island.
Isla Holbox
Where the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico is where Isla Holbox is.
Most locals and visitors will describe Isla Holbox as a paradise. It’s not as grand as other beaches in Mexico because it’s dressed-down, but that’s what makes the place charming. It’s Mexico’s best-kept secret.
Despite being underdeveloped, there are many things to see. There are street art that you can enjoy and some local restaurants that offer the best of Mexican cuisine. The overall atmosphere of Isla Holbox is laid-back. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of your daily life, this is a great place to be in.
Rich History
The whole country of Mexico is littered with historical and archaeological sites. These sites will give you a better glimpse of the rich history of Mexico. Much like the culture that the country has, the history is something that anyone would want to immerse in.
From ancient civilizations to what Mexico is now, there’s so much to unfold. In fact, Mexico’s recorded history dates back over three millennia. That’s enough to show someone that Mexico is an interesting country to explore.
Here are some historical sites to explore in Mexico:
Chichén Itzá
The Chichén Itzá can be found in the southeastern part of Mexico. The Chichén Itzá is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Mexico, and it holds a lot of history.
The Chichén Itzá is an ancient Mayan ruin. The overall area of the ruins is 4 square miles (10 square kilometers). It is said to have been a religious and political center in the past. At its peak, the Chichén Itzá had more than 35,000 people living in it.
Considered the most important Mayan metropolis, there are several temples that can be found in the Chichén Itzá. The best-preserved temple in Chichén Itzá is the Temple of Kukulcan, which is also the main attraction of the site.
Teotihuacan
The ancient Mesoamerican city of Teotihuacan is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It covers approximately 32 square miles (83 square kilometers) of Mexico. The city was known to be the most powerful and influential city during its peak. The origins and history of this ancient city continue to be a mystery.
Teotihuacan is home to some of the biggest ancient structures in the whole of Mexico. The pyramids here are arranged in a grid layout. Some of the most important structures in Teotihuacan are the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon.
Museo Nacional de Antropología
If you’re not able to visit and see the ruins for yourself, no problem at all. Mexico has the Museo Nacional de Antropología where you can get an in-depth look at the history of Mexico. The gigantic museum features Mexico’s history dating back to the Mesoamerican period.
The museum is Mexico’s largest museum, with 23 exhibition rooms. The whole museum takes up approximately 20 acres (8 hectares).
Magnificent Landscapes
Mexico has plenty of sights to take in. Most of the sceneries are so unique that you’ll want to snap a picture and immortalize the look of the landscapes. The landscapes of Mexico are just some of the many things that will make your heart full in this vibrant country.
Here are some of the most notable landscapes in Mexico:
Los Guachimontones
Los Guachimontones or the Round Pyramids is the gem of western Mexico’s archaeology. The Round Pyramids are remarkable conical step pyramids surrounded by grass. These are one of only two round pyramids in the whole world.
The Los Guachimontones is the largest discovered site from the ancient Teuchitlan culture. The ancient culture prospered between 300 BC-900 AD/CE.
The Buried Church
In Michoacan, Mexico, there lies a church that is the only remaining building from the village of San Juan, Parangaricutiro. The reason why it’s buried and the only remaining building is because of a deadly volcanic eruption in February of 1943.
Mushroom Rock
In Bahia Balandra or Bay of Balandra, you will find the famous Mushroom Rock of Mexico. It’s a very rare rock formation that wows anyone who sees it.
It all started in the winter of 2005. Back then, the rock was discovered in its location by the local residents of Bahia Balandra. However, the rock did fall but was rescued straight away by the local community.
Is Belize Better Than Mexico?
Belize and Mexico are two very different countries. Although they have their similarities, they give tourists very different experiences. Identifying which is better between the two means that you have to figure out what kind of experience you’re looking for.
Belize is more laid back. It’s a hidden gem tucked in Central America. Not many people may know about the wonders that Belize offers, but it gives such unique and memorable experiences. There are things in Belize that you will not experience anywhere else in the world. If you’re looking to relax, while being wowed by the sights around, Belize is a great place to be.
On the other hand, Mexico is more lively, vibrant, and colorful than Belize. It boasts a warm atmosphere that will put a smile on anyone’s face. Paired with the rich culture and history of this country are some beaches that seem to come from postcards. Mexico is picture-perfect with an electric vibe to match. If you want to make the most of your time and energy, Mexico should be your destination.
FAQ
Is Belize Like Mexico?
Belize and Mexico are two different countries. However, despite their glaring differences, they have a lot of similarities.
One similarity is the food. Mexico is all about Mexican cuisine. However, since Belize is a fusion of the Caribbean and Latin American cultures, there is also authentic Mexican food in Belize.
Additionally, both Belize and Mexico have Mayan ruins that tell a lot about their country’s history. The ruins make both countries more interesting and unique compared to others surrounding them.
Is Belize or Mexico Safer?
Both Belize and Mexico are safe countries to visit. However, between the two, Belize is safer. This is because Belize relies so much on tourism that they put in extra steps to ensure the safety of their tourists.
Belize may not have good publicity in regards to safety that so many people think that it’s not safe, but once you visit Belize, you will think otherwise.
This doesn’t mean that Mexico is not a safe place to travel to. With the warm and welcoming atmosphere in Mexico, you can trust that the locals will be more than helpful to tourists.
Despite both destinations being generally safe for tourists, you should still remember to put in your own precautions. This is to ensure that you have a great vacation.
Is Belize Cheaper Than Mexico?
No. Between the two countries, Belize is more expensive than Mexico. The main draw of Mexico – why it has so many tourists yearly – is that it’s very cheap. Belize is relatively cheap, but compared to Mexico, it’s expensive. In fact, Belize is more than 50% more expensive than Mexico.
If you’re planning to vacation on a budget, your money will be able to bring you more experiences in Mexico.
Is Belize in Mexico?
No. Belize and Mexico are two separate countries. They have their similarities but they are not the same. Neither is one country inside the other. In fact, they’re not even in the same region. Belize is situated in Central America while Mexico can be found in North America.
Is Belize in Mexico or South America?
Belize is neither in Mexico nor in South America. Mexico is not in South America either. Some people mistake Belize to be in South America because there are people that consider Central and South America to be the same. However, you should remember that Belize is in Central America and not in South America. They are two different parts of the continent.
Is Belize Owned by Mexico?
No. Belize is now an independent country. Belize has been free from Mexico and the United Kingdom since September of 1981.
What Is the Relationship Between Mexico and Belize?
Mexico and Belize have diplomatic relations. Mexico established the first embassy in Belize in 1981.
Now, Belize and Mexico have friendly relations that continue to thrive with every agreement that the two countries make.
Why Is Belize Not Part of Mexico?
Belize is no longer a part of Mexico because of the Belize Act of 1981. This act has provisions that give Belize full independence from any other countries, including Mexico.
In fact, Belize has not been part of Mexico since the late 18th century. It was in 1893 when Mexico signed a treaty with the United Kingdom, putting in borders between Mexico and Belize.
When Did Belize Separate From Mexico?
Belize separated from Mexico and the United Kingdom on September 21, 1981. This is the nation’s independence day. This independence happened despite there not having any formal agreement with Guatemala.
Why Did Mexico Lose Belize?
The reason why Mexico lost Belize is because of the Caste War. The Caste War was supported by the British Crown. Because of the United Kingdom’s support, Mexico’s Porfirio Diaz surrendered Belize to England. They surrendered Belize in 1893 through the Spencer Treaty wherein Mexico gave up its sovereign rights over Belize.
Does Mexico Recognize Belize?
Yes. Mexico recognizes Belize. In fact, the two nations have friendly relations. The two countries have celebrated more than 30 years of diplomatic and friendly relations.
Are Mexico and Belize Allies?
Yes. On the same day that Belize won its independence from the United Kingdom, Mexico and Belize became allies. This is because it is on the same day that Mexico and Belize established diplomatic relations, which they continue to have to this day.
