Belize, once part of the ancient Maya empire, has developed into a very popular tourism destination and cruise ship port-of-call.

Formerly known as British Honduras - a British Crown colony - Belize became totally independent in 1993.

Along its coastline, a lengthy group of coral islands form a barrier reef, second only in size to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia.

Major attractions of the reef include Ambergris Caye, the Blue Hole, Half Moon Caye National Monument, the Turneffe Islands, and the hundreds of exquisite offshore scuba diving sites.

In addition, the country is home to remnants of the Mayan culture, including the uniqueness of the Lamanai and Xunantunich sites.

Belize bursts with wildlife of all description. Dense rainforests cover most of the country, while the sharp - edged peaks of the Maya Mountains dominate the south central landscape

The climate is generally hot and humid, with seasonal rainfall heaviest, June through November.