Belize's warm Caribbean Sea is great for snorkelling

Laid-back, English-speaking Belize lies on the Caribbean coast, bordering Mexico and Guatemala.

It is only 174 miles in length and 80 miles at its widest point and its population is around 266,000.

The country is characterized by thick, sub-tropical jungle in the north and beautiful white-sand beaches in the south. Belize was the seat of ancient Mayan civilization and Mayan ruins such as Xunantunich, Caracol and Altun Ha are popular travel destinations.

Belize is also famous for its warm turquoise waters. Its coast is punctuated with islands called cayes which are perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. Belize is home to the world's second-largest barrier reef, and locations such as Ambergris Caye and Hol Chan Marine Reserve are a divers' paradise.

Survival guide

Accommodation in Belize ranges from luxury hotels to hostels.

English is the official language in Belize, although Belizean Creole is also widely spoken.

The currency is the Belizean Dollar and the capital is Belmopan.

The main international airport is the Philip SW Goldson Airport outside of Belize City.