Book excerpt: We travel to grow – our Adventure Guides show you how. Experience the places you visit more directly, freshly, intensely than you would otherwise – sometimes best done on foot, in a canoe, or through cultural adventures like art courses, cooking classes, learning the language, meeting the people, joining in the festivals and celebrations. This can make your trip life-changing, unforgettable. All of the detailed information you need is here about the hotels, restaurants, shopping, sightseeing. But we also lead you to new discoveries, turning corners you haven't turned before, helping you to interact with the world in new ways. That's what makes our Adventure Guides unique. The only English-speaking country in Central America, Belize is home to 500 Completely rewritten, the 6th edition has a great layout that makes for easy navigation and is filled with abundant new information. All manner of tips and recommendations for the first-time or veteran Belize traveler. Encouraging eco-travel, Vivien Lougheed profiles many of the unique archeological sites, wildlife preserves, marine sanctuaries and conservation areas. Explore firsthand Belize's myriad attractions. Visit Belize City, the Turneffe Islands, Belmopan, San Ignacio, Corozal, Punta Gorda and more! Thousands of species of birds, innumerable Maya ruins, as well as the world's second-largest barrier reef. Over 80% of the land remains covered with primeval forest and 30% has been set aside as national parks/preserves. Includes maps.