Belize
Sub Umbra Florero. This is the motto sewn onto the Belizean flag. It refers to the mighty Mahogany – the national tree – and it means "Under the shade, I flourish." With one foot planted amongst the rich biodiversity of the Central American jungles and the other immersed in the clear, salty waters of the Caribbean Sea, Belize is a flourishing paradise with a history just as compelling.
Home to the ancient Mayan Empire, many mighty and surprisingly advanced Mayan cities such as Caracol and Xunantunich once dotted the pristine landscape prior to European discovery in 1502. Thankfully, much of the ancient culture and traditions remain preserved. Venture North to Lamanai to learn just how these ancient Mayan civilization lived undisturbed for 3,000 years.
Or, if you're more interested in activities relevant to the past 100 years, then why not give scuba diving a try. Belize is often considered one of the best locations in the world to explore the ocean deep thanks to spots like Ambergris Caye or the famed Blue Hole – an almost perfectly circular hole located in the midst of the Lighthouse Reef system. Emitting a deep, nearly magical, blue tint that resembles a sort of divine tapestry, the Blue Hole must be seen to be believed! For the family in search of less exotic locales, check out Belize City – home to the world class Belize Zoo, several museums and historic government buildings and churches. Make sure to take a moment or two each day to find shade under one of this land's many trees and watch Belize – the people and the country – as it flourishes.
