HUFFINGTON POST

#5 BELIZE

This Central American up-and-comer - about the size of Massachusetts - is packed with potential. The tiny English-speaking country fronts the Caribbean Sea and offers sunny, warm weather all winter long and loads of adventuresome travel opportunities. Case in point: The longest continuous barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere borders the coast of Belize, making the waters here outstanding for snorkeling and diving. Offshore atolls and sandy reef shelves are home to baby sharks, massive stingrays, skinny eels, and lots of colorful marine life. Inland, the Maya Mountains are swathed in thick rain forests with thousands of streams and rivers cascading down - ideal for jungle treks and nature tours. Also not far offshore are dozens of islands, called cayes, which make for great day trips or secluded stays; Ambergris Caye and Isla Bonita are among the most developed, boasting chic restaurants and resorts, while Caye Caulker remains more laid-back and remote.

Belize Tourism Board/Tony Rath of Tony Rath Photography

Wow, Ambergris Caye AND Isla Bonita . . . how is it that I've not made it to Isla Bonita after all this time? he he

You just don't know what you're missing. I think they only speak Spanish on Isla Bonita though. You better bone up on it.

Isla Bonita must be north of the bridge, I think they speak a diiferent language.

Yes Bob, We speak a special language north of the bridge.

It's called Peace and Quiet Shhhhhh !