Belize - Prepare

Take malaria medication and pack long-sleeved, pale coloured clothing to discourage mosquitoes if planning to visit the rainforest. Long boots covering the ankle will provide some protection from snake bites but kick back and chill out at the cayes in beach wear.

Get your dancing shoes on for Fiesta de Carnival in February. March 1 heralds celebrations for Belize's benefactor Baron Bliss. The aristocrat visited in the 1920s and left his substantial fortune to the people of Belize. Sample cashew wine at the Cashew Festival in June and head to Caye Caulker's July Lobster Festival. Join the celebrations on the National Day in September which marks the battle of St George's Caye fought by the British and Spanish in 1798 for control of the country. The British won and Belize gained independence in 1981.

New Year's Day, Baron Bliss Day (1 Mar), Easter (Mar/Apr), Queen's Birthday (21 Apr), Labour Day (1 May), Commonwealth Day (24 May), St George's Caye Day (national day) (10 Sep), Independence Day (21 Sep), Columbus Day (12 Oct), Garifuna Settlement Day (19 Nov), Christmas (Dec).

It is hot and humid all year and rain can be very heavy. Rainfall is lightest in the north, while the south is the most humid area. It is cooler at night in the Maya Mountains which cross western and southern Belize.

110-120 V, 60 Hz, two-pin plugs are standard.

+501 (national).

Belizean dollar (Bz$) is the currency.

GMT -6.

Belize Tourism Board website

Belize appeals to a mix of eco-tourists, history buffs and divers. The atmosphere is laid back – it's too hot for any other way of life.