A holiday makers on the tiny Central American country of Belize in the Caribbean Sea has a peaceful history, laidback locals, stunning scenery and a pleasant climate.

Bordering Mexico and Guatemala and with a population of just 280,000, Belize is a paradise for nature lovers, with around 40 per cent of its 23,000 sq km protected land and 386 km of beautiful coastline.

The country, sandwiched between the breathtaking Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico and the Peten forests of Guatemala, is an undiscovered jewel in Central America’s crown.

Belize, formerly British Honduras, only declared full independence from Britain in 1981, following numerous disputes between the UK and Guatemala.

The quiet country’s main source of income is from tourism and it has become an increasingly popular eco-tourism destination on account of its rich flora and fauna.

Belize has a strong policy of conservation and the interior of the country has remained densely forested, despite extensive logging in other parts of the Americas.

Hikes and treks can be arranged into the tropical forests to see a vast array of indigenous species, including jaguars, howler and spider monkeys, tapirs, toucans and macaws. There are a number of interesting sanctuaries located in the rainforests, including one for jaguars and another for baboons.

For marine lovers, the extensive coastline is home to myriad brightly coloured fish and corals and Belize has the longest barrier reef in the Americas, making the country an ideal destination for keen divers and snorkellers.

Off the coast and beyond the reef lie three delightful coral atolls and a number of small islands, while the crystal waters play host to stingrays, whale sharks and dolphins. Beach lovers will enjoy the serenity of the attractive beach resorts, with their white sands, coconut palms and cabanas.

The capital Belmopan has a population of just 7,100, making it the smallest capital in the world, with hotels situated around the corner from government buildings and colourful flowers and trees along its open streets.

Belmopan was established after the former capital, Belize City, was hit by Hurricane Hattie in 1965. However, Belize City remains the largest settlement in the country and one of the oldest, with its ramshackle buildings and busy streets.

The Mayan civilisation dominated the hilly areas of the south-central region of Belize and in the Maya Mountains there is still evidence of the past, with some exceptional ruins of the four thousand year old culture.

The archaeological site of Lamanai houses 60 different structures, including a key Mayan temple, while the hilltop Xunantunich, on the edge of the Belize River, is an impressive ancient ceremonial centre rising from the surrounding jungle.

Although the evidence of Spanish and British settlers remains in Belize, the majority of the population consists of Creole and Mestizos ethnic groups. The nation is officially English-speaking, though Spanish and Creole are spoken widely, and has a far more Caribbean culture than a Latin one.

Belize is hot and humid most of the year, with the rainy season between May and November. AccommodationAccommodation tends to be in small hotels and is charming and clean, while the country’s numerous restaurants are delightful. Typical Belizean food incorporates many of the best aspects of African, Caribbean, Central American and European cooking.