Lamanai, Belize - A Living Journey
Friday July 14, 2006
Belize is famed for its beaches, but the tiny country's inland areas hold many unique treasures. One of them is the ancient Maya site of Lamanai. Accesible only by a riverboat cruise, the ruins are set against a thriving jungle backdrop, and travelers will likely see howler monkeys, gem-like insects, vultures, huge storks, and other waterbirds. Crocodiles and iguanas are often spotted in the river waters, and elusive manatees have been known to make special appearances.When I visited in July, I stayed at the Lamanai Riverside Retreat, located on a riverbank site surrounded by wetlands. It's the perfect place to stay, inexpensive by Belizean standards without sacrificing cleanliness. The amicable owners will book a guided boat tour and trek for you, and in the morning the boat will pick you up right at the hotel. That's service! Plus, the Belizean fare and fruitshakes concocted at the onsite restaurant are absolutely incredible - try the mixed ceviche, with fish, conch, lobster and shrimp.
Photograph © 2006 by Kirsten Noelle Hubbard
Although I’ve never been to Lamanai I think Belize is a wonderfull place to live, visit, retire or do business. It is easy to find and easy to get to and one of the great things is you can actually drive there from the US or Canada. The people of Belize are really friendly people and willing to help. Belize beaches are not what you might expect because they are protected by the world’s second longest barrier reef and so no real surf is pounding the shore. Vist Belize, it’s worth it.