Destinations: Belize, San Pedro and Caye Caulker

Ah the wonderful laid back and relaxing islands just off of the coast of Belize are a great antidote to sightseeing and hectic travel around the region. English speaking and relaxed locals make it a great place to while away a few days or even weeks.

Although airfares can be pricey there are other ways to get to there. San Pedro Belize Express have a four day a week service from Chetumal in Mexico direct to San Pedro with customs and immigration at both docks. Remember if you are leaving Mexico and you have entered by land make sure that you have paid for the tourist card prior to departing as it's not usually possible at the dock in Chetumal.

You can also take a bus from Chetumal Terminal direct to Belize City, remember that the last ferry to San Pedro is at 5.30pm so get your connections correct.

I have written a few articles on Belize and the region for Travel Generation, check out the website for more interesting reading and other travellers tales.

Places to stay

San Pedro

There are a whole host of places to lay your head on San Pedro but not many come at budget prices. Heading a little south of the centre you can find one of the cheapest options on the island with a good range of prices to suit both the cash strapped backpacker and those who like a little more facilities for their stay.

Pedro's Hotel and the hostel Pedro's backpackers are just the spot to rest up. The hotel has been built opposite the original lot and is kept clean and tidy every day. Rooms range from King beds to triple beds for larger parties or families.

Rooms at the hotel have AC, TV's and private bathrooms, the hostel rooms are basic but both properties share the pretty freshwater swimming pool and deck and of course the famous Pedro's Bar with its large pizzas and Jaegermeister motif.

One point to note is that the owner, Peter Lawrence, has just built a Vet Surgery on the site as a contribution to the San Pedro community and the whole business now donates a portion of it's revenue towards the effort of looking after the animals on Ambergris Caye.

You can book a room online through my website, it will cost no more and I get a little commission to keep the site going so it's up to you.

book here Click here to book a room

Caye Caulker

At one point I used to recommend Tina's Hostel, unfortunately that option has gone way downhill and I advise you to avoid it. A better bet would be Bella's a little farther north if you are looking for a hostel atmosphere. If a hotel style room in more suitable then I strongly recommend the Tropics Hotel on the front, cheaper rooms are at the back, the top floor rooms though give a great view of the ocean and were going for only $20.00 US for a room in November 2009.

There are a number of pricier options on the island and if you have a group of four or more it may prove interesting to look at renting a house, just take a stroll along the main street and look around if you can hack arriving without a reservation.

book here Click here to book a room

Things to do

Top of the list is, of course, Scuba Diving. With the second longest barrier reef in the world just a few hundred metres offshore it is hardly suprising that divers from all over the world make a bee line for San Pedro. I have used Amigos Del Mar a number of times and can definately say they are a good operation to go diving with, especially to the Blue Hole, where a big boat is a necessity.

Snorkellers are well served by Shark Ray alley and the Hol Chan reserve, a full day may be too much sun so think carefully about how much water you want to see!

If you need any advice about travelling to Belize or would like more information on the above article please send me an email or use the form on the contact page.

Peter J Smith