Being a fast walker in Belize is a no go. Rastafarians corrected me, “Go Slow, Mon.”

After weeks complaining about Mexico, I had a jerk eating grin when crossing the border into the tiny country of Belize. This is an English speaking enclave in Latin America — though I have to admit I understand more Spanish than the Creole English spoken here!

EVERYTHING is different in Belize. I loved it.

Tourists avoid Belize City known for drug violence, street people and crack whores. They head straight for the Cayes. Belize feels more like a Caribbean island than mainland, anyway.

Backpackers like best Caye Caulker, only 6.5km long, 600m wide.

I have always been poor at not drowning. I fear all bodies of water larger and colder than a jacuzzi. That’s why I am proud of the many days snorkelling I have put together on this trip. I can relax. The highlight for me was the Marine Reserve reefs off Belize including Shark and Ray Alley.

See photos of Caye Caulker and BIG marine life by jumping to my photos on flickr.

Next time? I would love to take a sailing holiday through the cayes, living on the boat or camping en route.