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Belize Harbour

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Overview: Belize City, the largest city in the nation of Belize, is also the main port, attracting cruise liners to its rugged jungle backdrop and amazing array of sights under surrounding tropic waters.

Top attractions split the sea and land but must see sights include snorkelling or diving over the beautiful Barrier Reef, the second largest reef in the world, and a visit to the Altun Ha, an excavated Mayan temple.

The Belize Harbour is too shallow for cruise liners to dock at the city pier so ships anchor a surprising distance away from the city. Fast tenders transport passengers from the cruise liners to the Fort Street Tourism Village located directly in downtown Belize where most amenities can be found within three terminals. Contact:

Tel: 011-501-227-2420
Email: info@travelbelize.org
Website: www.travelbelize.org
The tourism office can be found at 64 Regent Street.

Transport: Everything can be arranged from the Fort Street Tourism Village including flights or water taxis to the Cayes. Much of the desirable parts of Belize City are walkable although taxies are widely available just outside the Tourism Village. Fares should be agreed to beforehand to avoid unwelcomed charges. Attractions: The sights inside Belize City are limited except the Tourism Village shopping centre, but the largest nearby attraction is the second largest reef in the world making one of the best dive and snorkelling spots in the world, especially at Ambergris Caye and Placencia which are great for viewing old ship wrecks. Inland, several Mayan ruins are worth a visit, the best being Altun Ha, although for more fun, underground cave tubing and jungle treks are popular. Restaurants:

• Jambel's Jerk Pit - Simple meal of delicious local jerked chicken.
• Harbour View Restaruant - Fine and romantic dining with a great view.
• Orchid Garden - Popular mix of Asian and local dishes.

Best dish: Jerked Chicken

Shopping: Most the shopping is limited to the Front Street Tourism Village where a crafts market and shops spread over three terminals. There are a few shops downtown although many of the same goods are available in the Tourism Village.

Best buy: Anything but coral and sea turtle shell

Excursions:

• Explore Ambergris Caye
• Visit Goffe's Caye
• Trek Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Peruse Xunantunich temples