About Belize

Population: 335,400
Capital City: Belmopan
Official Language(s): English
Currency: Belize Dollar
Calling Code: +501

The country of Belize is located on the eastern side of Central America, and is unusual in that it main language is English.

Background Information and Culture in Belize

A former British colony, Belize packs a great deal into its relatively small size. It boasts an impressive coral reef network, ancient Mayan ruins, rainforest and more besides.

Its people are a mix of African descendants, Mayan tribesmen, white settlers, and Asian immigrants. The predominant language is English, although it may seem foreign at first to the visitor, as many Spanish and Creole words are used.

Although Belize City is no longer the capital (it is now Belmopan), it is the de-facto centre of commerce and power.

Much of the beauty of Belize lays either out in the Cayes, or in the forested areas, where Mayan ruins await discovery!

Must See Highlights in Belize

Some of the must see highlights of Belize include -

Diving off the Cayes.

Snorkelling along the coral reefs.

Exploring Mayan ruins.

Caving.

About Barbados

Population: 287,500
Capital City: Bridgetown
Official Language(s): English
Currency: Barbadian Dollar
Calling Code: +1-246

The island of Barbados is situated in the Caribbean, and is sometimes known affectionately as “Little England“due to the many traditions it carries over from the British colonial days.

Background Information and Culture in Barbados

Barbados is possibly the centre for West Indian culture in the Caribbean, and has a curious mix of attitudes and accents. Many of its citizens speak with an English accent, and still have many of the customs long since forgotten in the “Mother country”

If you are visiting Barbados, it is important to try to get to know the game of cricket, as this is the nation’s most popular sport. Famous cricketers include Sir Gareth Sobers and Frank Worrell.

Notable festivals through the Barbados calendar year include the Barbados jazz festival, the Holetown festival, Oistins Fish festival, the Crop Over festival, and the biggest party of the year, Kadooment Day on the first Monday in August.

Must See Highlights in Barbados

Some of the must see highlights of Barbados include -

See a cricket match, particularly an international match if possible to get an understanding of how important the game is to the national psyche.

Visit 17^th century churches, and take afternoon tea.

About the Bahamas

Population: 337,000
Capital City: Nassau
Official Language(s): English
Currency: Bahamian Dollar
Calling Code: +1-242

The Bahamas is a collection of islands located just 40 minutes flight away from Miami. Originally a British colony, the islands were granted independence in 1964, and remain in the British Commonwealth.

Background Information and Culture in the Bahamas

With nearly 1.6 million visitors a year gracing the various shores of The Bahamas, tourism is the number one industry for the islands. A visit to the capital of Nassau will reveal that much of this income is being reinvested in infrastructure projects such as road building.

Traditionally, British influenced sports such as cricket and soccer have been most popular here, but the closeness to the United States has meant that sports such as basketball have gained in popularity.

The culture is a true mix of African and European, with this being reflected in the music (calypso to amazing choral choirs). Festivities such as regattas out on the smaller islands are well worth a visit whenever possible.

Must See Highlights in the Bahamas

Some of the must see highlights of the Bahamas include -

The beaches – An incredible wealth of stunning places to soak up the sun, chill, or wander along.

Diving – The islands offer some superb diving opportunities.

Sailing – Again, endless sailing opportunities abound around the islands.

Honeymoons – What better place to come for a honeymoon?

Credit: Bryce Edwards

About Aruba

Population: 106,500
Capital City: Oranjestad
Official Language(s): Dutch & Papiamento
Currency: Aruban Florin
Calling Code: +297

Originally laid claim to by the Spanish during the expansive colonial period, Aruba was late acquired by the Dutch It three main industries over the time of its colonization, have included a gold rush, an oil rush, and now a tourist rush!

Background Information and Culture on Aruba

Dutch influence can be seen throughout the island, although recent changes in population mean that not many of the inhabitants are now of Dutch origin. Of course, several families can trace their roots back on the island of Aruba for centuries.

The international airport has opened up the island to an influx of tourists and people seeking a new life alike, with connections to many United States cities such as Miami, Atlanta and New York. The vast majority of tourists to the island come from the United States, and as such, American cultural influences on the island are increasing.

Carnival is usually held from the beginning of January till the prevent of February, by having a large parade on the final Sunday of the festivities.

Must See Highlights in Arub

Some of the must see highlights of Aruba include -

Carnival – As celebrated throughout most of Latin America, but what better place to see it than on this beautiful island.

Sun, sea and sand!

About Anguilla

Population: 14,100
Capital City: The Valley
Official Language(s): English
Currency: East Caribbean Dollar
Calling Code: +1-264

The island of Anguilla is located in the Caribbean, and is a small serene island of some 9000 inhabitants. A British colony originally, English is the main language, and tourism now its main income.

Background Information and Culture on Anguilla

In recent years, the island of Anguilla has seen a sharp rise in tourism, with people attracted to its laid back atmosphere, great weather, and excellent beaches. Several resort complexes now exist, although independent accommodation also offers a tropical paradise holiday at affordable prices.

The island of Anguilla gained independence, but retains many ties with the united Kingdom

Must See Highlights in Anguilla

Some of the must see highlights of Anguilla include -

The Beaches – Stunning beaches abound on this island!

Fishing – The island of Anguilla offers some excellent sport fishing opportunities.

Credits: therealaxalady