Belize may not be as well-known a travel destination as some of its Central American or Caribbean neighbors, but it's fast becoming a top choice for everyone from vacationing families to honeymooning couples. Belize offers one of the world's most diverse and beautiful ecosystems. The world's second-largest barrier reef lies just one kilometer from the shore, while numerous Mayan temples are scattered throughout the lush jungle that covers more than half the country.

A multicultural country

Despite being an English-speaking nation, Belize is home to ethnicities as varied as German-speaking Mennonites, Mayans and mestizos, who blend indigenous and Spanish sensibilities into a truly unique culture. An ideal destination for a colorful vacation, Belize's diversity has made it a popular destination for Americans and Europeans alike. With Chinese, Muslim and Indian influences playing their own part in Belize's cultural heritage, the country offers a number of culinary specialties that go far beyond traditional fresh seafood dishes such as ceviche, a delicious dish of raw fish marinated in lemon and enhanced with local condiments.

A pocketful of experiences and an ideal climate

Wherever you go in Belize, you'll never be too far from wherever you want to go. The whole country is smaller than Brittany, and although the coral reef is the jewel in Belize's crown, it's just one part of a much more diverse environmental landscape. This is a country that takes ecological preservation seriously, and it shows in the enthusiasm of the locals for the mangroves, the forests home to numerous Mayan ruins and the coastlines that make up the landscape.

Thanks to its ideal latitude, you can count on Belize to offer you a mild, pleasant climate all year round. While the period from June to November brings with it rain and thunderstorms, these usually strike in the morning or evening, leaving plenty of time to explore what the country has to offer. The subtropical climate offers a pleasantly fluctuating temperature of between 16 and 32°C all year round, a true delight.

Ray Caye, a private island ideal for a getaway

Ray Caye, located 18 miles off the coast of Dangriga, is a private island in Belize offering an unspoilt environment for an authentic and unforgettable tropical experience. Ray Caye Island Resort has been developed to offer not only a unique vacation alternative, but a sanctuary for the spirit, catering exclusively to travelers in search of pure, exotic and fun destinations, as far removed from the pressures of everyday life as one could wish.

In this little corner of paradise, you'll discover the Caribbean as you've never imagined it, with its superb, pristine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters a haven for exceptional underwater life. Ray Caye, named after the many stingrays that frequent its colorful seabed, will let you discover the joy of an out-of-this-world vacation in a place you thought existed only in your imagination.

Exceptional accommodation

Ray Caye's small villas and suites overlook Belize's Great Barrier Reef and offer comfort, luxury and privacy. Whether you're looking for an intimate romantic setting, an exciting family adventure or a unique private island experience with a group of friends, you've found the perfect place!

A quality restaurant with breathtaking views

Your taste buds will also be in heaven on this dream island. The Lionfish Bar & Grill restaurant, suspended above a sandy beach, is masterfully run by a chef who excels in the difficult task of proposing a different menu every day, allowing guests to discover a vast choice of local and international dishes based on local and seasonal produce in an atmosphere conducive to relaxation. The well-stocked bar, meanwhile, offers a choice of fresh fruit juices, soft drinks, cocktails, beers and wines, some of which are even made in Belize.

A breathtaking underwater world

Whether you're a scuba diver or simply a fan of snorkeling, Ray Caye offers a world of life and color that's rarely equaled. The reef bordering the island is frequented by multicolored fish playing hide-and-seek among the abundant, shimmering coral. You could spend hours there, but watch out for the sun - it's powerful here. An island paradise in the sun awaits you. Will you answer Ray Caye's call?

TIPS

When to visit?

Belize is a pleasant destination all year round, but during the rainy season, from July to November, you may encounter heavy showers, although these are more frequent in September and October, the season most prone to cyclones, which are rare here.

Dry season from December to June. Temperatures are lower from December to February, with sunny days and a pleasant breeze. From March to May, temperatures rise and clouds are very rare. Lobster season runs from July1 to February 28! Divers will appreciate the months of March to June, which are ideal for encounters with whale sharks, which frequent Belize's waters at this time and can be seen from 2 days before the full moon to 10 days after it.

How to get there

Belize doesn't yet have direct flights from Europe, but it's easy to get there via the USA or Panama. There are numerous flights from Miami, New York and Houston, allowing one-stop travel from many European cities. There are also regular flights from Panama and Guatemala with same-day connections.

Duration

A stay in Belize deserves at least two weeks, with 3 to 4 days in Ray Caye in the middle for an absolutely relaxing break.

Public

Ray Caye is an ideal island for a couples' vacation, but a small family won't be bored here, as there are so many water sports to choose from. Snorkeling, diving, sailing, paddle boarding, kayaking - everything is possible here, as the sea is calm thanks to the protection of the coral reef.

Useful

Ray Caye Resort website, with lots of photos and a live booking page.

Reservations: tel. +501 523 3337