Central America

Set sail for adventure in Belize, where lush rainforests, ancient ruins and pristine coral reefs beckon cruise travelers to explore its shores. With an array of shore excursion options ranging from snorkeling and diving in the Belize Barrier Reef to exploring Mayan archaeological sites like Altun Ha and Xunantunich, Belize offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Join us as we unveil the top cruise shore excursions in Belize, inviting you to delve into its rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

In April 2024 I did a scouting trip to Rancho Santana on the Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. I will be leading a group of mothers and teenage sons there and wanted to visit the property to get my bearings. The staff arranged for an incredible, yet quick, 3 night stay at the Inn. This resort is barefoot luxury and perfect for families, couples, multi-generational gatherings and friend groups. It ticks the box on so many things including a fabulous staff, great guides, delicious food, lovely accommodations, and tons of fun activities.

Belize has that perfect mixture of exotic jungle adventures and idyllic beach escapes. The country has such a wide array of activities to enjoy, from visiting historic Mayan sites to experiencing wildlife up close. Combine a little bit of jungle and beach, and you will have one incredible vacation. As they say, Belize is quite Unbelizeable!

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Nicaragua, Rancho Santana stands as a beacon of luxury and tranquility. From its stunning vistas to its delectable cuisine and commendable service — hovering at the cusp of a solid 4-star hotel experience — this resort offers an unparalleled getaway. It's an oasis where every detail is meticulously crafted to ensure an unforgettable stay. Moreover, what truly sets Rancho Santana apart is its exceptional value proposition. With accommodations rivaling those of 4 to 5-star establishments, yet priced at a fraction of what you'd typically find in destinations like Mexico, Hawaii or the Caribbean, this resort provides a lavish experience without the hefty price tag. Rancho Santana is not just a destination; it's an invitation to indulge in luxury without compromise.

Nicaragua is not just a destination, it's a whole vibe, offering adventure, relaxation and a taste of authentic Central American life all rolled into one epic travel experience! While Nicaragua’s neighbor, Costa Rica, gets most of the spotlight, Nicaragua is a gem waiting to be discovered! It's the kind of place where you can hike a volcano in the morning and relax on a beach in the afternoon. Plus, the food is amazing - think fresh seafood, flavorful Nicaraguan dishes and rich coffee that will awaken your taste buds.

My recommendation for accommodations is Rancho Santana located on 2,700 acres on Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast. This place has it all! Whether you're into peaceful nature hikes, hitting the waves for surfing, or horseback riding on the beach, Rancho Santana is the place to be.

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, is a small surf town located on the Caribbean coast, a sweet relief from the heavily trafficked Pacific coast. It has been popular with backpackers and is a stones throw from the more famous Bocas Del Toro, Panama. While it's a Costa Rican town, it's heavily influenced by the Jamaican and Rastafarian culture.

Belize is a small country, but it has a really varied experience awaiting you. Not just beaches, but islands off the coast — not just old places, but ruins, not just nature, but jungle camps, not just wildlife, but jaguars, not just a foreign country, they speak English! Madonna made "La Isla Bonita" famous — Ambergris Caye in Belize. The islands are called cayes here, pronounced "keys". It takes a few days to completely unpack your bags, your thoughts, your worries, your go go go nervous energy — and completely relax. When your biggest decision revolves around beach volleyball or diving for conch shells — it is a whole different world!

Ecotourism is all about exploring nature, adventure, culture, and helping to protect the environment. It’s a great way to travel while caring for the planet and connecting with different people and places. These top destinations are perfect for travelers who want amazing ecotourism trips and a deeper connection to nature, local culture and history.