Belize
Belize was the last colony of the British on the mainland of America. It is situated in Atlantic Ocean between Central American countries Guatemala and Mexico with an area 22,965 square kilometer and having Capital city Belmopan. Though it is adjacent to Central America it is more alike Caribbean country. Population of this country is only 291,800, speaking mainly English as an official language besides Spanish, Creole, Mayan and Garifuna with major religion Christianity.
Belize has a mix culture of Spanish, European and Caribbean origin, with some influence of Guatemala and Mexican culture. The Spanish speaking Mestizos people are of mixed origin of Maya Indian and European ancestry, the African and African-European origin people speak Creole language and the decedents of Carib Indians and Africans speak Garifuna language. But now the ethnic scenario is changing and the use of Spanish is increasing.
Belize is rich with wildlife, glorious beaches and natural forestry. World’s longest barrier reef Mayan ruins nestling more than 200 islands inside the reef, attracting large no. of tourists every year, so tourism has become the main source or revenue overtaking agriculture, fishing and forestry. Recently Cruise ship business has seen a massive influence on this country’s economy.
