San Ignacio & Caye Caulker, Belize

The road from Flores to the border was, like so many Guatemalan roads, "under construction" which means you're in for a slow, bumpy ride. The driver however, cleverly compensated for this by driving like a maniac wherever possible and so we arrived in San Ignacio in double quick time. The town is friendly and relaxed but the centre is rather small, with not a lot to do really. There are a number of tours you can go on in the surrounding area but most of these are very expensive and many of which require at least 4 people to sign up, which, in the low season, can mean putting your name down and waiting a few days (something we cannot afford to do). So we headed out the next morning to Belize City and caught a boat out to the island of Caye Caulker. It is absolutely scorching hot here, but with a cool breeze coming off the Caribbean ocean. The water is crystal clear and there is the second longest barrier reef in the world just off the coast so we'll head out snorkeling at some point. As it's the low season there's some crazy deals on accommodation (often half price) so we can get cable TV, air con, two double beds, 20 yards from the sea and still be within budget (just!). The Belizeans are surely the friendliest, most laid back people in existence, often spontaneously starting conversations with you in the street and volunteering information about themselves or offering assistance without a catch. It's also great to be in a country where we can speak the language. Photos coming later...