Belize’s culture is distinct and rich, thanks to the country’s unique mix of ethnic diversity. There are approximately 400,000 people living in Belize; including Mestizo, Mayan, Anglo-European, Creole, Asian, Garifuna, Middle Eastern, and Hispanic groups, being the latter the most prevalent. For this reason, visitors in Belize will hear a variety of different languages, with English being the primary spoken language followed by Spanish.
Belize’s cultural diversity is reflected in the wide array of culinary choices. The food in the country ranges from spicy to cool, and many of the dishes are savoury and rich, made with local game that can be found ranging the plains and forests that cover the land. When you add to the local dishes from neighbouring Central American countries and international cuisine such as Chinese and Nigerian, you get a very large selection to choose from. Of course, there are American and European dishes for those who are not quite as adventurous when it comes to their food, as well as Belizean traditional recipes to try.
Probably the most influential ethnicity in Belize is the Maya: the native Indian culture that built many of the now historical ruins found in the country. Belize is the home of the earliest Mayan settlements, as evidenced by the glyphs found at numerous sites. The civilization was highly advanced, and the reasons for its disappearance remain a mystery. Still, there are three tribes remaining in Belize – the Mopan, the Yucatec, and the Kekchi.
