In 2009 we booked an educational tour to the Altun Ha Mayan ruins which include a brief history of the country during our hour drive.
Our tour guides were very informative and shared the history behind this ancient area.
The ancient site did not catch the attention of archaeologists until 1963, and was split into structures dedicated to public ritual and residential structures with focus on single families.
After the brief history we were free to walk around on our own and climb one of the larger temple-pyramid, "The Temple of the Masonry Altars", which stands at 54 feet high.
Climbing this was a feat for Chris due to his fear of heights. I'm so glad that he decided to climb it with my brother and me. As soon as that shot was taken, he was ready to head back down. We checked out some of the local stands for souvenirs before climbing back on board right as the rain started to fall.
On our cruise last month, we didn't really plan anything for this port. We're not divers, which is probably one of the most popular excursions for this country. With the clouds out we decided to stay on board and make use of the open adult deck, Serenity, and it's hot tubs.
Picture taken when we first boarded, there were only a few people up there while anchored in Belize on Tuesday.
We also got in a close round of mini golf, where Chris edged me out 22 to 23.
We've never missed out on getting off in a port (even ones that we have been to before), but it was really nice to actually be able to use some of the ship's features that tend to be crowded when everyone is on board.
We always pick one port to stay on the ship for! It's so relaxing and so (SO!) nice to have a day without a ton of other people around. It usually ends up being one of my favorite days!
ReplyDeleteI'm with Chris, totally afraid of heights. I have a thing for lighthouses though, so I always go to the top, even though I'm freaked out the whole time. Can't let a little fear stop you from doing awesome things!
ReplyDeleteMore and more, I'm hearing that Belize is a great vacation destination. It certainly seems interesting! I love Mayan ruins, every since I visited Chichen Itza. Very cool!
ReplyDeletemy husband has been fascinated by belize lately. your post is very timely!
ReplyDeleteIt's a really nice location, but you will probably read that there are some not so savory areas (especially right outside the port). If you ever do it as a port on a cruise they suggest taking a tour because of the safety leaving the port area. I've seen some gorgeous resorts in Belize!
DeleteWe've wanted to go to Belize for a while. Glad you guys had a great time.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a great location! I've never stayed on board on a port day, but I haven't done very many cruises either and am always eager to see everything I can!
ReplyDeleteThat's how I normally am, even if I've been there before I still want to get off. I think out of all of the locations we've ever gone on a cruise, Belize would be the only port areas that I wouldn't mind missing. If we ever went back, I would look into the cave tubing excursions.
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