Belize was an absolute paradise, with its sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, delightful rum punch, and captivating marine life. My journey was brimming with light activities, new experiences, and memories that I knew would stay with me for a lifetime. It all began and ended at Belize City International Airport (BZE), just a short three-hour flight from South Carolina.

Day 1: Upon my arrival in Belize, I found myself settling into San Ignacio for the night, eager to indulge in the delicious local cuisine. Midas was the perfect spot for my first evening.

Day 2: The adventure kicked off in grand fashion with a visit to Xunantunich, an ancient Mayan ruin steeped in history and mystery. From the top, the view stretched to the border of Belize and Guatemala, a breathtaking sight. After soaking in the energy of the ruins, I embarked on a thrilling cave tubing excursion down the Sibun River. Gliding through the underworld with only my headlamp to guide the way was an unforgettable experience. The hike through the jungle to reach the starting point was equally enchanting, with towering palmetto trees and intriguing medicinal plants dotting the landscape. Following the river adventure, I hopped on a ferry bound for Caye Caulker, immersing myself in the laid-back island lifestyle.

Day 3: A day of leisure awaited, starting with a delightful breakfast at a local eatery. Everywhere I went in Belize, the meals were fresh and homemade, a true culinary delight. After fueling up, I treated myself to a relaxing massage near The Split, where I reveled in the soothing sounds of the ocean. Later, I joined the Under30Experience group for a memorable meal by the ocean, complete with tables immersed in water where you could enjoy a dip while fish swam around you. And of course, no trip to Belize would be complete without sampling the local rum, a potent yet delicious treat made with all-natural ingredients sourced from the land.

Day 4: The highlight of the day was a snorkeling excursion with three incredible stops. As I explored the wonders of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, I felt like I had stepped into the world of Finding Nemo, with vibrant fish and stunning coral formations all around. At “Shark and Ray Alley,” I had the thrilling experience of swimming with gentle nurse sharks and graceful stingrays gliding beneath my feet. Throughout the trip, island lunches and sips of rum punch made for a truly enjoyable experience. In the evening, I savored a Caribbean-style dinner before hitting the dance floor for the Full Moon and Foam party, dancing beneath the stars and frolicking in the foam.

Day 5: Is it time to go already? After making sure that everything was packed to head home. I walked around the island to grab anything I wanted to take back home, walk along the beach one last time, and enjoy the “Go Slow” environment one last time. The ferry to Belize City was fast and next thing you know, I am back home with a tan and memories of flowers gleaming across my face.