The Lodge at Chaa Creek – a two-hour car ride from Belize City – is an ideal spot to experience the country's lush rain forests, Mayan culture and breathtaking coral reefs. I stayed in a quaint thatch-roofed cabana with an outdoor private shower (and, thankfully, no television, telephone or computer). I was sure to rise early for the best chance of spotting some of Belize's brilliantly coloured birds, including parrots and toucans.

There is plenty to do on this 365-acre natural reserve: programs that teach young kids the importance of protecting fragile environments; mountain biking; horseback riding; a butterfly museum; and a canoe or exhilarating tube ride down the Macal River. There is also a medicine trail where visitors can learn about the health-enhancing properties of many local plants.

From my base at Chaa Creek, I took a day trip to the 2,000-year-old Mayan ruin of Xunantunich (which means Stone Lady) and climbed to the top of the highest temple –130 feet above the main plaza – to absorb the breathtaking view of the Cayo district below. Another day, I explored the botanical gardens at nearby duPlooy's Jungle Lodge.

A favourite excursion was a short plane ride to one of the many coastal Cayes (Ambergris Caye has the lovely town of San Pedro), where you can scuba dive or snorkel off one of the best coral reefs in the world. Under brilliant blue skies and in crystal clear waters, I discovered an absolutely stunning underwater universe. Before leaving the caye, I stretched out on the beach and drank in more of Belize's abundant sun, sand and sea to take home with me.

If you visit Belize, check out these websites:
• Lodge at Chaa Creek
• Belize Tourist Bureau

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