Belize

Souvenirs from Belize

Souvenirs from Belize are bright and sunny, much like the country. As you tour the market stalls, keep an eye out for wood carvings of local animals, homes and people, land and seascapes painted by regional artists, and postcards to place in picture frames. Color soaked scarves, blouses and skirts are a perfect memento for women, while the gentlemen may want to pick up a jaunty straw hat. Jewelry made from wooden and ceramic beads are charming Belizean souvenirs, or you may want to consider a delicate string of seashells to adorn a summer dress with. Carnival masks are lively additions to your office wall, and a ceramic sculpture can be carefully wrapped in T-shirts printed with the wildlife of Belize, all of which can be easily found at any reputable shop. Figural key chains with images of local landmarks will be treasured mementos, as well as magnets to adorn cubicles and refrigerators.

Forests of Belize

Scientists have begun the astonishing task of inventorying the plant life of Belize. With over 4,000 known species and over 70% of the country forested, they are uncertain of how many new plants they will find. They do know of at least 700 different kinds of trees, including cashew, mango, papaya, banana and pineapple. The mahogany is the national tree of Belize, and is used in many types of furniture. Within these forests, many medicinal plants grow and are believed to hold cures for cancer and other illnesses that plague us today. There's not just plant life in the forests. They also contain 5 different breeds of cats, the ocelot, the margay, the puma, the jaguarondi, and the jaguar. The jaguar was beloved by the Mayans, and many representations of the big cat are found in temples. The fer de lance, an aggressive and poisonous snake, also makes its home here.