Belize

Belize, known until 1973 as British Honduras, is the only official English-speaking country in Central America. With 8,867 square miles of territory and fewer than 300,000 people, the population density is one of the lowest in the world. Located between the Hondo and Sarstoon Rivers, Belize is a parliamentary democracy and a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. Unemployment is nearly 10% and one third of the nation's citizens live below the poverty rate. Sugar is the chief export of a primarily agricultural economy.

Racial tension is uncommon in Belize due to a wide mixture of ethnic groups including Mestizos, Kriols, indigenous Mayans, Asians, and German Mennonite farmers. English is the official language; Belize was a British colony and still has ties to Britain. However, most Belizeans use the more familiar Belize Kriol and Spanish has become an important second language for much of the country.

Study Abroad

• Global Learning Semesters
  
• Archaeology Field School