Belize

Dabbling its toes in the Caribbean Sea, Belize has more in common with its island neighbours than with the fiery volatility of Central America. English-speaking, Creole-dominated and with a thoroughly coup-free history, this tiny country has an atmosphere so laid-back it's almost comatose.

Unpaved roads, high prices and a lack of infrastructure can make it a difficult place to travel, but it compensates with some of the best diving in the world, dramatic Mayan ruins looming out of untouched jungle and secluded eco-lodges catering to the most sedentary adventurers.