Central America has a rich and varied history. The Spanish colonized some parts of it; the British others. And there are many indigenous cultures that make the area unique.

But unfortunately, Central America is often forgotten. It’s sandwiched between the a superpower in the north and the carnival-loving Latin American countries in the south.

That’s why I’ve put together a list of top stop-offs to remind you of what the region has to offer. Let’s take a look.

Antigua in Guatemala

Antigua in Guatemala

Antigua in Guatemala    www.flickr.com

When the Spanish first arrived in Central America, they brought their culture with them. And nowhere can this be more easily seen than in the colonial city of Antigua.

Antigua is famous for being the best-preserved colonial city in the region. It’s like a living breathing time machine, complete with all the spirit of colonialism.

The streets are cobbled and littered with cafes for a lazy afternoon. Or if you’re feeling a little adventurous, the city is surrounded by beautiful hills for walking and hiking.

West End in Honduras

West End in Honduras - commons.wikimedia.org

West End in Honduras – commons.wikimedia.org

West End is a beautiful tourist destination in Honduras. It’s golden coves, and bright blue sea are a magnet for tourists visiting the region. The area plays host to some of the best water activities in Central America. Go diving or snorkeling, or take a tour by boat of the area’s beautiful coastline.

Cancun in Mexico

Cancun, Mexico Image by: Imagebysafa2 en.wikipedia.org

Cancun, Mexico Image by: Imagebysafa2 en.wikipedia.org

Cancun is a Mexican city on the Yucatan peninsula. It’s famous for its beaches, nightlife and cluster of resorts.

Cheap holidays to Cancun are all the rage right now. The competition is hot. Cancun is a must-visit location on any tour of Central America owing to its stunning scenery and unique landscape.

San Ignacio in Belize

El_Castillo, Xunantunich, Cayo, Belize commons.wikimedia.org

El_Castillo, Xunantunich, Cayo, Belize
commons.wikimedia.org

Belize is a tiny country that is quickly filling up with tourists. The country now has resorts and tourist areas that are packed come the summer.

But some parts of Belize remain rustic and off the beaten track. One such place is San Ignacio. It is home to some of the most stunning Mayan ruins in the region. Plus, you can get wet riding the local river rapids in a canoe.

Panama City in Panama

Panama City, Panama en.wikipedia.org

Panama City, Panama
en.wikipedia.org

Panama has recently been in the news for all the wrong reasons. But the city itself offers a view of life in Central America away from the tourist resorts.

If you visit this city of 1.3 million people, you’ll get to experience street life up close. And you can visit the city’s shanty towns to get a feel for what life is like for the locals.

The city is a mass of beautiful churches, squares, and palaces. And the city is surrounded by vast areas of natural beauty, including the Soberania National Park.

Granada in Nicaragua

Granada , Nicaragua en.wikipedia.org

Granada , Nicaragua
en.wikipedia.org

Nicaragua is one of the poorest countries in the region. But that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have a lot to offer tourists.

Grenada  plays host to the dormant Mombacho volcano, which can be explored by those who are interested. Those who are interested in colonial architecture will love the buildings in the town.

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Maralyn
Author: Maralyn

Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.