Central America is home to untamed jungle, beautiful beaches, ancient culture and outdoor adventure. Belize, Costa Rica and Panama in particular, offer interesting alternatives to honeymooners desiring something different. All close to North America, these destinations offer fun, excitement, romance, and beauty, without the exorbitant price tag of more traditional honeymoon destinations.

Which of these three countries is right for you?

Costa Rica... Belize.... Panama...

Reasons to choose Central America: Excellent eco-touring combined with relaxing beach options. Less expensive than equivalent experiences in places like Hawaii.

Reasons to choose Costa Rica: If you are looking for an eco-experience in conjunction with a well-developed tourist infrastructure. For some of the better accommodations in the Central-American region. Pristine rainforest, yet easy to access. For those who want to get off the beaten path, but not too far.

Reasons to choose Belize: For incredible diversity of geography in an extremely small land area. If you would like to combine exploration of ancient civilization with mountains and/ or beach. Diving and water sports are outstanding. English speaking population.

Reasons to choose Panama: If you are interested in jungle, islands and exploration in a place that has not yet been so touched by tourism. The Panama Canal!

Reasons to choose someplace else: Central America is not for everyone. All of these countries are in some stages of development, and you can't expect to find the kind of infrastructure that you would in North America. If you are looking for the resort scene, go elsewhere. Transportation and transfers can be time consuming.

Reasons to choose someplace else over Costa Rica: If you are extremely interested in ancient society and culture, Belize would be a better option. If you'd prefer a place that isn't as developed for tourism.

Reasons to choose someplace else over Belize: Threat of hurricanes from June - November. Accommodations are in general basic.

Reasons to choose someplace else over Panama: While there are some up and coming luxury lodges, accommodations are otherwise pretty basic.

MoonRings Signature Itineraries:

Costa Rica - volcanoes, jungle and beach: 10 days / 9 nights	Exploration and Relaxation in Belize: 9 days / 8 nights
Off the beaten path in Panama: 10 days / 9 nights	Click here for more on Costa Rica

Best suited for:
Couples that have an interest in the outdoors and natural sights. Those who would like a beach but would like to have access to a variety of activities as well. Those with a sense of adventure and flexibility.

When to go:
Tropical year round. The higher altitudes are cooler. Generally the dry seasons for Belize, Panama and Costa Rica run from December through May, and the "Green" (or rainy) seasons from June to November. Belize is at risk of hurricanes during the rainy season. Prices drop during the Green season, often dramatically, as does tourist traffic.

Accommodations:
Across the region, small, more lodge-oriented accommodation is common. These tend to be more quaint or basic rather than luxurious. Outside of some of Costa Rica's beach areas, there are not too many big resorts. Very few spa options.

Dining:
Outside of the capital cities, one won't find too many international selections, although some of the better boutique accommodations will have some variety. You will find lots of good basic food including rice, corn, meats, good seafood, and tropical fruits. Have your catch cooked for your dinner that night! Small establishments run by locals rather than large, flashy places.

Special Activities:
Hiking in jungles, water activities such as snorkeling and diving(especially in Belize), fishing and boating. Eco-tourism, adventure activities such as whitewater rafting. Exploration of Mayan Ruins in Belize. Many beach options. The Canal in Panama. Enjoying each others' company in a natural, pristine, environment.