Month: April 2025

In Spanish, the term “Mestizo” means “mixed” as in mixed race, but this is not a very apt description for the Mestizo people of Belize. In reality, the Mestizos were originally immigrants that began arriving in Belize after fleeing from a race-based civil war in neighboring Mexico in the 19th century called the Caste War.

Initially, the Mestizos brought much of their original culture with them, including the Catholic faith and the Spanish language. Over time, however, the Mestizos have integrated into the wider Belizean society, many having adopted other Christian faiths as well as being bilingual in both English and Spanish.

Today, the Mestizos are primarily located in the two northernmost districts of Belize, Corozal and Orange Walk, as these border regions were largely uninhabited in the mid-19th century. The Mestizos were instrumental in Belize’s burgeoning agricultural sector, especially sugarcane production. The Mestizos now form the second-largest cultural group in Belize after the Creoles.

Mestizo culture is rich with a blend of Catholic and indigenous traditions. Perhaps their most well-known story tells a tale of Xtabai (pronounced ish-ta-buy) who was a powerful spirit that lives in the jungle. According to legend, the Xtabai waits at night on the edge of town for an intoxicated or lost man to wander by. The Xtabai then lures the man into the jungle, sometimes just to taunt them, but sometimes to hurt or even kill them. During the day, however, the Xtabai takes the form of a tree or a snake.

Mestizo music is heavily influenced by Spanish traditions. No Mestizo gathering would be complete without some guitar music, especially a song called the Serenata (Serenade) that was traditionally sung by young men outside the bedroom window of their beloved. Mestizo music often recalls the rollicking rhythms of flamenco, rumbia, and salsa with lyrics that tell stories of rural life, love, and death. Other typical Mestizo musical instruments include harps, trumpets, and violins.

Mestizo cooking is similar but distinctly different than Mexican food. Mestizo villages often have a large communal kitchen where tasty treats are made such as tortillas, tacos, and tamales. Mestizos are also renowned for their textile work and handicrafts that feature simple yet elegant floral designs.

The lovely beach resort of Chabil Mar on the Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize is a great place to stay for visitors who want to learn more about Belizean culture and people, including the Mestizos.

With top airlines like Delta, United, Southwest, American, WestJet, and Air Canada offering non-stop flights to Belize, planning your dream April vacation is now easier and more affordable than ever. Enjoy the country’s gorgeous sunshine, warm Caribbean waters, and pristine rainforests teeming with tropical birds and exotic wildlife.

Things to Do and See in Belize in April

With refreshing breezes and plenty of sunshine, Belize in April is a great time to explore nature and enjoy some of the many wonderful attractions in the country.

Dive With Whale Sharks

The largest fish species in the world’s oceans, whale sharks spend the year circumnavigating the globe in search of juvenile fish and spawn on which to feed. Every year in April, these magnificent creatures make their ways to the waters offshore of Belize, rising with the full moon to feed. Interacting with these gentle giants is a truly special diving experience.

Visit Placencia

Far from the tourist throngs in places like Ambergris Caye, the golden sands of the Placencia Peninsula in southern Belize are home to the country’s burgeoning ecotourism industry. Whether you want to gaze at the sun dappling off of the waves from a beachside bar or head offshore to enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, diving, and sailing, Placencia has successfully managed to preserve its idyllic “barefoot” charm.

Placencia is also conveniently close to some of the top mainland attractions, including bird watching, hiking through the Cockscomb Basin Nature Reserve, and exploring ancient Maya ruins like Xunantunich and Cahal Pech.

Chabil Mar

A multiple award-winning resort located just minutes from Placencia Village, Chabil Mar is an oasis of tranquility and luxury that welcomes guests with well-appointed villas, a lush tropical garden, and a gourmet restaurant where diners can enjoy their meals al fresco on a private pier.

Chabil Mar is the perfect resort to celebrate Easter, cheer on the racers of the Cycling Classic, and head out to nearby Gladden Spit to go diving with whale sharks.

Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information about Belize, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation in April.

Save

Save