Belize is a small country in Central America bordering Mexico and Guatemala. Before the European discovery of the New World, Belize was a part of the Maya civilisation. Belize was never formerly colonized by the Spanish, but was instead settled by the British in the 18th Century and became a crown colony in 1871 (formerly known as British Honduras). It gained full independence in 1981, but remains member of the Commonwealth of Nations. The country is in territorial dispute regarding the exact borders with neighbouring Guatemala.

Facts:
Inhabitants: 300.000
Area: 23.000 km2
Capital: Belmopan (12.300 inhabitants, largest city is Belize City with 50.000 inhabitants)
Languages: English, Spanish
Religion: Roman Catholics (50%), Protestants (25%), Others (25%)
GBD per capita: $7.800
Government: Parliamentary democracy
Climate: Tropical, hot and humid. The raining season lasts from May to November