Belize is very different from the rest of Central America; Black people, dreadlocks and reggae are predominant here. A great opportunity to slow down and get into the belizy vibe is a trip to some of the cays (islands). The easiest one to get to from Belize city is Caye Caulker only 45 minutes away with speed boat taxi. Here the sea is warm and tempting, but the shore is full of sea grass. Fortunately the second greatest reef in the world is just offshore, so you will be a lazy bastard not to do some snorkelling or diving. Try the "Blue hole", a sink hole which offers a 40 meters deep dive, if not for the depth then for the chance to see sharks up close.

This small settelment is the laid back alternative to popular beach town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Here in Cahuita the Afro-Caribbean people still outnumber the expats and the parque central consists of one big tree. The attractions is the few dusty roads and the long gorgeous coast line. The biggest decision will be whether to take a stroll in the black sand at Playa Negra north of town or explore the white sand in Parque Nacional Cahuita in the south end of town. And if it all gets too stressful do as the town sloth, find a shady place and chill out.

This is Nicaragua's best bet for a cool beach vibe. It is a place for surfers and people who wish they were... at least here, for there are some great waves in the area. The town itself is located in a sheltered bay with a wide beach and calm water. Surf beaches like Playa Madera and Playa Marsella can be found further north. Nothing much is happening here, but maybe that is the point.

Picture perfect palm filled islands are dotting the Caribbean coast in the San Blas archipelago. Swaying coconut palms on a little strip of white sand surrounded by turquoise water seems to be the recipe here. Some of the islands are inhabited by the Kuna people who will plaster an island full of their small houses, while other islands are deserted and looks like something from a Bounty commercial. One of the best way to explore this region is by boat on a the sailing tour from Panama to Colombia (or reverse), which will also solve the problem of getting around the troubled Darien Gap.