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Garifuna Drums, Ocean Breezes, and the Real Soul of Belize

Do nations have souls? Many do, writes Dr. Elliot D. Cohen in his Psychology Today magazine article. Not quite sure what that means? Even Plato wrestled with this question when he published his iconic statement in the Republic, concluding that nations resemble “the soul of an individual person.” 

Importantly, a soul-filled nation won’t hesitate to do everything possible to find and keep its unique character, and few Western Hemisphere countries are as representative of this as Belize. Surviving colonization, annexation, and conquests, it took until 1981 for Belize to establish its birthright as a self-governing nation. 

Emerging from diverse ethnicities, Belize’s soul is best described as a colorful society known for its welcoming vibe, ocean breezes, distinct languages, and fascinating religious, musical, and culinary heritages that have evolved over centuries. Find all of this when you visit, and if you’re ready to do that soon, get the most authentic experience by choosing a resort that reflects the nation’s soul: Belizean Dreams Resort in Hopkins. 

How to find and revel in Belize’s soul

Belizean bartender serving tropical rum cocktail with smile.


Eat the food
Belize’s culinary scene is fast becoming the talk of Central America, and at Belizean Dreams’ on-site restaurant, you’ll sample plenty of the nation’s signature dishes. 

Revel in the music
If Belize declared a national instrument, it would be the drum! A bold symbol of the nation’s Afro-Caribbean roots, some Belizean Dreams guests are so enthralled, they take drumming lessons during their sojourns.

Experience ancient history…
…via Belizean Dreams’ action-packed tour offerings where visits to ancient Maya cities are just the beginning of your opportunities to discover Belize’s colorful, ancient past.   

Play and sleep to the rhythm of Caribbean waves 
Having a beach footsteps from your accommodation is, for many, the primary reason for choosing Belizean Dreams, and that trust is reflected in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Best of the Best Travelers Choice honors.

Interact with Belizeans
Find out why visitors have bestowed “Friendliest Village in Belize” honors on Hopkins by Belize First magazine. Hopkins has also been named the #1 Cultural Destination due, in part, to the presence of a vibrant Garifuna community and countless other unique cultural influences.

Make it an affordable getaway
Worried that this wealth of soul-filled experiences could empty your bank account? That won’t happen. Opting for either of Belizean Dreams' all inclusive packages is the beginning of the cost-saving benefits you can take advantage of during your visit.  

Add travel deals to your list of reasons to stay at Belizean Dreams and your quest to find the soul of Belize will be complete. What would Plato say about Belize’s soul if he were to comment today? We think he would find a blended society that has become a distinct entity unto itself, and a prime example of what a nation with a soul looks like!