And it was. But it was much more than that. I was constantly reminded of Vermont throughout my visit. Belize has a strong sugar cane industry, while Vermont produces the maple variety. Belize is increasingly providing organically grown foods for the European market, which pays a significant premium.
Tourism is behind manufacturing in Vermont and agriculture in Belize.
As in Vermont, the relatively low population density in Belize has kept many environmental issues at a much more manageable level. However, the government is trying hard to raise the standard of living, and many of the projects associated with this effort, such as building roads housing development, have an environmental price associated with them. The internal debate in Belize on these issues is augmented by international concerns on both sides. Many of the large infrastructure projects are being funded through international development agencies. At the same time, international environmental groups are very active in Belize, defending what they see as one of the few remaining unspoiled areas in Central America.