For more on this in the future, refer to the Activities Link on the right.

Liz is pretty excited about taking a zip lining trip through the jungle at some point during our visit.  It looks to be a pretty cool and exciting little adventure that gives you some exposure to the jungle without the risk of being eaten by a jaguar or toucan (it could happen).  I’m a little worried something is missed during the 20 mph sprints from one station to the next.  I worry that much of the forest is missed along the way in a blur of green and shadow.  But it’s fun!  Who doesn’t want to float along in the atmosphere and feel the wind rushing by.

Just a pity about the zip line noise:  ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ! All the way…

I’m definitely open minded to the adventure and have added it to my shortlist of activities (I would even if she wasn’t super excited about it).  We’re going to do our best to crowd our jungle adventure with exposure trips and this is one we can pair with another like cave tubing or a nature walk in a single day.

There are a number of different zip line outfitters and most of the hotels seem to be happy to either offer their own tour or a trusted provider in reference. I’ll post links to some of these services and try to organize them geographically in the activities tab.

Zip lining, FYI, is essentially an activity that involves a series of platforms ranging in height from 50-100 ft high built into the forest at 100-250 ft intervals.  A series of wires run the length of the course.  Through some careful rigging (harness, a hook and wheel, etc.) one can attach himself/herself to a cable at one of the platforms.  A leap of faith and gravity lets one ride through the air along the length of the cable to the next platform at breakneck speeds.  Really, it’s more like 20 mph.  Once the next platform is reached, some friendly guides secure the individual and set them up for the next platform.

Most zip trips offer several platforms and cover quite a lot of jungle real estate.  The fun is in the speed and feeling of flying.  The jungle sights and sounds are likely mostly missed due to the speed and noise of the zip.

But most who try it, love it.  I suspect that Liz and I will marvel in the adventure, especially if I get one of those awesome helmet mounted cameras for the trip.  Ooooh!  I’ll post on that later.

I’ve been thinking about what gear we’re going to need to acquire and pack for our trip to Belize. Inside my head it is getting to be a pretty substantial kit. But I don’t know we’ll need it all; especially because I expect we won’t get to do all of the activities I am dreaming about.

On the basics, I’m thinking we’ll need some light rain gear. We’re headed there during the rainy season. I expect we will not be dry for the entire week. A couple of really breathable, waterproof jackets/pullovers will be necessary. I have lots of rain gear: a thick (and not so breathable) rain coat for golf, and a Gore-Tex jacket for skiing, but these items may not be so appropriate for a 85-90° drizzle/downpour. Since I am absolutely firm on going to the Mayan Ruins at Xunantunich or elsewhere, it’s going to be mandatory that we’re equipped for the elements.

Fishing: I think we are good here. We just need sunscreen, hats and a lot of dough. Apparently, it costs an awful lot to do the deep-sea fishing. This is where much of our spending money will have to be allocated. It will definitely be a major decision – to do so or to skip.

Cave tubing and Jungle Fun: See hiking. I think this is the basics for hiking and outdoor exploration. Some water shoes or appropriate sandals will be necessary for the cave tubing and other water fun. I got a cool pair at Costco for cheap that I think will work well. Liz has rubber flip flops, but I don’t really feel like carrying her limping out of the jungle because she turned an ankle. We’ll find something for her. Probably, most importantly, my underwater camera! Lots of pictures. Wow, will we have pictures. This site will be inundated with photos, videos and other fun multi-media fare once we get back.

Hiking: The ruins will require some hiking and walks “off the beaten trail.” So, hiking boots or good shoes are necessary. I’ve got some good Merrel’s but Lizzy will need something. I’m thinking backpacks will be necessary, too. I’m looking into backpacking here in New England and may have some of the basics already. Really, we just need a day pack or two. My Arc’Teryx Silo 18 is a pretty good pack for a day trip. Not too heavy, not too small. It can definitely support water, a light jacket or two and some snacks.

Kayaking: Liz found a hotel on the beach that offers free kayaks! I have tape for my fingers, a pair of shades and swim trunks. I can’t think of anything I’d need to bring. Life vests and spray skirts should be provided by the outfitter.

Scuba diving: I’ve got all of my gear. I’ve taken it to the Caribbean before. I think I am set here. It’s just going to be a massive, heavy bag. I hate hauling it around, but it is under the 45lbs. weight limit, so I’m good.

Snorkeling: Fins and rash guard. I’ve got two masks, snorkels, and a skin (if needed). Lizzy will need fins and a rash guard. Lizzy loves the water. Loves to swim under any conditions (maybe we should post her pond skimming expeditions from this winter), and will absolutely love the snorkeling experience. For those nights we’re sleeping beach front (fingers crossed), I anticipate morning and/or evening snorkeling trips to the surrounding reefs – just to see what is out there. We have to get the minimum equipment for her though, else it’ll be solo expeditions and some shared photographs is all. I think I can provide her a mask and snorkel. But the fins and rash guard will have to be acquired.

So far, my favorite place to shop and look for stuff at a discount is Backcountry.com. They have a couple of discount sites that offer their extraordinary stuff at a 55 – 60% discount.

We’re also checking with friends and coworkers who can offer us suggestions, or freebies to offset costs. Now we just have to figure out how to pack and check this massive luggage!

We found a pretty remarkable hotel in the jungles of Belize. It boasts some pretty spectacular activities and had jungle themed rooms. The activities list includes zip lining, kayaking, waterfalls and otherwise jungle appropriate sites and adventures. You’ll note that a couple of the activities listed are those that Liz and I interested in trying when we hit the great country of Belize.