1. Belize is the only Central American country with English as its official language.2. Belize's Black Howler Monkeys are one of the top 10 loudest animals in the world
3. Many Belizeans avoid swimming in the ocean or rivers on Good Friday with the belief that it will bring good fortune
4. Close to 1 million tourists visit Belize annually, 70% of whom are Americans
5. Belizean folklore includes a 3-foot tall, evil dwarf? The thumbless dwarf, dubbed El Duende, hangs out in the forest and punishes any kids who kill the animals.
6. It is considered rude to greet people in Belize by their first names (unless you know them, of course!)
7. The Belizean shoreline water temperature averages between 79 to 83 degrees F
8. Belize houses the only Jaguar preserve in the world (commonly known as the Jaguar Reserve or Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary)
9. Approximately 900 Mayan ruins are scattered throughout Belize
10. About 2/3 of Belize's forests are still intact
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