Belize's mix of beach and jungle combined with its proximity to some of Central America's most popular attractions makes it the perfect place to recharge before exploring the historical and natural sights of the area. Just opened on Ambergris Caye is Salamander (020-7731 6077, salamanderbelize.com), sandwiched between the Belize Barrier Reef and pristine jungle. Visitors can stay in huts on the beach or in the forest, and take advantage of spa facilities as well as diving and locally run tours. Prices start at £55 for a beach cabin, and £70 for the jungle huts.
A visit to Belize can be combined with a trip into Guatemala, one of the region's fastest-growing destinations. Travellers come here for the well-preserved ancient sites dotted about the country, diverse nature and flourishing Mayan culture. For somewhere fresh to stay, Casa Palopó (casapalopo.com) is a colourful seven-bedroom hotel boasting one of the country's finest views of Lake Atitlan, set beautifully around picture-perfect volcanoes. Suites start at around £90.
Costa Rica is a well-known ecotourism destination, and the Osa peninsula is home to some of its finest rainforest. Not as well-known as the volcanoes and beaches further north, Lapa Rios (laparios.com) is an award-winning wilderness resort set in pristine forest close to Corcovado National Park and the Pacific Ocean. Doubles range from £95-£140.
Nicaragua is establishing itself on the tourist map, particularly as an extension to a visit to Costa Rica. The country is shaking off its image as an unsafe destination, although the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (0870 6060290, fco.gov.uk) advises against travel to the North Atlantic Autonomous Region. Apart from this area, the country is a tempting proposition for adventurous travellers. Granada and Leon are home to some of the oldest colonial buildings in the Americas, and Nicaragua offers unspoilt beaches and far fewer visitors than other countries in the region. Morgan's Rock (morgansrock.com) offers bungalows facing the ocean, a private beach and a luxurious setting, with prices ranging from £85-£100pp.
Honduras is another fast-emerging destination, offering a mixture of white-sand beaches, world-class diving and unexplored national parks. Pico Bonito Lodge (picobonito.com) offers top-end accommodation deep in the rainforest for £85-£120 per room.
Panama is another country attracting increased numbers of visitors. Panama City is an exciting, fast-paced city with attractive parks, abundant shopping and world-class nightlife that really does run all night. The city is close to the Miraflores Locks so visiting the country's most famous attraction is straightforward. As Panama is a compact country you're never more than a few hours' drive from rainforest or colonial forts that dot the coastline.
