Punta Gorda, Belize

Capital City

With a population of just 706, Punta Gorda is a sleepy fishing town, far removed from the tourist hubs of Belize. The tropical rainforest climate brings perpetual heat and heavy rainfall, while the local bureaucracy is a persistent headache. Despite its Spanish name, the town is dominated by Creole and Maya cultures, with only a smattering of other ethnic groups. Those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience in Belize may find Punta Gorda a suitable fit, but it's hardly the tropical paradise many expats dream of.