So maybe you've done the typical spring break thing. Cookie-cutter activities with a bunch of MTV escapees. But you're looking for more this year to dust off your passport, get a couple friends together, and really get south of the border. When you're ready to mix adventure with a vacation exploring Mayan ruins, snorkeling, and sailing that's inexpensive and close to the States, it's time to look into Belize. Belize. can be cheaper than Cancun and more interesting than Negril. And no matter how many foam parties you might find in Daytona, they can't compare to swimming in the turquoise waters of Belize's impressive barrier reef, the second largest after Australia's. A fellow traveler summed it up well: "Where else can you tramp through the jungle one day, tube down a river the next day, and take a dip with stingrays the day after that?" The country's small size makes it easy to hit seven new spots in seven days. And with English as the most commonly spoken language, it's a great first country for travelers looking to explore Central America. G.A.P. (Great Adventure People www.gapadventures.com) offers the Hummingbird Highway trip for those willing to tack a few days on to spring break (who really needs to be back to school that first Monday anyway?). The trip hits the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich in San Ignacio, takes three-days river canoeing and camping trip through the jungle, and visits the island of Caye Caulker, where snorkeling, diving, sailing, and doing absolutely nothing are among the favorite activities. The adventure also includes several days soaking up the culture in Guatemala and visiting Mayan temples in Tikal. Going with a group eases many hassles, although Belize can easily be traveled independently. San Ignacio is a great base to visit Mayan ruins and caves and to take advantage of nearby hiking, canoeing, and horseback riding. LOWDOWN Belize City is just over two hours from Miami, and American, USAir Continental, and TACA all run flights from the States beginning at $400 depending on your departure point. G.A.P. runs the 15-day Hummingbird Highway trip for $895, and an 8-day Kayak Belize trip for $995. www.Belize.com and www.Cayecaulker.org are great sources for information. Basic hotels with a bathroom can easily be found for less than $30 a night. Squeezing your friends into a hostel drops the prices even further. Bring your ATM card, but Belize's banks can be fickle, so ample amounts of cash and traveler's checks are highly recommended. Photo by GAP Adventures