Drumming Off the Beaten Path in Hopkins Village, Belize

Traveling to Belize?

You might want to get off the beaten path and visit Hopkins Village, a small town that's both Latin and African at the same time.

Known for its Garifuna people - descendants of shipwrecked slaves - Hopkins has a lot to offer culturally and musically. The culture is a special one, with drumming and dancing at the heart of it.

When I was there, I took lessons and learned how to play the drums like the one you see in the photo. They've got a thick skin on them (cow or goat) and produce a lovely sound that's a cross between Latin and African.

Every few days, the local guys put on a show that's definitely worth checking out. You can also learn more about the culture just by wandering around town or grabbing a beer at one of the local bars or restaurants.

Whatever you do, chances are, the wonderful music from this drum will be part of it!

For Travelers, by Travelers!

Travel photo shared by Chicky Bus
www.chickybus.com