By Belize Live News Staff: TikTok influencer Cara Celeste West may be regretting her latest travel “review” after Belizeans gave her a full serving of online backlash.
In a video meant to inform her followers of her least favorite destinations, West labeled Belize as an “island” and ranked it number nine on her “worst travel destinations” list, criticizing everything from the cost of transportation to, most notably, the local cuisine — which she said was “the worst” she’s ever had.
“I thought the food would be full of spice and flavor,” she said, before delivering the punchline: “But it turned out to be so bland and mediocre.”
That remark alone was enough to stir up some heat, but the moment she referred to Belize — a mainland country in Central America — as an “island”, viewers realized that Cara might not be the most reliable guide to global geography.
“She lost all credibility the moment she said island,” one viewer commented.
“She probably thinks Africa is a country too,” joked another.
West, who visited Placencia in December 2024 with her husband and daughter, also warned her followers about “mosquitoes that will eat you alive,” overpriced ground transportation, and grocery stores lacking air conditioning. She added that vegans or those with special diets might find food options limited, and that travelers with kids should carry copies of birth certificates to clear immigration smoothly.
While she did toss one compliment Belize’s way — praising the piña coladas — it wasn’t nearly enough to cool the firestorm of criticism that followed.
Local Belizeans, along with fans of the country’s rich food culture, quickly fired back on social media.
“Imagine going to Belize and not trying stewed chicken, fry jacks, conch fritters, or tamales — of course it tasted bland if you don’t know what to eat,” one commenter wrote.
Another person pointed out, “Maybe don’t judge an entire country based on a tourist resort’s breakfast buffet.”
The biggest burn came from Belizeans defending their culture and geography. “Belize is NOT an island,” one Facebook user posted, “but you are lost either way.”
This isn’t the first time a content creator has gotten dragged for parachuting into a country, cherry-picking experiences, and sharing one-dimensional takes. But it may be the first time Belizeans collectively agreed: she can keep her opinions — and her mosquito spray — far away.
As for West? She hasn’t responded to the backlash — but we doubt she’ll be returning to Belize anytime soon.
