By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
When we think of North America, we often think of the United States, Canada, and Mexico. But did you know that there are many other countries in North America that are less popular yet interesting?
It’s like finding hidden items in unexpected corners of your home, such as money in the storage room or a wristwatch in the kitchen.
Let’s look at 10 Countries in North America that you probably didn’t know about.
1. Belize
Belize is a small country with rainforests, cool animals, and clear blue water. It’s in Central America, a part of North America. People who live in this country speak English, so it’s easy for people who visit to talk to locals.
It has the second biggest coral reef in the world, and it is perfect for snorkeling and diving.
An interesting thing about Belize is that some people think Central America is a different continent, but it’s actually part of North America.
2. Guatemala
Another country in North America is Guatemala, a place full of volcanoes, old Mayan ruins, and colourful markets. If you decide to visit, you can visit ancient cities like Tikal, climb a volcano, or go to the town of Antigua. Guatemala also grows some of the best coffee in the world.
However, people sometimes forget that it is part of North America because of its strong indigenous culture and its location in Central America.
3. El Salvador
El Salvador is one of the countries in North America. It’s the smallest country in Central America, but it has a lot of volcanoes and really nice beaches. People who like surfing would like it in this place. ]
The country’s nickname is the Land of Volcanoes. However, just like other countries, people don’t know that it’s part of North America.
4. Honduras
You’ll find rainforests, mountains, and beaches in Honduras. The Bay Islands here are well known for diving and snorkeling. They also have some of the most beautiful coral reefs.
The country is popularly known for how it struggles with poverty, but people sometimes forget that it’s a naturally beautiful country located in North America.
5. Nicaragua
Nicaragua is one of many other countries in North America. It’s the biggest country in Central America with huge lakes, volcanoes, and rainforests. The Lake Nicaragua has freshwater sharks, which is quite rare.
Several people also think that Central America is separate from North America, just like the other countries that have been mentioned, but it’s not different.
6. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is famous for its rainforests, beaches, and wildlife. It’s a peaceful country that cares a lot about protecting nature. People who live there love to say the word, “Pura Vida,” which means pure life.
A fun fact about this country is that it doesn’t have an army, and because of its obvious love for nature, some people think it is part of South America – but it’s actually in North America.
7. Panama
From today, when you think about countries in North America, you can remember Panama. It is famous for the Panama Canal – a waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. You’ll also find the old streets of Casco Viejo, rainforests, and lovely beaches.
The Panama Canal is one of the biggest engineering projects in the world. Most people focus solely on the canal and overlook the rest of the country, and sometimes forget that it is located in North America.
8. The Bahamas
The Bahamas has over 700 islands, with white sandy beaches and clear blue water. It’s a perfect place to swim, snorkel, or even see swimming pigs in Exuma.
It is far from the mainland, so people usually forget or hardly notice that it’s one of the countries in North America.
9. Barbados
Barbados is a small island known for its beaches, music, and its flavoured rum. You can visit the capital Bridgetown, relax by the sea, or try some local dishes.
The Atlantic Ocean surrounds Barbados, that’s why people don’t always see it as a part of North America.
10. Trinidad and Tobago
This island nation is well known for its wild Carnival celebrations, calypso music, and beautiful nature. You can dance at Carnival, visit the rainforests, or relax on the beach.
Steelpan music was invented by Trinidad and Tobago, and it’s the only new instrument created in the 20th century.
People are usually confused about its location in South or North America because it is located around the Caribbean, which confuses people about whether it’s part of North or South America.
Apart from the big countries in North America like the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, there are many other things to learn about the continent – such as the culture, history and their environment.