Belize is a country located on the northeastern coast of Central America. It is bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. It also shares a water boundary with Honduras to the southeast. Belize is often thought of as a Caribbean country in Central America because it has a history similar to that of English-speaking Caribbean nations. Its institutions and official language reflect its history as a British colony, but its culture is more typical of other Central American countries. Belize achieved independence from the United Kingdom on September 21, 1981, but it is still a Commonwealth realm, with King Charles III as its monarch and head of state, represented by a governor-general. Its capital is Belmopan, and its largest city is Belize City.