Post w Central America and the Caribbean

Hello everyone, I know this is a broad question to ask. I am wanting to leave everything currently and just go traveling. I do not know where exactly, but would love to hear peoples opinions and thoughts about backpacking Central America.

I do have my scuba diving license completed, would love to do more dives. I have not been as active physically, but would like to hike some amounts. I do love waterfalls, rainforest, and FOOD, specially spicy and flavored food. && Salsa dancing.

I have backpacked Europe before, I found it rather expensive.. more history it felt. Traveling around more costly. I have backpacked Asia also, I found that much more affordable, easy going, not needing to worry about booking things in advance, and felt more fun (to me). Traveling was not bad, just bought bus, plane, or boat trip last minute and didn't cost as much as Europe did. I am wondering how Central America would be?