Frequently Asked Questions

Belize is located in Central America off the coast of the Caribbean Sea. It is south of Mexico, east of Guatemala, and north of Honduras. 

In Belize, like anywhere, you should be cautious of petty crimes. Overall the violent crime rate in Belize is lower than most major American cities. 

Belize beckons with warm hospitality, inviting families to embrace unforgettable adventures in a paradise where affordability meets endless possibilities. From budget-friendly accommodations to a diverse array of family-friendly activities, Belize promises a journey filled with cherished memories. Encounter exotic wildlife, immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences, and embark on thrilling adventures amidst pristine beaches and lush jungles. Dive into the vibrant tapestry of festivals and events that celebrate Belizean heritage while reveling in the ease of communication that bridges cultures. Discover the magic of Belize, where every moment is a testament to the boundless joy of exploration and connection. 

The official language of Belize is English. Though the other languages spoken throughout Belize are Spanish, Kriol (Belizean Creole), Garifuna, and Mayan. 

Monthly expenses vary among individuals, but in Belize, one could comfortably sustain themselves on $1,600 or less. As a former British colony, Belize is primarily English-speaking, with Spanish also widely spoken. Official documents, street signs, and menus are predominantly in English. Living in Belize offers health benefits, with access to fresh fruits, vegetables, coconut water, and free-range chickens facilitating a clean and nutritious diet. Additionally, spending ample time outdoors in the country's unpolluted air contrasts with environments in the U.S. or Europe, promoting overall well-being. Overall, making it a good place to retire. 

In Belize City, there's a highly equipped hospital staffed with medical professionals, ideal for serious medical needs. Across the country, regional hospitals in towns and major villages provide healthcare services. These facilities often welcome American medical volunteers and typically have ambulances on standby for emergencies. The quality of healthcare in Belize surpasses Caribbean standards, ensuring reliable medical care throughout the country. 

In Belize, Christianity predominates, with nearly three-quarters of the population adhering to the faith. This majority encompasses Roman Catholics, Protestants, and Jehovah's Witnesses. Beyond Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Rastafarianism, and other faiths are also practiced, collectively representing around 10% of the population. Additionally, approximately 15% of Belizeans do not align with any religious affiliation. 

Belize is served by five primary banks: Belize Bank, boasting 12 branches, Atlantic Bank with 10 branches, Scotia Bank operating 9 branches, First Caribbean Bank with 4 branches, and Alliance Bank with 5 branches. 

While the water in most towns and villages of Belize is deemed potable, it's advisable for tourists to opt for bottled water as a precautionary measure. The overall water quality in Belize surpasses that of neighboring countries, offering a higher standard of purity and safety 

The Belizean dollar is used throughout the country, but almost all places accept U.S Dollars. 1 Belizean dollar is equal to $0.50 USD (United States Dollar). Also all major credit cards are accepted in Belize.

Yes, before entering Belize, all visitors must present a valid passport as a requirement.

Guests of Belize are allowed to stay in the country for up to 30 days. After spending 30 days in Belize, visitors can apply for one-month extensions by visiting any Immigration Office across the country. 

Belize implements a clear process for importing domestic pets, overseen by the Belize Agriculture Health Authority (BAHA). To bring pets into the country, owners must obtain an import permit, an international veterinary certificate, and a valid rabies vaccination certificate. The import permit can be acquired by contacting the BAHA "Permit Unit" based in Belmopan. 

Spanning from June to November, Belize’s rainy season is a short but wonderous span of 6 months. While this might raise concerns, the sporadic nature of storms and hurricanes shouldn’t overshadow the unwavering spirit of the Belizean people amidst such weather.

The rainy season breathes vitality and new life into Belize's lush rainforests and diverse wildlife. The canopy becomes a verdant haven, bursting with life, and the Belize Barrier Reef undergoes a vibrant transformation with an abundance of marine creatures. Birdwatchers, especially, will be delighted by the onset of breeding seasons for many species. As water levels rise, Belize’s rivers and caves beckon adventure enthusiasts with thrilling opportunities for white-water rafting and cave tubing.Moreover, the rainy season brings fewer tourists, offering a chance to relish secluded beaches, close encounters with wildlife, and personalized service at reduced rates.

Embracing Belizean culture during this time adds another layer of richness to the experience. From the lively Garifuna Settlement Day festivities on November 19th  (A wonderful reenactment of their peoples arrival in Belize in 1832, the day carries on in a great celebration with food, music, drink and dance.) Also, enjoy the captivating Mayan Village Deer Dance Festival in August, characterized by intricate choreography, storytelling, and theatrical elements. There’s a plethora of cultural events to engage in.

June to July: Experience the ‘Rainbow Season’, ideal for reveling in blooming foliage and wildlife. Whale shark watching, Mayan Equinox, Lobster Fests/Lobster Season Opens

August to October: For the adventurous souls, heavier rains make for exhilarating river and cave explorations. This period is also perfect for spotting nurse sharks off Placencia’s coast.

November: As the rains recede, cultural celebrations peak, with the Garifuna Settlement Day being a highlight filled with rhythmic drumming, traditional cuisine, and vibrant parades. 

Visiting Belize during the green season may entail more rain, wilder landscapes, and some unpredictability. However, you’ll enjoy a symphony of life, the thrilling adventures, and the indelible cultural encounters. All these most definitely will be experienced more intimately during the green season. Adventure during Belize’s green season will unveil an unexpected paradise, for sure. 

Belize enjoys a tropical climate characterized by two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season typically spans from June to November, bringing frequent rainfall and occasional tropical storms. Conversely, the dry season occurs from December to May, offering sunny days and lower humidity levels. Temperatures remain consistently warm throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 80°F to 90°F (27°C to 32°C). Coastal areas experience refreshing sea breezes, while inland regions may be slightly warmer. Overall, Belize boasts a pleasant climate perfect for enjoying its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture year-round. 

Belize operates on a 110-volt power grid, akin to that of the United States, primarily fueled by diesel generators dispersed across the nation. While the power supply is generally stable and dependable in most areas, certain regions experience periodic outages. 

In Belize, a few isolated cases of Malaria and Dengue Fever are reported annually, primarily in dense jungle regions near the Guatemala border. While no mandatory vaccinations are necessary for entry into Belize, it's advisable to ensure Tetanus, Hepatitis A, and B shots are up to date, as recommended by most healthcare professionals. Consulting with medical travel specialists is the recommended approach to determine the specific precautions needed for your destination. 

Belize has 13 National Holidays, Christmas Day, New Years Day, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, Easter Monday, Labor Day on May 1st, Commonwealth Day on May 24th, St. George's Caye Day on September 10th, Independence Day on September 21st, Columbus Day on October 12th, Garifuna Settlement Day on November 19th, and Baron Bliss Day on March 9th. 

Belize boasts a modern telecommunications network, with cellular towers offering coverage across much of the country. International communication channels between Belize and the global community are both reliable and reasonably priced. While cellular service may be intermittent in certain areas, it remains generally dependable and competitively priced compared to other regions worldwide.