Welcome to Belize 😊

Quick Facts About Belize

Money and Finances

The currency in Belize is the Belize dollar, which has denominations of coins (1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents) and notes (2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 dollars).

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in urban areas of Belize, especially in tourist destinations such as Belize City, San Pedro, and Placencia. However, they may be less common in rural areas.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are generally accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Belize, especially in tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than AMEX, and some places may charge a fee for using a credit card.

Internet and Phones

Internet speeds in Belize vary, but typically average around 5-10 Mbps for download and 1-2 Mbps for upload. There are currently no reports of significant government interference in internet use in Belize.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

Telecommunications in Belize are provided by Belize Telemedia Limited and Digicell Belize. Mobile phone plans average around $25-$50 USD per month. Belize uses a GSM network, so phones from North America and Europe should work with a local SIM card.

Dialling to Belize

To call Belize from another country, dial the country code +501, followed by the 7-digit phone number. Within Belize, dial the area code (usually 2 or 3 digits) followed by the 7-digit phone number.

Transport Around Belize

Air Travel

Belize has one international airport - Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, which is located in Ladyville, about 10 miles from Belize City. There are also several domestic airports scattered throughout the country.

Train Travel

There is no inter-city train network in Belize.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no local train network in Belize.

Buses

Buses are a popular mode of transportation in Belize, with several companies operating on major routes. The prices vary from BZD $2-30 (USD $1-15) depending on the distance traveled. Journey times can range from a few hours to all day, depending on the destination.

Rideshare

There are several rideshare companies, such as Dart and Belize Shuttle, operating in Belize. The average prices vary depending on the distance traveled, but are generally cheaper than taxis.

Driving by Car

Driving in Belize is relatively easy, with most of the major roads being paved. The speed limit is 55 mph (90 km/h) on highways and 25 mph (40 km/h) in towns. Belize drives on the right-hand side of the road.

Local Customs

In Belize, tipping is expected in most service industries, with a standard of 10-15% for restaurants and other personal services. Locals commonly greet each other with a handshake, and it is polite to use titles such as 'Mr.' and 'Mrs.' when addressing someone you have just met. When speaking with strangers, it is important to avoid controversial topics such as politics and religion. Men and women generally address each other formally with 'Sir' or 'Madam'.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Belize has a mix of public and private healthcare systems. The public system is subsidized by the government and provides basic medical services, but may have long wait times and limited resources. Private healthcare is also available, but can be expensive. Medical costs may vary, but a visit to a doctor can cost approximately $40-$60 USD.

COVID Situation

Belize has had a low number of COVID-19 cases and deaths compared to other countries. The government has implemented strict safety measures such as mandatory mask-wearing and social distancing, and has gradually reopened businesses and tourism. As of July 2021, the vaccination rate in Belize is relatively low, with around 7% of the population fully vaccinated.

Common Health Risks

Belize is a tropical country and therefore has some health risks for travelers. Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria are a concern, particularly during the rainy season. Travelers should take precautions such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. Food and water-borne illnesses are also possible, and travelers should be careful to avoid consuming unsafe food or drink.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Belize, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. However, public drunkenness is illegal, and you may be fined or detained if you are found drunk in public. Drinking alcohol on the streets is also prohibited. In addition, there are some areas and times where alcohol sales are banned, such as during elections or religious holidays.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use, including soft drugs such as cannabis, is illegal in Belize. Possession, cultivation, and trafficking of drugs can result in prison sentences of up to life imprisonment, depending on the severity of the crime.

Pre-Marital Relationships

There are no laws prohibiting pre-marital relationships in Belize, but it is important to note that the age of sexual consent is 16 years old. Sexual relations with someone under this age is considered statutory rape, which is a criminal offense.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Belize, but LGBTQ individuals may face discrimination and intolerance. Same-sex marriage is not recognized in Belize, and there are no legal protections for LGBTQ individuals.

Firearms / Guns

Gun ownership and possession in Belize is regulated by the government, and permits are required for most firearms. The country has strict laws regarding the use of firearms, and penalties for the illegal possession or use of guns can range from heavy fines to lengthy prison sentences.