Belize is located on the eastern coast of Central America, with ties to both the Caribbean and Latin America. The country was once known as British Honduras, prior to gaining its independence in 1981. Belize is bordered by Mexico on the north, Guatemala on the south andthe west, and the Caribbean Sea on the east.

This tiny country, geographically speaking, is filled with a variety of cultural influences, including Maya, Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, Mennonite, Lebanese, and even Chinese. While English is theofficial language in Belize, you can also expect to hear Spanish and Belizean Kriol spokenthroughout the country as well, while Garifuna is more prevalent as well in the south.

Belize is renowned for its natural beauty and abundance of adventure activities, but it’s also earning a following from travelers looking to get away from it all. The UNESCO recognized Belize Barrier Reef and its world-famous Blue Hole are just two of the reasons travelers fall in
love with Belize’s majestic blue waters.

The mainland of Belize is home to abundant wildlife, Maya sites, countless adrenaline-pumpingadventures, and it’s where you’ll find the heart of Belizean culture. Some travelers choose to split their vacation with mainland adventure, followed by some rest and relaxation on thecayes; however, it’s also possible to book daytime tours from Ambergris Caye to see Belize’s best attractions.

Belize has a fixed exchange rate, and you can expect to pay 1USD to 2 BZD. Most businesses accept U.S. dollars, but you may receive change back in Belize dollars. Most major credit cards are accepted at larger establishments and resorts, but plan to have cash on hand for local
restaurants, artisan vendors, taxis, and tips. When it comes to tipping, it is not only accepted, but it’s appreciated to tip at least 10% in Belize.

When it comes to weather, Belize enjoys an average yearly temperature of 84F (29C). You’ll find breezes along the coast and on the cayes, while the nights can cool down in the jungle and rainforest. The driest part of the year is typically February through May, while June through
November is the wettest, subject to the effects of the Atlantic Hurricane season.

Travelers looking to bring a piece of Belize home with them will delight in the vast selection of local products that are available. Popular items include local Belizean liquors, especially rum, Belizean roasted coffees, and signature habanero hot sauces, like the popular line up of Marie Sharp’s, which you will find on nearly every restaurant table in the country.

You’re likely to fall in love with Belize and its people from the moment you land, and it’s easy to see why. It’s also why Belize has a healthy influx of expatriates and retirees moving here, especially from the United States and Canada.

Please enjoy the warm Belizean hospitality, and we hope you have an unforgettable holiday in our majestic jewel. If you have any questions that our FAQ page didn’t already answer, please message us and we’ll be happy to answer them for you!