About Belize Information to know Before You Go ....
A valid passport is necessary for entry into Belize.
Visitors are permitted to stay in Belize for a period not to exceed 30 days. Extensions are routinely granted at Immigration offices located in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye , Punta Gorda , Belmopan , Orange Walk , and Belize City at a cost of US$25.00 per month for the first six months.
For more information the Immigration & Nationality Department* *in Belmopan can be contacted at 501-8-22611/-22423.
Philip S. Goldson International Airport is situated 10 miles from Belize City, in Ladyville. Regular international services to and from the United States, Central America, and Mexico are maintained by a number of airlines, including American, Continental and Taca. Taxi fare from the International airport to Belize City is around $US20. Flights to Belize has more information about air carriers serving Belize.
Departure Tax - A US $37.50 departure tax (cash) per person is required when leaving the Belize Int' Airport. Most airlines now include this cost in the price of a ticket. If they do not, you will need to pay the Belize Departure Tax directly to the airport authorities at Philip S. Goldson International Airport, on the date of your departure. Visitors leaving by the northern border with Mexico or the western border with Guatemala pay US$ 18.75 in or equivalent in Belizean (BZ) currency. *The currency unit is the Belize dollar (BZ$).
The fixed rate of exchange is BZ$2 to US$1. Belizean banks cash travelers checks, give cash advances on Visa or Master cards and have wire transfer services. In addition, Belize has five commercial banks: Belize Bank, Alliance Bank of Belize, Atlantic Bank, First Caribbean International Bank, and Scotiabank (Belize).
Time Zone - The time zone is Central Standard; Mountain Standard during Daylight Savings time in the US. Daylight Savings is not observed in Belize.
Telecommunications - Direct-dial and cellular telephone, fax, e-mail and internet are available.
Internet cafes are plentiful and wireless is available at many resorts. Satellite phones in remote area. Visitors, especially those who plan on renting a vehicle, may want to consider bringing their own cellular phones to Belize and activating them at BTL's (Belize Telecommunications Limited) airport location, or renting a cellular phone directly from BTL at its airport location. Phone cards can also be purchased there or at any BTL office. Also, you can easily pick cards up at a number of resorts and shops throughout the country. Using an international phone card, you can access ATT, MCI, Sprint, Canada Direct and UK Direct.
WHEN IN BELIZE DIAL: 113 for Directory Assistance 114 for Local and Regional Operator assisted calls 115 for International Operator assisted calls
Electricity in many places is provided by diesel generator equipment. Power is at 110 volts AC, which is the same as in the United States. A small surge suppresser is highly recommended for computers and other sensitive equipment. *
Climate is sub-tropical, tempered by trade winds. Extreme temperatures in coastal districts range from about 10^o C (50^o F) to about 35.6^o C. (96^o F). Belize has an annual mean temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Annual Rainfall in Belize varies from an average of 50 inches in the north to 180 inches in the extreme south. The dry season usually extends from February to the end of May, with a possible dry spell in August.
The Belize Tourist Board is a good place to go for more information about Belize. The Board distributes free up-to-date bus schedules, city maps, a visitors' magazine, and a comprehensive list of accommodations. They're located on the second floor of the Central Bank building in Belize City.
Tel. 501-2-31913
Natives' Tongues
English-speakers will find themselves right at home in Belize - but so will travelers who speak many other languages.
While English is still the official language of this former British colony, people around the country speak Spanish, Creole, Garifuna, and Mayan as well. Garifuna and Mayan are the two native languages, and many Spanish speakers from other nearby countries have helped create a strong community of Spanish-speaking people in Belize.
Etiquette
You'll find that Belizeans are very friendly under almost all
circumstances. However, remembering a few rules of etiquette will help
you discover just how friendly Belize's people can be.
When walking into any kind of building, or just asking someone for
directions in the street, it's most polite to greet the person first
with a "good morning" or "buenos días."
Don't get carried awaytaking pictures. While photos from inside churches and of indigenous
people may look interesting, be sure to avoid taking pictures during
church services, or without asking the person you want to photograph
for their permission first. Always remember to thank locals you
photograph with a small fee.
Remember, even business attire is casual in Belize. There's no need to overdress; men rarely wear suits with ties.
Another important note: Gay travelers are advised to be very discreet in
Belize. Homosexuality is still illegal there and has resulted in prison
time for natives, though vacationers have not been prosecuted.
Regions
Belize has six districts, but the country can also be broken down into major tourist destinations.
| Region | Description |
|---|---|
| Northern Belize | Northern Belize consists of both Corozal and Orange Walk Districts and some is sometimes considered to encompass northern portions of Belize District as well. Travelers can explore the jungle and the Mayan world from this location, including the important Mayan archaeological site of Lamanai. There is a mix of Mayan, Spanish, and Mennonite farmers throughout the region, creating their own unique culture. |
| Belize District (Belize City) | The main attraction of the Belize district is Belize City, where travelers can explore many worlds and cultures, from the ancient Mayan to the colonial to a lively present. The area is most defined by its cultural and historical mix. |
| The Cayes | Belize's cayes are popular tourist destinations, with most of the focus on travel to Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. However, no matter which caye you visit, you'll find yourself on a Caribbean island near great snorkeling at Belize's barrier reef. |
| Cayo District | The Cayo district is a western district in Belize, punctuated by its two largest cities toward the eastern and western borders of the district, San Ignacio and Belmopan. Between the two, jungle dominates in the Mayan mountain area. |
| Stann Creek District | Crossing the Stann Creek district on the Hummingbird Highway offers scenic drives, if rough roads. Small coastal villages have plenty to offer travelers, as does the city of Dangriga, the historic home of the Garifuna people. |
| Placencia | A beach-lover's paradise, Placencia offers many aquatic activities to suit any traveler. From snorkeling and diving to carefree sunbathing while enjoying a cool beverage on the white sand, this is a popular tourist destination. |
| Southern Belize | Nature lovers will truly find their spot in Southern Belize's Toledo District or the city of Punta Gorda. Throughout the area you'll find Mopan and Kekchi Mayan homesteads blending tradition with the 21st century. Ancient Mayan ruins, cave systems, and, of course, rainforests provide a backdrop for any adventure you choose. |
No matter what kind of travel adventure you seek, Belize offers something for every sensibility.
Travel Insurance
Medical expenses in Belize can be costly, so acquiring proper medical insurance coverage is important. In fact, even if you do have insurance, many hospitals and treatment facilities require payment at the time of service. Most health insurance policies--except for Medicaid, Medicare and certain HMOs--cover medical expenses incurred while traveling.
Call your insurance company a few weeks prior to traveling to Belize to ensure that you have sufficient coverage. If your policy does not have a provision for medical care while traveling, consider one of the following companies which offer supplemental policies for medical bills incurred while vacationing:
Company |
Website |
Telephone Number |
|---|---|---|
| MEDEX International | http://www.medexassist.com | 800-527-0218 410-453-6300 |
| Travel Assistance International | http://www.travelassistance.com | 800-821-2828 800-777-8710 |
