Communities of Belize
Finding the right community is very important in the home buying process.
We can tell you the vital information you need, including which schools, public services, community buildings and other amenities are located near the community you are considering.For more information on our beloved communities, contact us! We understand the value that a great community can bring to a families home acquisition decisions.
Did you know?
- Belize Kriol, widely spoken in Belize, is derived mainly from English with a little influence from Spanish.
- Belizean Culture: Over 10 different cultures living in harmony with Spanish, Maya, Kekchi, Chinese, Indian.
- Belize City is the largest city in Belize - Pop. 70,000.
- Belmopan City is the capital of Belize.
- There are over 200 islands in Belize.
Socializing
Belizeans are informal and friendly in greeting one another. It is considered rude not to hail even a slight acquaintance or greet the clerk or receptionist when entering a place of business.
A simple nod of the head or a wave is acceptable when passing someone on the street, and acquaintances might also be greeted with Hey, how yu di do? (“Hello, how are you?”) or Y’all right? (“How are you?”). When stopping to talk to someone, a handshake is common. Among friends, one might shake hands by clasping the palms and locking thumbs, or by locking all fingers, or just pressing fists together. Men might pat each other on the back when they shake hands. Mestizos might say ¡Buenos días! (“Good morning!”), ¡Buenas tardes! (“Good afternoon!”), ¡Buenas noches! (“Good evening!”), or just ¡Buenas! at any time of day. In Creole, one might use Wa di gwan? (“What’s happening?”) or a number of other phrases.
In formal situations, people are addressed using their titles, but otherwise first names are used. Children usually address their elders by adding Miss or Mister before the name, and they often answer questions by saying “Yes, ma’am” or “No, sir.”
Since the introduction of television in 1980, visiting has played a diminishing role in everyday life in the cities, although it is still important in villages. Belizeans generally take care to make even unexpected guests feel at home. Arranged visits most often occur on weekends. When visiting a home, a lengthy conversation might take place over the fence before one is invited into the yard or home.
Clothing...
The hot climate requires light weight clothing for all occasions. Business dress for men includes short sleeved cotton or poplin shirts, or the popular pleated and pocketed guayabera, worn outside the pants. Ties are not worn. Business women are most comfortable in light weight, sleeveless dresses or skirts. Shorts are unacceptable business attire.
Schools...
Education is mandatory for children between the ages of 6 and 14. Elementary and secondary schooling is free and operated either through government or by one of the churches. A special,government funded vocational training center is geared toward students who couldn't finish secondary school. Courses and training vary depending on changes in the labor market.
Several vocational colleges also specialize in the fields of teacher training, craft and technical courses, agro-industry, and advanced technical fields. The University College of Belize was founded in 1986 and is the country's first institution of higher learning.
Primary Schools Directory
Primary Schools in Belize District
Primary Schools in Cayo District
Primary Schools in Corozal District
Primary Schools in Toledo District
Primary Schools in Stann Creek District
Primary Schools in Orange Walk
High School Directory
Stann Creek District High Schools
Orange Walk District High Schools
Native's 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.
