THE BASICS
Where is Belize?
Belize is located in Central America. The country is bordered to the south and west by Guatemala, to the north by Mexico, and to the east by the Caribbean Sea.
Where is Ambergris Caye?
Ambergris Caye is the largest island of Belize located northeast of the country in the Caribbean Sea. The island is 25 miles long and one mile wide. San Pedro is the largest settlement and only town on Ambergris. There are also a number of small villages and resorts. San Pedro played host to the first season of Fox's Temptation Island in 2000. More recently, the availability of skydiving during the winter has become a draw for tourists so inclined.
Tourism development of Ambergris Caye began in the early 1970s and grew considerably in the later years of the 20th century. The main attractions are the Belize Barrier Reef and its beaches. That barrier reef is the second largest in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. The caye has a small airstrip serviced by Tropic Air and Maya Island Air, and can be reached by plane from Belize City as well as by numerous fast sea ferries.
Where are the Mayan Islands?
The Mayan Islands are adjacent to Ambergris Caye and less than a ten minute boat ride away.
What is the population of Belize?
Belize has an estimated population of 320,000 people and consists of 8,867 square miles (22,960 square km) of territory. It has the lowest population density in Central America and one of the lowest population densities of any country throughout the world.
What is the official language of Belize?
Belize is the only country in Central America where English is an official language, although Kriol and Spanish are also widely spoken.
How is Belize governed?
Belize is a Parliamentary Democracy. The Prime Minister, Said Musa, has been in power since 1998. Once part of the Mayan, and very briefly the Spanish Empire, it was most recently affiliated with the British Empire, prior to gaining its independence in 1981. Belize remains a Commonwealth realm, one of 16 sovereign states that have Elizabeth the II as their respective monarch.
What is the Climate of Belize?
Belize has a tropical climate with pronounced wet and dry seasons. However, there are significant variations in weather patterns by region. On the island of Ambergris Caye, closest to Mayan Islands, the summer temperatures average between 75 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter temperatures in this region range from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
What are the currency denominations and exchange rate?
The Belize Dollar (BZ$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of BZ$100, 50, 20, 10, 5, and 2. Coins are in denominations of BZ$1, and 100, 50, 25, 10, 5, and 1.
The Belize Dollar is tied to the US Dollar at US$1 = BZ$2.
Currency can be exchanged at most banks, hotels and travel agencies. Some businesses accept US Dollars. Banks are generally open Monday through Friday from 8am to 4:30pm in Belize. Belize Bank ATMs are connected to the Cirrus and PLUS networks.
What is the Time Zone in Belize?
Belize is on Central Standard Time, 6 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time. Belize does not observe daylight saving time.
TRAVELING TO BELIZE
Can I rent a car on Ambergris Caye, Belize?
Although there are some privately owned cars and trucks on the island, rental cars are not available on Ambergris Caye. Golf carts rent for around US$60 for a 24-hour day and about US$40 for an 8-hour rental. Island (formerly Ramon's) Rentals near the Sun Breeze Hotel, and Polo's, near the Paradise Hotel, are among the larger renters. Valid driver licenses are required to rent carts.
Can I take a Taxi on Ambergris Caye, Belize?
As you walk around San Pedro, drivers will ask if you need a taxi. Your hotel also can call a taxi for you. Rates to locations on the island are about US$2 to $5. Water taxis are available to take you to or from San Pedro and North Ambergris Caye, typically for US$5. Some hotels offer free water shuttle service for guests.
When traveling by air, are there any departure fees for international flights?
Philip Goldson International Airport:
Passenger Service Fee $15.00
Airport Development Fee $15.00
Conservation Fee $3.75
Security Fee $1.25
Total Airport Departure Fees: US $35.00
Payable ONLY in US currency.
All fees apply to non-Belizean citizens and non-Belizean permanent residents.
These fees are sometimes included in the cost of your airfare.
What cities have international flight direct to Belize?
Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Houston, Miami, and Los Angeles.
What are the major airlines servicing Belize?
American Airlines, Continental, Delta Air Lines, Grupo TACA, and US Airways.
What are the local airlines servicing Belize?
Maya Island Air, Tropic Air, and Caribbean Holidays.
What do I need to know for entry into Belize?
All visitors to Belize, including children, must have a valid passport, good for at least six months beyond your departure date. Most visitors, including those from the U.S. and Canada, do not need visas. Entry for international visitors arriving Belize by air is at Philip Goldson International Airport in Ladyville, just north of Belize City. Immigration officials grant stays of up to 30 days, depending on how long you say you expect to stay. To get the longest period, say you plan to stay "about a month." Tourist stays may be extended for up to six months, by paying a small fee, but you will need to visit Belize City and apply for the extension. You will go through customs at the international airport, usually a quick and fairly painless process. If you are flying to San Pedro from the international airport (a 20-minute flight on Maya Island Air or Tropic Air), proceed to the domestic terminals. If you are going into Belize City, either to catch a ferry or to depart from the Municipal Airport, get a taxi at the front of the airport (US$15).
What are some useful phone numbers when traveling to Belize?
U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory, tel. 202/647-5225 (manned 24 hr.). U.S. Passport Agency, tel. 202/647-0518. U.S. Embassy in Belize, tel. 227-7161. Canadian Consulate in Belize, tel. 223-1061. U.K. Embassy in Belize, tel. 822-2146. Time, date, and temperature, tel. 121.
Can I bring a pet to Belize?
Yes. The importing of pets falls under the jurisdiction of the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (501.822.0197 baha@btl.net). In general, pet owners must provide a valid rabies certificate and international veterinary certificate, and the pet must pass an on-the-spot examination by a quarantine officer to be allowed into the country. Fees are BZ$50 (US$25).
What health precautions should be taken when traveling to Belize?
The standards of health and hygiene on Ambergris Caye in Belize are high, similar to that of popular resort islands in the Caribbean. Not many visitors become ill from traveler's diseases or from drinking the water. While malaria, dengue fever and other tropical diseases are present in Belize, they are rare in San Pedro, and as a practical matter many visitors to Ambergris Caye don't get any special shots before they come. No shots are required for entry into Belize. However, it's always a good idea to keep tetanus, polio, Hep A and B and other vaccinations up to date, and malaria prophylaxis may be advised for mainland travel; it is highly advised if you are going to remote areas or into Guatemala. Check with the U.S. Centers for Disease Controls, tel. 404-332-4559 for the latest information.
WHILE IN BELIZE, ESSENTIAL FACTS TO KNOW
How is mobile telephone service obtained in Belize?
Coverage is available in all six districts. Belize Telecommunications Ltd has a GSM 1900 network and sells handsets. The BTL main offices (www.btl.net) are located at the corner of Albert and Church Streets in Belize City at telephone number 227-7085 and the corner of Princess Margaret Drive and St. Thomas Street at telephone number 223-2868. Phone cards are available at numerous locations. In order to have mobile cellular service in Belize, an unlocked GSM (Global System Mobile Communication) 1900 MHz cellular phone is required. Cellular phones can also be rented for US $5 a day from the Belize Telecommunications (BTL) office at the Phillip Goldson International Airport (PGIA). A deposit of US $150 is required.
Belize has a unified seven-digit phone numbering system. There are no city or area codes to dial from within Belize. When dialing a Belizean number from outside Belize, use the country code 501.
For directory assistance, dial 113 if you’re looking for a number inside Belize. For numbers to all other countries dial 114 or 115 and an operator will connect you to an international directory assistance operator.
In case of any emergency, dial tel. 90 from anywhere in Belize. This will connect you to the police.
How do I obtain Internet access in Belize?
Cybercafes can be found at most major tourist destinations around Belize. Wi-Fi is also increasingly more common, and many hotels are offering it for free. Rates at cybercafes run between BZ$2 and BZ$10 (US$1-US$5) per hour. Alternatively, BTL (tel. 0800/112-4636; www.btl.net), the state Internet monopoly, sells prepaid cards in BZ$10 (US$5), BZ$25 (US$13), and BZ$50 (US$25) denominations for connecting your laptop to the Web via a local phone call.
Should I TIP for service in Belize?
A 10% tip is normal. Taxi drivers are not tipped.
Is a Siesta observed in Belize?
Yes. Shopping hours are Monday through Saturday, 8am-12noon, 1-4:30pm, and 7-9pm.
How much is sales tax in Belize?
9%
What type of electricity is used in Belize?
The American-style two-pin plugs are used. 110 volts AC, 60Hz.
What are the accepted etiquette and customs of Belize?
There are no overarching etiquette or customs concerns for visitors to Belize. This is a tropical country, and dress is uniformly light and casual, except in business situations, where a suit or dressy women's clothing is appropriate. For all intents and purposes, Belize is also a very Western country. A simple handshake is the most common form of greeting.
Where can I find a local pharmacy?
There are a handful of pharmacies around Belize City, and in most of the major towns and tourist destinations. Perhaps the best-stocked pharmacy in the country can be found at Belize Medical Associates, 5791 St. Thomas Kings Park (tel. 223-0303; www.belizemedical.com).
Where can I find a hospital in Belize?
Belize Medical Associates, 5791 St. Thomas Kings Park, Belize City (tel. 223-0303; www.belizemedical.com), is a modern, 24-hour private hospital, with emergency care and numerous private practice physicians. The country's main public hospital, the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, Princess Margaret Drive, Belize City (tel. 223-1548), is also open 24 hours and has a wide range of facilities and services.
What are the liquor laws in Belize?
The legal drinking age in Belize is 18 years old. Beer, wine, and liquor are all sold in most supermarkets and small convenience stores from Monday through Saturday. No liquor is sold on Good Friday or Easter Sunday. On Election Day, no liquor can be sold until 6pm.
Where can I buy groceries?
There are a number of small groceries on Ambergris Caye. The largest are San Pedro Supermarket at the north end of town, Rock's on Pescador (Middle) Street in town, and a newer Rock's south of town. These and other shops have approximately the inventory of a large convenience store in the U.S., plus items such as frozen meats and liquor.
What is the crime like on Ambergris Caye?
Most visitors to Ambergris Caye feel entirely safe. However, use common sense, avoid walking in unlighted or isolated areas at night, and keep an eye on cameras and other personal possessions.
What is the drinking water like on Ambergris Caye?
The town of San Pedro has a municipal water supply with chlorinated water that is safe is drink. Some hotels and houses get water from shallow wells - the water is usually okay but may taste brackish. Cisterns also provide some water. Check with your hotel to find out if tap water is okay to drink. If not, the hotel will supply potable water, or you can buy bottled water from local groceries and shops. Ice at hotels and restaurants is almost always made from purified water. Most visitors eat and drink as they would at home and do not have stomach problems.
MAYAN HISTORY
What is history of Mayans living in Belize?
Archaeologists estimate that at their peak, 1 to 2 million Mayas lived within the borders of present day Belize. Mighty Maya cities such as Caracol, Xunantunich and Lamanai dotted the landscape, with small agricultural communities farming the land between. The Maya civilization is divided into the Pre-Classic (1000 BC to AD 300), the Classic (AD 300 to 900) when the civilization reached its height of development, and the Post-Classic (AD 1000 to 1500) when the civilization fell apart and disappeared.
No one knows for certain what caused the disappearance of the Maya. Perhaps it was war, loss of faith, famine, or a series of natural disasters.
When did Europeans first arrive in Belize?
Christopher Columbus sailed along the coast of Central America in 1502, and named the Bay of Honduras which borders the southern part of the barrier reef.
The first settlers in Belize were English Puritans, setting up trading posts along the coast of Belize. Various bands of ship-wrecked sailors, buccaneers, and pirates established permanent bases in Belize, harassing the Spanish galleons carrying gold, silver, and hardwoods from Central America to Europe. It wasn't long before logging became the dominant occupation.
This band of rugged individuals took to calling themselves "Baymen" after the Bay of Honduras. Spain continually attempted to expel these British buccaneers from then Spanish territory, but finally signed treaties in 1763 and 1786 allowing the British to continue to harvest timber in exchange for protection against pirates preying on the Spanish galleons.
When did Great Britain assume control on Belize?
During the 1840's, Great Britain declared Belize to be the colony of British Honduras. Development of Belize became more organized and multiethnic through a series of cultural changes. The European settlers began to marry freed slaves forming the Creole majority that still is dominant in the population. Mexican citizens began cultivating small farms in Northern Belize.
In Southern Belize, the Kekchi and Mopan Maya sought refuge in the hills of the Maya Mountains. A small band of Confederate Civil War veterans settled in what is now Punta Gorda. And from the Bay Islands of Honduras, the Garifuna people migrated and settled along the coast of Belize.
When did Belize become a sovereign state?
By 1954 voting rights were extended to all adults, and by 1961, England agreed to begin the process of setting Belize free. In 1973, the colony's name was changed from British Honduras to Belize and on September 21, 1981, Belize's Independence was declared.
ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS
What are the major activities and attractions of Belize?
Belize is one of the best places on Earth to enjoy the outdoors. Scuba diving, snorkeling, birding, caving, windsurfing, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, golfing, and archeological exploration are all some of the many activities that you can partake in while in Belize.
Why does Belize have world-famous scuba diving and snorkeling?
Belize's barrier reef, the 2nd largest in the world, has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Water visibility commonly reaches 100+ feet; water temperature hovers around 80 degrees Fahrenheit; and the barrier reef makes for calm water most of the year.
What is the “Blue Hole”?
The Great Blue Hole, the world’s largest blue hole, is a massive underwater sinkhole off of the coast of Belize. It lies near the center of Lighthouse Reef, a small atoll 60 miles (96 kilometers) east of the Belize mainland. The hole is near perfectly circular in shape, more than 1,000 feet (305 meters) across and 480 feet (146 meters) deep.
The Blue Hole is the result of repeated collapses of a limestone cave system formed during lower sea level stands in the course of the last ice age. This incredible geographical phenomenon is one of the most astounding dive sites in the world, made famous by Jacques-Yves Cousteau who declared it one of the Top 4 scuba diving sites on Earth.
How is the fishing in Belize?
Belize is a mecca for those interested in fishing. All kinds of fishing - spin, fly, trolling - can be experienced all year long, and the abundance of game fish guarantees excellent sport.
The estuaries, inlets and mouths to the many rivers are known for their tarpon, snook and jack. The lagoons and flats are known for the bonefish, permit and barracuda. The coral reefs support grouper, snapper, jack and barracuda while the deeper waters off the drop off are home to sailfish, marlin, bonito and pompano.
Fishing is great all along the coast of Belize, from the Port Honduras and Punta Icacos lagoon of Toledo to Rocky Point on Ambergris Caye. Any of the many rivers which empty into the Caribbean along Belize's coasts can guarantee a daily catch.
As a boater, what should I know about Belize?
With 174 miles of protected coastline along the Caribbean Sea, hundreds of off-shore cayes, and the Belize Barrier Reef, the waters of Belize are a unique treasure in the world today. Whether on a private vessel making port, or arriving by way of air or land and looking to charter, Belize has dependable facilities and numerous tour operators ready to meet your cruising needs.
All boats coming to Belize must check in with the Belize Port Authority. The communications center follows V.H.F. radio channel 16 and H.F. radio channel 2182 and will direct boats as necessary upon their arrival. There are two Belize Port Authority offices in the country--one in Belize City and one in Big Creek. Visitors arriving by boat to either Belize City or Big Creek will need to report directly to the Belize Port Authority office, located within close proximity to Immigration and Customs. Those arriving at any other port-of-entry can handle all necessary procedures with the Belize Port Authority through Immigration.
Immigration offices are located throughout the country, allowing for flexibility in planning one's port-of-entry. The following locations serve as ports-of-entry for boats coming to Belize: Belize City, San Pedro, Dangriga, Big Creek, and Punta Gorda.
Fuel is available at all ports-of-entry. Fuel docks, however, are not accessible at all locations by keelboats. There are fuel docks capable of handling keelboats in Belize City, San Pedro, Big Creek, and Placencia. The fuel dock in Dangriga is not accessible by sailboats or catamarans, and the water depths for the fuel dock in Punta Gorda are questionable.
Clear waters average a comfortable 75 to 84 °F while favorable winds blow February through June. During these months the trade winds run at 12 to 20 knots and above, 70 % of the time. Throughout the rest of the year, expect winds around 6 knots. The mean annual temperature of Belize is 80 °F.
Where are the best golf courses in Belize?
The most established course in the country is the Caye Chapel Island Resort Golf Course. www.cayechapel.com. The course is located just off-shore from Belize City on a caye that was developed for the very purpose of golfing and relaxation. Equipment is available for rent.
A more recent addition to the Belize circuit is the nine-hole jungle setting of Maskall Golf Course Lodge Maskall Golf Course Lodge. Situated in the Belize District near the Maya sites of Altun Ha and Lamanai, there are plenty of day trips and various outdoor adventures to choose from when not on the green.
Where can I explore Mayan Ruins?
For those who are interested in archaeological sites, the Belize Institute of Archaeology has committed to developing locations which are easily accessible. Altun Ha, Caracol, Cerros, Lamanai, Lubaantun, and Xunantunich are all Mayan Cities in Belize that are rich with heritage and a must-see.
MAYAN ISLANDS: FAQS
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