Belize
An adventurer's paradise,
Belize is your peaceful,
English-speaking neighbor
only two hours away from 2
major U.S. Gateways. With a
diversity of adventure
opportunities unmatched by
any other country, the Belize
people have protected 40%
of the country as parks and
natural reserves.
Belize is on the Caribbean
coast, nestled between
Mexico and Guatemala and
offers an intriguing mix of
tropical forests rich with
wildlife, majestic 3,675 foot
mountains, mysterious Maya
temples, and diving and fishing
experiences beyond compare.
In a single day you can go
from tropical forest to the
longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere.
And the people are as warm and friendly as the climate
Geography
The cayes(pronouced keys), the offshore atolls, and the barrier reef are the main
attraction to Belize. The barrier reef, which is 185 miles long, is the longest barrier
reef in the Western Hemisphere. The cayes are islands and/or mangroves, that are
located between the mainland
and the barrier reef, on the barrier
reef, and on or within the barrier
reef perimeters of the offshore
atolls. Although the mangrove
cayes are normally uninhabitable
by humans, they do provide a
superior habitat for birds and
marine life. Many birds, fish,
shellfish, and marine organisms
begin their lives within the
protection of the mangrove. On
the other hand, the island cayes,
which are distinguishable by their palm trees, have provided the foundation for the
development of many fine resorts to serve the water sports enthusiasts and the
marine naturalists. the cayes and atolls provide superior opportunity for SCUBA
diving, snorkeling, fishing, boating, sailing, sailboarding, and sea kayaking, as well
as habitat for both nesting birds and turtles.
The northern half of the mainland of Belize is a plain that was once the bed of a sea.
The land is covered with a thin layer of soil, that supports scrub vegetation and
dense hardwood tropical forest. The coastal area is neither land nor sea, but a
sodden, swampy transition between the two. It consists of mangrove and grasses,
and it is bordered by tussock grasses, cypress, and sycamore where the land
separates the water.
The central part of Belize consists
of sandy soil that supports large
savannas. Approximately thirty
miles southwest of Belize City,
the land begins to rise
dramatically to between 1,500 and
3,680 feet above sea level into the
enchanting Mountain Pine Ridge
Area and the Maya Mountains.
Abundant rainfall runs off the
northwest from the highlands in a
number of streams which flow
into the Macal River. Ultimately,
the Macal River and the Mopan River converge to provide the headwaters of the
Belize River.
The southern part of Belize, with its watershed to the southeast from the Maya
Mountains, consists of short rivers that rush through slopes combed with
overhanging ledges and caves. The rivers, carrying sand, clay and silt, have
enriched the coastal belt over the years, allowing Belize to develop significant
agricultural products such as citrus and bananas. Along with an annual rainfall of
some 170 inches, southern Belize has a true tropical rain forest that is rich with ferns,
palms, lianas, and tropical hardwoods.
Climate
The climate is subtropical, with a brisk
prevailing wind from the Caribbean Sea.
The country has an annual mean
temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit,
and the humidity is nicely tempered by
the Sea breezes.
Variation in weather features,
emphasizes the interesting difference in
elevation, geology, plant and animal life.
A summer high temperature, usually
never exceeds 96 degrees Fahrenheit,
and winter lows are seldom below 60
degrees Fahrenheit, even at night.
Saltwater temperature varies between 75
degrees Fahrenheit and 84 degrees
Fahrenheit.
Annual rainfall ranges from 50 inches in the North to 170 inches in the South.
Although the rainy season is usually between June and August and the dry season
is between February and May, global weather changes are making historical
predictions somewhat invalid. At the end of October, the weather does become
cooler, and from November to February, it is pleasant with showers of rain. Average
humidity is 85 percent.
Government structure and issues
Belize has a seventeen year
history of self government, from
1964 to 1981. During this time
the British had control only
over foreign affairs, internal
security and defense.
Belize was granted
independence in 1981. During
the first three years of independence, the country was lead by the People's
United Party, with George Price being the first Prime Minister. Following
the first general election in 1984, the People's United Party were replaced
by Manuel Esquivel and the United Democratic Party. The People's United
Party then took seats again in 1989.
Structure of the government
Belize's form of government is modeled like that of the Westminister
system. The governor general, prime minister and cabinet are the executive
branch of the government. The legislative branch comprises of a
twenty-eight member elected House of Representative and an eight-
member appointed Senate. The Prime Minister is appointed by the
Governor General and is the leader of the ruling party and the Cabinet. The
judicial system consists of a supreme court and magistrate court, each
district having a magistrate court, with the exception of Belize City having
four. Each of the six districts, including San Pedro and Benque Viejo, has a
locally elected seven member town board, except Belize City with a nine
member city council.
The two-party system
Belize, since 1961, has a two party political system, which is not constitutionally mandated. Actually any
number of Belizean adults can run as candidates for the 28 electoral divisions. Belize has no laws controlling the formation or
activities of political parties. A person can say a political party exists and if the candidates of that party are successful, they
therefore gain seats in government.
Political parties avoid class conflicts by representing all classes. But usually when parties are not in power they identify with the
poorer class of society. On the most part, political parties do not strive on dues from members but from large donations given by
business and most of which are not to the public's knowledge.
Foreign policy
During the period of self government, Britain kept control over the
management of Belize's foreign affairs, allowing the People's United Party
to participate in the foreign policies initiatives.
Belize has been very discreet and inflexible about the position of its foreign
policy. Belize had to keep very close ties with Britain-troops as well as the
United States- trade and aid. Due to the use of foreign policy as a tool for
supporting trade and investment, the direction of foreign policy making in
Belize was not different from most of the other nations in the 1990's.
Belize's foreign policy has been greatly determined by its political, military
and economic links with Britain and the United States, as well as its
geographical ties with Central America and the Caribbean.
Belize in the region
Belize, with its rights for self
determination, joined Caricom,
although becoming a member brought
only limited economic benefits. For
Belize it helped to further it's drive for
independence.
One reason why Belize had played no
direct part in the Central American
peace process was because of its
traditional isolation from Central
American politics. Since the late
1980's, Belize has been recognized as a
genuine Central American nation by its isthmus neighbors.
Belize and Mexico have been enjoying a good relationship. In Belize,
unlike other Central American countries, there is a positive recognition of
Mexico and Mexican society. Belize has also established closer relations
with Venezuela, who has tried to obtain support from Belize for its full
membership in Caricom.
Getting here
British subjects and citizens of Commonwealth countries, citizens of the USA and
citizens of Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Holland, Mexico, Norway, Panama,
Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey and Uruguay who have a valid passport and
an onward or return ticket from Belize do not need to obtain a visa.
There is a departure tax of $20BZ ($10US) and a airport security fee of $2.50BZ
($1.25US) when departing by air from the International Airport to any destination,
foreign or domestic.
By road
Roads in Belize can be challenging. You will need a sturdy car and a strong heart to
drive into Belize through Mexico. The trip is about 1350 miles. You will need Belizean
insurance bought in Belize with Belizean dollars.
Bus travel to Belize from the US
border cities to Mexico City and on
to Chetumal are fast, comfortable
and relatively inexpensive.
All-weather highways connect
Mexico City with Chetumal. Several
bus companies connect Chetumal,
Mexico and Melchor, Guatemala to
Belize City.
There are regularly scheduled
busses to Belize from the
neighboring towns of Chetumal,
Mexico and Ciudad de Melchor, Guatemala. These busses leave every half hour to
an hour to Belize. See bus schedule.
By boat
Small, regularly scheduled ferry service travels between Punta Gorda in the southern
district of Toledo, and Puerto Barrios in Eastern Guatemala.
Maritime ports of entry are Belize City, Corozal, Dangriga, San Pedro and Punta
Gorda. You are required to report your entry to the police or immigration authorities
as soon as possible after entering Belizean territory.
Belize by bus
The least expensive way to get around Belize on a day to day basis is by bus. Buses
run regular schedules and by other Central American standards, Belizean buses are
clean, roomy and efficient.
No reservations required though often recommended as some bus routes fill up
quickly and completely.
What to wear
Belize is a very informal country, with a very casual life-style. Unless you are invited
to a Government function, please leave your "After Five" attire at home.
Leave your jewelry and expensive watches at home because you will not need them.
If you must have a watch, bring an inexpensive watch that is suitable for diving and
hiking.
If you are visiting the Cayes and/or the Barrier Reef, bring your shorts, T-shirts, and
bathing suits, as well as some comfortable tennis shoes or deck shoes. As the sun is
probably more intense than what you are used to at home, bring a cap to protect
your head from the tropical sun when you are boating and/or fishing. In addition to
protecting your eyes from both the sun and the reflective glare off of the water, a
pair of "polarized" sunglasses will enhance the variable colors of the coastal waters
of Belize.
Loose fitting, light colored cotton pants and camping shirts, along with a
comfortable pair of hiking shoes or boots are appropiate for exploring the Mainland
or trekking through the rain forest. When visiting the Maya Ruins or traipsing
through the jungle, a hat with a wide brim will provide shade from the tropical sun,
as well as provide protection from a tropical shower.
Be aware that water, beverages, and snacks are not always readily available while
sightseeing- so a day pack, to carry a water bottle, energy bars, camera, film,
binoculars, poncho, hand towel, etc., is a welcomed accessory. Although you do not
wear it, a hiking staff can prove to be a valuable aid to climbing ruins, crossing
streams, or walking up or down steep trails.
What to bring
Passport, Visa (if applicable), Prescription Drugs, Personal Items, Spare Eye-glasses,
Sunglasses, Sun Tan Lotion, Sun Screen, Sun Burn Cream, Insect Repellant,
Camera/Film, Batteries, Cash, Travel Checks, Credit Cards
Personal equipment
SCUBA diving gear with certification card and dive log, snorkeling gear, binoculars,
fishing tackle, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
What language is spoken in Belize?
English is the official language of Belize, although Spanish, Creole, Garifuna and
Mayan are widely spoken throughout the country.
What are business hours?
Banks:
Monday - Thursday 8:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.
Friday 8:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.
Commerce & Industry:
Monday - Friday 8:00 A.M. to 12:00P.M - 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Some businesses are open on Saturdays
What are the public and bank holidays?
New Years Day - January 1
Baron Bliss Day- March 9
Good Friday
Holy Saturday
Easter Monday
Labour Day-May 1
Commonwealth Day- May 24
St. George's Caye Day- September 10
Independence Day- September 21
Columbus Day- October 12
Garifuna Settlement Day- November 19
Christmas Day- December 25
Boxing Day- December 26
What currency is used in Belize and what is it worth?
Click Here For Currency Exchange
The Belize Dollar (BZ$) has a fixed rate of exchange of BZ$2 to US$1. Most hotels,
resorts, restaurants, and tour operators will accept U.S. currency, traveler's checks,
or credit cards. When using your credit cards in Belize, most establishments will add
a 5% service charge to your bill. Always make sure that you understand which dollar
rate is being quoted. Is it Belize Dollars or U.S. Dollars?
Is electricity 110 or 220 volts?
Although most of the electricity is provided by Diesel/Generator Sets, the power is
stable at 110 Volts A.C., which is the same voltage as in the United States.
What type of health services are available?
There is a well staffed hospital and several private doctors in Belize City. Also the
District Towns and larger Villages have hospitals or clinics.
Can I drink the water?
Potable water is available in most areas of Belize, but is is advisable to ask, and if in
doubt, to drink boiled or bottled water.
Are there any diseases I should be concerned about?
There are no serious epidemic diseases in Belize. No inoculations are required for
entry, but anti-malaria tablets are recommended for extended stays in the jungle.
What will it cost to send a letter home?
Postal rates to the United States are BZ$0.60 for letters and BZ$0.30 for postcards.
Postal rates to Europe are BZ$0.75 for letters and BZ$0.40 for postcards.
Are there any taxes or services charges I should know about?
Hotel Room Tax - 7%
Service Charge (In lieu of tips) - 10%
Airport Departure Tax(U.S.$10.00) + Conservation Tax
(U.S.$3.75) = U.S.$13.75
Airport Security Fee:
International Airport to Domestic Airport..............U.S.$0.75
International Airport to International Destination.....U.S.$1.25
Are taxis available?
Taxis are available in towns and resort areas, and they are easily recognised by their
green license plates. Unless specific arrangements are made prior to your arrival at
Belize International Airport (P.S.W. Goldson), taxis are available at the entrance to
the main terminal.
Although there are no meters on the taxis, the drivers do charge somewhat standard
fares, but it is always important to understand what your fare will be, prior to hiring a
taxi.
How is the telephone service in Belize?
Belize Telcommunications Limited provides telephone communication between
Belize and the United States and Canada. Service is also available for communication
with other countries. The BTL main offices are located at the corner of Albert and
Church Streets in Belize City at telephone number 02-77085 and the corner of
Princess Margaret Drive and St. Thomas Street at telephone number 02-32868. Phone
cards are available at numerous locations.
What time zone is Belize in?
Time observed year round is GMT-6, which is the same as United States Central
Standard Time. Daylight Savings Time is not observed in Belize.
Are there any entry requirements to visit Belize?
A valid passport and visa, if required, is necessary for entry into Belize. American,
Canadian and Caricom citizens may be allowed entry into Belize without a passport,
providing that Belize Immigration is informed at least one (1) week in advance, so
that the airlines they are using, and the Immigration Officer at the port of entry are
informed prior to making the trip. Nevertheless they need to say what other form of
identification will be used to travel. The number of Identification is necessary. All
other nationalities need to travel with a valid passport.
Do I need a Visa?
United States citizens and Nationals of the European Community member nations do
not require visas. Visas are required for the Nationals of the following countries:
China, Columbia, Cuba, India, Libya, Pakistan, Peru, South Africa, and Taiwan.
How long can I stay?
Visitors are permitted to stay in Belize for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days. The
following category of persons may be granted by the Immigration Department
extensions of up to three (3) months at a time. These three months would be after the
period given by the Immigration Officer at the port of entry.
a.Persons living in remote areas away from the Immigration Office
b.Potential Investors
c.Business persons
The above is on the strict understanding that the applicant present himself /herself
in person and satisfies the officer that the necessary funds (US$50.00 per person per
day) are available for the duration of the period requested, as well as, a ticket to their
onward destination. Extensions are granted at a cost of BZ$25.00.
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