What To Know Before Visiting Belize
Planning a vacation to a new country can be a daunting task. Where do you begin? Where to start researching? Who do I contact first? It’s easy to get overwhelmed in the beginning, especially when you are not a frequent traveler. Here we have listed some of the most important things you need to know when planning for your Belize vacation to make the preparation much easier and stress free.
Have Your Passport Ready
Visitors to Belize must possess a passport valid for at least three months after the date of arrival and a return ticket with sufficient funds to cover their stay. Visas are not required for citizens of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union, Caribbean and Central American Countries. Visitors from other countries must check for information about obtaining a visa. Belize allows visitors a maximum of one-month stay in the country before they require an extension. Making photocopies of your passport and driver’s licence is a good idea, and keep copies with the hotel and with a family member or friend back home. Visit the Belize Tourism Board website for more information.
Know the Language of Belize
Belize was a colony of Britain up until relatively recently, so you’ll be just fine using English. Closer to the Mexican and Guatemalan borders, you’ll hear lots of Spanish as well. The majority of Belizeans regardless of ethnicity, speak an English-based creole called Belizean Creole (also referred to as Kriol) for most informal, social and interethnic dialogue.
Currency and Methods of Payment
The Belizean dollar is the standard currency in the country but almost all places accept U.S. dollars. The exchange rate is BZ$2.00 to US$1.00. Money exchange can be done in banks, hotels and some businesses. Most banks are open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m and few open from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Carry different forms of payment (cash, credit and debit cards, travellers cheques etc.) Always carry more than one credit or debit card with you in case your primary one gets lost, stolen, demagnetized or damaged.
Things to Bring for your Belize Vacation
Belize inland adventures usually require camera with extra batteries, binoculars, day pack, water bottle, sun glasses, long/short pants and long-sleeved shirts, strong hiking boots, and a bathing suit. Insect repellant and sunscreen is also necessary but can be purchased at most, gift shops or supermarkets in the country. Flashlight/headlamp may also be required to explore the numerous caves. This is often provided by the tour operator or resort but can also be bought in any hardware store or supermarket. Early mornings and late evenings may become cool in the mountainous regions, so a simple jacket or sweater should also be packed. Visitors headed for the beach need only bring along their favorite swimsuits. Most dive resorts and dive shops provide visitors with all snorkeling and scuba gear in the cost. Sunscreen, sun-tanning oils, nice straw hats, bug repellant and beach towels are all available at most gift shops inland and offshore. Most important don’t forget to bring your medication and glasses prescription.
What to see in Belize
It’s always good to know the top and most popular things to do in a country. Belize offers exciting adventures in one of the most beautiful locations in the world. Take a look at some incredible places that exist in this beautiful country: 5 Incredible Places You Won’t Believe Exist in Belize!
Holidays in Belize
Belize is known for its many holidays, as Belizeans are generally a people of leisure and relaxation. Here are this year’s Belize Holidays to remember when planning your Belize Vacation, Belize Holidays.
Health Information
Belize considers public health a high priority. Most visitors leave the country as healthy as and probably happier than they arrived. Belize has public hospitals in every major town and a host of private doctors countrywide. Most tap water in major towns and villages are safe to drink and there is bottled water available countrywide, if visitors desire. For most visitors the temperature in Belize will be much warmer than they are accustomed to. Drinking lots of water and wearing the proper attire like light cool clothing, a hat/cap and sunscreen is highly recommended until the body adjusts to the temperatures. To be on the safe side, you may want to get advice from your doctor or local health clinic before embarking on your journey to Belize.
Here are frequent asked questions about Belize: FAQs / If you need further information contact us here: Contact Us