Belize is located in Central America, at the base of the Yucatan Peninsula. Formerly known as British Honduras, Belize became an independent country in 1981. While Columbus sailed along the coast and named the area Honduras, the history of Belize is much older. Recent discoveries have led many archeologists and cultural anthropologists to conclude that the center of Mayan civilization was, in fact, Belize! Belize is a treasure trove of ancient Mayan temples, towns and cities, only a few of which have been uncovered. Belize has been rated as one of the world's Top Ten Adventure Travel destinations!
Belize enjoys a sub-tropical climate, tempered by trade winds. Temperatures along the coast range from 50° F (10° C) in Winter to 95° F (35° C) in Summer. Rainfall varies from an average of 51 in. (1,295 mm) in the north to 175 in. (4,445 mm) in the south, with the main dry season usually extending from February to May. In coastal districts temperatures range from about 10° Celsius (50° Fahrenheit) to 35° Celsius (95° Fahrenheit); inland the range is greater. The coolest months are November to January.
Belize has a perfect combination of beaches and coral reefs (at 185 miles, Belize has the world's second-largest barrier reef) and tropical rain forests. Whether your interests include diving, snorkeling, fishing, birding (Belize is home to more than 540 species of birds), exploring ancient ruins, hiking or just relaxing in the sun, you can do it in Belize.
Entry Requirements
A valid passport is required to enter Belize. The passport should be valid for at least six months past the intended date of entry. U.S. and Canadian citizens do not require an entry visa; citizens of other countries should contact the nearest Belizean embassy or consulate as early as possible, to obtain a visa. Visitors must present a valid return ticket, and may remain in Belize for up to 30 days.
The People of Belize
The population of approximately 250,000 people consists of a mixture of Creole, Garifuna, Spanish, Maya, English, Mennonite, Lebanese, Chinese and East Indian. Due to racial harmony and religious tolerance, all of these different elements have mixed and blended successfully and Belize has gained a widespread reputation for its friendly people.
English is the official language of Belize although Spanish, Creole, Garifuna and Mayan are widely spoken throughout the country.
Currency
The Belize Dollar (BZ$) has a fixed rate of exchange of BZ$2 to US$1. Most hotels, resorts, restaurant and tour operators will accept US currency, traveler's checks or credit cards. When using your credit cards in Belize, most establishments will add a 8% service charge to your bill. Always make sure that you understand which dollar rate is being quoted. Is it Belize Dollars or US Dollars? While American currency is accepted in many places, plan to convert some currency when you arrive. A nominal fee is charged.
Electrical Power
Power is stable at 120 Vac, the same as in the United States.
Time
The time year-round in Belize is the same as the U.S. Central Standard Time, six hours behind Greenwich Mean Time. Belize does not observe Daylight Savings Time.
What To Wear
Belize is a very informal country with a very casual life style. Leave your expensive jewelry at home because you will not need it. If you must wear a watch, bring an inexpensive one that is suitable for diving and hiking.
Bring your shorts, T-shirts and bathing suits, and comfortable tennis shoes or deck shoes. As the sun is probably more intense than what you are used to, bring a cap to protect your head from the tropical sun when you are boating or fishing. In addition to protecting your eyes from the sun and the glare off the water, a pair of polarized sun glasses will also enhance the variable colors of the coastal waters of Belize.
Loose fitting, light-colored cotton pants and campaign shirts, along with a comfortable pair of hiking shoes or boots are appropriate 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.
Water, beverages and snacks are not always readily available while sightseeing, so a day pack is useful to carry a water bottle, snacks, energy bars, camera, film, binoculars, poncho, hand towel, etc.
What To Bring
Passport, visa (if applicable), prescription drugs, personal items, spare eye glasses, sun glasses, sun tan lotion, sun screen, sun burn cream, insect repellent, camera and film, batteries, cash, travelers' checks and credit cards.
Personal equipment such as scuba diving gear with certification card and dive log, snorkeling gear, binoculars, fishing tackle, etc.
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