6 Questions All First-Time Visitors to Belize Have

by Larry Waight
roeming belize travel agency cayo Maya ruin

Belize is a great travel destination to visit – world-renowned for lush jungles, gorgeous beaches, a pristine barrier reef, and ancient Maya sites. No matter what your taste, you will find something to love in Belize. Here are 5 questions that you might want to ask before you book your trip. 

1. Do I need to speak Spanish?

Thanks to British roots pre-independence, Belize is the one Central American country with English as its official first language. However many other languages, including Spanish, are also spoken by many of the residents here. Among the 8 languages you might hear are Creole, Mayan and even German!

2. Will I need a visa to visit Belize?

Travelers from the US or Canada don’t need a visa for trips of 30 days or less. However, since covid-19 there are a few entry requirements for those visiting.  Traveler should book with a Gold Standard Approved Hotel. You will need a negative COVID-19 test to enter, or proof of your vaccinations. 

Find all relevant entry requirements here

3. Is Belize a safe place to visit?

Yes, Belize is safe. However, as in any large part of the world with a populated city, there are pickpockets in Belize City. In Belize City or otherwise, be mindful of your surroundings and use of valuables. 

4. What is the best time to visit Belize?

Image courtesy of Vacasa

Belize is warm year-round, with a distinctive dry season and a rainy season. If you’d prefer to avoid precipitation, visit from late November through mid-April. However, there are many celebrations in September as this is when Belize celebrates its Independence Day, which makes it a wonderful time to be here if you like festivities.

5. What kind of clothing should I pack?

Lounging in Placencia. Photo by Duarte Dellarole Photography

Thanks to the warm climate and laid-back atmosphere, you’ll be able to pack light. Flip flops and t-shirts are appropriate attire for most venues. Don’t forget to bring a light rain jacket, though, or an umbrella, just in case. After all, you are in the tropics. Be sure to pack good quality shoes if you want to go hiking, and remember things like sunscreen, bug spray and sunglasses!

6. Will I need to exchange money to local currency?

No, the U.S. dollar is interchangeable with the local currently, which is the Belize dollar. The exchange rate is $2 BZD to $1 USD. Belize Law allows travelers entering the country to bring with them a MAXIMUM of U.S. $5,000. be it in cash, checks or negotiable instruments. This limit is per adult individual. You MUST declare the total sum of money on your Disembarkation Card before presenting to the Belize Customs Authority at all air, sea or land entries.

8. Can a vegetarian travel in Belize?

Yes, and even on a budget! There are many delicious vegetarian dishes for those who abstain from fish, meat, dairy, and even eggs. 

Belize is a fantastic place to visit and enjoy a vacation. Whether you decide to go scuba diving in the Belize Barrier Reef, climb to the top of archeological ruins within an ancient Maya site, or simply spend your days lounging on an unspoiled white sand beach, you’ll find your bliss here. The people are friendly and the atmosphere is relaxed, so go ahead and schedule your next trip here! 

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