Belize’s government has decided to tighten restrictions countrywide as spikes in infections threaten local hospitals, as Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño warned of a “dramatic situation” in the Caribbean nation. In a televised address on September 15, Briceño outlined new measures for the next 14 days in an effort to stall further infections. According to Reuters, Belize has reported 217 infections per 100,000 people in the last 7 days.
These new COVID-19 regulations take effect on Monday, September 20th.
There’s an earlier curfew outside of popular tourism destinations.
A local Ambergris Caye hangout. Photo courtesy of the Truck Stop.
Curfew goes from 7 p.m. to 4 a.m. across the country, except for Ambergris Caye (San Pedro), Placencia, Hopkins, and Caye Caulker. Instead, curfew at these popular tourism destinations begins at 9 p.m. instead. Hotel and resort guests must remain on property during the curfew hours.
Restaurants move to take-out only. Hotels & these Tourism Destinations can dine-in.
Dine on the beach at Naia Resort & Spa.
Restaurants will only be allowed to provide take-out service, except for restaurants in San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Hopkins, and Placencia. All hotels, and accompanying restaurants, outside of San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and Hopkins can operate and abide by the 9:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. curfew.
Casinos & churches close.
Photo Courtesy BurnBox Food + Fitness
Gyms remain open, with no restrictions on outdoor exercise. However, contact sports—like football, basketball, boxing, etc.—are on hold during this time. Nightclubs remain closed.
There are two (2) non-movement days, and they’re both Sundays.
An American Airlines flight on arrival to the PGIA. Photo courtesy Belize Tourism Board
September 26th and October 3rd are deemed non-movement days, except for essential purposes like seeking medical attention or buying medicine, fuel, and food. If you’re a traveler arriving or departing Belize on either of those dates, you won’t be affected, and the airport remains open on these Sundays. Additionally, the tourism industry and workers are considered essential and can operate fully during these no movement days.
Local guidance also includes masking, social distancing, testing, and vaccinations. As a traveler, stay in touch with your local Gold Standard Hotel for further details.
Header image courtesy Alaia Belize.
