Belize is a country of fun and numerous outdoor activities. Think of the beautiful sandy beaches, outstanding scuba diving, numerous Maya ruins, snorkeling experiences, and world-class luxury resorts. The people here are also warmly friendly and welcoming, making it easy for those who want to visit, start a business in a tax haven jurisdiction, or even retire. Being a tropical destination, Belize is automatically the best place to visit during the winter season for every Canadian and American snowbird out there. However, if you plan to visit Belize during this 2020 holiday season, there are some health considerations that you need to make because of the pandemic. Luckily, Belize has put all the necessary efforts to ensure your safety and those around you during your trip.
What to know about traveling to Belize right now
Enjoy safety in style by staying in a Gold Standard certified property. Photo via ROEming Belize Travel Agency.
- Before you visit Belize: The first thing you need to do after booking your Gold Standard accommodation is download and register on the Belize Travel Health App. Meant to be done within the 72 hours of travel to Belize, you will be given a unique travel ID. Additionally, you are recommended to take PCR test for COVID-19 within 72 hours before your trip. Otherwise, you’ll need to take a rapid test inside Belize’s airport clinic, at your own expense.
- Airline rules: You must wear your mask for the entire leg of your trip, sanitize often, and maintain social distance where possible.
- On arrival: On arriving in Belize, you need to verify your PCR test results; once negative, you can proceed to ‘fast track’ through immigration and customs area and receive your baggage. Those with a rapid test will also be cleared to leave the airport and await results at their Gold Standard accommodation; if positive, you’ll quarantine until the cleared negative by the Ministry of Health.
- During your stay: The Belize Travel Health App will check-in every day using the unique ID provided. If no symptom is recorded, you can continue with your vacation and depart when you are ready. If you show any symptom, you will be given a test, and quarantine might be considered until the Ministry of Health clears you for departure.
But what makes Belize a perfect destination for North American snowbirds this winter?
1. The beaches
A kaleidoscope of experiences awaits you in Belize. Photo by Duarte Dellarole
Every country has beaches, but in Belize, you will find some of the most beautiful ones located near the tropical rainforests. Think about clear turquoise waters, which is always at a mild temperature, making it easy for you to dive-in even in colder seasons. And having numerous small islands, you can always find a beach anytime you decide to have the experience.
2. The numerous Maya ruins
Caracol, a large ancient Maya archaeological site Credit: Alamy
Maya ruins are available all over Belize, and visitors can hop from one to another and learn more about Belize and its cultures while having fun along the way. The majestic pyramids will blow your mind, yet they are mostly located in clusters away from each other.
3. The perfect weather
Photo by Gaia Riverlodge
Belize is a tropical destination, and this means that it is usually warm throughout the year, even winter. It is one of the main reasons most Canadians and Americans consider the destination during the holiday season. And while it may get hot during summer, Belizean beaches and the numerous fun activities in the waters got you covered for refreshment.
4. Snorkeling and Scuba diving
Photo courtesy IG @fepaterlini
There is no better place to consider for snorkeling than the Belize Barrier Reef. It is an amazing natural formation, which means that the Belizean coastline is practically within protected waters. However, those who love sailing can also have their action outside the reef. Not to mention, divers can relish on the edge of the Western Caribbean with the world’s second largest barrier reef!
5. Belizean delicacies
Street tacos, anyone? Photo by Belize Food Tours
Belize is made of people from different corners of the world, which means that you can enjoy gourmet meals originating from these diverse cultures. Seafood is a major thing in Belize including fresh fruit and vegetables. You can actually take a food tour once you are here to have a taste of all this, and it will be a fun and fulfilling activity to do in Belize.
If you are still contemplating a tropical vacation in Belize during this winter holiday, contemplate no more. Many travelers have chosen Belize before for their winter holiday, and this year is ideal for you to even relax after all the uncertainties brought by the coronavirus. Snowbirds welcomed!
Header photo by Duarte Dellarole
