5 Things You Should Know When Traveling to Belize

Many travelers look over this beautiful country when booking their travels to Central America and the Caribbeans, but I am a FOREVER Belize fan. The food, culture, hospitality is spot on for solo travelers and vacationers who like adventure, history, luxury, travel on a budget, and more. I’ve listed 5 Things You Should Know When Traveling to Belize.

1. English is widely spoken. Yes, if you only speak English, you will be fine traveling to Belize. The majority of Belizean people speak English. There is one exception; historically, Belize is a very diverse Country. Belizean culture has a unique Caribbean influence where commonly a blend of English, Creole, Spanish, and West African languages. Many Belizeans speak a variety of Mayans ( as well as Qʼeqchiʼ, Mopan, Yucatec Maya). On my way to Xunantunich, the bus conductor was extremely helpful in explaining a few Mayan terms, the proper pronunciation of Xunantunich, and a brief history of Mayan towns in Belize. On another occasion, during my private tour of Cahal Pech, my tour guide was fluent in one of the Mayan languages (he also spoke English and Spanish fluently). He was also present during the discovery of Cahal Pech (he wanted me to note that he was 14 at the time of the discovery), and he is one of the top Mayan Ruins experts (Shout out to Renee, my best tour guide to date). You will also hear German and Dutch spoken in Belize. There is a small Dutch and German population living in Belize, as well as several Amish communities.

If you are interested in learning a new language I use Italki and have taught with Preply. Both are great options. I have linked my referral links.

2. USD is preferred. Belizeans prefer USD over Belize Dollar (BZD). Don’t worry about exchanging your money before you leave the airport. You will be fine. I may have had a slight anxiety attack in Atlanta when the currency rep said that they were entirely out of BZD ( one of the passengers on the flight exchanged and purchased all the BZD currency from both kiosks). But once I landed in Belize City, I quickly realized that I was okay. Belizeans are happy to exchange BZD for USD as well. At the time that this post is published, the exchange rate is $2 BZD to $1 USD.

3. Buses and Water Ferries/Taxis are the best way to travel. I traveled by bus and water ferries when I went through Belize and to the islands. Again, it is the best way to travel. If you are in a rush, ask the travel coordinator for express options.

4. Less is more. Belize is HOT. I repeat, no, excuse my French, BELIZE IS HOT AS HELL. I traveled in December and January, and it was HOT. I made the mistake of leaving the house in leggings and a long sleeve shirt early in the morning, the worst decision I have made in 2020. But seriously, wear light clothing, shorts, dresses, t-shirts, tank tops, it’s appropriate. AND carry a water bottle. Here is my water bottle that I carry and fill up with ice and water. The ice will stay solid ALL day. Trust me. I’ve had this Yeti with me during my Yoga Teacher Training in India and it is the best item to have when traveling to hot climates.

5. Budget for Food and Drinks. The food in Belize is phenomenal, so are the rum punches! Another fantastic quality of Belize is that there are dietary options for ALL. Seriously, there was no lack of options for Vegans, Vegetarians, Gluten-free, Pescatarians, and everyone else! I was impressed with how accommodating and AFFORDABLE the restaurants, street vendors, and rest stops were. Please note, some places are as expensive as restaurants within the United States, but for the most part, the majority of options were significantly less.

Belize is the hidden gem of the Caribbean and Central America. Okay, maybe not so much hidden, but you understand my idiom. Belize is easy to travel to, the history and culture are rich and vibrant, and the genuineness of the Belizeans are appreciated and make it so much easier to fall in love with this county.