About Belize

Belize is located on the eastern coast of Central America having the Caribbean Sea as its shorelines to the east and dense tropical jungle to the west. On the coast, the second largest Barrier Reef with countless islands called Cayes and home to some of the happiest people on earth. Belize is the heart of all things Maya. Once the centre of the Mayan classic period (AD 250 to 900) renowned for its towering pyramids, caves systems leading to the underworld and thriving culture. Known for its luxurious private islands, amazing resorts, top spas, culinary destinations, outdoor adventures, and white sandy beaches.

Home to some of the world’s crystal clear waters, diverse cultures – for honeymooners, families and friends. Come have adventures of a lifetime or simply relax and get away from it all. Belize is a fabulous all year round destination though there is usually some rain between June and September. This country is exceptionally green year round and there is always plenty of sunshine to unwind on the beach. The hottest time of year is March to end of May with little rainfall and again in September. Sun, sand and sea; a tropical paradise!

• AREA: 8,867 sq. miles roughly the size of Massachusetts. Including 266 sq. miles of offshore islands.
• CLIMATE: The climate is subtropical with average annual temperature of 27° Celsius / 80° Fahrenheit
• GOVERNMENT: Belize got her independence in September 21, 1981from Britain and is governed by a democratically elected parliamentary and is a member of the British Commonwealth.
• POPULATION: The population of Belize is approximately 390,000 comprising of many diverse ethnic groups including Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, Central American, Maya, English, Mennonite, Lebanese, Chinese and East Indian.
• LANGUAGES: English is the official language however Creole and Spanish is widely spoken as well as native languages. Belize occupies time zone GMT-6 or US Central Standard Time. Daylight Savings Time is not observed.
• CURRENCY: The Belize Dollar has a fixed exchange rate to the US dollar (BZ $2 = US $1) making for an ease to purchase. Other currencies such as £ Pounds and € Euros are accepted at most banks. ATM machines are available in major towns and cities. American Express, Visa and Master Card are widely accepted, however, cash is preferred in most shops.
• CLOTHING: Belize  has a tropical climate with high humidity. Hence light clothing is recommended during the day with a cotton clothing or long sleeved shirt for cool evenings. For jungle hiking use long pants, long sleeved shirts and comfortable shoes. Insect repellent, sunshades, sunscreen, and hats are essential.
• CUISINE: Most hotels and restaurant choices include a combination of local and international cuisine. Tasty local favorites include rice and beans, escabeche, hudut, with fresh corn tortillas and an array of tropical dishes and refreshing tropical fruit juices.
• WATER: Bottled water is readily available however tap water is treated and is drinkable.
• PASSPORT AND VISAS: Visitors to Belize must possess a valid passport for at least 3 months after date of arrival with proof of a return ticket with sufficient funds to cover their stay. Visitors from the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, Central America and Caribbean countries do not require visas for stays less than thirty days. Many other nationals do. Check with the Belize Embassy, Belize High Commission or Belize Consulate. Children with one parent require a notarized letter of authority indicating travel consent. Pets must have a veterinary certificate issued by a registered veterinarian from their country and an import permit from the Belize Agricultural Health Authority. Want to know if you need visa or require additional help e-mail us at traventurebelize@gmail.com. List of countries not requiring visas can be viewed at http://ins.gov.bz/index.php/visa-requirements/visa-exempted.
• DEPARTURE FEES: Visitors departing via the Belize International Airport pay US $40.00 per person. Fees via the borders with Mexico and Guatemala are US $20.00.
• TAXES: Hotel Room Tax is 9%, the General Sales Tax (GST) is 12.5% on other goods and services.
• TIPPING: 10-15% is the standard gratuity for most restaurants and tour guides. Establishments may add a service charge.
• SAFETY: We recommended that all international travelers purchase medical insurance prior to travelling. Belize is a safe country. As most countries have their drawbacks however, Belize does pretty well in safety.