Belize

Belize enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round, but each season offers different experiences:

• December–April (Peak Season):Best for sunny days, clear waters, and ideal diving conditions.
• May–August (Shoulder Season):Ideal for fewer crowds, great snorkeling, and lower prices.
• September–November (Low Season):Great for budget travelers, but expect rain and possible storms.

• Great Blue Hole:One of the world’s most famous diving sites, a giant marine sinkhole in the Belize Barrier Reef.
• Hol Chan Marine Reserve:A top snorkeling and diving spot with vibrant marine life.
• Ambergris Caye:A lively island with stunning beaches, great food, and easy access to the reef.
• Caye Caulker:A laid-back island with a “Go Slow” vibe, perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.
• Xunantunich:A breathtaking ancient Mayan ruin with panoramic jungle views.
• Lamanai:A Mayan temple complex deep in the rainforest, accessible via a scenic riverboat ride.
• Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave):A mystical cave tour featuring Mayan artifacts and skeletal remains.
• Placencia:A charming beach town with crystal-clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Belize Zoo:A conservation-focused zoo featuring native wildlife in natural habitats.
• Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve:A stunning natural area with waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails.

• Belizean Rice & Beans:A classic dish served with stewed chicken and plantains.
• Fry Jacks:Fried dough served with jam, honey, or savory fillings.
• Hudut:A Garifuna dish of coconut-based fish stew with mashed plantains.
• Salbutes & Garnaches:Fried tortillas topped with beans, cabbage, and cheese.
• Ceviche:Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice with onions and peppers.
• Conch Fritters:Crispy, deep-fried conch served with dipping sauces.
• Coconut Pie:A sweet, tropical dessert made with fresh coconut.
• Belikin Beer:The national beer of Belize, perfect for sipping on the beach.
• Rum Punch:A tropical cocktail made with Belizean rum and fresh juices.

• Flights:Arrive at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City.
• Water Taxis:A scenic and efficient way to travel between Belize City, Caye Caulker, and Ambergris Caye.
• Domestic Flights:Small planes operated by Tropic Air and Maya Island Air connect major destinations.
• Buses:Budget-friendly but slow—best for exploring inland towns and ruins.
• Car Rentals:Recommended for exploring the mainland, but not needed on the islands.
• Golf Carts & Bicycles:The main mode of transport on Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker.

• For U.S. travelers:No visa required for stays up to 30 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
• For international travelers:Check Belize’s visa requirements based on your nationality.
• Departure Tax:A small exit fee is required when leaving Belize (often included in airfare).

• Currency:Belize Dollar (BZD), but U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted at a fixed 2:1 exchange rate.
• Credit cards:Accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but some small vendors prefer cash.
• ATMs:Available in major towns and islands, dispensing Belizean Dollars.
• Cash:Recommended for small businesses, tours, and tips.

• Englishis the official language of Belize, making it easy for English-speaking travelers.
• Spanish, Kriol, and Garifunaare also widely spoken.
• Most signs, menus, and information are available in English.

• Belizeans are warm and friendly—greet locals with a smile and a simple “Good morning” or “Good afternoon.”
• Tipping is customary(10-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars).
• Beachwear is fine on the beach but not in restaurants or shops.
• Respect wildlife and marine life—Belize is big on conservation.
• Don’t touch coral or remove shells, as it harms the ecosystem.

• Restaurants:10–20% tip is standard, but some places include a service charge.
• Bars:$1–2 per drink or 10–15% of the total bill.
• Hotels:$2–5 per bag for bellhops, $2–5 per night for housekeeping.
• Taxis:Tipping is appreciated but not required—negotiate the fare in advance.
• Tour Guides & Excursions:$10–20 per person for great service.

• For peak travel season (December–April):Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
• For off-season travel (May–November):Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
• For diving and snorkeling tours:Book at least a few days ahead, especially for the Great Blue Hole.

• No COVID-19 test is required for entry,but check for updates before traveling.
• Reef-safe sunscreen is highly recommendedto protect Belize’s marine life.
• Some remote areas require 4×4 vehicles—plan accordingly for jungle excursions.

Contact us at 281-229-0862or admin@pointmetoparadise.com