12 Tips for Living in Hopkins, Belize

By LouieB

Expat Life in Hopkins

The people living in Hopkins are very friendly and it is a rare occurrence to pass by someone without receiving a big smile or wave. The expats living in the area are also very friendly and helpful. Additionally, the food establishments, large and small, serve delicious food at reasonable prices.

Cost of Living in Hopkins, Belize

The cost of living varies with what kinds of recreation is enjoyed. Living there and cooking your our food can keep expenses low. Liquor and/ or drinking and eating out will increase expenses depending on how much you need the social life. Utilities aren't bad unless you are dependent on air conditioning. I try to be very frugal with A/C and electricity in general.

Local Clubs and Organizations

There are regular clean up days for playgrounds and the beach. This is a great way to give to the community and meet like minded people. Additionally, you can do volunteer work with the village library and the Hopkins Humane Society. The Belize tourist group has regular meetings to keep everyone informed about village matters pertaining to tourism and there are also village council meetings.

International Schools in Hopkins

I'm not sure that there are any international schools, but I do know of several Expat children from various countries who attend the village primary school or attend the school in nearby Dangriga for children 13 and older. All the schools are taught in English.

Shopping in Hopkins

The stores in Hopkins are small to medium variety stores that also sell a selection of groceries. There are also vendors around the village selling fresh vegetables and fruit, as well as baked goods.I Supply may be limited, but generally you can find what you need. There are several village stores offering various souvenirs.

Public Transportation

There is fairly reliable and safe bus service in Hopkins that can transport people to towns like Dangriga, Belmopan, Belize City, Placencia and Punta Gorda. Passengers can board or exit along the way also if they want to stop or board by just signaling the driver. Passengers are not likely to get anywhere very quick, but it is a great cultural experience. There are many private taxis in the village that make sightseeing possible.

Climate

The climate varies from very humid and hot in the rainy season (June through October) to a bit less humid and hot in the winter months when the temperatures can drop to the low 70s F.

Restaurants and Nightlife

The restaurants vary from about 5 star to small family cafes run by locals. The food is always delicious and prepared fresh. Don't ever be in a hurry for service! Bars or restaurants with bar service are open and lively in the evenings -- especially on the weekends. Many have live music with traditional drumming and dancing.

What are local hospitals and emergency services like?

There is newly established Emergency service minutes away that can be reached by phone. Hopkins has a small medical clinic also. There is a hospital and Clinic in Dangriga, about 40 minutes away.

Recreational Activities in Hopkins

There is always swimming in the beautiful Caribbean Sea and private pools. The village has a miniature golf place, and there is an outside basketball court. Soccer (futbal) is also played on the beach. There are many natural attractions like hiking, waterfalls, zip lining, motorcycling in the area.

Residency and Visa Requirements

Tourists must get their passport stamped every 30 days in order to remain in the country. This costs $50 BZD at the Immigration office. For residency, a tourist must live in the country for a year minus two weeks before applying.

Crime in Hopkins, Belize

It is wise not to carry large amounts of money or flash it around when making purchases. It is also wise to limit expensive jewelry. Keep vehicles and residences/rooms locked and generally be aware of your surroundings. I advise people not to walk around at night but to make use of available taxis.