Moving to Belize

"Don't. Come here and spend some time first, find out the in's and outs. Cee if you can put up with the bugs that will eat you alive. Or, no doctors or hospitals for miles. They will tell you if you get sick take a flight back to the States. Check on the duty to bring anything there. It's 100 percent that's why you can't find anything there to buy. Car's are all old and rusted out. You used to get two to one on your dollar, but that didn't mean anything when everything is three times the price. Most all that cheap farm land you see is cheap because it is low with water standing on much of it and it won't grow anything. The cows in the country are all sick, due to blow fly's which you're not suppose to use for meat, but they sell em anyway. Don't believe the hype on this place, and don't listen to me, go there and spend a few months and you will soon find yourself flying out as fast as you flew in," remarked one expat in Belize City, Belize.

"The best advice I got with regard to what you need to know before moving to Belize is this: Belizean people have no interest in becoming another country. If you come over and try to tell them how much better things are in the country you came from, they will listen politely and then recommend you go back there and enjoy those things. Remember, you are a guest in this beautiful country. Be polite, respectful, honor their culture and traditions, and do your best to adapt to their way of life," said one expat in Belize.

"Here's your best advice: No one can tell you what is right for you. The very simple answer is this - 1) come here and rent for 6 months. - you can always buy a ticket back in 2 months if you don't like it (yes, you would lose a little money, but not your life savings). It would be a vacation 2) While here, live as if you are living here full-time (in other words, you're not on an extended vacation, going out every night, etc. - go to the grocery store, the pharmacy, etc so you get a good "realistic feel" 3) Look around at properties to RENT (Don't buy yet). If you decide you want to stay, RENT A ONE YEAR LONG TERM 4) Go back home for AT LEAST 2 months (even if you rent for one year) - clear your head. Don't get a false "Fantasy island / dream life" in your head. Focus on the difference of places and then decide during your year here what you want to do for "life decisions" I always advise: "wade into the pool, don;t jump in the deep end". I've seen hundreds of people lose their life savings by making bad choices (apparently they have never been to another country, never traveled, maybe never seen the Caribbean Sea) and they turn into five year olds, make spontaneous, bad decision and ruin their lives (divorce, bankruptcy, etc.) - "Wade into the pool" The worst case in my advice is you lose a few thousand dollars and you have "a good cocktail party" story. In 6 months you will know whether it's for you , or not and whether you want to proceed," remarked one expat who made the move to San Pedro.

"Expats should be aware that English is the main language spoken in Belize, though Spanish and other local languages are also spoken. Expats will also need to factor in the tropical climate when deciding what to bring and what to leave behind. When moving to Belize, it is essential to obtain a valid visa and residency permit from the Nationality, Immigration and Refugee Board. Expats must also remember to open a local bank account and evaluate the quality of local hospitals and medical care when deciding to move to the country. Additionally, it is important to remember that Belize is subject to hurricanes and floodings, so expats should consider the risks of living in this area," explained one expat living in Belize.

"I choose the San Ignacio area as it has the best local downtown, expats and locals mix well together, the folks are so friendly and the Expats are like my other family ! I found my home, thru Rainforest Realty www.rainforestrealty.com," said one expat who made the move to Belize City.

"Originally San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, but after 4 years it got over populated and prices went way up. Moved to the mainland Northern Belize were there is less rain and humidity and 15 minutes from Chetumal where you can get low cost everything," explained one expat living in Corozal, Belize.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Belize is to start by researching online, such as through real estate websites or online listings. You can also look into local newspapers or social media pages to find listings. Additionally, it is recommended to visit the area, in person, to get a better sense of the local real estate market and to explore possible options. Once you have narrowed down your search, it is highly recommended to contact the local landlords, estate agents, and rental companies directly to find the most suitable place to live," said one in Belize.

"1 bedroom apt. Washer/Dryer, Internet. A couple of steps away from the beach. Living on an island [Ambergris Caye], you are NEVER to far from the beach. Yes, several expats live in the suburb type area," said one expat who made the move to San Pedro.

"Housing cost is about 50% less if you are a owner builder. Avg for land and house is $80k US and the ROI after three years is about triple that," commented one expat who made the move to Corozal.

"MUCH LOWER! Property taxes are around 30 dollars a year!!! Car insurance is less than 150 a year! WOW!," remarked one expat in Belize City, Belize.

"We purchased a lot along the sea and had a local builder construct a home for us. It was all done primarily through email correspondence and money transfers. He sent us regular pictures and reports to keep us informed," replied a member in Hopkins Village.

"Deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Belize is ultimately a personal choice that depends on many factors. If you plan to stay for a long period of time, buying a home can be a great investment as you will own a valuable piece of property you can use as a vacation home. Additionally, owning a home in Belize may offer certain tax benefits that renting does not. On the other hand, if your stay in Belize is more transient, it may be more cost-effective and practical to rent so that you are not tied down to one location in the long-term. Ultimately, researching the market in Belize can help you to make an informed decision that best suits your needs," commented one expat who made the move to Belize.

"I have lived in Corozal for 8 years+. I came with all of my tools, kitchenware, bed, and clothes. It cost a lot to bring the stuff but have not regretted it one bit. My neighbors that came here with only a tooth brush are always asking about borrowing, or do you have. I am careful to get my stuff back, but because I brought all my stuff, I am the go to person. I did not come QRP, I paid duty on all my things. Everyone is different. If you don't plan to lift a finger, than don't bring anything. If you tinker, work or house or cars, enjoy cooking, bring your stuff," remarked one expat in Belize.

"Wish that I had Brought: Bug spray, bug nets, bug zappers. Wish that I had left at Home: Me myself and I," said one expat in Belize City.

"When moving to Belize, it is important to pack for the tropical climate. Pack plenty of light, airy clothing with both short and long sleeves to prepare for the hot, humid days. Make sure to include hats and sunglasses to protect from the bright sunshine. Also, good to have include sunblock, insect repellent, and a light raincoat. If traveling in the wet months (June-November) pack a waterproof bag in case of rain. In addition, be sure to bring essential medication, a valid passport, and a debit card or cash to purchase items not available locally. Finally, if possible, pack a few items that remind you of home such as photos, books, or music," remarked one expat who made the move to Belize.

"In Belize, it is important to respect the diverse cultural backgrounds and traditions. In your interactions with local people, be aware of any sensitive topics such as politics or racial issues. To show respect, you should also be aware of clothing etiquette. Men and women should dress conservatively in public, women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, and the use of profanity should be avoided. Additionally, during social gatherings and conversations, avoid making loud or offensive gestures. Lastly, show respect to local elders by addressing them with respectful titles like “Sir”, “Madam”, or “Ma’am”," said one expat in Belize.

"Losing patience at the only 3 international banks when the Teller Machine was out of service for some malfunctioning and I needed to take out some money to go out and eat," said one expat who made the move to Belmopan.

"One of the main reasons we chose to relocate to Belize was the pristine reef, as we are avid snorkeling/diving enthusiasts," said one expat.

"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," said one expat living in Hopkins, Belize.

"Belize has a great many attractions for prospective expats looking for a new place to call home. The warm, tropical weather, the stunning beaches, the stunning coral reef system, and the mix of cultures make it an ideal destination for expats. Additionally, Belize offers a low cost of living, with a culture that is both welcoming and safe. In addition to the many natural attractions, Belize also offers excellent opportunities for business and freelance opportunities, as well as a diverse range of activities and attractions that makes it an ideal home for people of all backgrounds," offered one expat living in Belize.

"Our first choice is to go to the local pharmacist, who is very knowledgeable and helpful," said one expat living in Hopkins Village, Belize.

"Belize offers a range of healthcare services, including primary care, hospital care, and specialist care. The public healthcare system in Belize is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and legal residents. The quality of public healthcare in Belize is generally considered to be good, with a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics throughout the country. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system in Belize, although they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Belize typically use the public healthcare system, although some may opt for private healthcare services," offered one expat living in Belize.

"Belize has a wide range of medical services available to its citizens. The country has a number of public and private hospitals and clinics that provide a variety of medical services, including primary care, emergency care, and specialty care. The country also has a number of pharmacies and laboratories that provide access to medications and diagnostic tests. Additionally, Belize has a number of health centers and clinics that provide preventive care and health education services. The country also has a number of medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are trained to provide quality medical care," offered one expat living in Belize.

"Medical care in Belize is certainly not state of the art, but I received excellent care for a broken leg and resultant DVT, all at no out-of-pocket cost, at the public hospital in San Ignacio. I live out west in Cayo District," wrote one expat living in Esperanza.

"I am located 10 kms from 3 towns that provide adequate health care, but Santa Familia itself does not. So their healthcare is non-existent, but I don't care, I'm a 10-minute drive from 3 towns with good healthcare," commented one expat living in Carmelita Gardens.