Living in Belize

"Always travel to Belize first before you move here. Never try to make Belize just like it was for you back home... just accept Belize for what it is and enjoy it. It's an emerging third world country.... not the USA, so keep your expectations in check and go with the flow," said one expat who made the move to Belize City.

"Do not leave your brain at the border- see this article here http://www.caribpro.com/Caribbean_Property_Magazine/index.php?pageid=767," explained one expat living in Cayo San Ignacio, Belize.

"If you're interested in San Ignacio, I would suggest visiting Carmelita Gardens. It's a development about 7 miles from SI, just outside of Santa Familia. I'm not sure if you're looking to rent or buy, but you definitely want a place where you will feel welcome. So you're looking for a community. That's why I would recommend checking out Carmelita Gardens. There are rentals (short and long term) and lots (and a few homes) for purchase. It's a very welcoming community. Cheers," mentioned one in Carmelita Gardens.

"Expats living in Belize can join a variety of different clubs and activities. Options include sailing, snorkeling and other water sports, yoga and meditation classes, extended day hikes and more. Expats may also want to visit the local markets and festivals for shopping, food, and cultural experiences. Other popular activities include golf, tennis, volleyball and basketball. In addition to all of these activities, expats can also meet people in Belize by taking classes at the local schools, attending church, and getting involved in volunteering. People also tend to gather in the bars and restaurants most evenings, making it a great opportunity to mingle and meet new people," remarked one expat who made the move to Belize.

"Belize has been at the forefront of Disc Golf progress in Central America since 2020. There are now 12 courses in Belize most of which are Public and either free or $5 Bz to play. Most courses are in parks or large farms. A couple are located in growing expat communities specifically in Corozal. There are also now monthly competitions moving rotating around the courses. Come enjoy Disc Golf in Paradise," explained one expat living in Belize.

"I have lived a very enjoyable 9 years in the Corozal area. Whoever wrote the other response is a real nay-sayer. Tell me anywhere in the world where things are perfect. If you wear gold jewelry and drive a big fancy car, you are a target. It is not that bad," remarked one expat living in Belize.

"Expat and digital nomads in Belize enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with an emphasis on outdoor activities like visiting Mayan ruins, exploring the jungles and cays, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and fishing. The people of Belize are warm and welcoming, with a culture based on the belief that the country belongs to everyone. With the rise of tourism, there is a thriving job market for those seeking employment. Living costs are relatively low and there is a great selection of affordable accommodation. The country is known for its diverse culture which blends the many influences of its previous colonizers. Expats and digital nomads can experience a truly unique way of life in the Caribbean paradise that is Belize," wrote one member in Belize.

"Open season on Gringos...check crime logs just for the month of July 2011...getting very scary if you are white American," remarked one expat who made the move to San Ignacio.

"Supposedly...l yes. Belize city is one of the most dangerous cities in the world... But it only has 60000 people in it, mostly during the weekdays. The killings tend to be gang related, drug related. In a specific area, south side, We live on the north side, in a very safe area. Our home is surrounded by a tall concrete wall, and our windows do have burglar bars on them. We have three large dogs which act as any further deterrent. I live here very happily, and feel very safe," remarked one expat who made the move to Belize City.

"We do not hear about much crime in the area. The most news has to do with petty theft, which is why we are careful," explained one expat living in Hopkins Village, Belize.

"Belize is generally considered a safe place to visit, although there have been reports of crime, especially in areas frequented by tourists. Petty theft, home break-ins, and burglaries are common, especially in Belize City. Street crime such as bag snatching, pickpocketing, and muggings may also occur. Travellers should practice common sense security measures and avoid venturing in isolated areas," said one expat in Belize.

"Belize is a culturally and ethnically diverse country, with people of African, Spanish, Garifuna, Creole, Mennonite, East Indian, and Chinese descent, among others. Belizeans generally display a tolerant attitude towards differences between people and cultures, and there is a strong sense of unity throughout the country. The culture is mainly based on friendly respect, and the vast majority of Belizeans are accepting of people from all backgrounds and cultures," wrote one member in Belize.

"People are diverse, expats, locals, mayans, spanish etc. Yes, they are very friendly and accepting of differences. It's a tourist town, when the cruise ships come in once or twice a week. So, there are always loads of strangers about town, speaking different languages etc. Most locals are very friendly and welcoming of strangers," remarked one expat who made the move to Belize City.

"It is a great opportunity for small class sizes with a diverse background of students. The school values diversity and helps children understand the value in every child," wrote an expat with kids at Ambergris Caye Elementary School in San Pedro Town.

"Belize has a range of international and bilingual schools with high quality educational standards. The best international schools in Belize include the Saint John's College in Belize City and the New Horizons Academy in Corozal Town. Both offer modern and up-to-date teaching programs, as well as small classroom sizes, enabling teachers to provide a highly personalized learning experience for each student. The bilingual schools in Belize, such as Belizean Dreams Academy and the Monte de Luz Belize Spanish Immersion School, are just as impressive in providing an immersive and interactive education. These schools foster a deep appreciation of the diversity of Belize by offering both English and Spanish programs, allowing students to understand the local culture while gaining an impartial view of the world," commented one expat when asked about in Belize.

"The cost of living in Belize is generally quite reasonable, especially when compared to its surrounding countries. Depending on the city and lifestyle, the cost of rent can vary from relatively low to quite expensive. Utility bills, transportation costs, and food items generally tend to be quite affordable as Belize has lower costs for imports than other countries in Central America. Additionally, many goods are locally produced and therefore even cheaper," explained one expat living in Belize.

"San Pedro is the TOWN on Ambergris Caye. Same place. Monthly expenses (not living rich but nice will run you approx. $1,500 - $2,000 per month. You will need a work permit (yes, even to teach online). That will cost you total to go through all paperwork around $2,500 BZD ($1,250 usd), per year. If you want transportation, you can buy a bike for a few hundred bucks. If you want a golf cart, to purchase you’re looking at $3,000 USD - $12,000 USD depending on whether you want a used fixer or brand new. Permitting cost there as well. You can rent a golf cart for $400USD per month. Basic cost (food will vary depending on how much you eat out and if you buy American items at the grocery store or not (anything you get in the US that you can’t live without - just plan to pay DOUBLE what you do in the US. Import duties, shipping to Belize city, then shipping to ambergris and then it’s DOUBLE. So, for a single person, eating out twice a week at areal sit down restaurant (one lunch, one dinner), you can do street food stands a little cheaper, it would be something like this (assuming a US quality housing arrangement: Rent -$650 - $1,000 Cable/internet - $70 Water - $25 Electricity - $ 150 - $250 Food - $200-$400 Entertainment/restaurants - $200 Golf cart rental - $400 Visa stamp - $25 (+ work permit app mentioned above) $1750 - $2,500 depending on lifestyle. $1,500 minimum," said one expat.

"We live in the Cayo District and it's at least as safe as where we lived in Ottawa. The Belize dollar is pegged (2 for 1) to the US Dollar, so how far your CAD goes depends on the current exchange rate. Some things like gas are more expensive. If you "live like a local" then your cost of living will be much lower than in Canada. Live like a local means eating local, ie rather than Kellogs Corn Flakes look for the local brand of cereal, etc. If you want to maintain your North American lifestyle, it's possible of course. But we came here to simplify and that is certainly possible. You don't have neighbours who are trying to keep up with the Jones'. Healthcare - we don't have a plan here. If you have an existing, serious health condition then reconsider living here. Healthcare is cheap compared to the US but in Canada, most of your services were "free" (of course paid for through your taxes). Here we pay as we go. For example, I had to have an eye examination and drops. The whole shebang (exam and medication) cost me $25 USD. I have to have a tooth filled. The cost was $50 USD," commented one expat living in Carmelita Gardens, Belize.

"I own my little house here and spend about US$110o per month. I tracked it for about 4 months last year, including car tabs renewal and such," remarked one expat living in Esperanza.

"Placencia Beach Club offers Swim Club memberships and is open to the public. Recreational activities here are mostly owned by individual operators and tour guides and most are connected to local hotels. To include: Diving, Snorkeling, Fishing, River Tours, Manatee Tours, Howler Monkey Tours. Mayan Ruins, Scarlet Macaw Tours, Cave Tubing," mentioned an expat living in Placencia.

"The temperature in Belize is generally 85 degrees Fahrenheit, year-round. If you are comfortable with that temperature, you should be fine. My husband enjoys taking a vacation to cold locations at some point during the winter to get his 'cold weather fix,' so that might be an option for some people. Get used to sweat, take it easy in the hottest part of the day, drink lots of water," remarked one expat living in Belize.

"The heat is unlike anything I experienced in the US and I am from Houston (3 digit weather that I loved). Here, the humidity makes it feel much hotter than any humid whether in the states. AC is a luxury and man Americans get AC units here. They are not the same kind as in the states. They use 'split' units," said one expat living in Belize.

"I would be cautious about letting a summer visit determine whether you can get through the humidity. You’d be coming at the hottest and most humid time of the year, yes, but potentially without the opportunity to acclimatize. My husband and I moved to the Cayo last October and temps were still in high 80s to low 90s (with very high humidity). Not pleasant! Now, when we hit those temps, we don’t feel it as we did 4-5 months ago. It can take months to properly acclimate. And we know that the hottest months are still ahead of us," mentioned one expat inCarmelita Gardens.

"The weather in Belize is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The rainy season typically runs from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in September and October. The dry season runs from December to April, with the coolest temperatures occurring in January and February," commented one expat who moved to Belize.

"One of the most popular restaurants in Belize is Elvi's Kitchen, located in San Pedro. Elvi's Kitchen is known for its traditional Belizean cuisine, such as stewed chicken, rice and beans, and fry jacks. The restaurant also offers a variety of seafood dishes, including conch fritters, lobster, and shrimp. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Another popular restaurant in Belize is The Truck Stop, located in Belize City. The Truck Stop is a casual eatery that serves up a variety of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and tacos. The restaurant also offers a selection of local beers and cocktails. The atmosphere is lively and the staff is friendly and helpful. Finally, The Reef Restaurant, located in Placencia, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The Reef Restaurant serves up a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled fish, lobster, and shrimp. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff is friendly and attentive. The restaurant also offers a selection of local beers and cocktails," said one expat living in Belize.

"There are many restaurants and bars in the area. Mostly serving local foods. There are some speciality restaurants like Italian and Chinese but most serve a variety. There is not alot of nightlife as this area is attractive to people that are outdoors types. But there is great local music in many establishments," mentioned one expat inPlacencia.

"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," commented one expat who moved to Hopkins, Belize.

"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," wrote one expat living in Hopkins.

"QRP is good for some people, especially those who wanted to bring an expensive vehicle and a container full of furniture or shop equipment. The people in charge of QRP really are serious about you having a defined pension, also. Sorry, plenty of rental and investment income is not good enough. But most folks I know have gone the PR (Permanent Residency) route, instead. The application ordeal is about the same, and once you have your PR status, you don't have to deal with annual renewals of QRP," wrote one expat living in Esperanza.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Belize can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Public healthcare is available, but it is limited and may not provide the same level of care as private healthcare. Additionally, the cost of medications and medical supplies can be high, and some treatments may not be covered by insurance," commented one expat who moved to Belize.

"In the US I have Medicare and a supplemental insurance, which is fine and I have had no problems with coverage. In Belize, I do not purchase medical insurance because it is very expensive. ," said one expat.