Belmopan, Belize
What do I need to know before retiring in Belmopan?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Belmopan, they said...
"Belmopan, the capital of Belize, is a popular retirement destination for expats due to its tropical climate, English-speaking population, and affordable cost of living. Before retiring in Belmopan, it's important to understand the local culture, lifestyle, and legal requirements. Firstly, Belize has a Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) program that allows retirees to live in the country tax-free, but they must meet certain income requirements. Expats should consult with a legal expert to understand the specifics of this program. Healthcare in Belize is generally affordable, but it may not meet the standards that expats from developed countries are accustomed to. It's recommended to have a comprehensive health insurance plan that covers medical evacuation. The cost of living in Belmopan is relatively low compared to many Western countries. However, imported goods can be expensive, so it's advisable to adapt to local products and lifestyle. While English is the official language, Spanish is also widely spoken. Learning some basic Spanish phrases can be beneficial in daily life. Belmopan has a tropical climate with high humidity and rainfall. Expats should be prepared for this weather and protect their homes against potential damage from tropical storms. Public transportation in Belmopan is limited, so having a personal vehicle can be convenient. However, driving in Belize can be challenging due to poor road conditions in some areas. Safety can be a concern in certain parts of Belize. Expats should research and choose their neighborhoods carefully, and take standard precautions to protect their personal safety. Finally, it's important to understand that while Belmopan offers a relaxed lifestyle, it may not offer the same level of amenities, entertainment, and conveniences as larger cities. Therefore, it's advisable to visit Belmopan and spend some time there before making a decision to retire," commented one expat who made the move to Belmopan, Belize.
Cigna Global HealthGet Quote
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Cigna Global HealthExpats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Belmopan?
- What do I need to know before moving to Belmopan?
- How do I find a place to live in Belmopan?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Belmopan?
- What is the average cost of housing in Belmopan?
- How do I meet people in Belmopan?
- What should I pack when moving to Belmopan?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Belmopan?
- Will I be able to find a job in Belmopan?
- What is life like in Belmopan?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Belmopan?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Belmopan?
- What is the social scene like in Belmopan?
- What advice to expats in Belmopan have about housing?
- What are medical services in Belmopan like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Belmopan?
- Is the cost of living in Belmopan high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Belmopan?
- Why do people move to Belmopan?
What do I need to know before retiring in Belmopan?
If you live in Belmopan, newcomers to Belmopan would love to hear your answer to this question.
