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Belize
Capital: Belmopan
Location: 17°15′N 88°46′W
Largest city: Belize City
Official languages: English
Government: Commonwealth Realm
Independence from the United Kingdom Date: September 21, 1981
Area – Total: 22,966 km² (150th) 8,867 sq mi
Water (%): 0.7
Population: July 2006 estimate 291,500 (179th)
Density: 12 /km² (203rd) 31 /sq mi
GDP (PPP) : 2005 estimate - Total $2.098 billion (163rd) - Per capita $7,832 (77th)
HDI (2003) : 0.753 (medium) (91st) Currency Belizean dollar (BZD)
Internet TLD: .bz
Calling code: +501
Note: World ranks are based on the 2005 figures.
An adventurer's paradise: Belize is a peaceful, English-speaking country just two hours away from 3 major U.S. Gateways. With a diversity of adventure opportunities unmatched by any other country, the Belizean people have protected over 40% of the country as parks and natural reserves.
Belize is on the Caribbean coast, nestled between Mexico and Guatemala and offers an intriguing mix of tropical forests rich with wildlife, majestic mountains, mysterious Maya temples, and diving and fishing experiences beyond comparison. In a single day, one can go from tropical forest to the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere.
And the people are as warm and friendly as the climate.
The origin of the name Belize is relatively unclear, but one theory is that it derives from the Spanish pronunciation of Peter Wallace, which is the last name of the pirate who created the first settlement in Belize in 1638. Another possibility is that the name is from the Maya word “belix”, meaning "muddy water", applied to the Belize River.
The early "settlement of Belize in the Bay of Honduras" grew from a few habitations located at Belize Town and St George's Caye into a de-facto colony of the United Kingdom during the late eighteenth century. In the early nineteenth century the settlement was called British Honduras, and in 1871 it became a Crown Colony.
Taking advantage of Spain’s inability and apparent disinterest in establishing control over present-day Belize, Englishmen began to cut logwood (Haematoxylon campechianum L.), a dyewood greatly valued in Europe as the principal dyestuff for the expanding woollen industry. By the 1770s, a second tropical exotic timber, mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King), replaced logwood as the main export from Belize. The economy of Belize remained based on the extraction of mahogany until the early 1900s when the cultivation of export crops such as citrus, sugar cane, and bananas came to dominate the economy.
Hurricane Hattie inflicted significant damage upon Belize in 1961. The government decided that a coastal capital city lying below sea level was too risky. Over several years, the British colonial government designed a new capital, Belmopan, at the exact geographic centre of the country, and in 1970 began slowly moving the governing offices there.
British Honduras became a self-governing colony in January 1964 and was renamed Belize on June 1, 1973; it was the United Kingdom's last colony on the American mainland. George Price led the country to full independence on 21 September 1981 after delays caused by territorial disputes with neighbouring Guatemala, which did not formally recognize the country.
Belize is a parliamentary democracy and a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.
The current head of state is the Queen of Belize, Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, who is represented in the country by the Governor-General. However, the cabinet, led by a prime minister, who is head of government, acting as advisors to the Governor-General, in practice exercise executive authority. Cabinet ministers are members of the majority political party in parliament and usually hold elected seats within it concurrent with their cabinet positions.
The bicameral Belizean parliament is the National Assembly, which comprises a House of Representatives and a Senate. The twenty-nine members of the House are popularly elected to a maximum five-year term and introduce legislation affecting the development of Belize. The Governor General appoints the twelve members of the Senate. The Senate is headed by a president, who is selected by its members, and is responsible for debating and approving bills passed by the House.
Belize is a full participating member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
Geography of Belize
Belize is located between the Hondo and Sarstoon Rivers, with the Belize River flowing down in the centre of the country. The north of Belize consists mostly of flat, swampy coastal plains, in places heavily forested. The flora is highly diverse considering the small geographical area. The south contains the low mountain range of the Maya Mountains, whose Victoria Peak is the highest point in Belize at 3,675 feet (1,120 m) tall. The Caribbean coast is lined with a coral reef and some 450 islets and islands known locally as cayes (pronounced "keys"), forming the approximately 200 mile (322 kilometres) long Belize Barrier Reef, the longest in the western hemisphere and the second longest in the world after the Great Barrier Reef. Three of the four coral atolls in the Western Hemisphere are also located off the coast of Belize. Belize is also the only Central American country without a coast on the Pacific Ocean.
Economy of Belize
The majority of the Belizean economy is comprised of the tourism industry. Agriculture is also a key part of the economy.
The small, essentially private enterprise economy is based primarily on agriculture, agro-based industry, and merchandising, with tourism and construction assuming greater importance. Sugar, the chief crop, accounts for nearly half of exports, while the banana industry is the country's largest employer. Citrus production has become a major industry along the Hummingbird Highway. More recently, discoveries of petroleum deposits in the Cayo District and possible deposits in the Toledo District have radically altered Belize's previously untapped mining and manufacturing capabilities.
Age and gender in Belize
The greatest portion of Belize's population is under or about the age of 30. Nearly 40% of Belizeans are under 15; a similar number are between the ages of 15 and 65. Males slightly outnumber females, though this trend is beginning to change among certain ethnic groups, such as the Creoles and the Garifuna, where there are more middle-aged and elderly women. Maya and Mestizo families are most likely to have male-dominated households.
Ethnic mixing and languages in Belize
Racial tension is very uncommon because of the multicultural environment of the society, and the constant admixture of the different ethnic groups. Many people simply identify as "Belizean", due to the numerous racial mixture. Because of this, the ethnic composition of the country is some times hard to determine, but self identified Mestizos comprise 50% of the population, and Creoles 25%. The rest is a mix of Maya, Garifuna, Mennonite German farmers, Central Americans, whites from America, and many other foreign groups brought to assist the country's development. Not surprisingly, this mix creates an equally interesting mix of language and communication. English is the official language due to the fact that Belize was a British colony and still has ties to Britain. However, most Belizeans use the more familiar Belize Creole, a raucous and playful English-based language that contains colourful terms that are usually translatable in English. Spanish has become important as the mother tongue of Mestizo and Central American settlers, and is a second language for much of the country. Less well known are the ancient Maya dialects, Garifuna (an Arawakan language that is also spoken in some communities in Honduras and Guatemala) and the Plautdietsch dialect of the Mennonites. Literacy currently stands at nearly 80%.
Religion in Belize
Belize is a predominantly Christian society. Roman Catholicism is accepted by about half of the population, and Protestantism by about a quarter. Much of the remaining population is comprised of Taoists, Buddhists and more recently introduced religions like Jainists, Islam, and Bahá'í. Hinduism is common among South Asian immigrants. Religious freedom is guaranteed and churches dot the streets of Belize almost as frequently as places of business; Catholics frequently visit the country for special gospel revivals. Jehovah's Witnesses have also enjoyed significant increase in recent years and now make up around 2% of the population.
Physical Features of Belize:
Belize (formerly British Honduras until the name of the country was changed in 1973) lies on the eastern or Caribbean coast of Central America, bounded on the north and part of the west by Mexico, and on the south and the remainder of the west by Guatemala. The inner coastal waters are shallow and are sheltered by a line of coral reefs, dotted with islets called 'cayes', extending almost the entire length of the country.
There is a low coastal plain, much of it covered with mangrove swamp, but the land rises gradually towards the interior. The Maya Mountains and the Cockscomb Range form the backbone of the southern half of the country, the highest point being Doyle's Delight (1124 meters above sea level) in the Cockscomb Range. The Cayo District in the west includes the Mountain Pine Ridge, ranging from 305 to around 914 metres above sea level. The northern districts contain considerable areas of tableland. There are many rivers, some of them navigable for short distances by shallow-draught vessels. A large part of the mainland is forest.
The area of the mainland and cayes is 8,867 square miles. The country's greatest length from north to south is 280 kilometres and its greatest width is 109 kilometres. The climate is subtropical, tempered by trade winds. Temperatures in coastal districts range from about 10 °C (50°F) to about 35.6°C (96°F); inland the range is greater. Rainfall varies from an average of 1,295 millimetres in the north to 4,445 millimetres in the extreme south. The dry season usually extends from February to May and there is sometimes a dry spell in August.
Languages spoken in Belice:
English is the official language of Belize. However, English Creole is widely spoken and remains a distinctive part of everyday conversations for most Belizeans. Spanish is also common and is taught in primary and secondary schools in order to further develop bi-lingualism.
Spanish is spoken as a mother tongue by the majority of the people in the Orange Walk and Corozal Districts, north of Belize and the Cayo District in the west, In the southern Districts: Stann Creek and Toledo, there are people whose first language is Garifuna or Maya.
Currency
The Belize Dollar (BZ$) has a fixed rate of exchange of BZ$2 to US$1. Most hotels, resorts, restaurants, and tour operators will accept U.S. currency, traveler's checks, or credit cards.
Time
Time observed year round is GMT-6, which is the same as United States Central Standard Time. Daylight Savings Time is not observed in Belize.
Capital City of Belize
Belmopan is the capital of the country. Built in 1970, it is the seat of Government and has been classified as the Garden City of the country. It was created following extensive damage to the former capital Belize City, caused by Hurricane Hattie in 1961. Belmopan is geographically located at the centre of the country, some 80 kilometers to the south-west of Belize City on higher ground. It serves as a hurricane refuge for Belizeans and has the largest number of hurricane shelters in the country. Its population today is estimated at 11,100 and is increasing as more people relocate to the Capital. However, Belize City still remains the hub of commercial activity and one of the most urbanized centers of Belize with a population of 78,000 people.
More on the History of Belize
Numerous ruins indicate that for hundreds of years Belize was heavily populated by the Maya Indians, whose relatively advanced civilization reached its height between A.D. 250 and 900. Eventually the civilization declined leaving behind small groups whose offspring still exist in Belize contributing positively to the culturally diverse population.
In 1502, Columbus sailed through parts of the Caribbean, but did not actually visit the area later known as British Honduras.
The first reference to European settlement in the colony was in 1638. These were later augmented by disbanded British soldiers and sailors after the capture of Jamaica from Spain in 1655. The settlement, whose main activity was logwood cutting (logwood was used in the past to produce dye), had a troubled history during the next 150 years. It was subjected to numerous attacks from neighbouring Spanish settlements (Spain claimed sovereignty over the entire New World except for regions in South America assigned to Portugal).
It was not until 1763 that Spain in the Treaty of Paris allowed the British settlers to engage in the logwood industry. The Treaty of Versailles in 1783 reaffirmed those boundaries and logwood concession was extended by the Convention of London in 1786. But Spanish attacks continued until a decisive victory was won by settlers, with British naval support, in the Battle of St. George's Caye in 1798. After that, British control over the settlement gradually increased and in 1871 British Honduras was formally declared a British Colony.
From an early date the settlers had governed themselves under a system of primitive democracy by Public Meeting. A set of regulations referred to as Burnaby's Code was effected in 1765 and this, with some modification, continued until 1840 when an Executive Council was created.
In 1853 the Public Meeting was replaced by a Legislative Assembly (partly elected, on a restrictive franchise), with the British Superintendent, an office created in 1786 at the settlers' request, as Chairman. When the settlement became a colony in 1871 the Superintendent was replaced by a Lieutenant Governor under the Governor of Jamaica.
The Crown Colony System of Government was introduced in 1871, and the Legislative Assembly by its own vote was replaced by a nominated Legislative Council with an official majority presided over by the Lieutenant Governor.
An unofficial majority was created in 1892, and this constitution, with minor changes, continued until 1935 when the elective principle was once again introduced on the basis of adult suffrage with a low-income qualification. The administrative connection with Jamaica was severed in 1884, when the title of Lieutenant Governor was changed and a Governor was appointed.
Further constitutional advances came in 1954 with the introduction of Universal Adult Suffrage and an elected majority in the Legislature, the Ministerial System was adopted in 1961 leading up to Self Government in 1964. The country's name was changed on 1st June, 1973, from British Honduras to Belize.
Independence was achieved on September 21, 1981 and a new independence constitution introduced. Belize was then admitted as a member of the United Nations, the Non-Alligned Movement and the Commonwealth of Nations.
Roads of Belize:
Belize has four major highways, the Northern Highway connecting Belize City with Orange Walk and Corozal Towns and to Chetumal on the Mexican Border; the Western Highway connecting Belize City with Belmopan and continuing to Santa Elena/San Ignacio and Benque Viejo del Carmen then to the border with Guatemala; the Southern Highway linking the Stann Creek and Toledo Districts and the Hummingbird Highway which links Cayo with the Stann Creek District. All principal towns and villages are linked by roads to Belmopan and Belize City.
Regular bus services operate to and from all main towns.
Inland Waterways
Several rivers and lagoons are navigable by shallow draught vessels. The Belize River was once used for logging.
Air
The main airport, Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, is situated 10 miles from Belize City, and is owned by the Government and operated by the Belize Airports Authority. Regular international services are maintained by five airlines to and from the United States of America, Central America and Mexico. There are numerous Government owned aircraft. Domestic air services provide connections to all main towns and to four of the offshore islands.
A modern weather radar system, part of the World Meteorological Network, gives early warning of approaching hurricanes. The Belize Weather Bureau is now equipped with satellite communication facilities to assist in weather forecasting.
Sea
The main port is in Belize City, now equipped with a modern deep-water port which is capable of handling containerized shipping. Nine major shipping lines move cargo to and from Belize to Central and North America, Europe and Japan. The second largest port, Commerce Bight just South of Dangriga, has been improved to accommodate the medium sized vessels required to handle increased exports of bananas and citrus products. A new port has been built at Big Creek. Coastal services are operated between towns and villages on the mainland to some of the offshore islands, and to Puerto Barrios in Guatemala.
Traveling within Belize
Traveling within Belize is safe, fast, and reliable. Planes and buses transport passengers throughout the country daily and a number of agencies have vehicles available for rent. Details regarding these travel options throughout Belize are outlined below.
Domestic Flights
The most time efficient option for travel within Belize is by plane. Regularly scheduled flights cover the country and provide passengers with a vantage point that leaves many wishing that the fight times were not so quick.
Caribee Air Service
501-224-4253
501-223-1031
Javier´s Flying Service
501-223-5360 & 223-1029
501-223-1731
http://www.javiersflying.bz/
Email: bosch2@btl.net
Maya Island Air
1-800-521-1247
501-226-2435
501-226-2192
http://www.mayaislandair.com/
Tropic Air
1-800-422-3435
501-226-2012
501-226-2338
http://www.tropicair.com/
Ground Transportation
The least expensive way to get around Belize on a day to day basis is by bus. As buses are the primary mode of transportation for most Belizeans, routes run on regular schedules and will stop to pick up or drop off passengers at most any location along the way. Every bus operates with a driver and a conductor. Luggage and bags are handled by the conductor. He or she will also come to passengers while the bus is in transit to collect the fare. As bus “stations” move about and schedules shift slightly through the year, visitors will find these logistical details answered most accurately by any taxi driver or most any person on the street.
Belize City and Belmopan serve as the central hubs for bus transportation. While buses travel to and from each town and district several times daily, many of the more remote villages see only one bus out and one bus in each day.
For private and personal transportation please view the rental listing provided.
Water Transportation
There are two water taxi ports in Belize City. One is located on the North East side of the historical Swing Bridge and has boats going to different islands throughout the day. This location falls under the Belize Water Taxi Association. The other terminal is for the company Triple J and is located on Southern Foreshore almost directly in front of the historical Bliss Institute.
Belize City is the main port of call for cruise ships coming to Belize. Here passengers are met with a diverse assortment of activities, shopping prospects, and refreshment opportunities that leave lasting impressions of the many assets of the country. Major cruise lines visit Belize regularly keeping the availability of tour operators and travel options dependable and exciting.
Belize City is a tender port. Upon anchoring in the Caribbean waters just offshore of Belize City, cruise ship passengers are taken by regularly scheduled tenders arranged by their cruise ship to the Fort Street Tourism Village. The Tourism Village was specifically designed to cater to cruise ship passengers wishing to experience a bit of Belize on a day visit. Comprised of three terminals and three courtyards containing over fifty stores and businesses, visitors can enjoy both air-conditioned facilities and fresh tropical breezes throughout the seafront complex. Plenty of restaurants and snack shops accompany live entertainment on cruise ship days, while an internet cafe keeps passengers connected and banks ensure that adequate funds are readily available. The many shops offer a wide variety of Belizean arts and crafts, clothing, jewelry, and duty-free goods.
Cruise ship passengers who come ashore have three main options for experiencing Belize's attractions. They can either:
1) Take a pre-arranged tour made through their cruise ship
2) Sign up for a tour upon their arrival in Belize, or simply
3) Let the country be their guide while setting out on independent explorations
Port agents, tour operators, and licensed tour guides greet passengers at the Tourism Village upon arrival to assist those wishing to take a tour.
Cruise ship passengers will also find tour options awaiting them just outside of the Tourism Village. Please note that the law requires that all tour guides and tour operators carry a valid license with photo ID. The Belize Tourism Board also operates an information desk in the main concourse of the Tourism Village.
Telecommunications
The Belize Telecommunications Limited (BTL), a private company, owns the automatic telephone service which covers the entire country. BTL operates a regional service to Mexico, Guatemala and Central and South America, as well as all other external services. A recent expansion programme has doubled the capacity of the telephone system. A satellite earth station in Belmopan provides high quality telecommunications with the outside world.
The Office of Telecommunications acts on behalf of the Government in monitoring and regulating all telecommunication services within Belize, including the assignment of frequencies.
Retire in Belize
Belize, The Natural Choice: Known in travel circles as "Mother Nature's Best Kept Secret", Belize is truly a tropical paradise. An exotic tropical paradise that now opens its doors to your dreams of new experiences.
Everyone around the world dreams about coming to an exotic yet quiet place, complete with sun-drenched beaches and limitless recreational activities on land and in beautiful tropical waters. Belize boasts all this and more not only for the retiree but for the entire family. Belize is well known as a travel destination around the world and this is attributed to primarily the lower cost of living, the tropical climate and the official language of Belize being English. Belize prides itself in providing schools with high academic standards and a reputation for excellence, good health care facilities, historic buildings, convenient local shopping and most importantly warm and welcoming neighbors.
The charming country of Belize is on the Caribbean coast, nestled between Mexico and Guatemala and offers an intriguing mix of tropical forests rich with wildlife, majestic mountains, mysterious Maya temples, and diving and fishing experiences beyond comparison. In a single day you can go from tropical forest to the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere.
With the inception of the Retired Persons Incentive Program, Belize is rapidly becoming known as a retirement destination.
Go to Belize and enjoy your retirement where you can relax and continue the adventure in he county’s tropical paradise.
Belize’s natural wealthy environment as well as its culturally diverse and hospitable people – its greatest asset - are only but a few reasons to retire in Belize. To list even more enticing features:
-Tax Breaks
-Peaceful Nation
-English Speaking
-Good Educational System
-Sub-tropical Climate all Year Long
-Easy Access to Land for Development and Construction of Retirement Home
-Close Proximity to the US, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean
-Strong Stable Belize Dollar
-Abundance of Natural Resources
-Breathtakingly Beautiful
-Friendly People
Leisure in Belize
Fishing
Belize is a mecca for those interested in fishing. All kinds of fishing - spin, fly, trolling - can be experienced all year long, and the abundance of game fish guarantees excellent sport.
The estuaries, inlets and mouths to the many rivers are known for their tarpon, snook and jack. The lagoons and flats are known for the bonefish, permit and barracuda. The coral reefs support grouper, snappper, jack and barracuda while the deeper waters off the drop off are home to sailfish, marlin, bonito and pompano.
Fishing is great all along the coast of Belize, from the Port Honduras and Punta Icacos lagoon of Toledo to Rocky Point on Ambergris Caye. Any of the many rivers which empty into the Caribbean along Belize's coasts can guarantee a daily catch.
Most of your guides and boatmen speak English so learning where and what to fish will be no problem.
Sailing
With 174 miles of protected coastline along the Caribbean Sea, hundreds of off-shore cayes, and the Belize Barrier Reef, the waters of Belize are a unique treasure in the sailing world of today. Whether on a private vessel making port, or arriving by way of air or land and looking to charter, Belize has dependable facilities and numerous tour operators ready to meet your cruising needs.
Private Vessels and Ports of Entry:
Those coming on their own boat should have updated and detailed charts and GPS chips that clearly mark the conditions of the reef. Due to the shallow seas in some areas, it is advised that mono-hulls with a keel be equipped with a depth meter.
All boats gping to Belize must check in with the Belize Port Authority. The communications center follows V.H.F. radio channel 16 and H.F. radio channel 2182 and will direct boats as necessary upon their arrival. There are two Belize Port Authority offices in the country--one in Belize City and one in Big Creek. Visitors arriving by boat to either Belize City or Big Creek will need to report directly to the Belize Port Authority office, located within close proximity to Immigration and Customs. Those arriving at any other port-of-entry can handle all necessary procedures with the Belize Port Authority through Immigration.
Immigration offices are located throughout the country, allowing for flexibility in planning one's port-of-entry. The following locations serve as ports-of-entry for boats coming to Belize: Belize City, San Pedro, Dangriga, Big Creek, and Punta Gorda. It is required that all boats are cleared through immigration, customs, health, and currency upon arrival. To do this, visitors must have clearance from the country that they are coming from, a valid passport, and visitors coming from certain countries will need a visa.
Fuel and Supplies:
Fuel is available at all ports-of-entry. Fuel docks, however, are not accessible at all locations by keelboats. There are fuel docks capable of handling keelboats in Belize City, San Pedro, Big Creek, and Placencia. The fuel dock in Dangriga is not accessible by sailboats or catamarans, and the water depths for the fuel dock in Punta Gorda are questionable. It is highly advised that current depths and clearances are verified before pulling up to any fuel dock. Jerry cans will come in handy when looking to refuel.
An up-to-date cruising guide will be a necessary trip-planning tool for boats coming to Belize. Come prepared with everything that you might need as equipment and supplies for sailing vessels are not readily available. Food and basic provisions are to be found country-wide.
Sailing Conditions and Protected Areas:
Clear waters average a comfortable 75 to 84 °F while favorable winds blow February through June. During these months the trade winds run at 12 to 20 knots and above, 70 % of the time. Throughout the rest of the year, expect winds around 6 knots. The mean annual temperature of Belize is 80 °F.
Belize is a country full of natural riches and is home to a major portion of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The country takes great measures to protect its environmental treasures and as such has designated marine reserves.
While cruising Belizean waters, sailors should be aware that of these areas charge a visitor's usage fee.
To maintain sustainable populations of marine life and to protect species that are at risk, the following regulations are enforced:
-No conch are to be caught in-between the months of July and September, no lobster are to be caught in-between February 15th-June 14th
-No spear fishing is allowed
-No turtles are to be captured
-The capture of certain fish, such as grouper, is only allowed in certain locations
Up-to-date information regarding the details of these interests can be obtained from Immigration office upon arrival.
Charters and Tour Operators
A country where sailing once used to be a primary mode of transportation, Belize maintains its sea roots through its active tourism industry. For sailors coming to Belize, options include, but are not limited to: bare boating, sailing school, day trips, extended cruises, sailing with a crew, sailing with a captain, or sailing on a private charter.
Those arriving to Belize by air or by land with the intention of chartering are allowed to bring items that they will need, such as fishing and diving equipment, but are encouraged to buy food supplies locally
Golfing
Golf and good weather go hand in hand, and Belize has a climate that is conducive to a perfect day out on the course. Tee off in the equally dramatic locations of either jungle or sea and in the company of magnificent birds that soar as high as the drives are long. While golfing is a growing interest developing throughout the country, courses continue to work towards meeting the standards of the sport.
The most established course in the country is the Caye Chapel Island Resort Golf Course. The course is located just off-shore from Belize City on a caye that was developed for the very purpose of golfing and relaxation. Equipment is available for rent.
A more recent addition to the Belize circuit is the nine-hole jungle setting of Maskall Golf Course Lodge. Situated in the Belize District near the Maya sites of Altun Ha and Lamanai, there are plenty of day trips and various outdoor adventures to choose from when not on the green.
Belize city
All journeys begin in Belize City. A city with a fascinating environmental and social history, Belize City offers a diverse range of landmarks and attractions to choose from. As the country's commercial and social hub, Belizeans come from all over the country to shop at the many stores and outdoor vendors that line the streets of the former capital city. Restaurants can be found on most every block and with a wide variety of fruits and vegetables in season the market is always a stimulating stop for the senses. Taxis are an efficient and economic way to explore the sites of the city, though enjoyable sightseeing can easily be done by foot.
Local attractions on a City tour
Tourism Village: Fort Street
Museum of Belize: Gabourel Lane
Baron Bliss Lighthouse Monument: Marine Parade
House of Culture: Regent Street
St. John's Cathedral: Albert Street
Image Factory Art Gallery: North Front Street
Marine Termnial and Maritime Museum: North Front Street
National Handicraft Center: #2 S. Park Street
National Archives and City Library: North Front Street
Bliss Institute for Performing Arts: Downtown
Supreme Court Building: Downtown
Swing Bridge: Downtown
Commercial Center: Market Square
Yarborough Cemetary: Yarborough
Marine Parade: North Waterfront
Southern Foreshore: South Waterfront
Old Belize Cultural and Historical Center and Cucumber Beach: Mile 5, Western Hwy.
Gran's Farm: Mile 14, Western Hwy.
In addition to its own offerings, Belize City serves as a jumping off point for almost all of Belize's land and marine destinations.
Cayes
Tours to the cayes are available inside as well as just outside of the Tourism Village. For those wanting to explore independently, it is possible to catch a water taxi from the Marine Terminal only a couple of blocks from the Tourism Village. Above and below the surface, the Caribbean Sea is a treasure that shares its wealth with all who take to its waters. Popular activities enjoyed out at the cayes include snorkeling, diving, fishing, windsurfing, sailing, sea kayaking, nature walks, bird watching, swimming, shopping, dining, and lounging. Before going anywhere, cruise ship passengers should verify the return time of their water taxi.
Inland
Belize City is located within close proximity to countless attractions throughout the mainland of Belize. Buses, vans, taxis, and airplanes are in transit everyday allowing for reliable connections to and from most anywhere in the country
While most cruise ship itineraries allow for only a limited amount of time to be had at each destination, Belize's small geographic size combined with its abundant inland travel options enable passengers to explore the attraction of their choice. Listed below are some possibilities of ways in which cruise ship passengers can make the most of their time in Belize.
Maya Sites
Archaeologists estimate that over one million Mayans resided within the present-day borders of Belize at the height of their regional dominance. Although the civilization has undergone tremendous change and the population is only a fraction of what it once was, the relics of the people remain in caves, in crumbling cities, in practices, in artwork, and in the forests they once called home.
Buses and vans make daily treks to Altun Ha and Lamanai, two of Belize's most famous Mayan sites nestled in the rainforest just one hour north of Belize City. In the Cayo district, three hours west of Belize City by bus is the site of Xunantunich.
Outdoor Destinations/Activities
Step foot off the boat and onto Belize and experience the freedom to enjoy pristine environment packed with outdoor adventures. Caves, Waterways, Trails, Fishing, and many more activities are all just a short van, bus, or boat ride away from the Tourism Village. To learn more about the various activities popular in Belize, click here.
Mainland Ecotourism
Visit one of the many National Parks, Reserves, or Sanctuaries that have made Belize an internationally recognized leader in preservation and conservation. The following link contains details of the many ecological sites within Belize--all within an easy day's trip from Tourism Village.
Freestay Caribbean
To welcome visitors and encourage them to return to Belize, hotels and operators have teamed up with the Freestay Caribbean program. Cruise ship passengers are given a special Belize coin with the Freestay Caribbean website printed on it the website links passengers to deals and discounts from participating businesses.
Helpful Tips
-Visitors are encouraged to stay in groups, carry a bottle of water, ample sunscreen, and the name of their cruise ship should they separate from their group.
-Taxis are reasonably priced and distinguishable by their green license plates. Drivers do not run a meter, rather they charge a flat rate--usually around $6-$8 BZD per stop.
-Tourism Police Officers on patrol wear navy blue pants with a khaki button up shirt and a navy blue hat.
-The Karl Huesner Memorial Hospital is located on Princess Margaret Drive in Belize City and can be reached via telephone at 501-223-1548.
-Each destination in the country offers banking services, however there are few options for banking in some of the smaller, less-traveled destinations.
Car Dealerships in Belize
Belize Diesel & Equipment Co. Ltd.
TOYOTA
7142 Slaughter House Road
Belize City, Belize
Tel: 501-223-5668
Fax: 501-223-2866
Email: emil@belizediesel.com
http://www.belizediesel.com/
Bravo Motors
4.5 Miles Western Hwy
Belize City, Belize
Tel: 501-223-1650
Fax: 501-223-1586
Email: bravo@btl.net
http://www.gotobravomotors.com/
JMA Motors Ltd.
771 Bella Vista
P.O. Box 863
Belize City, Belize
Tel: 501-223-0226
Fax: 501-223-0237
Email: sales@jmamotors.com
http://www.jmamotors.com/
Useful Links
Government Sites
Government of Belize: http://www.belize.gov.bz/index.php
Belize Tourism Board: http://www.travelbelize.org/
Belize Customs: http://www.customs.gov.bz/traveller_info.html
Main Newspapers
Belize Magazine: http://www.belizemagazine.com/<br>
The Reporter: http://www.reporter.bz/
Belize Real Estate, make your dream investment come true. |
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