Whether you're planning to travel to Belize as a part of a vacation or for a work trip, there are some key things to know before you go. You'll need to know about entry requirements, medical care, currency, and other aspects of the trip. Let's see why you should travel to beautiful Belize.
Entry requirements
Whether you are traveling to Belize for business, vacation, or a visa-free stopover, there are a few entry requirements you will need to know. These requirements are based on your country of residence, the duration of your stay, and the purpose of your trip.
Belize is a subtropical country that is known for its ancient Mayan ruins, lush tropical forests, and the second largest barrier reef in the world. As such, there are many ways to get around Belize.
You will need a passport to enter Belize. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you are planning to depart. It is also important to have a return ticket to your home country. If you will be traveling to Belize with children, you must also have documentation to show that you have parental responsibility for them.
In addition, you must have proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay. You may also be required to show proof of onward travel.
If you are traveling to Belize with children, you will need to have their birth certificates on hand. You may also be required to show a notarized letter of consent from the other parent.
You will also need to complete a Passenger Arrival Form. The form asks for items you will bring into Belize and a declaration of the currency you are traveling in. You will also need to provide a receipt for any duty-free items you plan to bring into the country.
Currency
During your trip to Belize, you will need to know how to exchange your US dollars for Belize dollars. The official rate is two BZ Dollars to one US dollar. You can also exchange your Belize dollar for other foreign currencies at the border.
The Central Bank of Belize is responsible for the management of the currency. It was established in 1982. This bank issues the currency and manages the nation's foreign reserves. Its currency notes are issued by the British firm Thomas De La Rue Ltd. They have a security thread and a hologram. The notes also feature images of Belizean wildlife and historical sites.
Bank ATMs are available at many tourist destinations. You can also purchase currency at the banks in the main towns and cities. The bank also accepts foreign ATM cards.
Belize has three commercial banks. The biggest is the National Bank of Belize, while the second largest is the Heritage Bank. The third bank is the Atlantic Bank. There are also two private banks.
You should declare all your cash on arrival in Belize, since failure to do so can incur fines. Banks charge a 3-6% fee for the use of credit cards. Tour operators, hotels, and most commercial enterprises accept American currency.
Most visitors to Belize don't bother changing their currency, but it's important to know how to exchange your US dollars for the local currency. You will get better rates at a bank ATM.
Culture-packed
Located between Guatemala and Mexico, Belize is a small, but culture-packed country. The island of Ambergris Caye is a popular tourist destination, but there are many other places to explore in Belize.
Belize is a country of two seasons, with the dry season from November to April and the wet season from May to October. In the wet season, Belize's humid climate can become quite oppressive. However, the breezes in Belize in the dry season can provide relief.
There is plenty to do in Belize, from exploring the ruins of ancient Maya civilizations to enjoying the tropical beaches. A Belize vacation package includes the best attractions, including an enlightening tour of the Xunantunich pyramid temple.
Belize's food is an exotic mix of cuisines, ranging from fried fish to spicy creole dishes. You can enjoy Caribbean dishes like fried chicken or English corned beef, or you can try the country's unique coconut-milk based curries.
Belize's most impressive cultural achievements include its vibrant and friendly locals. Belize's population is diverse, with people from the U.S., Asians, Caribbean, and Africans. There is also a large segment of Belizeans who are Roman Catholic. The country is also home to the world's second-largest barrier reef.
The Belize tourism board has compiled a list of gold-standard hotels, guides, and activities. Among the list is the Lebeha Drumming Center, which offers a drum-making course.
Belize is also home to the world's second-largest coral barrier reef. It is a popular destination for snorkelers, divers, and backpackers.
Scuba diving sites
Whether you are a novice or expert scuba diver, Belize offers many diving sites to enjoy. The country's pristine waters offer a wealth of diverse marine life. Belize is home to hundreds of cayes and atolls, and the reefs are filled with vibrant colors and abundant life.
The most famous diving site in Belize is the Blue Hole. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is over 460 feet deep and surrounded by a lagoon. It was discovered in the 1970s by Jacques Yves Cousteau. It is a marine protected area. A helicopter ride offers a unique view of the Blue Hole.
The Belize Barrier Reef is the largest double barrier reef in the world. It features 400 cayes and more than 500 species of fish. It is also home to hundreds of different species of coral.
The scuba diving sites in Belize are some of the best in the world. They are located in three different atolls. The Belize Barrier Reef is protected by seven marine reserve zones.
Turneffe Atoll is the largest of the atolls in Belize. It is 10 miles wide and is home to three different dive sites. The Belize Elbow is located at the southern tip of the atoll. This is a popular fishing site for thousands of fish.
Hol Chan is located north of Belize and has 30-meter deep waters. It is home to nurse sharks, colorful fish, and eels.
Medical care
Having a medical evacuation plan in place before you visit Belize can save you a lot of stress and money. The cost of a medical evacuation can be as much as $10,000, so it is best to make sure that you are prepared. You may also want to consider long-term major medical insurance. It will allow you to have medical treatment in the US.
Belize has a healthcare system that includes both public and private health sectors. The public health sector is managed by the Ministry of Health. They subsidize emergency surgeries and subsidize vaccinations.
Several private companies operate in Belize including Cigna Global, Bupa/IHI, Belize Healthcare Partners, Belize Medical Associates, and Universal Health Services. They provide services to expats in Belize City.
For the most part, Belize's medical care is good, but does not reach the same standards as in the US. Its healthcare system has undergone several reforms over the years. However, it remains to be seen how well it will perform in the long run.
There are three private hospitals in Belize. Belize Medical Associates in Belize City is the hospital of choice for locals and the elite. It has higher level equipment and a higher caliber of doctors.
There are also three regional hospitals in Belize. The Karl Heusner Hospital has the best range of services. However, there is no level one trauma center in Belize.
Extend your coverage
Whether you are visiting Belize on a business trip, a family vacation or a scuba diving adventure, it is a good idea to look into extending your coverage. The country has taken some steps in the last year to improve its health and safety protocols.
Belize's new Travel Health Insurance program will provide some of the same benefits as a standard travel insurance plan. It will provide up to a total of $50,000 in medical expenses over 21 days. It also covers repatriation of mortal remains and emergency medical transportation. You can purchase the insurance at the land and sea border crossings, or you can get it from your hotel or travel agent.
Belize is located on the Caribbean coast of northern Central America. It is home to a large number of beautiful historic Mayan ruins, and is one of the best destinations for scuba diving in the world. It also has an impressive flora, including more than 500 species of birds.
It's not mandatory to buy insurance in Belize, but a solid plan can protect you from unexpected expenses while you are abroad. It's also a good idea to get a hurricane insurance policy in case the country suffers from a hurricane. Hurricanes can occur as early as June, and as late as November.
The Belize Tourism Board recommends that tourists get a travel health insurance plan. A comprehensive plan may include coverage for medical evacuation, baggage loss, trip cancellation, and more.