Belize is a tiny pearl on the Caribbean sea, tucked away between Mexico
and Guatemala, only a 2 to 3 hour flight from Houston, Miami or Jamaica.
It is the only English speaking country in Central America and boasts the
longest barrier reef in the Northern hemisphere, many Mayan temples,
unspoilt rainforests and, to top it off, some of the friendliest people
you're ever likely to meet.
We've compiled information below to help you in your travels here.
For further specific information click on our
Frequently asked Questions - FAQ page.
Useful Tips and Information:
Quick Facts
Belize was formerly known as British Honduras until its independence from
Britain in 1981. The capital city is Belmopan and the largest city is
Belize city (pop. 75,000). Belize has over 200 offshore islands, the
largest barrier reef in the western Hemisphere and world’s first
and largest Jaguar Reserve. It is also the location of many Mayan archeological
sites and the oldest Maya site (Cuello, 2400 BC) in Central America.
 Getting Here
Belize is serviced by:
American Airlines,
United Airlines, US Airways, and Delta Airways
with all flights arriving at the Belize Airport in Belize City.
American and Continental offers flights from Dallas, Houston, and Miami,
while Taca flies from Houston, Cancun in Mexico, and El Salvador.
United Airlines flies from Charlotte, North Carolina directly to Belize.
Another option is to fly to Cancun in Mexico and navigate down the east
coast of Mexico, entering Belize at the Northern border. The trip from
Cancun is by air conditioned bus to Chetumal with a duration of 6 hours.
Add another 2 to 3 hours to reach Belize City from the border.
 Geographical Size
Belize is approximately 175 miles long and 70 miles wide.
The longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere provides
sheltered waters along the entire coast, on the Carribbean sea.
Central America & Belize Maps
 Population
About 275,000 friendly people of British, Spanish, Mayan, Carib and
African descent, and any mix of the same. There is also also a strong
presence of Mennonite communities of German descent.
 Language
The official language of Belize is English, although most Belizeans
speak an English/Carribbean patois called "Creole". Spanish and Maya are
also spoken in some parts of the country, especially the more rural and
agricultural areas.
 Government
Belize has been an independent nation since 1981 and a member of the
British Commonwealth, with a democratically elected governmental body.
 Currency
The exchange rate maintains a constant 2 Belize Dollar for each US
Dollar. US currency and major credit cards are accepted throughout
many parts of Belize. The Banks in Belize will usually accept only
US dollars and Euros for conversion into Belize dollars. US Dollars are accepted everywhere in Belize,
and we suggest bringing a small amount of Dollars in Cash, with the remaining money in US Dollar Travelers Cheques.
Universal Currency Converter
 Electricity
Same as the US 110 volts. Adapters required only for non-US type European plugs.
 Weather
December, January and Febuary are the cooler months with temperatures
dipping to 60-70F (sometimes). Always expect hotter days where temperatures
will reach into the 90s. March to July generally typify the dry season with
little rain and temperatures into 90F, sometimes hitting 100F. August to
November provide the heaviest rain period where conditions will be humid
and hot. If you are concerned about the heat then travel in the first few
months of the year. Otherwise Belize will generally provide many hot, sunny
days whatever the time of year you come.
Travel Guide and Useful Information
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About Belize
