Much of the solid waste is burned in landfills, which creates highly toxic air pollution, while liquid waste ends up back in the ground, or even in the ocean. 10. Garnaches photo credit: Cooking with Shirani on YouTube . But it wasn't just the beggars and drug dealers that were ugly in Belize. We've all heard the original rendition of this saying, but it also applies to our many Maya temples scattered across Belize. Unfortunately, Belize ranks consistently in the top 10 countries in the world with the highest rate of homicides. Yes, many hotels have A/C, but not allbut even then, they keep it off during the day to save electricity, and will ask you to do the same. Being able to freely converse with Belizeans makes day-to-day tasks like shopping, asking directions, or dealing with repair people much easier. Some coral can literally bite back and deliver a substantial sting if brushed with bare skin. Belize caters to people from all walks of life - the rich, the poor and the in between. Caracol is the best-known Mayan ruin in Belize, but there are many others to see, including Altun Ha, Santa Rita, and Cahal Pech. Forget about conversion rates on your trip to Belize. No McDonalds, Walmarts or high-rise concrete jungles. Figuring out your pastime is . As much as I adore Guatemala and Nicaragua. Plan to stay at an inland hotel - then, expect to chuck out $15 and . It's the only English speaking country in Central America: Belize was occupied by the British, making it unique among its neighbors. Travelers favorites include #1 Ambergris Caye, #2 Great Blue Hole and more. This is the reality of Central American capitals. There is no bad pizza. 4.) Both drug and human trafficking - and the gangs responsible for them - are the main causes of increased violence. 9. You never know who's listening. They are protected species and delicate. Do not leave without tasting Belizean Cuisine. This easy-to-remember fact will simplify your travel budget: US Dollars are worth twice their denomination in Belizean Dollars (BZD). Showcasing some of the nature's best gift to man, Belize is known as Mother Nature's Best Kept secret, and we call it the tropical paradise. Advertisment Cahal Pech - Top Rated Belize Hotel Advertisment Black Orchid Resort Advertisment Belize R Us Advertisment Mariposa Beach Resort Advertisment * Crime: We have a very high crime rate for a country of our size. You won't be able to . Belize is not for people who need external regulations and rules/need to be told the appropriate level of risk to take - One of the most exhilarating, freeing, yet scary things about Belize, is the choose-your-own-level-of-risk nature about it.There ARE laws and these laws can be implemented at any time - but enforcement is inconsistent. If white sands and turquoise waters are your idea of paradise, either one of these will be your dream come true. Ambergris Caye. Walking through Belize City, it's difficult NOT to notice the depravity. 2. Virtually everyone agreed that certain areas of Belize City were dangerous, as were certain activities, but then again, virtually no expats live anywhere around these areas or engage in those. Belize is not that much, but compared to the other neighbouring nations in Central America, Belize is expensive. 2. . You can even visit Tikal in Guatemala on a day trip from San Ignacio. Marie Sharp's is a staple on every Belizean table. "Inland, you could rent . It is more rustic and developing here. The Spanish conquistadors originally explored Belize and claimed it for Spain, but they decided not to settle it because of a lack of resources. Don't walk alone with too much jewelry in the night Having said that though, there are definitely some negatives about living here. Less pressurized. Establishing the budget. No super-cold, central air conditioning This is something visitors and expats moving to Belize have to get used to. (waste disposal in rural areas etc) Things I hated: the government is the worst--corruption and nepotism reign, although I think that is the case in most Latin American countries. A very heart-wrenching site. Life in Belize. Belize City crime is rampant and Belize City is dangerous. Belize will offer you fun and enjoyment, and provide you with so many enthralling new experiences. Whether visiting Caye Cauler, San Ignacio, Belize City or Cave Tubing and Seeing Mayan sights there are a lot of great culture shocks for travelers when they. Belize freely accepts the U.S. dollar. It's where I am from. Housing prices have a wide range and can wind up being as much as in many places in North America. Getting Around Belize Transportation in Belize can be a bit of a shock. If you're a diver or fisherman or love to snorkel, you've no doubt heard of the Isla Bonita (beautiful island) of Ambergris Caye. Here Are 10 Things First-Timers Should Do New Study Reveals That the Mayas of [Belize] Were Skilled Dentists Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas Advertisment Captain Jak's Cabanas & Rental Services! There's little opportunity for non-essential shopping in Belize, and there are no big chain stores. 12 Sleepy: Santa Rosa Village (Avoid) Via Buy Belize Real Estate (Santa Rosa Village) Another frequent spot for armed robbery is the little village of Santa Rosa. When snorkeling or scuba diving do not stand on or touch the coral. Although it does have its own currency, the Belizean Dollar (BZD), its conversion rate is a steady 2 BZD:1 USD. I also do not recommend spending time in Guatemala City or Managua. (In this case, "caye" is pronounced as "key," by the way.) Ties to Britain Belize is the only nation in the region with a British colonial heritage. 8. Do not expect to find a Cancun-type experience in Belize. Here are seven signs you won't be happy in Belize: You're a hobby shopper. 1. 3. 2. Cruise ships in particular create a problem for the popular beach areas around Belize City, which lack a solid waste management system. We are like Cancun was 25 years ago, more natural. In recent years, there have been some high-profile murders of U.S. citizens in Belize's tourist areas, including in Ambergris Caye, Hopkins, and Corozal, although most of the incidents that have. But in the world there are only a handful of things I know to be true, and this is one of them. 1. 4. Whether you are backpacking or want to travel to Belize on a budget, it's best to get your priorities straight before going to Belize. And there is a very high chance of exper. While this is a tragedy, it also means that Belize is relatively safe for tourists. Poor human beings that were shriveled and insane, living on the streets. 8 fun facts you might not know about Belize 1. Pros of Living in Belize 1) English is the Official Language 2) Kind and Friendly People 3) Low Cost of Living 4) Good Instant Medical Facility 5) Tropical Living 6) Adventurous Life Cons of Living in Belize 1) Crime Rate 2) Limited High-Quality Healthcare 3) Road Condition 4) Humidity can be Oppressive Conclusion Read about other countries: This means 1 US Dollar = 2 BZ Dollars. It is the center of the Mundo Maya: The Maya civilisation has thrived in Belize for hundreds of years, as evidenced by the dozen or more protected archeological sites. For the ultimate experience, join us as we count down the 10 most dangerous spots in Belize plus recap the 10 tourist favorites. I know it's a harsh statement. The Belizean dollar is pegged to the US dollar. Here are 25 Things To Know About Belize. Depend on your tour guide to show you how to explore our marine life without damaging anything. English is the official language of Belize. Answer (1 of 2): Belize is my home. For more information on things to do in Belize, feel free to email us at info@travelbelize.org or call us toll-free at 1-800-624-0686. And there is no other place I would rather live. It's that simple. 20 Domestic Disturbance: Dangriga Town (Avoid) via Britannica (Dangriga) The town of Dangriga has seen its fair share of gang-related incidents in the past few years. Ranking of the top 10 things to do in Belize. While you might have it better than most and it might be tempting to brag about all you have, try not to as it will only make you a target for muggers. Located in the Southern Highway, Santa Rosa doesn't have anything worthy for a stop except for the warm locals along the way. It was the pitiful, atrophied human beings that were clearly living in an altered reality. There is so much to do in the waters and on the lands. The country is beautiful and most Belizeans really try to care for the environment even though resources are limited. Macarena Rose, who moved from the U.S. to Belize, provided some examples.