12 Tips for Living in Hopkins, Belize

By LouieB

Expat Life in Hopkins

Hopkins is a small village filled with friendly people and lots of beautiful children. The village is not in an area where cruise ships stop so it is never crowded.

Cost of Living in Hopkins, Belize

As a retired couple living on our US social security checks every month we live here very comfortably. The highest regular bills are electricity and internet/cable tv, but even these expenses can be somewhat controlled through frugal use if necessary. We purchase meat in larger quantities wholesale and we purchase vegetables and fruit from local vendors.

Local Clubs and Organizations

Volunteers can always help out at the local school or in the village library. There are groups like a bird watching club that meets regularly to explore as well as neighborhood walkers who gather for the exercise. There is a local gym for which memberships can be purchased for work outs inside with air conditioning.

International Schools in Hopkins

There are no international schools in Hopkins, but since the classes are taught in English an expat child will be more comfortable.

Shopping in Hopkins

There are several markets in Hopkins, large and small. The grocery choices are quite extensive. Additionally, there are several stores where souvenirs can be purchased as well as places where handmade items can be bought, like wood carvings and jewelry. The small cafes and restaurants offer a variety of delicious food that is exceptional for a small village.

Public Transportation

There are busses.always available as well as many taxis, so travel is not a problem no matter how far you need to go. You can also easily find a professional guide to take you anywhere. .

Climate

The climate is warm to hot with humidity adding a few degrees to the "feel like" temperature. The winter months offer the most comfortable temperatures with less humidity and the summer and early fall months are higher in temperature and humidity.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Hopkins offers all types of restaurants from the higher end resorts to the small locally run vendors. The food is delicious here. You can get traditional Belizean food, Garifuna speciality food, Chinese food, and Italian food with many mixes in between. Night life involves a few food and bar offerings that stay open later, especially on the weekends. This is where a tourist can enjoy the local culture which always includes music and drumming. Holidays and festivals are colorful and fun with bands, singing, dancing, and of course drumming.

What are local hospitals and emergency services like?

Hopkins has a new ambulance service and emergency care. There is a local clinic with a doctor nearby. There is also a hospital in Dangriga, about 40 minutes away.

Recreational Activities in Hopkins

There is sea swimming, fishing, snorkeling, and diving at Hopkins. Inland there is hiking, waterfalls, zip lining, atv rentals, and motor cycle rentals for exploring. There are many tours offered by experienced, knowledgeable guides.

Residency and Visa Requirements

Visiting Belize is easy. If you stay longer than 29 days you must go to Dangriga Immigration and get your visa/passport stamped. The charge is $50 per person Belize dollars a month. Residency requires a stay if 50 weeks of the year in Belize and then an application for residency with a payment and documentation of income, etc.

Crime in Hopkins, Belize

Avoiding crime which is mostly burglary involves being wise. Don't flash money around when making purchases. Leave expensive jewelry at home. Don't wander around late at night.