Living in Belize

"I love Belize, I am from London UK, now in America and we have bought some land in Belize and will be building a home and emigrating soon. We did months of research prior to spending 20 days there and fell in love. Best part is that it is only a 20 minute flight to the Cayes. Scuba diving is a must, I will definitely do that again. And Mexico is so near to us (Corozal) it is just a 20 minute drive to get to the big department stores so a win win. I love the way of life there, only thing I would say is never expect the place you emigrate to, to be and have exactly what you already have. People who have emigrated there with no research have moved back out of Belize as they expected Walmart and Starbucks on every corner, and a good old American food. Research, choose a few places then spend a few days at least in both," explained one expat living in Corozal, Belize.

"Belize has been at the forefront of Disc Golf progress in Central America since 2020. There are now 12 courses in Belize most of which are Public and either free or $5 Bz to play. Most courses are in parks or large farms. A couple are located in growing expat communities specifically in Corozal. There are also now monthly competitions moving rotating around the courses. Come enjoy Disc Golf in Paradise," wrote one member in Belize.

"It is really easy to meet people on Ambergris Caye. Here are just a few ideas of where we regularly socialize. Anything outdoor and health oriented is great on the island. My husband and I built the San Pedro Fitness Club, so I go there most days. Ladies tend to enjoy the water fitness classes, in particular, since it is both exercise and social time. But there are sailing groups, plenty of scuba and snorkeling opportunities, places that specialize in sailing or kayaking, and fishing groups and competitions. There are now also several yoga schools where you will meet health oriented people. So for those of us who like to balance healthy activities with a little indulgence, it is easy to do here... For those who enjoy live music, there are a variety of places where people hang out and listen to local bands, all for free. Beach bars include Crazy Canucks, BCs, and Fidos, all near town. On the north side, Legends often has good music. We love to dance to a live band on the beach, cooled by a sea breeze! Sunday afternoon lunch is a time when everyone goes out for beach BBQ and to socialize. Popular places include Caribbean Villas (they have plenty of water toys), Crazy Canucks, BCs, and the Palapa Bar (up north). We go to Wine de Vine on Friday nights. This is a "smoke free" environment where many expats, business owners and tourists drop in for a nice glass of wine, and a cheese platter. There are regular festivals and fund raiser events that many expats attend. It is a great way to socialize and also donate to a good cause. There are more volunteer organizations than I can mention. Many expats join both to contribute, and to meet people. The most popular are the Saga Society (which is the local Humane Society), the churches, Lion's Club, and various school organizations. Some groups get together to play cards such as bridge. And many of us get together for group dinners. Sometimes we meet a favorite restaurant. Other times we enjoy a pot luck with friends," remarked one expat who made the move to Ambergris Caye.

"Expats living in Belize can join a variety of different clubs and activities. Options include sailing, snorkeling and other water sports, yoga and meditation classes, extended day hikes and more. Expats may also want to visit the local markets and festivals for shopping, food, and cultural experiences. Other popular activities include golf, tennis, volleyball and basketball. In addition to all of these activities, expats can also meet people in Belize by taking classes at the local schools, attending church, and getting involved in volunteering. People also tend to gather in the bars and restaurants most evenings, making it a great opportunity to mingle and meet new people," explained one expat living in Belize.

"Open season on Gringos...check crime logs just for the month of July 2011...getting very scary if you are white American," commented one expat who made the move to San Ignacio.

"I have lived a very enjoyable 9 years in the Corozal area. Whoever wrote the other response is a real nay-sayer. Tell me anywhere in the world where things are perfect. If you wear gold jewelry and drive a big fancy car, you are a target. It is not that bad," remarked one expat living in Belize.

"Expat and digital nomads in Belize enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with an emphasis on outdoor activities like visiting Mayan ruins, exploring the jungles and cays, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and fishing. The people of Belize are warm and welcoming, with a culture based on the belief that the country belongs to everyone. With the rise of tourism, there is a thriving job market for those seeking employment. Living costs are relatively low and there is a great selection of affordable accommodation. The country is known for its diverse culture which blends the many influences of its previous colonizers. Expats and digital nomads can experience a truly unique way of life in the Caribbean paradise that is Belize," wrote one member in Belize.

"We do not hear about much crime in the area. The most news has to do with petty theft, which is why we are careful," remarked one expat living in Hopkins Village, Belize.

"Belize is generally considered a safe place to visit, although there have been reports of crime, especially in areas frequented by tourists. Petty theft, home break-ins, and burglaries are common, especially in Belize City. Street crime such as bag snatching, pickpocketing, and muggings may also occur. Travellers should practice common sense security measures and avoid venturing in isolated areas," wrote one member in Belize.

"Supposedly...l yes. Belize city is one of the most dangerous cities in the world... But it only has 60000 people in it, mostly during the weekdays. The killings tend to be gang related, drug related. In a specific area, south side, We live on the north side, in a very safe area. Our home is surrounded by a tall concrete wall, and our windows do have burglar bars on them. We have three large dogs which act as any further deterrent. I live here very happily, and feel very safe," remarked one expat who made the move to Belize City.

"Belize is a culturally and ethnically diverse country, with people of African, Spanish, Garifuna, Creole, Mennonite, East Indian, and Chinese descent, among others. Belizeans generally display a tolerant attitude towards differences between people and cultures, and there is a strong sense of unity throughout the country. The culture is mainly based on friendly respect, and the vast majority of Belizeans are accepting of people from all backgrounds and cultures," wrote one member in Belize.

"People are diverse, expats, locals, mayans, spanish etc. Yes, they are very friendly and accepting of differences. It's a tourist town, when the cruise ships come in once or twice a week. So, there are always loads of strangers about town, speaking different languages etc. Most locals are very friendly and welcoming of strangers," remarked one expat who made the move to Belize City.

"It is a great opportunity for small class sizes with a diverse background of students. The school values diversity and helps children understand the value in every child," wrote an expat with kids at Ambergris Caye Elementary School in San Pedro Town.

"Belize has a range of international and bilingual schools with high quality educational standards. The best international schools in Belize include the Saint John's College in Belize City and the New Horizons Academy in Corozal Town. Both offer modern and up-to-date teaching programs, as well as small classroom sizes, enabling teachers to provide a highly personalized learning experience for each student. The bilingual schools in Belize, such as Belizean Dreams Academy and the Monte de Luz Belize Spanish Immersion School, are just as impressive in providing an immersive and interactive education. These schools foster a deep appreciation of the diversity of Belize by offering both English and Spanish programs, allowing students to understand the local culture while gaining an impartial view of the world," commented one expat when asked about in Belize.

"We have no house payment since our home is paid for. We are doing very well on about 3,000 U.S. per month, though we could get by for much less," explained one expat living in Hopkins Village, Belize.

"That is such a leading answer. The QRP package requires that you bring 2000 us dollars into the country per month. For those not taking the QRP package, and taking up plain residency (takes a year to do) , there are people living on a lot less than 2000 US and living comfortably," said one expat in Belize City.

"Cost of living is good. You can live as cheaply as you desire. Property taxes are very low at around $15-35/year US. If you eat local produce, fish and chicken the prices are very reasonable.," mentioned an expat living in Placencia.

"San Pedro is the TOWN on Ambergris Caye. Same place. Monthly expenses (not living rich but nice will run you approx. $1,500 - $2,000 per month. You will need a work permit (yes, even to teach online). That will cost you total to go through all paperwork around $2,500 BZD ($1,250 usd), per year. If you want transportation, you can buy a bike for a few hundred bucks. If you want a golf cart, to purchase you’re looking at $3,000 USD - $12,000 USD depending on whether you want a used fixer or brand new. Permitting cost there as well. You can rent a golf cart for $400USD per month. Basic cost (food will vary depending on how much you eat out and if you buy American items at the grocery store or not (anything you get in the US that you can’t live without - just plan to pay DOUBLE what you do in the US. Import duties, shipping to Belize city, then shipping to ambergris and then it’s DOUBLE. So, for a single person, eating out twice a week at areal sit down restaurant (one lunch, one dinner), you can do street food stands a little cheaper, it would be something like this (assuming a US quality housing arrangement: Rent -$650 - $1,000 Cable/internet - $70 Water - $25 Electricity - $ 150 - $250 Food - $200-$400 Entertainment/restaurants - $200 Golf cart rental - $400 Visa stamp - $25 (+ work permit app mentioned above) $1750 - $2,500 depending on lifestyle. $1,500 minimum," said an expat in San Pedro.

"We live in the Cayo District and it's at least as safe as where we lived in Ottawa. The Belize dollar is pegged (2 for 1) to the US Dollar, so how far your CAD goes depends on the current exchange rate. Some things like gas are more expensive. If you "live like a local" then your cost of living will be much lower than in Canada. Live like a local means eating local, ie rather than Kellogs Corn Flakes look for the local brand of cereal, etc. If you want to maintain your North American lifestyle, it's possible of course. But we came here to simplify and that is certainly possible. You don't have neighbours who are trying to keep up with the Jones'. Healthcare - we don't have a plan here. If you have an existing, serious health condition then reconsider living here. Healthcare is cheap compared to the US but in Canada, most of your services were "free" (of course paid for through your taxes). Here we pay as we go. For example, I had to have an eye examination and drops. The whole shebang (exam and medication) cost me $25 USD. I have to have a tooth filled. The cost was $50 USD," remarked one expat in Carmelita Gardens.

"Living in Belize is generally inexpensive. It has a low cost of living which is similar to other Central American countries. A nice one bedroom apartment in Belize can cost around $400 - $650 USD per month in rent. A nice two bedroom apartment in Belize typically runs around $700 - $1000 USD. Eating out at a moderately priced restaurant will usually cost around $15 - $20 USD. The cost of living tends to be higher in the capital, Belmopan and in other more touristy areas like San Pedro and Placencia," wrote one expat living in Belize.

"I own my little house here and spend about US$110o per month. I tracked it for about 4 months last year, including car tabs renewal and such," commented one expat who moved to Esperanza.

"There is always swimming in the beautiful Caribbean Sea and private pools. The village has a miniature golf place, and there is an outside basketball court. Soccer (futbal) is also played on the beach. There are many natural attractions like hiking, waterfalls, zip lining, motorcycling in the area," said one expat.

"In Belize, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and nature reserves. The country is home to many beautiful beaches, such as the popular Placencia Beach, which offers a variety of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. There are also numerous parks and nature reserves, such as the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of wildlife and offers hiking trails and bird watching. Other recreational activities include fishing, diving, and sailing. Belize also has a vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants," commented one expat living in Belize.

"Average 85 degrees year round. We have a rainy and dry seasons. May and June are some of the warmer months where it gets to be 90's," remarked one expat in Placencia.

"I would be cautious about letting a summer visit determine whether you can get through the humidity. You’d be coming at the hottest and most humid time of the year, yes, but potentially without the opportunity to acclimatize. My husband and I moved to the Cayo last October and temps were still in high 80s to low 90s (with very high humidity). Not pleasant! Now, when we hit those temps, we don’t feel it as we did 4-5 months ago. It can take months to properly acclimate. And we know that the hottest months are still ahead of us," wrote one expat living in Carmelita Gardens.

"One of the most popular restaurants in Belize is Elvi's Kitchen, located in San Pedro. Elvi's Kitchen is known for its traditional Belizean cuisine, such as stewed chicken, rice and beans, and fry jacks. The restaurant also offers a variety of seafood dishes, including conch fritters, lobster, and shrimp. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Another popular restaurant in Belize is The Truck Stop, located in Belize City. The Truck Stop is a casual eatery that serves up a variety of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and tacos. The restaurant also offers a selection of local beers and cocktails. The atmosphere is lively and the staff is friendly and helpful. Finally, The Reef Restaurant, located in Placencia, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The Reef Restaurant serves up a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled fish, lobster, and shrimp. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff is friendly and attentive. The restaurant also offers a selection of local beers and cocktails," mentioned one expat inBelize.

"The restaurants vary from about 5 star to small family cafes run by locals. The food is always delicious and prepared fresh. Don't ever be in a hurry for service! Bars or restaurants with bar service are open and lively in the evenings -- especially on the weekends. Many have live music with traditional drumming and dancing," commented one expat who moved to Hopkins, Belize.

"There are many restaurants and bars in the area. Mostly serving local foods. There are some speciality restaurants like Italian and Chinese but most serve a variety. There is not alot of nightlife as this area is attractive to people that are outdoors types. But there is great local music in many establishments," remarked one expat living in Placencia.

"There are many grocery stores in Placencia but the beauty of this area is most product are delivered to your door. For Example, Bakery, Produce, Organic Foods, Water, Beverages, Wine, Beef, Chicken, Fresh Fish....," remarked one expat living in Placencia.

"If you are looking to have the comforts of the US you will not find them in Belize. You cannot go to a real grocery store and pick up things you are accustom to having. They don't have a large chain in the country just local corner stores found in big cities," said one expat living in Belize.

"The stores in Hopkins are small to medium variety stores that also sell a selection of groceries. There are also vendors around the village selling fresh vegetables and fruit, as well as baked goods.I Supply may be limited, but generally you can find what you need. There are several village stores offering various souvenirs," mentioned one expat inHopkins.

"Belize has just started the digital nomad program, not a lot of details are available yet though. Basically, many people come to live in Belize who are digital nomads. If your employer is non-Belizean and your funds are transferred into a non-Belizean bank account you will be able to live and work in Belize. You will need to identify your source of income and pay $200 BZD per month for your visitor visa however most people find that this is worth the price of being able to live in paradise," said one expat.

"Most people living on the Placencia peninsula get their visa stamps at the Big Creek Immigration office just outside of Independence/Mango Creek. You can take the Hokey Pokey water taxi from the village, or drive 45 to 60 minutes depending on where you are on the peninsula," commented one expat living in Placencia, Belize.

"Tourists must get their passport stamped every 30 days in order to remain in the country. This costs $50 BZD at the Immigration office. For residency, a tourist must live in the country for a year minus two weeks before applying," remarked one expat living in Hopkins.

"Residency requires you to live in the country for 1 year and you are only allowed to leave for 14 days during that time. There is a QRP -Retirement Program which is Temporary Residency and a Regular Temporary Residency. Otherwise you go monthly to immigration and get a stamp," said one expat living in Placencia.

"QRP is good for some people, especially those who wanted to bring an expensive vehicle and a container full of furniture or shop equipment. The people in charge of QRP really are serious about you having a defined pension, also. Sorry, plenty of rental and investment income is not good enough. But most folks I know have gone the PR (Permanent Residency) route, instead. The application ordeal is about the same, and once you have your PR status, you don't have to deal with annual renewals of QRP," mentioned one expat inEsperanza.

"In the US I have Medicare and a supplemental insurance, which is fine and I have had no problems with coverage. In Belize, I do not purchase medical insurance because it is very expensive. ," said an expat in Hopkins Village.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Belize can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Public healthcare is available, but it is limited and may not provide the same level of care as private healthcare. Additionally, the cost of medications and medical supplies can be high, and some treatments may not be covered by insurance," remarked one expat in Belize.