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," commented one expat who made the move to Corozal.

"If you're interested in San Ignacio, I would suggest visiting Carmelita Gardens. It's a development about 7 miles from SI, just outside of Santa Familia. I'm not sure if you're looking to rent or buy, but you definitely want a place where you will feel welcome. So you're looking for a community. That's why I would recommend checking out Carmelita Gardens. There are rentals (short and long term) and lots (and a few homes) for purchase. It's a very welcoming community. Cheers," remarked one expat living in Carmelita Gardens, Belize.

"Before retiring in Belize, expats should understand that the cost of living is high compared to other Central American countries, and they will need to budget accordingly. Additionally, they should research their medical options in Belize, and familiarize themselves with the visa and residency requirements in order to stay legally in the country. It's also important to research the language and culture of Belize, as these will likely be very different from those at home. Finally, expats should be aware that the tropical climate and hurricane season may affect living conditions," wrote one member in Belize.

"Always travel to Belize first before you move here. Never try to make Belize just like it was for you back home... just accept Belize for what it is and enjoy it. It's an emerging third world country.... not the USA, so keep your expectations in check and go with the flow," remarked one expat who made the move to Belize City.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to Belize.

"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," wrote a member 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.

"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," remarked one expat living in 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," remarked one expat living 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," wrote one member in Belize City.

"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 who made the move to Hopkins Village.

"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," explained one expat living in Belize City, Belize.

"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," said one expat in Belize.

"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.

"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," explained one expat in San Pedro Town, Belize with kids at Ambergris Caye Elementary School.

"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," wrote one member in Belize City.

"The cost of living in Belize is generally quite reasonable, especially when compared to its surrounding countries. Depending on the city and lifestyle, the cost of rent can vary from relatively low to quite expensive. Utility bills, transportation costs, and food items generally tend to be quite affordable as Belize has lower costs for imports than other countries in Central America. Additionally, many goods are locally produced and therefore even cheaper," remarked one expat who made the move to Belize.

"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.," said one expat.

"The cost of living varies with what kinds of recreation is enjoyed. Living there and cooking your our food can keep expenses low. Liquor and/ or drinking and eating out will increase expenses depending on how much you need the social life. Utilities aren't bad unless you are dependent on air conditioning. I try to be very frugal with A/C and electricity in general," commented one expat living in Hopkins, Belize.

"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 who moved to Belize.

"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.

"Placencia Beach Club offers Swim Club memberships and is open to the public. Recreational activities here are mostly owned by individual operators and tour guides and most are connected to local hotels. To include: Diving, Snorkeling, Fishing, River Tours, Manatee Tours, Howler Monkey Tours. Mayan Ruins, Scarlet Macaw Tours, Cave Tubing," commented one expat living in Placencia, Belize.

"The temperature in Belize is generally 85 degrees Fahrenheit, year-round. If you are comfortable with that temperature, you should be fine. My husband enjoys taking a vacation to cold locations at some point during the winter to get his 'cold weather fix,' so that might be an option for some people. Get used to sweat, take it easy in the hottest part of the day, drink lots of water," 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," remarked one expat in Hopkins.

"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....," said one expat living in Placencia.

"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.

"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," commented one expat who moved to Belize.

"People living in Belize typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop at larger department stores and malls located in the larger cities. Additionally, some people may shop online for groceries and other items," remarked one expat living in Belize.

"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 an expat in Placencia.

"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. ," wrote one expat living 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," commented one expat who moved to Belize.