Moving to Sarteneja, Belize
Last updated on Jul 11, 2023
Summary: Moving to Sarteneja, Belize? Expats talk about what you need to know before moving to Sarteneja.
What do I need to know before moving to Sarteneja?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Sarteneja, they said:
"Sarteneja is a small fishing village located in the Corozal District of Belize, known for its laid-back lifestyle and beautiful natural surroundings. Before moving to Sarteneja, expats should know that the primary language spoken is English, but Spanish and Creole are also widely spoken. The cost of living is relatively low compared to many Western countries, but it's important to budget for unexpected expenses. The local currency is the Belize dollar, which is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 2:1. Banking can be a challenge as there are no banks in Sarteneja, so expats will need to travel to larger towns for banking services. Healthcare facilities in Sarteneja are basic, with only a small health clinic available. For serious medical conditions, expats will need to travel to larger cities or even out of the country. Therefore, it's recommended to have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical evacuation. The climate in Sarteneja is tropical, with a wet and dry season. It can get very hot and humid, especially in the summer months. Expats should be prepared for this and take necessary precautions to stay hydrated and protect themselves from the sun. Sarteneja is a small community with a slow pace of life. Entertainment options are limited and the nightlife is virtually non-existent. However, the village is surrounded by natural beauty, with opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, bird watching, and exploring nearby nature reserves. Internet service in Sarteneja can be unreliable and slow. If you rely on the internet for work or staying in touch with family and friends, this could be a challenge. Public transportation is limited in Sarteneja. Most locals get around by bicycle or on foot. Having your own vehicle can be beneficial, but keep in mind that the roads can be rough, especially in the rainy season. Finally, while Belize in general is considered safe, like any place, it has its share of crime. Expats should take standard precautions to protect their personal safety and belongings," remarked one expat who made the move to Sarteneja.
How do I find a place to live in Sarteneja?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Sarteneja?
- How do I find a place to live in Sarteneja?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Sarteneja?
- What is the average cost of housing in Sarteneja?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Sarteneja?
- What should I pack when moving to Sarteneja?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Sarteneja?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Sarteneja?
- What are healthcare services like in Sarteneja?
- Is the cost of living in Sarteneja high?
- Will I save money living in Sarteneja?
- Why do people move to Sarteneja?
- How are healthcare services in Sarteneja?
- What are medical services in Sarteneja like?