Punta Gorda, Belize
Last updated on Jul 11, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Punta Gorda, Belize. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know about living in Punta Gorda?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Punta Gorda, they said:
"Before retiring in Punta Gorda, expats should know that the cost of living is relatively low compared to many Western countries, but it is higher than in other parts of Belize. The official language is English, which makes it easier for expats from English-speaking countries to communicate and integrate. The healthcare system in Belize is not as advanced as in some Western countries, so expats may need to travel to larger cities or even out of the country for certain medical procedures. It's advisable to have a comprehensive health insurance plan that covers medical evacuation. Punta Gorda is a small town with a slow pace of life, which can be a big change for those used to living in a bustling city. The town is known for its friendly and welcoming community, but it's also important to respect the local culture and customs. The climate in Punta Gorda is tropical, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. Expats should be prepared for this, as well as for the possibility of hurricanes during the rainy season. While Punta Gorda is generally safe, expats should still take basic precautions to protect their personal safety and belongings. This includes being aware of their surroundings, locking doors and windows, and not displaying signs of wealth. Expats should also be aware that while Belize has a relatively stable government, the country's infrastructure can be lacking in some areas. This includes unreliable internet and electricity, and roads that can be difficult to navigate, especially in the rainy season. Finally, it's important for expats to understand the visa and residency requirements for living in Belize. This includes knowing the process for applying for the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) program, which offers a number of benefits for retirees," said one expat in Punta Gorda.
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What do I need to know before moving to Punta Gorda?
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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 Punta Gorda?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Punta Gorda?
- What is the average cost of housing in Punta Gorda?
- How do I meet people in Punta Gorda?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Punta Gorda?
- What should I pack when moving to Punta Gorda?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Punta Gorda?
- Will I be able to find a job in Punta Gorda?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Punta Gorda?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Punta Gorda?
- What is the social scene like in Punta Gorda?
- What advice to expats in Punta Gorda have about housing?
- What are medical services in Punta Gorda like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Punta Gorda?
- Is the cost of living in Punta Gorda high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Punta Gorda?
- Why do people move to Punta Gorda?