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Pros and Cons of Living in San Ignacio

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By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 19, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in San Ignacio, Belize include its close proximity to many of the country's top attractions, such as the Mayan ruins, the Belize Zoo, and the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. The town also offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and bird watching. Additionally, the cost of living in San Ignacio is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to live on a budget. The cons of living in San Ignacio include the lack of public transportation, which can make it difficult to get around. Additionally, the town is relatively small, so there are limited job opportunities and entertainment options. Furthermore, the town is located in a tropical climate, so it can be hot and humid during the summer months.

What are the pros and cons of living in San Ignacio?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in San Ignacio responded:

"Expats and digital nomads living in San Ignacio, often like the laid-back lifestyle, friendly locals, and the town's close-knit community. They appreciate the low cost of living, which allows them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The natural beauty of the surrounding area, with its lush jungles, rivers, and ancient Mayan ruins, is also a major draw for those who enjoy outdoor activities and exploring. The warm climate is another attractive feature for expats and digital nomads, as it allows for year-round outdoor activities and eliminates the need for heavy winter clothing. Additionally, the availability of fresh, locally-sourced produce and seafood is a plus for those who enjoy cooking and eating healthy meals. However, there are also some aspects of living in San Ignacio that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The town's infrastructure can be lacking, with unreliable internet connections and frequent power outages, which can be frustrating for those who rely on technology for work or communication. The healthcare facilities in San Ignacio are limited, and more serious medical issues may require travel to Belize City or even outside the country. Some expats and digital nomads may also find the slower pace of life and limited entertainment options to be a downside, especially if they are used to a more bustling urban environment. The town's small size can also make it feel somewhat isolated, and the lack of public transportation options can make it difficult to explore other parts of Belize without a car. Finally, while the locals are generally friendly and welcoming, there can be a language barrier for those who do not speak Spanish or Belizean Creole, which may make it challenging to fully integrate into the community," said one expat in living in San Ignacio, Belize.

"Life is what you make of it. I love living in Belize, but I also do not have a lot of needs for high fashion and trendy things. I have usually lived in a semi-rural area, so the Cayo District of Belize feels homey to me. Urban folks might find it to be too slow. The official language here is English, with a lot of Spanish spoken. Anyone in customer service is bilingual or trilingual (to include Belizean Kriol). I wanted to live somewhere warm and lots of Central America fits the bill, but the English language and common law here are the icing on the cake. Some people think that Belize is just the island of Ambergris Caye and its village, San Pedro. Lots of expats out there, but most of us who live inland are happy to let them have it," wrote one expat in San Ignacio.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

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