Belize
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Belize?
We asked people in Belize if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"In Belize, it is important to respect the diverse cultural backgrounds and traditions. In your interactions with local people, be aware of any sensitive topics such as politics or racial issues. To show respect, you should also be aware of clothing etiquette. Men and women should dress conservatively in public, women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, and the use of profanity should be avoided. Additionally, during social gatherings and conversations, avoid making loud or offensive gestures. Lastly, show respect to local elders by addressing them with respectful titles like “Sir”, “Madam”, or “Ma’am”," said another expat in Belize.
"Many! In a nice, small outdoor cafe I was served a traditional Garifuna dish called hudut. A whole fish lay in a bowl of delicious broth and on a plate was a mound of mashed plantain. I had no idea what to do with the plantain, so I asked the waitress. With a bashful giggle she told me to dip it in the soup. Additionally, a napkin was put on the table with a smooth rounded brown rock. I asked what this was, thinking it was also something to eat! Even the cook laughed and said, "it's a rock so the napkin won't blow away!"," wrote a member who made the move to Hopkins Village, Belize.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Belize?
If you live in Belize, newcomers to Belize would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.
