Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Belize. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to do in Belize, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do during your trip to Belize!
Don’t Worry About the Crime Statistics
Most people worry “Is Belize Safe?” and will google this to find out. Yes, Belize has issues, and the crime statistics do seem high. However, as a tourist, you likely won’t run into any of this crime. It’s mostly concentrated in the cities, not in the tourist areas. Of course, you have to use the usual travel smarts that you would use anywhere in the world.
Don’t Be in a Hurry
Although all of Belize is not an island, they definitely operate on “island time.” After a few days, you get used to it, and can even start to enjoy island time, but it does take a few days to get used to. You’ll hear “Go Slow” a lot when you visit Belize.
Don’t Pass Up The Beach Grills
There are lots of restaurants in Belize, but they also have pop-up grills in these huts along the road and on the beaches. Don’t be scared to try these little shacks. The food is actually really good, and it’s usually way cheaper.
Don’t Worry If You Don’t Know Where Belize Is
A lot of people have heard of Belize but have no idea where it’s actually located. That’s pretty common. It’s in Central America, on a small strip of land between Guatemala and Mexico on the Caribbean Sea. It only became an independent country in 1981, so it’s a relatively “new” country.
Don’t Worry About Speaking Spanish
You might assume that Belize, like most Central American countries, is a Spanish-speaking nation. English is the official language of Belize. Everything is in English, which makes it a great international destination for first-time travelers who might be nervous about dealing with language differences.
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Don’t Be Surprised at Communication Challenges
Even though you’re both speaking English, you still might have some communication challenges with the Belizeans. They may throw some Creole or Spanish in there and tend to have a heavy accent. But you’ll get through it, just speak a little slowly if needed. It’s no different than traveling in Ireland and trying to understand their English. Or the Deep South, for that matter!
Don’t Forget Bug Spray & Sun Block
Belize is in a tropical climate and it’s buggy. The bugs can be pretty bad, especially if you are visiting Belize rainforests or doing any activities inland. You also need sunblock to protect your skin as the sun is pretty strong. Chances are, you’ll be enjoying the Belize beaches during your trip, so make sure you don’t get a sunburn and ruin your trip! Even if you’re not at the beach, but out exploring Mayan ruins in Belize, you’ll be in the sun.
Don’t Miss Snorkeling or Scuba Diving
If you’re able to, make sure you get out in the water for snorkeling or diving in Belize. Belize has the second-largest barrier reef in the world. Our kids loved it, as you can see a lot of cool marine life underwater. Even if you’re not a strong swimmer, it’s pretty easy to snorkel. However, when you sign up for an outing, don’t overstate your abilities. Be honest with the guides about your swimming or diving skills. They will help you choose the right equipment for your skill level.
Don’t Assume Every Tour Company is the Same
If you’re going to sign up for a day tour in Belize, make sure you do your research on the tour companies. Some Belize tours are geared towards younger travelers, while other tours are more family-friendly. Prices are pretty similar, but experiences can vary greatly.
Don’t Take Anything From The Reef
This should go without saying, but don’t take anything from the reef when you are out swimming. Don’t even touch it if you can help it. It’s a protected area, and the coral is very sensitive and easily killed when disturbed. You should even try to wear reef-safe sunscreen to minimize the damage done.
Don’t Expect to See Wildlife in the Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is one of the most famous places to go in Belize. It’s really cool to see, but it’s not the best place for viewing marine life underwater. If you want to really see cool underwater activity, the coral reef is a much better spot.
Don’t Worry About Walking Around With Your Drinks
In Belize, it’s totally legal to walk around with a cocktail. As long as it’s in a plastic cup or a can, not a glass bottle, you’re free to enjoy a drink as you stroll the beach.
Don’t Think Marijuana is Legal
You will more than likely smell marijuana in Belize. Don’t assume that it’s legal just because you can smell it. The drug laws are actually pretty strict, and as a foreigner, you really don’t want to get busted for drugs. It’s not worth it.
Don’t Think Belize is Just Beaches
Although Belize beaches are amazing, there is so much more to see and do on your Belize trip. There are Mayan ruins in Belize, and you can even make a day trip over to Tikal in Guatemala. There were over one million Mayans here at one point, which is more than double the current population of Belize. There are jungle tours and spelunking tours.
Don’t Expect to See Jaguars
You might see warning signs around Belize to watch out for Jaguars. They’re actually pretty rare, so unless you are out in the jungle at night looking for them, you’re not likely to see any jaguars in Belize. You will see other animals in Belize; don’t mess with them!
Don’t Expect to Find Any Chains
If you like to travel with hotel points, you might have a hard time finding a place to stay in Belize. There aren’t a lot of chain hotels or chain restaurants in Belize. Most of the hotels are small, independent hotels and resorts. This means you have to do a bit more research before booking your Belize accommodation.
Don’t Worry About Exchanging Money
If you’re coming from the United States, you don’t even have to worry about exchanging money in Belize. Belize has its own currency, the Belize Dollar, but nearly anywhere you go will accept US Dollars. The Belize Dollar is pegged to the US Dollar 2-to-1, so whatever the price is in Belize dollars, you can pay half that in US dollars. It can be hard to find ATMs, so it’s nice to be able to bring money from home and not worry about getting cash when you arrive.
Don’t Expect Latin America Prices
Most Latin American destinations are very affordable and make for a good budget vacation. Belize is more expensive than other Central American countries we’ve visited. Like Costa Rica, there are more tourists here, which drives up the prices a bit.
Don’t Forget the Seasons in Belize
While Belize is close to the equator and warm year-round, there are distinct seasons. Hurricane season is from June until November, with September and October being the rainiest months in Belize. December through March is the busiest tourist season in Belize.
Don’t skip out on a trip to Belize! It’s a great place for outdoor adventure, lazy beach days and a laid-back lifestyle. Our whole family really enjoyed our Belize vacation. Looking for more tips on visiting Latin America? Check out these blog posts!