Belize is good for your blood pressure.
This tiny nation is so laid-back it's almost comatose. Dabbling its toes in the Caribbean Sea, Belize has more in common with its island neighbors than the fiery volatility of Central America - its history is thoroughly coup-free. Soak up the glorious natural wonders and rich cultural history.
Unpaved roads, high prices and a lack of infrastructure make it a difficult place to travel, but Belize compensates with brilliant diving, dramatic ruins and pristine jungle - secluded eco-lodges cater for sedentary adventurers. The English-speaking population is mainly Creole and Mestizos (mixed descent).
While most visits to Belize are trouble-free, violent crime can be a problem. It is confined mainly to Belize City, but serious crimes, some targeting tourists, also occur in the Mountain Pine Ridge area and the ruins near the Guatemalan border. Use common sense to avoid dangerous situations: only travel at night when necessary, use reputable tour operators and respect any local advice regarding safety. Only hire taxis with official green license plates and no-one else except the driver on board.
severity: Mid-level alert
Belize
287,730
Name: Belize Dollar
Code: BZD
Symbol: BZ$
110/220V 60Hz
Official: English
GMT/UTC -6
+501
Metric
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article by John Ryan, October 2005
Meet Chocolate, the one-man conservation team of Caye Caulker, Belize. John Ryan meets Chocolate's fishy friends and gossipy neighbours. Read the full article ›
Tags: Belize
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