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Bookmark & shareBelize's colorful former capital is a ramshackle city with raffish charm.
Belize City's urban scenery is not just odorous old canals and grungy slums. There's also handsome colonial houses, seaside parks, bustling shopping areas and sailboats bobbing at the mouth of Haulover Creek. Walking the city's streets can be very hot, and occasionally threatening, but never dull.
No longer the political capital, Belize City is still home to a quarter of the nation's population. A haven for creative minds, boasting the best of Belizean arts and entertainment, shops and restaurants, it's also the perfect base to explore the country's stunning ancient and natural wonders.
Travel Warning: Don't be a Hero
Travelers should stay alert for muggers and hustlers, particularly in the Southside District and near Southside Canal. Don't walk alone and always take a taxi after dark. Don't be a hero if you are being robbed - hand over your valuables.
severity: Mid-level alert
Fast Facts
Population
66,100
Currency
Name: Belize Dollar
Code: BZD
Symbol: BZ$
Electrical Plugs
110/220V 60Hz
Languages Spoken
Official: English
Time Zones
GMT/UTC -6
Country Dialing Code
+501
Weights & Measures
Metric
Belize - Pick & Mix Chapters
Download the free Getting Started chapter or buy individual chapters from our Belize guide, in our online Shop.
› Go to the Belize download page.
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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
