Travel tips coming to Belize
Traveling to Belize can be daunting - a list of items and tips on traveling to Belize, visa requirements for Belize, what to bring and what to do and expect upon arrival!
Belize is a small Caribbean country south of Mexico in the Caribbean Sea. The famed explorer, Jaques Cousstau, called Belize the Jewel of the Caribbean. Belize is much more than just a jewel—a treasure chest of adventure, history, and culture filled with natural beauty and man made wonders.
It may even be a bit overwhelming for a first time traveler to decide what areas to visit, which attractions to see, and what adventures to experience. Even though the land is small, travel can take longer than the mileage indicates!
So, you made your accommodation reservation at Blue Parrot Beach House, booked your airplane ticket, and planned your tours. In a blink, your dream vacation is here, and you have to start packing!
What to bring???
Clothing
Belize has a comfortable year round tropical climate and a very laid-back, relaxed culture. Casual, light weight moisture wicking and natural fiber clothing is recommended. If you are planning an active adventure filled vacation, ensure you bring the correct clothing, shoes, and equipment for your activity. Although almost all accommodations and guides will provide equipment and regular clothes and footwear will surfice, having the right gear will make your vacation more enjoyable.
Good sun protection is essential while in Belize, as you will spend a lot of time outdoors. Consider long-sleeved, light weight "fishing shirts" to wear into the jungle and light weight long pants—not only will this protect against the sun but also against mosquitoes. Don't forget your wide rimmed hat and water shoes or hiking sandals for activities like cave tubing and ziplining.
Restaurants are very laid back in their dress code. Linen is a great choice for the tropical climate, and you don’t need to dress for dinner, unless you want to.
Recommended Packing List
Essentials: Clothing & Accessories
Wide-brimmed hat
Sunglasses
Swimsuit & cover-up
Short-sleeved shirts (quick drying) Light colored, preferably.
Long-sleeved lightweight shirt (at least one for protection from the elements) Light colored clothing is recommended because dark colors attract mosquitoes and heat.
Shorts (plus one pair of lightweight long pants)
Lightweight sweater
Pajamas/sleepwear
Underwear
Sandals/flip flops
Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers or waterproof hiking shoes) & socks
Toiletries & prescription medications
Sunscreen: Reef-friendly, please!
Bug repellent: there are a lot of all natural bug repellents available in Belize, made by local entrepreneurs. I am a biting insect magnet, and after trying all the commercially DEET and DEET free products, my go-to is the local stuff, especially the mosquito repellent from Jungle Infusions. Not only is it an all-natural repellent, it is also an after-bite itch reliever!
Tip: Apply sunscreen first, and then bug spray.
Tip: Be prepared for rain showers at some point every day. (Disposable) rainponchos are a great space saver to pack!
Strongly recommended items to remember:
Smartphone (check with your carrier; beware of roaming charges)
iPad or e-reader
Headphones
Chargers
2 Pens (to fill out customs and arrival forms)
Camera and/or video recorder (and charger)
Draw string or a small backpack (waterproof, ideally).
Water bottle (the water at Blue Parrot is drinkable, although we do provide drinking water to our guests)
Hand sanitizer
Prescription medications
Binoculars
Snacks like Pringles and Trail Mix—all imported snacks are expensive. The "local" brands, i.e., imported from Mexico and other Caribbean nations, are much more affordable, but trail mix is not readily available.
Required Documents
Passport
Driver’s License (if you plan to rent a car)
Health/Travel insurance information
Dive Certification Card (if applicable)
Arriving in Belize
Tip: There are bathrooms before the passport control desks, which is usually very "busy." If you can, go through passport control and visit the bathrooms by the luggage carousels.
At the international airport in Belize, you will be required to hand in certain forms:
An arrival form—one per person in the family
Custom declaration—one per family
These forms might be handed out while you are flying, or you will get them at the entrance of the arrival hall—hence the need for more than 1 pen!
Once you proceeded through passport control, you will gather your luggage.
In the arrival/luggage area, you will see several Duty Free shops selling mainly cigars, cigarettes, and alcohol.
Tip: If you know you will buy any alcohol, other than beer or the local rum, buy alcohol and cigarettes at the duty free shop at the airport. Belize has a 100% import duty on any liquor and wine not produced in the country.
Once you have done your shopping and gathered your luggage, you will proceed to the customs lines. All luggage will be scanned, and most everyone's luggage will be opened and examined, regardless of taking the declare or nothing-to-declare line.
If you bring more than $10,000 USD into the country, you have to declare it—it is to combat money laundering!
Once you cleared customs and passport control, a wonderful adventure awaits in the Jewel of the Caribean!
The People of Belize - A melting pot in Harmony
Belize's rich history is a vibrant tapestry interwoven with the threads of various cultures and peoples. The indigenous Maya laid the foundation of its early civilization, contributing a wealth of knowledge in agriculture, astronomy, and architecture. The arrival of African slaves brought a blend of traditions, music, and culinary influence, deeply enriching the nation’s cultural heritage. The shipwrecked English and the Spanish further contributed to this blend, introducing their languages, customs, and traditions.
Today, the influence of these diverse groups is evident in every aspect of Belizean life. The music scene thrives on the fusion of genres such as Garifuna drumming—reflecting African, Caribbean, and indigenous roots—while local cuisine showcases a medley of flavors, from savory tamales to mouthwatering ceviche. Festivals and traditions celebrate this multicultural identity, with vibrant parades and communal gatherings highlighting the rich blend of practices from each group.
Exploring Belize's heritage offers a glimpse into a society that embraces its history while looking forward, a unique identity that honors and celebrates the diverse influences that have shaped its past and continue to impact its future.
Once called the jewel of the Caribbean, Belize is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a diverse tapestry of cultures. Its unique blend of Mayan and indigenous traditions, African heritage, and European influences has created a vibrant society that is truly one of a kind.
Belize's cultural diversity is a testament to its history as a crossroads of very different civilizations. Over centuries, people from various backgrounds have come together to form a harmonious community. This rich cultural heritage is evident in the country's music, dance, cuisine, and language.
While our cultures, ethnicities, and communities may differ, we have found a way to coexist harmoniously.
What sets Belize apart is our ability to celebrate our individual cultural identities while simultaneously appreciating the richness of others. This unique blend of diversity and unity is what makes Belize and its people truly special."
Mayan/Indigenous Roots
The Maya civilization, one of the most advanced ancient cultures in the Americas, thrived in Belize for millennia. The main groups of Maya in Belize are Ketchi, Yucatec and Mopan Mayan Although their population has declined over time, the Maya people continue to preserve their traditions, language, and spiritual practices. Their influence can be seen in the country's architecture, archeology, art, and folklore.
Creole Heritage
The transatlantic slave trade brought thousands of Africans to Belize, shaping the country's cultural landscape. Today, the descendants of these enslaved Africans form a significant part of the Belizean population. Their contributions to music,dance, and cuisine have enriched the country's cultural heritage.
Mestizo Identity
Mestizos, people of mixed European and indigenous ancestry, are another major ethnic group in Belize. They are the result of intermarriage between Spanish colonists and the Maya people. Mestizos have played a crucial role in shaping Belizean society and culture, blending elements of both traditions.
Garifuna Resilience
The Garifuna people, descendants of enslaved Africans and Amerindians, are a unique ethnic group that originated in the Caribbean. Their resilience and cultural preservation have made them an integral part of Belizean society. The Garifuna language, music, and dance are celebrated throughout the country.
Mennonite Community
In the early 20th century, a group of Mennonites immigrated to Belize from Canada. Their agricultural skills and simple lifestyle have contributed to the country's development. The Mennonite communities in Belize offer a glimpse into a different way of life.
The British
Although sometimes contravercial, Belize's British legacy is evident in its language, legal system, education, government, and culture. The country's blend of Caribbean influences and British traditions makes it a unique and fascinating destination
A Tapestry of Cultures
Beyond these major ethnic groups, Belize is home to a diverse range of cultures, including South Africans, Germans, East Indians, Chinese, and Lebanese. This multiculturalism has enriched the country's society and created a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.
Belize's cultural diversity is a testament to its rich history and the resilience of its people. By understanding and appreciating the unique contributions of each ethnic group, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for this fascinating country.