Travel To Belize: What Canadians Need To Know

Belize is a small country in Central America with a population of around 400,000. It is a popular destination for expats due to its English-speaking population, close proximity to the USA and Canada, and attractive weather. Canadians can travel to Belize with a valid Canadian passport, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the expected departure date. It is important to note that there are safety concerns in Belize, including gang and drug-related violence, and a high rate of violent crime. Canadians travelling to Belize should exercise a high degree of caution and avoid non-essential travel to certain areas.

Canadians do not need a visa to enter Belize

In 2016, low-cost carrier WestJet began flying to Belize from its hub in Toronto, making it the first Canadian carrier to fly non-stop to Belize. Following the success of its initial flight, WestJet has been adding more routes. Indeed, WestJet just announced that it will be adding two new flights per week during the upcoming 2018/19 winter season. WestJet will be flying to Belize five times a week from Calgary or Toronto during the 2018/19 season.

Air Canada has also begun flying to Belize. Starting in 2017, Air Canada began flying non-stop to Belize from its hub in Toronto. For the upcoming 2018/19 winter season, Air Canada will be offering four flights a week to Belize from Toronto. Combined, this gives Canadians nine flights per week from Calgary or Toronto to choose from when visiting Belize.

Canadians also have a wide range of options for getting to Belize from major cities across the United States. American Airlines, Southwest, Delta, and United all fly non-stop to Belize.

Canadians can fly non-stop to Belize from Toronto or Calgary

Belize is a great destination for Canadians to visit. The country offers a wealth of natural wonders, including untouched coral reefs, dense jungles, and an underground Mayan world rich with history. It is also known for its friendly locals and diverse culture. As a traveller from Canada, you will not need a visa to enter Belize, but you will need a valid passport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you expect to leave Belize.

If you are a Canadian citizen looking to fly non-stop to Belize, you can do so from Toronto or Calgary. Air Canada and WestJet offer direct non-stop seasonal flights to Belize from these Canadian cities. Flights are typically available from November to April. Keep in mind that you will need to book your international flight to Belize City directly through the airline or a travel agent of your choice.

When planning your trip to Belize, it is important to consider the safety and security situation in the country. While tourists are not usually targeted, there are high levels of violent crime throughout the country, including gang and drug-related violence. It is recommended to exercise a high degree of caution and avoid non-essential travel to certain areas, such as Southside Belize City.

In addition, it is important to be aware of potential health risks and take the necessary precautions. Consult a healthcare professional before your trip to ensure you have the recommended vaccinations and medications for your journey.

The official language of Belize is English

Canadians are able to travel to Belize, but they must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their departure date. It is also recommended that they exercise a high degree of caution due to the high levels of violent crime throughout the country.

Belize is a country with a rich history and diverse culture. Settled by the Maya around 1500 B.C.E, it was later colonised by the British in the 1600s and became known as British Honduras. In 1981, Belize gained independence, but the influence of its colonial past remains evident in various aspects, including its official language – English.

English is the primary language of communication in Belize, a legacy of British colonial rule. This makes it a convenient destination for English-speaking travellers from countries like Canada. However, it's important to note that Belize is linguistically diverse, with many Belizeans being multilingual. While English is the official language, nearly half of the population is fluent in three languages: English, Spanish, and Kriol (Creole). Additionally, the country's ethnic diversity is reflected in the variety of languages spoken by different communities. For instance, the Maya in Belize speak languages like Yucatec, Mopán, and Kekchí, while the Garifuna community speaks an Arawak-based language alongside English or Spanish. The Mennonites, on the other hand, speak Plautdietsch, a Low Saxon (Germanic) language influenced by Dutch.

Belize's linguistic landscape is a fascinating blend of colonial influences and cultural heritage. While English serves as the official language, the country's multilingual population showcases the vibrant tapestry of its history and people.

Belize is geographically part of Central America but recognised as both a Caribbean and Central American nation

Belize is a small Central American country with a Caribbean vibe. It is geographically part of Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north, the Caribbean Sea to the east, and Guatemala to the west and south. It is recognised as both a Caribbean and Central American nation due to its people, language, and culture mirroring the Caribbean.

Belize has a unique history for a Central American country. It was the only British colony in the region and the only Central American country where English is the official language. Belize gained independence from Britain in 1981 but remains a proud member of the British Commonwealth. The country is also a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), reflecting its Caribbean ties.

Belize has a diverse population of approximately 350,000-400,000 people, including the Maya, Mestizo, Creole, Garifuna, Mennonite, East Indian, and Chinese. The country is known for its natural wonders such as dense tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and ancient Mayan ruins. It offers a range of cultural experiences, including music, dance, and cuisine influenced by its diverse ethnic groups.

Belize's currency, the Belize dollar, is fixed to the US dollar, and US currency is widely accepted throughout the country. The country has six districts: Corozal, Orange Walk, Belize, Cayo, Stann Creek, and Toledo. The nation's capital is Belmopan City.

Belize has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season from December to April and the wet season from May to November. The country's average year-round temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26.6 Celsius).

Belize's economy is primarily based on agriculture, tourism, and offshore financial services. The country's main exports are agricultural products, including citrus fruits and sugar. Belize is a popular tourist destination, offering natural attractions, cultural experiences, and affordable luxury accommodations.

The currency in Belize is the Belizean dollar

When paying for items in US dollars, you will likely receive change in Belize dollars at the $1 US to $2 BZ exchange rate. US coins are not accepted in Belize, but credit cards are gaining popularity, especially in larger cities. However, they may not be widely accepted outside of restaurants, bars, tour offices, and hotels. Of the major credit cards, Amex and Discover are rarely accepted due to their high merchant fees.

Belize is primarily a cash-based society, and most locals do not own credit cards. As a result, many local shops and restaurants do not accept card payments. It is recommended to carry smaller bills as they are more widely accepted than large denominations, especially in villages, boutiques, and smaller shops and restaurants. These places may not have enough change for large bills, or they may be concerned about counterfeit bills.

The Belize dollar has been pegged to the US dollar at a fixed exchange rate of 2:1 for over 25 years, and this informs the exchange rate with other countries. The Belize dollar is divided into 100 cents, and the coins in circulation include 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents, as well as 1 and 2 BZ$ coins. The banknotes in circulation include $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100, with the largest bill, the $100 note, colloquially known as a blue buay (blue boy).

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