Belize: A Tropical Paradise For The Rich Only?

Belize is a small country in Central America, formerly known as British Honduras, with a population of around 400,000. It is an increasingly popular retirement and expat destination due to its tropical climate, natural beauty, and low cost of living. However, it is not the cheapest place to live in the region. So, do you have to be rich to live in Belize?

Cost of living in Belize

The cost of living in Belize is at least 50% cheaper than in the USA. However, it is not the cheapest country in the Caribbean to live in. The cost of living in Belize is higher than in other desirable retirement countries in the region.

The cost of living in Belize depends on your lifestyle and where you choose to live. For example, in tourist hotspots like Ambergris Caye, property values and the cost of living are higher.

Housing

Belize offers a wide range of housing options for all budgets. A basic, traditional Belizean-style wooden home is the most economical option, while concrete homes are becoming increasingly popular and tend to be more expensive.

• San Pedro: $1,200 to $1,500 for a two-bedroom apartment near the beach with air conditioning, located a few miles from the town centre.
• Placencia: $1,200 to $1,500 per month for a two-bedroom apartment near the beach with air conditioning, located in or near the village.
• Cayo: $1,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment on the water with air conditioning, located within walking distance to the town.

You can also choose to buy a home in Belize. In the Cayo District, a 2 or 3-bedroom home with a garden may cost less than $150,000.

Utilities

Electricity is expensive in Belize, at $0.45 per kWh. A couple running air conditioning in both bedrooms at night may pay around $150 per month. Internet costs between $25 and $80, while cable TV is $30 per month.

Food

The cost of food in Belize is relatively high, and this drives some people to shop across the border in Mexico or Guatemala. However, the low cost of fresh produce grown locally by Belizean farmers tempers this. The national meal of stewed chicken, rice, and beans is cheap to prepare and filling, costing $6 to $8 at roadside stands.

Transport

Gas is expensive in Belize, at $5 to $7 per gallon for gasoline. Import taxes on motor vehicles are also high, which is why most Belizeans drive used cars.

Healthcare

Belize has both public and private healthcare systems. Public clinics often operate on a donation basis, while treatment at a public hospital incurs a small fee. Private doctors and clinics charge higher fees. Many people choose to travel to Mexico for more advanced medical care.

Other Costs

Other costs to consider when living in Belize include vehicle insurance, which is mandatory and costs around $250 per year, and a vehicle license, which is $100 per year. A driver's license costs $30 per year.

Overall, a couple from North America could probably survive on $1,000 per month if they own their own home, but $1,500 would be more reasonable.

Healthcare in Belize

Belize's healthcare system has been through several reforms over the years, with the goal of improving the standard of healthcare in the country. The system comprises both publicly and privately run healthcare facilities, financed through public and local private health insurance schemes. The Ministry of Health (MoH) is the government agency responsible for overseeing the entire health sector and is also the largest provider of public health services in Belize.

The MoH offers affordable care to the majority of Belizeans, with a strong focus on providing quality healthcare through a range of public programs and institutions. The private health sector, on the other hand, provides care to a smaller portion of the population but at a relatively low cost and with an emphasis on quality.

There are only eight major public hospitals and around 60 public clinics in Belize. These facilities tend to be underfunded, understaffed, and undersupplied. Despite this, they offer very low-cost or free healthcare services, which often results in long waiting times. A Belize Health Information System card (BHIS) is mandatory for anyone seeking treatment in a public healthcare facility, including expats.

The standard of healthcare across the country is generally low, and medical procedures are limited. Private healthcare facilities in Belize City cater to expats and global citizens, but they remain expensive. It is recommended that expats obtain comprehensive international health insurance before arriving in Belize to cover costs such as repatriation and air ambulance services.

The Ministry of Health manages the public healthcare sector and is responsible for subsidising medications, vaccinations, and emergency surgeries. However, patients must bear the fees for diagnoses, such as laboratory tests and x-rays. There is also a shortage of medical professionals in Belize, with many doctors and medical professionals being foreign nationals who often work as volunteers.

The private health sector has grown in recent years, especially in urban areas, and offers comprehensive coverage, including secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities. International private health insurance is becoming increasingly popular, as it covers medical airlifting and overseas evacuation.

Public healthcare in Belize is available to all citizens and residents, with no direct cost to the individual. However, a large portion of the funding has been allocated to Belize City, resulting in equipment problems, medical supply shortages, and operation management issues in hospitals outside the city.

Belize has a network of approximately 60 public health clinics that provide primary medical and dental care to rural areas. Most of these clinics suffer from inadequate staffing, lack of financial resources, and a lack of equipment and medicine, leading to reduced access to quality care.

The country has also recognised the importance of mental health, with the MoH launching a strategic mental health plan in 2009 to integrate mental health services into primary care. Mental health services are now available in district hospitals throughout the country, with most inpatient psychiatric services provided at Rockview Hospital, the national mental hospital.

While the Belizean government has made significant changes to the healthcare system, there is still room for improvement, especially in addressing issues such as the high prevalence of communicable and non-communicable diseases, healthcare delivery, and quality assurance.

Leisure activities in Belize

Belize is a popular destination for leisure activities, offering a range of options for those seeking adventure or relaxation. Here are some leisure activities to explore:

Outdoor Activities

Belize boasts a diverse natural landscape, including mountains, jungles, rivers, and beaches. Nature lovers can hike in the mountains or jungle, tube on rivers, explore caves, or climb ancient temples. The country is home to numerous well-preserved ancient Maya ruins, such as Caracol, Xunantunich, and Lamanai, which provide insight into the rich history and culture of the region.

Belize also offers a range of water-based activities, such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and fishing. The country is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, the Belize Barrier Reef, which extends more than 180 miles along the coast. The Great Blue Hole, a massive underwater sinkhole, is a popular spot for diving and snorkelling, offering the opportunity to observe a diverse array of marine life.

Cultural Experiences

Belize is known for its cultural diversity, with influences from Mayan, Kriol, Garifuna, African, Spanish, British, and indigenous Caribbean traditions. Visitors can explore traditional crafts, music, and cuisine, including hand-crafted chocolate and local dishes such as stewed chicken, rice, and beans. The Chocolate Festival of Belize celebrates the country's chocolate-making heritage and local culture.

Relaxation

For those seeking a more relaxed pace, Belize offers beautiful beaches and resorts where visitors can lounge on the sand with a drink or enjoy a sunset cruise along the reef. Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Hopkins, and Placencia are known for their stunning beaches and Western amenities.

Special Interest Activities

Belize also caters to special interests, such as birdwatching, with nearly 600 species of birds to spot, and volunteering, with opportunities to contribute to local communities through library work or church activities.

Safety in Belize

Belize is a beautiful country with a lot to offer, from dense jungles to massive caves and the famous Belize Barrier Reef. However, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety while visiting or living in the country. Here are some key points about safety in Belize:

Crime

Belize has a high rate of violent and petty crimes, especially in Belize City, which is a hotspot for gang activity. Tourists are generally not the target of violent crimes, but petty theft and pickpocketing are common. It is important to be vigilant, especially in crowded areas, and avoid wearing flashy items or jewellery. It is also recommended to avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and stick to well-lit, populated places.

Transportation

Transportation in Belize has improved in recent years, with Northern, Southern, and Hummingbird Highways now among the best in Latin America. Licensed taxis, identified by their green license plates, are considered safe, but it is advised to avoid travelling at night if possible. Public transportation, including buses, is generally safe, but it is important to keep a close eye on your belongings to avoid theft.

Natural Disasters

Belize is prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes, tropical storms, flooding, and droughts, especially during the hurricane season from June to November. It is important to stay informed about weather conditions and follow any official warnings or advisories during this time.

Health and Medical Care

Belize has both public and private healthcare systems. Public clinics often operate on donations, while public hospitals may have long wait times. Private healthcare facilities tend to be more expensive but offer shorter wait times and better facilities. Overall, the lack of advanced medical care is a concern for some expats and tourists.

Women's Safety

Women travelling alone in Belize should take extra precautions. It is not recommended for women to go anywhere alone at night, and even during the day, it is advised to be accompanied by someone. Staying in well-lit and populated areas and avoiding visibly intoxicated individuals is important.

Overall Safety

While Belize is not the safest destination for tourists in Central America, taking basic precautions and following safety guidelines can minimise the chances of encountering problems. Staying in tourist areas, being vigilant, and avoiding isolated places can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Belize.

Weather in Belize

Belize has a tropical climate with an average yearly temperature of 84°F (29°C). The temperature rarely falls below 60°F (16°C) in winter, while in summer it sits at around 86°F (30°C). The country experiences a dry season from February to May, and a wet season from June to December.

The dry season sees short bursts of rain, while the wet season brings heavy storms, usually in the late afternoon. The wet season is also hurricane season, and while Belize doesn't attract many major direct hits, it does experience severe tropical weather.

The temperature in Belize is largely determined by altitude. Evenings in the Mountain Pine Ridge forests are pleasant and cool, while the lowland jungle is humid. On the cayes, the sun's heat is moderated by ocean breezes.

The dry season, from December to April, is the best time to visit Belize. During this period, rainfall is low, and temperatures are milder. The dry season is also the high tourism season, with most visitors arriving in March.

The rainy season, from May to November, sees fewer crowds and discounted prices for tours and accommodations. The rainiest months are September and October, and during this time, a sunny day can turn rainy. However, unless there is a tropical storm, rain showers usually last only one or two hours.

The average temperature during the dry season can go as low as 68°F (20°C) and reach highs of around 88°F (31°C). During the rainy season, the average temperature can reach lows of 77°F (25°C) and highs of 90°F (32°C).

Frequently asked questions