Southwest Airlines: Your Direct Route To Belize?

Southwest Airlines offers flights to Belize, with non-stop services from Houston and Denver. The airline also provides connecting services to Belize through Houston from various cities across the US, including Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, and San Antonio. Southwest Airlines' loyal following of passengers is due to its 'low fares don't mean low service' concept, which includes free checked baggage and flexible cancellations.

Southwest Airlines' non-stop flights to Belize

Southwest Airlines offers non-stop flights to Belize, making it easier for travellers to enjoy the beauty, attractions, and warm hospitality of this Central American country. With its 'low fares don't mean low service' concept, Southwest provides a range of benefits, including free checked bags and flexible cancellation policies.

The airline offers non-stop services from Houston, Texas, and Denver, Colorado, to Belize. The Houston route operates daily, departing at 10:55 am and arriving in Belize at 1:15 pm. On Saturdays, the flight returns slightly later, departing Belize at 2:10 pm and arriving in Houston at 7:50 pm. The Denver route is available only on Saturdays, departing at 10:50 am and arriving in Belize at 3:50 pm. The return flight to Denver leaves Belize at 5:40 pm.

In addition to these non-stop services, Southwest also provides connecting services to Belize through Houston from various cities across the United States, including Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, and San Antonio. These connecting services offer convenient options for travellers wishing to visit Belize from different parts of the country.

For those seeking an international adventure filled with sun, surf, and exploration, Southwest Airlines' non-stop flights to Belize offer a convenient and attractive option with their customer-friendly policies and services.

Connecting services to Belize through Houston

Southwest Airlines offers connecting services to Belize through Houston. The airline flies to Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Belize, making it easy for travellers to begin their adventure.

Southwest Airlines offers a range of perks for travellers, including two free checked bags, no change or cancellation fees, flight credits that don't expire, and in-flight entertainment and internet access. The airline also offers a Rapid Rewards® program, which allows members to redeem points for flights, hotel stays, rental cars, gift cards, and more. Additionally, points don't expire, and members can earn points on flights and everyday purchases with partner companies.

When booking a connecting flight through Houston, it's important to consider the time required for the connection. In the United States, a legal international connection is typically two hours or more. Having at least this amount of time allows for a smoother transition between flights, as you'll need to go through immigration, collect your baggage, and go through customs before your next flight.

Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport, which is commonly used for connecting flights, has multiple terminals that may be miles apart. A free tram is available to help travellers get around, but it's important to pay attention to avoid passing your stop and having to double back.

When planning your trip to Belize, consider the flexibility and benefits offered by Southwest Airlines, as well as the time required for a comfortable connection through Houston.

Belize attractions: Mayan ruins, rainforests, reefs

Belize is a small Central American country nestled between Mexico and Guatemala. It is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, offering everything from sandy beaches to lush rainforests and coral reefs brimming with wildlife. Here are some of the top attractions in Belize:

Mayan Ruins

Belize was once the heartland of the ancient Maya Empire, and there are numerous ruins scattered across the country that offer a glimpse into this fascinating civilisation. Here are some of the most notable Mayan ruins in Belize:

• Altun Ha: Located near Belize City, Altun Ha was a major ceremonial and trade centre for the Mayans. It is famous for the "Jade Head", the largest Mayan jade artifact ever discovered.
• Xunantunich: Xunantunich, which means "Stone Woman", is Belize's second-tallest ruin. It was once a prosperous city state home to 200,000 people. Visitors can explore the site's temples, palaces, and plazas, as well as climb to the top of the famous El Castillo pyramid.
• Caracol: Located in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, Caracol is the largest Maya site ever excavated in Belize. It features majestic temples, including the 140-foot-tall Sky Place, that visitors can climb for spectacular views of the surrounding forest.
• Lamanai: Lamanai, which means "submerged crocodile", is the largest Maya ceremonial centre in the region with over 719 mapped structures. It is located along the New River Lagoon and is known for its Jaguar Temple and ball court.
• Cahal Pech: Meaning "place of ticks", Cahal Pech was once the royal acropolis-palace of an elite Mayan ruling family. The site includes seven plazas, temples, residential buildings, ball courts, and a sweat house, all situated on just 2 acres of land.

Rainforests

Belize is home to lush rainforests that are teeming with wildlife. Here are some of the top rainforest attractions in Belize:

• Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve: This reserve is home to waterfalls, caves, and freshwater pools. It is also where you'll find the Rio on Pools, a series of small pools formed by waterfalls that offer a perfect spot for a dip.
• Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary: The world's only jaguar preserve, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary covers 150 square miles and is home to jaguars, birds, and other wildlife.
• Barton Creek Cave: This cave system is known for its striking architectural elements and Mayan artefacts, including human remains and hearths.

Reefs

Belize is home to the world's second-largest barrier reef, which stretches for 170 miles along the country's coast. Here are some of the top reef attractions in Belize:

• Hol Chan Marine Reserve: Hol Chan, meaning "narrow channel" in Mayan, is a snorkeler's paradise. It is home to over 160 species of fish, turtles, dolphins, and other marine life.
• Coral Gardens: One of the world's top snorkelling spots, Coral Gardens offers the chance to admire the colourful coral and diverse marine life of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.

Belize's tourism industry and air connectivity

Belize's tourism industry is a major contributor to its economy, with steady growth driven by strong demand from American tourists and retirees. The country's English-speaking status and proximity to the United States make it a popular destination, with Americans comprising an estimated 70% of all tourists. The Belize Tourism Board, the Belize Tourism Industry Association, and the Belize Hotel Association play key roles in promoting and regulating the industry.

Belize offers a diverse range of attractions, from its pristine beaches and lush jungles to its rich cultural and historical sites. The Belize Barrier Reef, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, is a major draw for divers and snorkelers, while the ancient Mayan ruins and Garifuna cultural experiences offer a glimpse into the country's past. The country also boasts one of the most expansive limestone cave systems in the Americas.

Air connectivity is a vital aspect of Belize's tourism industry. The Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport serves as the main gateway for international visitors. Southwest Airlines, among other US carriers, provides direct flights to Belize, making it easily accessible from various cities in the United States. The availability of nonstop services from major hubs like Houston, Denver, Baltimore, and New York further enhances Belize's accessibility.

The Belize Department of Civil Aviation plays a crucial role in regulating and ensuring the safety of civil aviation in the country. They aim to promote the safe, orderly, and economic development of civil aviation, both domestically and internationally. The department consists of several technical divisions, including personnel licensing, flight operations, aviation security, and air transport, ensuring the safe movement of domestic and international air travellers.

The growth of Belize's tourism industry has had a positive impact on related sectors, such as real estate, construction, logistics, infrastructure, and finance. The government is focused on expanding high-end travel opportunities and attracting more international hotel chains to cater to luxury travellers. Additionally, the country is well-equipped to accommodate tourists with a range of transportation options, including local airlines, helicopters, rental cars, buses, boats, and even horses.

Southwest Airlines' promotions and airfare deals to Belize

Southwest Airlines offers a range of promotions and airfare deals to Belize, making it easy and affordable to explore this beautiful Central American country. Here are some of the deals and benefits you can take advantage of when booking your trip to Belize:

Special Fares and Promotions

Southwest Airlines often has special fares and promotions for flights to Belize. For example, in 2015, they offered one-way fares starting at $107 USD from Houston's Hobby International Terminal to Belize City. These promotions usually have specific travel dates and booking deadlines, so it's important to check their website regularly for the latest offers.

Low Fares and No Hidden Fees

Southwest Airlines is known for its "low fares don't mean low service" concept. Even with their sale fares, you can still check two bags for free and reuse your fare for future travel within one year if you need to cancel. Their Low Fare Calendar can help you find the lowest fares within your travel window, ensuring you get the best deal.

Rapid Rewards Program

The Rapid Rewards Program allows members to earn and redeem points for flights, hotel stays, rental cars, gift cards, and more. Points don't expire, and you can earn them on flights and everyday purchases with Southwest partners. This makes it easy to accumulate points and use them for your dream trip to Belize.

EarlyBird Check-In and Upgraded Boarding

If you want to board the plane earlier, Southwest offers the option to purchase EarlyBird Check-In, which gives you automatic check-in and a better boarding position. You can also purchase Upgraded Boarding to get an A1-A15 boarding position or upgrade to a Business Select fare, which guarantees an A1-A15 boarding position.

Free Entertainment and In-Flight Amenities

When you fly to Belize with Southwest Airlines, you can enjoy free entertainment, including movies, live TV, texting, and inflight internet (for a small fee). They also offer complimentary sodas, coffee, and snacks, making your journey more enjoyable.

Flexible Policies

Southwest Airlines understands that plans can change, so they offer flexible policies with no change fees. You can change your flight reservation without incurring additional costs, although a fare difference may apply. Additionally, flight credits don't expire, giving you peace of mind when booking your trip to Belize.

Remember to check the Southwest Airlines website regularly for the latest promotions and airfare deals to Belize, and sign up for their email newsletter to stay informed about upcoming specials. With these deals and benefits, you can explore the ancient Mayan ruins, dive into aquatic adventures, and soak in the sun and natural beauty of Belize without breaking the bank.

Frequently asked questions