Belize's Wifi: Getting Connected In The Country

Belize has good WiFi coverage, and it's easy and affordable to get connected. The country has a range of internet service providers, including SMART and BTL DIGI, which offer high-speed internet for less than $100 BZD per month. You can also access free WiFi in many hotels, restaurants, bars, and cafes. If you're looking for a more permanent solution, you can get a DSL line installed in your home, with speeds of up to 16Mbps in some areas. For mobile users, a prepaid plan with a local SIM card is a popular option, and cell reception is generally good across the country. So, whether you're a traveller, digital nomad, or retiree, staying connected in Belize is straightforward and won't break the bank.

Using your own phone and connecting to Wi-Fi

If you're planning a trip to Belize, staying connected is probably one of your top priorities. The good news is that it's relatively easy and inexpensive to stay connected in the country. Here's what you need to know about using your own phone and connecting to Wi-Fi in Belize:

Finding Wi-Fi Hotspots

Firstly, you'll need to locate Wi-Fi hotspots. Fortunately, Wi-Fi is widely available in Belize. Most hotels, restaurants, bars, airports, and even some shuttles offer Wi-Fi. Keep an eye out for QR codes displayed at these locations, as they can make it easier to connect your device to the network. If you don't see a QR code, don't hesitate to ask the staff for the Wi-Fi password.

Using Free Messaging and Calling Apps

Once you're connected to a Wi-Fi network, you can use various free messaging and calling apps to stay in touch with your loved ones back home. Popular options include Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Skype, and Facetime (for iPhone users). These apps allow you to make voice and video calls, send text messages, and share photos without incurring additional charges. Just make sure you have a strong and stable internet connection to ensure clear and uninterrupted communication.

Data Plans and Local SIM Cards

If you need more flexibility and want to stay connected even when you're not in a Wi-Fi hotspot, you can consider purchasing a local SIM card or signing up for a data plan. Belize has two main cellular service providers: Belize Telemedia Ltd. ("Digicell") and SMART SPEEDNET ("SMART"). Both offer prepaid and postpaid plans with data options.

For short-term stays, a prepaid plan might be more suitable. You can purchase a SIM card from either provider and top up your data as needed. This option gives you a local Belize phone number and allows you to control your spending by adding credit as you go.

On the other hand, if you're planning to stay in Belize for an extended period, a postpaid plan might offer more convenience and potentially better rates. However, postpaid plans often require a deposit, especially if you're not a permanent resident. Be sure to bring your identification documents, such as a passport or local ID, when signing up for any cellular service.

Internet Cafes

If you don't have a smartphone or prefer not to use your own device, internet cafes are readily available in almost all Belizean cities. These cafes provide computers and internet access, usually for a small fee, allowing you to check your emails, browse the web, or stay connected with friends and family back home.

Using a Mi-Fi device

A Mi-Fi device is a small, portable router that allows you to connect to the internet via a cellular network. It's a great option for staying connected when travelling to Belize. Here are some tips for using a Mi-Fi device in Belize:

Choosing a Mi-Fi Device

There are a few different options for Mi-Fi devices in Belize. One popular option is the Cello Mobile Belize pocket WiFi device, which offers unlimited data plans and connects up to 5 devices. Another option is the MIOWIFI device, which offers similar features and is available for rent. You can also purchase a Mi-Fi device from local providers such as Smart or Belize Telemedia Ltd.

Data Plans

When choosing a data plan for your Mi-Fi device, consider your expected usage. Unlimited data plans are available, but some providers may throttle speeds after a certain amount of daily usage. Prepaid plans are also available, where you purchase a set amount of data. Shop around and compare prices and features to find the best plan for your needs.

Coverage

Mi-Fi devices in Belize typically use 3G or 4G cellular networks. Coverage can vary depending on your location, but major tourist areas and cities generally have good coverage. If you plan to travel to more remote areas, check with your provider to ensure you'll have coverage.

Battery Life

Mi-Fi devices are typically battery-powered, so be sure to consider battery life when choosing a device. Some devices offer impressive battery life, such as the MIOWIFI router, which claims to have 18 hours of continuous use. Be sure to bring a portable charger or power bank to keep your device charged on the go.

Connecting Multiple Devices

Most Mi-Fi devices allow you to connect multiple devices simultaneously, which is great for travelling with family or friends. The number of devices that can connect simultaneously varies by device, so check the specifications before purchasing or renting.

Security

When using a Mi-Fi device, be sure to take security into consideration. Use a strong password to protect your connection and be cautious when connecting to unsecured networks. Some Mi-Fi devices offer additional security features, such as virtual SIM technology, which can enhance the security of your connection.

Using a VPN

Belize is a country that promotes free speech with no censorship, making it a great option when looking for a foreign VPN. The country has no national streaming services, but international services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube are available.

A VPN is not a compulsory tool for internet users, but it is highly advised for those who want to protect their personal data, including metadata, location data, and internet browsing history. A Belizean VPN will also allow you to bypass restrictions and unblock sites that would otherwise be unavailable. This is especially useful if you are travelling and want to access sites from your home country.

There are a few VPN providers that offer Belizean IPs, including PureVPN, HideMyAss, and ExpressVPN. PureVPN is available on various devices and in multiple locations, including Belize, for a competitive price of $3.33 per month with a 31-day money-back guarantee. HideMyAss is one of the best VPN providers on the market, offering excellent VPN network speeds and various protocols. It can be tested through a seven-day free trial, and you can get it for as low as $2.49 per month. ExpressVPN is another top choice, with more than 2000 servers in 94 countries, including Belize. It is compatible with all key devices and operating systems and provides software and mobile apps for Belizean users.

It is important to note that while using a VPN in Belize is safe, not all providers are created with privacy in mind. Some services, especially free VPNs, may log your internet activity and sell the data to third parties. Therefore, it is recommended to read the vendor's privacy policy before getting an account.

Internet cafes

In Belize City, there are several internet cafes to choose from. One option is to try the Library on North Front Street, which had an internet room available a few years ago. There is also a store across the street from Brodie's on Regent Street that offered internet-connected computers. These options are likely to be more affordable than the Tourist Village, which charged US$5 an hour a few years back. The computers at the library were free at one point but now typically cost around BZ$1 an hour.

If you are in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, you can get one hour per day of free wi-fi in Central Park. There are also a few internet cafes in town that charge by the hour.

Getting a local SIM card

There are two mobile networks in Belize: DigiCell, a subsidiary and mobile division of the national carrier Belize Telemedia Limited, and Smart!, a newcomer to the market. Both DigiCell and Smart! networks offer 3G and 4G services and provide good signals in the main cities and tourist locations such as Belize City, San Ignacio, and San Pedro on Ambergris Caye.

You can buy a SIM card from either DigiCell or Smart! in their stores, supermarkets, post offices, small retailers, gas stations, and service stations. DigiCell SIM cards are also available at the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport. You can expect to pay around 15 BZD for a Smart! SIM card and 22.50 BZD for a DigiCell SIM card. Tourist SIM cards are also available, ranging from 20 BZD to 45 BZD.

To purchase a SIM card, you will need to provide identification, such as your passport, and fill out a registration form with your address. SIM cards come in three different sizes: standard, micro, and nano, so be sure to get the correct size for your phone.

Both DigiCell and Smart! offer prepaid plans with various combinations of calls, texts, and data. The cost of these plans will depend on how much data and how many minutes and texts you need. Data services in Belize are not the cheapest, so be prepared to pay a bit more than you might in some other countries.

If you plan to use your phone for calls, be aware that calling another Digi customer will cost $0.53 per minute, while calling other numbers will cost $0.56 per minute. You can also use apps like WhatsApp and Skype to make calls and send messages without using your phone plan minutes or data.

To top up your prepaid credit, you can purchase a prepaid card from any Digi or Smart! showroom, agent, or authorised retailer. You can also top up online or in person using a credit or debit card.

By purchasing a local SIM card in Belize, you can stay connected and enjoy local rates, which are typically lower than international roaming charges. This can be a convenient and cost-effective option for staying connected during your visit to Belize.

Frequently asked questions