Belize: A Family-Friendly Adventure Or A Safety Concern?

Belize is a vibrant and historic country with a unique blend of Latin, Caribbean, and old English cultures. It is a popular destination for backpackers, vacationers, divers, and honeymooners, offering something for every travel style and interest. With English as the primary language, there is no language barrier for English speakers.

Belize is generally considered safe for families, with its pristine beaches, ancient ruins, lush jungles, and the world's second-largest barrier reef. However, it is important to exercise caution and common sense, especially in certain areas.

Belize City, the former capital, has a high crime rate and is known for gang activity and violent crimes such as assault, break-ins, and murder. It is recommended to avoid this area, especially at night, and stick to the tourist areas during the day.

Other areas to be cautious of include the border with Guatemala, which has seen tensions and increased drug and human trafficking. Additionally, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft are common in tourist areas, so it is important to be vigilant and keep valuables secure.

Overall, with proper research, caution, and common sense, Belize can be a safe and enjoyable destination for families.

Avoiding Belize City

Belize City is the country's former capital and is considered the most dangerous place in Belize. It has the highest crime rate in the country and is a hotspot for gang activity and violent crime. The US State Department, the Government of Canada, and the Government of Australia all advise against travel to Southside Belize City, which is the battlefront for frequent inter-gang conflict.

If you do choose to visit Belize City, it is recommended to stick to the tourist areas during the day and avoid the north side of the city. Do not wear any flashy items or expensive jewellery, and try to blend in with the locals as much as possible. It is also advised to avoid going out alone at night and to take a registered taxi if you do go out after dark.

Belize City is home to the country's only two major hospitals that are considered adequate by US standards: Belize Medical Associates and Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. However, the police force in Belize City is typically understaffed and poorly equipped, so their ability to respond to crimes is limited.

In addition to Belize City, it is recommended to avoid the borders with Guatemala and Honduras, as these areas see increased criminal activity.

Staying in well-lit, busy areas

• Stay in well-lit, busy areas at night.
• Avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
• Be aware of your surroundings, even in crowds. Tourists are usually easy targets for pickpockets, so ensure your valuables are secure and out of reach.
• Avoid wearing flashy items such as jewellery, watches, or expensive clothing and shoes. Try to blend in so you don't become a target for thieves.
• Carry a spare wallet with a small amount of cash, and keep the rest of your valuables locked up in your accommodation.
• Take a taxi at night instead of walking or using public transport. Ask your hotel or hostel to call a reputable taxi for you.
• Be vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Avoid walking alone at night. If you must go out, travel in a group and take a registered taxi.
• Stay in established hotels with safety features such as burglar bars and night security, rather than Airbnbs.
• Avoid isolated, poorly-lit roads when driving at night.
• Be cautious when driving or walking at night, as there are common incidents of people drinking and driving.
• If you're a woman, be aware that sexual harassment such as catcalling and stares is common in Belize, especially on beaches and islands.

Avoiding public drunkenness

While Belize is generally considered safe for families, it's important to be aware of some safety precautions to ensure a pleasant trip. Here are some tips specifically focused on avoiding public drunkenness:

• Understand the local laws: In Belize, public drunkenness is illegal and can result in enforcement by law enforcement authorities. Be respectful of the local culture and customs, and avoid drinking in public areas such as streets and parks.
• Stick with friends or travel in groups: It's always safer to be in the company of others when consuming alcohol. Stay together and look out for one another, especially at night.
• Stay in well-lit and populated areas: Avoid wandering into isolated or poorly lit areas, especially if you've been drinking. Stick to well-lit and populated areas where there is a lower risk of encountering unwanted situations.
• Be cautious of drinks: Avoid accepting drinks from strangers and never leave your drink unattended. Unfortunately, there have been reports of drinks being spiked with drugs. Always purchase drinks that are sealed or poured directly from a bottle or can.
• Don't flash your cash: While this advice applies to any situation where you want to avoid unwanted attention, it is especially important when drinking. Avoid displaying large sums of money or expensive items, as it may make you a target for theft or other crimes.
• Use reputable transportation: If you need to travel after drinking, use licensed taxi services or ride-sharing apps. Avoid walking long distances alone, as it may increase your risk of encountering dangerous situations.
• Follow local customs and etiquette: Respect the local culture and customs by being mindful of how you dress and behave when consuming alcohol. Avoid wearing revealing or flashy clothing that may attract unwanted attention.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Always stay vigilant and trust your instincts. If a situation doesn't feel right, remove yourself from it. Stay in tourist areas that are generally considered safer and be cautious when venturing into unfamiliar territories.
• Know the legal drinking age: In Belize, the legal drinking age is 18. Make sure you are of legal age to consume alcohol and always carry identification with you.
• Drink responsibly: Always drink in moderation and never drink to the point of intoxication. It's important to keep your wits about you and make sensible decisions. Excessive drinking can impair your judgment and put you in vulnerable situations.

Being vigilant of your surroundings

• Avoid isolated areas, especially at night. Stick to busy, well-lit places where there are lots of people around.
• Even in crowds, be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure and out of reach. Tourists are usually easy targets for pickpockets.
• Don't wear any flashy or expensive items, such as jewellery or watches, and avoid taking out your phone in public.
• Don't leave your belongings unattended, especially when visiting beaches or tourist hotspots.
• Carry a spare wallet with a small amount of cash, and keep the rest of your valuables locked up in your accommodation.
• Avoid public buses, especially at night. If you need to get somewhere after dark, take a taxi.
• Be vigilant when using public transport, and keep your valuables secure.
• Avoid walking or driving at night, and always take a taxi if you need to travel after dark.
• Be extra cautious when visiting banks or ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Don't physically resist if you are robbed – hand over your valuables and prioritise your safety.
• Avoid wearing expensive clothing or accessories that could make you a target for thieves.
• Stay alert and trust your instincts. If a situation or location doesn't feel safe, leave and find a busier area.

Keeping your valuables secure

Belize is a beautiful country with a lot to offer, but it's important to take precautions to keep yourself and your valuables secure. Here are some tips to help you do that:

• Avoid Isolated Areas: Stick to crowded areas to avoid being targeted by muggers.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: While staying with the crowd can help deter muggers, it also makes you a target for pickpockets. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach.
• Don't Wear Fancy Items or Jewellery: Petty theft is common in Belize, so it's best not to attract attention to yourself by wearing flashy items.
• Use a Money Belt: Keep your cash and other valuables concealed in a money belt to avoid losing them.
• Keep Your Hotel Room Locked: Always lock your hotel room door, even when you're inside, and use the room safe if available.
• Avoid Leaving Items Unattended: Don't leave your belongings unattended, especially when swimming or walking on the beach. Go with friends and take turns watching each other's things.
• Carry a Spare Wallet: Carry a spare wallet with a small amount of cash, and keep the rest of your cash and cards locked up in your accommodation.
• Avoid Public Transportation at Night: If you need to get somewhere after dark, take a taxi instead of a bus.
• Be Careful on Public Transit: If you must take public transportation, keep your valuables secure, especially on "chicken buses".
• Stick to Tourist Areas: Belize City has a high crime rate, so stick to the tourist parts of town and avoid sketchy neighbourhoods.
• Buy Travel Insurance: Travel insurance can protect you in case of theft, illness, injury, or flight cancellations.
• Use ATMs in Well-Lit Areas: When withdrawing cash, use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business.
• Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or carrying valuables in plain sight, as this can attract unwanted attention.
• Use Qualified Guides: If you plan to go off the beaten track, use a qualified guide to avoid getting lost or encountering dangers.
• Only Stay in Established Accommodation: Stay in accommodation that appears genuine and established to reduce the risk of theft.
• Don't Pick Up Hitchhikers: While hitchhiking is common in Belize, it's best not to pick up strangers to avoid potential risks.
• Use a Data Plan: Stay connected by purchasing a data plan for your phone, so you're not just relying on Wi-Fi.
• Use a Credit Card: Credit cards are safer than carrying large amounts of cash, and they are widely accepted in Belize.
• Use the Hotel Safe: If your hotel room has a safe, use it to store your valuables when you're not using them.
• Be Vigilant: Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation.

Frequently asked questions