Belize, Baby! Navigating A Pregnancy-Safe Vacation In Belize

Belize is a small Central American country with a rich cultural mix of Latin, Caribbean, and English influences. While it offers many attractions for tourists, there are some safety concerns to be aware of when visiting, especially if you are pregnant. The country has a high level of violent crime, including sexual assault, armed robbery, and murder, with gang activity being a significant contributor. The good news is that tourists usually spend time in safer areas outside of Belize City, which is the country's hotspot for gang-related crimes. However, it is still important to remain vigilant and take precautions such as avoiding isolated areas, being aware of your surroundings, and not wearing flashy items.

When it comes to Zika, which is a particular concern for pregnant women, there is some good news. While Belize has a history of Zika virus transmission, there is currently no evidence of an ongoing outbreak. However, it is still recommended that pregnant women consult their healthcare practitioner before travelling to Belize and take necessary precautions such as using mosquito repellent and wearing long, loose, light-coloured clothing.

Zika virus and other insect-borne diseases

Zika virus is a risk in Belize. The virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito or via sexual transmission. It can cause serious birth defects, so pregnant women or couples considering pregnancy should consult a healthcare practitioner before travelling. While the risk is low, travellers are advised to take the following precautions:

• Use mosquito repellent on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly-woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimise exposure to insects
• Sleep under a mosquito net
• Stay in insect-proof accommodation

In addition to Zika, other insect-borne diseases in Belize include chikungunya, malaria, and dengue. The risk of contracting insect-borne illnesses increases during the wet season, from April to November.

To protect yourself from insect-borne diseases in Belize, it is recommended that you take the following precautions:

• Wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• Stay in insect-proof accommodation
• Use insect repellent
• Stay in areas with strong breezes, such as coastal locations

Safety in Belize City

Belize City is a major crime centre in Belize, with around eight of the country's 40 gangs concentrated in the area. The US State Department and the Government of Canada advise against all travel to Belize City, particularly the Southside, where gang-related violent crime is common. This includes murders and shootings, and tourists could be collateral damage if they are in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The police presence in Belize is strong, with over 1000 sworn officers and nearly 150 civilian employees. However, the police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, and many crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted.

To stay safe in Belize City, it is recommended that you:

• Avoid non-essential travel, particularly to the Southside, south of the Haulover Creek River.
• Stay out of areas not frequented by tourists.
• Avoid going out at night.
• Don't wear or carry anything that makes you look wealthy.
• Don't carry anything valuable when visiting landmarks or tourist attractions.
• Stay with a group and book an organised tour.
• Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Avoid travelling after dark.
• Keep your phone charged.
• Carry valid ID at all times.
• Monitor local media to stay informed.
• Avoid public transport, particularly buses and taxis.
• Only use licensed taxis with green license plates.
• Avoid accepting rides or invitations from strangers.
• Avoid displaying signs of wealth.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Be suspicious of strangers or new acquaintances.

Safety precautions to take

Belize is a beautiful country to visit, but it's important to take some safety precautions, especially if you're pregnant. Here are some essential precautions to keep in mind:

• Zika Virus Awareness: While the risk of Zika in Belize has decreased, it's still a concern for pregnant women. Consult your healthcare provider before travelling, and consider taking precautions such as using mosquito repellent, wearing breathable long-sleeved clothing, and staying in accommodations with screened windows and doors.
• Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-populated areas to lower the risk of being targeted for robbery, especially at night and in cities. Stick to touristy parts of Belize City, as some neighbourhoods have high crime rates.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: While staying in crowded areas, be vigilant about your belongings to lower the risk of petty theft and pickpocketing. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach.
• Avoid Wearing Expensive Items: To avoid attracting thieves, refrain from wearing flashy jewellery, watches, or displaying expensive gadgets like phones. Try to blend in with your surroundings to reduce the chances of being targeted.
• Carry a Spare Wallet: Consider carrying a decoy wallet with a small amount of cash, while keeping the rest of your valuables locked up in your accommodation.
• Avoid Public Transportation at Night: If you need to travel after dark, opt for a taxi instead of a bus. Have your accommodation arrange for a reputable driver, and ensure the taxi has a green license plate, indicating it's authorised.
• Be Cautious on Public Transit: If you must take public transportation during the day, keep your valuables secure, especially on "chicken buses." Theft is common on night buses, so it's best to avoid those altogether.
• Refrain from Drug Use: Avoid buying or using drugs, as it supports local cartels and can lead to harsh penalties if you're caught.
• Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed about safety and security risks by following local media and staying updated on potential crime or gang-related hotspots.
• Buy Travel Insurance: Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, theft, and trip cancellations or delays. This can provide valuable protection and save you money in case of any unforeseen incidents.
• Water Safety: If you plan to engage in water activities, only do so with reputable companies and always wear a life jacket.
• Food and Water Precautions: Drink boiled or bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses. When it comes to food, opt for well-cooked meals and avoid raw or undercooked dishes.
• Medical Facilities: Familiarise yourself with the nearest medical facilities, especially in case of emergencies. Keep in mind that medical facilities in Belize City are basic, and rural areas may have very limited or no access to healthcare. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical evacuation if needed.
• Local Laws: Research local laws and customs before your trip to avoid any unintentional violations.
• COVID-19 Precautions: Stay updated with the latest COVID-19 guidelines and recommendations from health authorities.

Medical facilities and emergency services

Medical facilities in Belize vary in quality, with private hospitals in Belize City offering better healthcare than the underequipped public hospitals. Rural areas have very limited or non-existent medical facilities.

In the event of a medical emergency, you may need to be evacuated to the US, as local medical facilities cannot handle major emergencies. Medical evacuation can be very expensive, so it is important to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.

• Availability and Quality of Healthcare: Belize City has private hospitals that provide better healthcare than public hospitals, which may lack medical supplies and adequately trained professionals. Rural areas have limited or no access to medical facilities.
• Emergency Evacuation: In the event of a major emergency, you may need to be evacuated to the US, as local medical facilities cannot handle all types of emergencies.
• Insurance and Payments: Hospitals and doctors may expect immediate cash payment, so it is important to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and evacuation.
• Prescription Medications: Some prescription medications may not be available in Belize, so bring enough medication for your trip and carry it with you at all times.
• Zika Virus and Insect-borne Diseases: Belize has a history of Zika virus transmission, and while the risk is currently low, pregnant women or couples considering pregnancy should consult a healthcare practitioner before travelling. Other insect-borne diseases, such as dengue, chikungunya, and malaria, are also present in Belize, so insect repellent and protective clothing are recommended.
• Waterborne and Foodborne Diseases: Waterborne and foodborne diseases are common in Belize, so drinking boiled or bottled water and avoiding raw or undercooked food is advised.
• HIV/AIDS: The rate of HIV/AIDS infection is high in Belize, so take appropriate precautions if engaging in high-risk activities.
• Mental Health: If you have concerns about your mental health or an existing medical condition, consider consulting a doctor or travel clinic before your trip to discuss any potential impacts on your health.
• Emergency Services: Emergency services in Belize may be unavailable or significantly delayed, especially in rural areas. In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Travelling with children

Belize is a great place to visit with children, with plenty of activities to keep them entertained. Here are some tips and things to do when travelling to Belize with kids:

• Visit the beach: Relax on the beach and soak up the sun, or spend the day swimming. Remember to wear sunscreen!
• Swim with marine wildlife: Belize offers the opportunity to swim with marine wildlife such as coral gardens, colourful fishes, sea turtles, and Manta Rays. Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a great place to do this.
• Go on a boat trip: Choose a boat, canoe, or kayak and explore the rivers and seas of Belize. Check out wildlife on the river bank as you canoe with your kids on the Macal River, or go kayaking on the Caribbean Sea.
• Learn about the Maya civilisation: Visiting the majestic Maya ruins, such as Cahal Pech, Caracol, and Xunantunich, is a great way to spark your children's imagination. These impressive structures were built hundreds of years ago by individuals who were mathematicians and astronomers.
• Take a jungle expedition: Visit Mountain Pine Ridge, a full-day tour that includes a nature reserve with roaring rivers, Mayan caves, and refreshing waterfalls.
• Experience the local culture: Visit a farmers' market on a Saturday and interact with the locals. Take a day trip to a modern Maya village and share a traditional meal with them. To learn about the Garifuna culture, visit Hopkins village, where you can enjoy traditional foods like Hudut and drumming lessons.
• Go cave tubing and zip-lining: Ziplining is a must for adventurous kids! Pair it with cave tubing or cave canoeing for the perfect day trip.
• Visit the Belize Zoo: The Belize Zoo is far from ordinary, with rescued Belizean wildlife roaming in large enclosures that mimic their natural habitat.
• Butterfly farms: Going to a butterfly farm can be a great learning experience. Visitors can learn about the butterfly life cycle and see the various colourful types of butterflies found in Belize.

When it comes to accommodation, beach resorts and jungle lodges that cater to families are ideal. Western Belize is known for its rainforest resorts, such as The Lodge at Chaa Creek, San Ignacio Resort Hotel, and Caves Branch Adventure Lodge. For a beach vacation, consider the family resorts in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, such as El Pescador Lodge, Pelican Reef Villas, and Ramon's Village Resort.

In terms of transportation, renting a car can be convenient for families, especially when travelling between different areas of Belize. However, when visiting specific locations, such as the islands off the coast of Belize City, water taxis and ferries are also available.

To ensure a safe trip, it is important to follow general safety guidelines, such as staying in well-lit areas, avoiding travelling alone at night, and keeping a close eye on your belongings. It is also essential to be aware of the potential for natural disasters, such as hurricanes and severe weather, and to follow local authorities' instructions.

Frequently asked questions