The High Cost Of Internet Access In Belize

Belize has a range of internet options, from affordable prepaid plans to high-speed broadband connections. While the country has previously struggled with slow and expensive internet due to a monopoly telecommunications company, competition has improved speeds and lowered prices. Today, internet access is widely available and affordable, with prices starting at just $19.50 per month for high-speed broadband from the national telephone company, Belize Telemedia Limited. Additionally, satellite internet is an option for those in rural areas, and various mobile service providers offer internet connections for smartphones and devices. Overall, staying connected in Belize is more accessible and affordable than one might expect.

Internet costs for retirees

The cost of internet access in Belize varies depending on the type of connection, location, and service provider. Here is some information specifically tailored for retirees considering a move to Belize:

DSL, Cable, and Fibre Optic Options

Belize offers DSL (ADSL) connections, which function similarly to traditional telephone lines, providing high-speed broadband internet access. DigiCell and Smart are two popular providers, offering various tiers of service, including unlimited internet plans. Prices for these plans start at 55 Belizean dollars (approximately US$27.50) per month in select locations. The national telephone company, Belize Telemedia Limited, also provides DSL services starting at 39 Belizean dollars (US$19.50) per month.

Fibre optic internet services are available countrywide, including in cities, towns, and most rural areas. DigiNet offers a range of plans, with speeds from 20Mbps to 150Mbps, priced between $49 and $199 per month.

Wireless and Mobile Options

Wireless internet is widely available in Belize, with DigiCell and Smart providing pre-paid bundles and monthly subscriptions suitable for mobile devices and computers. These providers also offer "combo" plans that include unlimited text messages, internet data, and voice call minutes. Additionally, MiFi devices (wireless routers) can be used to connect multiple devices to the internet anywhere in the country, including offshore islands. Prices for these plans vary depending on the provider and chosen data limits.

For mobile phones, a prepaid plan is the most common option. You can purchase a SIM card and a local Belize number, then top up your credit as needed. Heavy data usage can cost around $80 per month, but most people can manage with half that amount.

Satellite Options

Satellite internet is an option for those in rural areas or the cayes (islands), providing connectivity without the need for a physical ground connection. It is relatively expensive, costing about US$120 per month for unlimited use, with speeds of approximately 2 Mbps up and 25 Mbps down. Hughes and Dish Networks are preferred providers in Belize, and Viasat is another available option.

Overall Cost and Availability

While internet costs in Belize can vary, it is generally considered more affordable now than in the past. Previously, the government charged high prices for internet access and blocked certain services like Skype. Today, retirees can access free wireless hotspots throughout the country or opt for high-speed internet plans from local providers at competitive rates.

Belize has decent internet coverage, but it is worth noting that it is slower and more expensive than in some other countries. However, with the introduction of competition, prices have dropped, and improvements are being made to increase speeds and reduce costs further.

Satellite internet access

Belize has a small economy based on private enterprise, with a diverse cultural ecosystem and a range of industries, including tourism. The country's telecoms infrastructure is underdeveloped, with internet access previously being expensive and limited to urban areas. However, internet access has improved in recent years, with internet cafes, Wi-Fi hotspots, and satellite internet options now available.

Satellite internet is an excellent choice for people in rural parts of Belize and the cayes (islands), as it does not require a physical ground connection. Instead, it operates through a satellite dish that transmits and receives data from a satellite orbiting the Earth. This feature ensures dependable internet access even in locations with limited infrastructure.

The setup of a satellite internet dish is more complex than that of a satellite TV dish. The alignment of the dish is critical, and a technician is usually required to set it up. The dish size can range from 2 feet, which provides excellent results, to 4 or 6 feet for the strongest signal that can withstand heavy thunderstorms.

In addition to satellite internet, Belize offers other options for internet access, including DSL, cable, and fibre optics. Mobile service providers also offer internet connections for smartphones and MiFi devices, which provide Wi-Fi signals to other devices using a cell phone signal.

Mobile data plans

The cost of mobile data plans in Belize can vary depending on the provider and the plan chosen. For example, DigiCell and Smart offer unlimited internet starting at 55 Belizean dollars (US $27.50) per month in select locations. BTL, the national telephone company, offers high-speed broadband internet via DSL cable starting at 39 Belizean dollars (US $19.50) per month.

In addition to the major providers, there are also smaller companies that offer mobile data plans in Belize. For example, one source mentions a SMART 4G Mi-Fi plan that costs $175 BZD for the device, with credit valid for up to 45 days that needs to be purchased separately. Another plan from the same provider, offering 12Mbs data costs $135 BZD, while 25Mbs costs $220 BZD.

When it comes to prepaid plans, one source mentions that they spend around $80 a month on their cellphone in Belize with heavy data usage, while most people can get away with half that amount.

Prepaid plans

Availability and Ease of Access:

Cost and Pricing Options:

The cost of prepaid plans in Belize can vary depending on your usage and the provider you choose. According to one source, a heavy data user can expect to spend around $80 per month on their cellphone plan, while most people can manage with half that amount. Another source mentions that $135 BZD (Belize Dollar) buys you 12 Mbps, and $220 BZD gets you 25 Mbps.

Data Packages and Usage:

Coverage and Network Quality:

Belize has decent internet coverage, but the speed and reliability may vary depending on your location. While urban areas and tourist hotspots generally have better connectivity, rural regions might experience slower speeds or limited coverage. However, improvements are being made to enhance internet speeds across the country.

Payment and Recharging Options:

Suitability and Convenience:

In conclusion, prepaid plans in Belize offer a range of options to stay connected while providing the convenience of managing your internet expenses. With affordable pricing, data bundles, and the availability of multiple service providers, prepaid plans are a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking internet access in the country.

Internet speeds

Belize has the second slowest internet in the Caribbean, with the fastest internet available being 16Mbps, which recently dropped in price from BZD700 to 400 per month. However, it's possible to get faster speeds in certain areas with fibre optics.

In terms of specific providers, DigiCell and Smart offer several tiers of service, including unlimited internet starting at 55 Belizean dollars (US $27.50) per month in select locations. The national telephone company, Belize Telemedia Limited, offers high-speed broadband internet via DSL cable in select locations starting at 39 Belizean dollars (US $19.50) per month.

For those in rural areas, satellite internet is an option, with speeds of about 2 Mbps up and 25 Mbps down for US $120 a month.

In terms of mobile data, a heavy data user reported spending around $80 a month, while most people can get away with half that amount.

Frequently asked questions