Expat Havens In Belize: Where To Live And Why

Belize is a small country in Central America with a population of around 400,000. It has become an expat hotspot due to its low population density, low cost of living, beautiful beaches, and official language of English. The country's diverse ecosystem means expats can experience the beach, savannah, rainforest, and mountains all within 60 miles. The largest expat communities have formed along the coasts, with Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and Placencia being the most popular areas for expats to settle.

Ambergris Caye

There are plenty of social activities and events for expats on Ambergris Caye. The San Pedro Fitness Club, owned by an expat couple, is a popular spot for socialising and exercising. There are also yoga schools, sailing groups, scuba and snorkelling opportunities, fishing groups, and competitions. Live music, festivals, and beach BBQs are common on Sundays, and there are several popular spots for expats to gather, including Crazy Canucks, BCs, and the Palapa Bar. Wine de Vine is a smoke-free wine bar that attracts many expats, business owners, and tourists.

For those with children, there are private and public educational institutions available. The Belize school system is based on British education and is divided into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Private primary schools, such as Island Academy in San Pedro, can cost approximately $3,000+ a year, while public primary schools are free, with only a small yearly registration fee, books, and uniforms to pay for.

Healthcare in Belize is relatively well-established, with hospitals or polyclinics in every major city and town. There are two main private hospitals in Belize City: Belize Medical Associates and Belize Healthcare Partners. These hospitals offer a range of services and employ doctors specialising in various disciplines. The cost of a consultation at these private institutions ranges from $25 to $30, while a visit to a public hospital is usually free or has a very low fee.

Overall, Ambergris Caye offers a relaxed and slow-paced lifestyle, with a mix of local and expat culture. The island has a tight-knit community, and expats can easily get involved in volunteer organisations and social activities.

Caye Caulker

The cost of living on Caye Caulker is higher than on the Belize mainland, with estimates ranging from $1,500 to upwards of $2,000 per month. This is due to the island being a popular expat destination and the need to import many food products. Groceries, in particular, may be more expensive than expected.

For expats, Caye Caulker offers a kick-back, low-key island lifestyle. It is a perfect spot for those who wish to live by the Caribbean Sea and be surrounded by nature. The island is also well-suited for artists and writers seeking creative inspiration.

There are limited schools on Caye Caulker, which can be a deal-breaker for those planning to relocate with children or teens. Medical care is also limited, with local clinics offering basic protection and preventative care, but a serious illness may require a trip back home for treatment.

The residents of Caye Caulker are friendly and welcoming, and the island has a fun, artistic vibe. It is a great place for outdoor activities, especially water sports, with quality snorkelling, fishing, and boating.

For expats seeking a slower pace of life, surrounded by the beauty of the Caribbean Sea, Caye Caulker is an ideal destination.

Placencia

There is plenty to do in Placencia, from swimming with whale sharks to various day diving packages for the adventurous. The town has all the amenities one would need, including supermarkets, brightly painted restaurants, a small domestic airport, and a medical clinic. There is also a private school called PIA (Peninsula International Academy), which serves up to high school.

For those considering a move to Placencia, it is recommended to do plenty of research and spend time in the area before making any decisions. While Placencia is considered safe, those leaving during the low season (May to November) typically take some precautions, such as hiring a house sitter or storing valuables in a secure location.

San Ignacio

The town has a laid-back, local vibe, surrounded by natural beauty, including Mayan ruins, a forest reserve, caves, butterfly farms, and botanical gardens. San Ignacio is also a backpacker's dream, with plenty of trails to hike and a rich display of plant and animal species for eco-tourists. The town is connected to its sister city, Santa Elena, by an elevated bridge.

The cost of living in San Ignacio depends on your lifestyle choices. If you opt for locally sourced food and alternatives to imported goods, your expenses will be lower. However, if you choose to buy a large number of imported goods, your costs will increase.

For healthcare, San Ignacio has clinics, hospitals, and medical centres, including the San Ignacio Community Hospital, which offers emergency care, diagnostic services, outpatient care, and general medical and surgical services. While general medical care is available, specialised care may be more challenging to access.

In terms of infrastructure, San Ignacio serves as a hub for tourism, commerce, and transportation in western Belize. The town has paved roads and sidewalks, although more remote areas may have dirt roads. Basic utilities like water, electricity, and Wi-Fi are available, but the speed of internet connections may vary depending on your location.

The climate in San Ignacio is tropical, with higher temperatures, humidity, and distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season runs from November to May, with warmer and relatively drier weather, while the rainy season lasts from June to October, with heavy showers and thunderstorms.

Overall, San Ignacio offers a healthy, slow-paced, and relaxed lifestyle, making it a desirable destination for expats seeking a change of pace.

Corozal

One of the biggest draws of Corozal is its proximity to Mexico. Chetumal, a Mexican city with shopping and nightlife, is just a half-hour away. This makes Corozal a great base for duty-free shopping and accessing the familiar low-cost retailers like Walmart and Sam's Club just across the border. The town also has the advantage of less rainfall than most areas to the south, so you can enjoy the tropical climate without as much tropical rain!

There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained in Corozal. The town has an open-air market where you can buy fresh produce, snacks, souvenirs, and handmade clothing. There are also shops and restaurants serving Belizean, Mexican, and American dishes at affordable prices. Outdoor activities include sailing, fishing, swimming, and visiting historic Mayan sites like Santa Rita and Cerros. There are also local museums, a library, and activities in the local park.

For expats looking to socialise and meet others, there are several groups and clubs to join, including the Women's Forum, the Rotary Club, the Consejo Shores Golf Group, and the Corozal Bay Sailing Club. There are also yoga classes and water aerobics held regularly.

In terms of healthcare, Corozal has a community hospital that offers a range of medical services. However, expats often opt for private healthcare, either in Corozal or across the border in Chetumal, Mexico. It is recommended that expats obtain medical insurance that covers them in both Belize and Mexico.

Overall, Corozal offers a unique blend of a quiet, seaside community with easy access to the bustling city life of Chetumal, making it an ideal destination for expats seeking a relaxed and affordable lifestyle.

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