Grand Cayman Or Belize: Which Caribbean Paradise Is Best?

Belize and Grand Cayman are two distinct destinations in the Caribbean, each offering unique experiences to travellers. While both are popular tourist spots renowned for their scuba diving and snorkelling, there are several differences between the two, from safety and cost to cuisine and culture.

Crime rates

Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world. Other violent crimes, including armed robbery, shootings, domestic abuse, and sexual assault, are also a concern. Gang-related violence occurs most frequently in Belize City, particularly in the area to the south of the Haulover Creek (known as Southside). Tourists are not usually the targets of gang violence, but anyone near an incident could be affected. Armed criminals have also been active in the remote forested areas of Belize, particularly near the border with Guatemala and close to tourist sites. However, this area is patrolled by the Belize Defence Force, and there have been no reported incidents involving tourists.

Tourists in Belize are vulnerable to theft, especially in destinations such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio. There are also reports of verbal and physical abuse against the LGBT+ community outside of tourist-friendly areas.

In comparison, data on crime rates in Grand Cayman is limited. However, there are concerns about increasing crime rates over the past five years, including property crimes such as vandalism and theft, and violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery. Corruption and bribery are also mentioned as issues in Grand Cayman.

While Belize has a higher murder rate and a more serious problem with violent crime, Grand Cayman also experiences crime, and both destinations warrant caution.

Cost of travel

Grand Cayman and Belize are both relatively expensive destinations, but there are ways to visit either on a budget.

Grand Cayman

The average daily cost per person to visit Grand Cayman is $214, including accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment. The average hotel room costs $299 per night, and food is around $39 per day. Local transportation will cost you around $31 per day, and entertainment is approximately $41 per day. Alcohol is around $13 per day.

Flights to Grand Cayman vary in price depending on the time of year and where you are flying from. For example, flights from Miami to Grand Cayman can be as low as $113 one-way, while flights from New York can be upwards of $283 return.

Belize

Belize is considered expensive for Central America, with a realistic daily budget of 80 euros per person. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.

Accommodation in Belize is relatively expensive, with an average of €40.70 per night for a double room for two people. Transportation can also be costly, with ferries between islands costing over €15 per person. Food and drink are also quite expensive, especially on the islands.

However, it is possible to visit Belize on a tight budget. Hostel beds can be found for $10-12 US per night, and camping is $5-10 US per night. Local buses are very cheap, with journeys costing as little as $2-10 BZ. Food can also be inexpensive if you eat at street stalls or local restaurants, with a daily budget of $20-30 BZ.

Overall, both destinations offer a range of options for travellers of different budgets. Grand Cayman may be more suitable for those looking for a wider range of accommodation and dining options, while Belize could be a better choice for those interested in outdoor activities and exploring nature.

Food and drink

When it comes to food and drink, there are some similarities between Grand Cayman and Belize. Both have seafood as a primary staple, with fish featuring heavily on the menus of restaurants in both locations.

However, there are also some distinct differences between the two. Grand Cayman's cuisine is heavily influenced by Central America, with a variety of seafood dishes and authentic Central American cuisine on offer. In Belize, Latin American cuisine is also a staple, but the country also offers a wider range of dining options to suit different budgets. While there are some high-end restaurants in Belize, it is also possible to find more affordable options, such as a whole fish dinner for around $10 or a burrito for less than $3. Belize is, therefore, a better option for those looking for a budget-friendly trip.

In terms of drinks, Grand Cayman has a higher cost of living, and this is reflected in the price of alcohol. A single drink can cost over $10. Belize, on the other hand, is known for its rum, and there are distillery tours available that include samples of the local spirits.

For those looking for a more luxurious dining experience, Grand Cayman has some amazing gourmet restaurants. One source describes the food in Grand Cayman as "truly some of the best meals I've ever had".

So, while both Grand Cayman and Belize offer delicious seafood and tropical drinks, the overall cost and variety of dining options may be deciding factors for some travellers.

Weather

Belize has a tropical climate with warm and humid conditions throughout the year. The country experiences a wet season from May to January, so you can expect a bit of rain during that time.

Belize is known for its occasional thunderstorms and scattered showers, with temperatures usually hovering around 80°F (27°C). The weather in Belize is also quite cloudy, with variable cloud coverage throughout the year.

The National Meteorological Service of Belize issues weather forecasts three times daily, providing information on wind speed, wind direction, air temperature, and potential advisories or warnings.

Grand Cayman, the largest of the three Cayman Islands, has a similar climate to Belize, with warm temperatures and a mix of sun and clouds. Temperatures typically range from 78°F to 89°F (26°C to 32°C).

The island experiences a rainy season, with slightly higher rainfall from May to January. However, even during the rainy season, there are plenty of sunny days, and the warm climate attracts visitors all year round.

Like Belize, Grand Cayman sometimes experiences isolated evening showers and scattered thunderstorms.

Comparison

Both destinations offer warm and humid weather, with Grand Cayman perhaps offering slightly higher temperatures on some days. They both have rainy seasons during similar periods, and neither destination experiences extreme weather conditions.

If you are looking for slightly drier weather, Grand Cayman might be a better option, as Belize has a reputation for its frequent thunderstorms and higher humidity. However, both locations offer a tropical climate with plenty of sunshine throughout the year.

Transport

Belize

The best way to get around Belize as a tourist is by plane, taxi (including water taxis), shuttle, or rental car. The country has one international airport, Philip Goldson International Airport, located near Belize City. From there, you can either take a domestic flight, taxi, shuttle, or rental car to your destination.

Belize has a well-developed bus network, with buses running on major highways and in larger towns and cities. However, buses can be slow and crowded. Most buses are former North American school buses. In smaller places, buses may only run once a day.

Water taxis are a popular and affordable way to travel between the mainland and popular island destinations such as Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker.

Belize also has a network of navigable waterways, but there are no railways.

Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman has a range of transportation options, including taxis, buses, ferries, and rental cars. Owen Roberts International Airport (ORIA) offers pre-booked bus and limousine services, as well as taxis and rental cars.

The Public Transit Bus Depot operates several bus routes around Georgetown and the south coast.

Ferry services are also available, with Cayman Ferries offering trips between Grand Cayman and other destinations.

Several companies provide private transportation services, such as Ryan's Taxi Service and Cayman VIP Transport.

Frequently asked questions