Kik Usernames: Traveling To Belize

If you're planning to use your United States Kik username in Belize, you're in luck! Kik is a freeware instant messaging mobile app that is available worldwide on iOS and Android operating systems. All you need to use Kik is a smartphone with internet access, and you can register with just an email address. However, it's important to note that Kik does not employ end-to-end encryption, and your IP address can be used to determine your approximate location. Additionally, Kik is known for its features that preserve users' anonymity, such as not requiring a telephone number or valid email address for registration. So, whether you're connecting with friends or making new ones, your Kik username will work just fine in Belize!

How to change your Kik username

Unfortunately, it seems that once a Kik username has been registered, it cannot be changed. This is because a user's username is their unique identity on the app, and it is used to connect them with their friends. However, it is possible to change your display name, which is the name that people see when they view your profile.

To change your display name, follow these steps:

• Open the Kik app and log in to your account if prompted.
• Go to the Settings page by tapping on the cog or gear icon in the top-right corner of the main page.
• On the Settings page, navigate and tap on "Your Account".
• On the "Your Account" page, tap on "Name".
• Enter your desired display name and tap "Ok" or "Save" to confirm the changes.

Your display name will now be updated, and your friends will see this new name when they view your profile. It is important to note that you can change your display name as many times as you like, but your username will remain constant.

If you wish to change your Kik username completely, the only way to do so is to deactivate your current account and create a new one with a new email address. To do this, follow these steps:

• Open the Kik app and log in to your account.
• Tap on the gear icon to open the Settings page.
• Scroll down and tap on "Your Account".
• On the "Your Account" page, navigate and tap on "Reset".
• You will receive an email from Kik with a deactivation link. Open this email and click on the deactivation link.
• Enter your email address on the webpage to deactivate your Kik account.
• Once your account has been deactivated, reinstall the Kik app and create a new account with a new username.

Please note that deactivating your Kik account will result in losing your friends' list, and you will need to add them again on your new account. Additionally, you can only change your Kik username once every 30 days, and your new username must be unique and not already in use by another user.

Crime and safety in Belize

Crime and safety are important considerations when travelling to Belize. While the Caribbean islands of Belize are some of the safest places to visit, crime can be a severe problem in this Central American country. The US State Department and the Canadian government suggest travellers exercise increased caution in Belize due to the high rate of violent crime throughout the country.

Belize has consistently been named one of the worst five countries in the world for homicides, according to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime. Violent crimes like home invasions, armed robberies, and sexual assaults regularly occur during daylight hours and in tourist areas. Gang violence, centred mainly in Belize City, is a significant contributor to the problem. The south side of Belize City should be avoided at all times. Dangers in tourist areas include burglary, pickpocketing, and hotel room theft. While crimes against visitors are treated seriously, the Belizean police force is typically understaffed and poorly equipped, limiting their ability to respond.

However, many travellers enjoy incident-free trips, especially to the Caribbean islands off the coast of Belize, which have much less frequent and generally non-violent crimes of opportunity. These crimes often target tourists or more affluent long-term residents. There have been a few high-profile murders of tourists and expatriates. Cruise ship visitors, in particular, have been targeted by scammers who offer to sell them drugs and then set them up for arrest and the payment of a substantial fine. Purchasing illegal drugs in Belize will subject visitors to heavy penalties and jail time.

Sexual assaults and sexual harassment, such as catcalling and stares, are common in the country, especially on the beaches and islands. Travellers should avoid hitchhiking or accepting taxi rides with unknown passengers. Sexual harassment by taxi drivers has been reported, so it is recommended to use only licensed and registered taxis, identifiable by their green license plates.

Belize is easy to navigate, which helps solo travellers. However, anyone travelling alone should be street-smart and vigilant, especially in rural and metropolitan locations. To avoid being targeted, it is advised to stick to safe areas, take main roads, and be aware of your surroundings. Do not go out alone at night, and stay away from dark side streets. If you go hiking, join a group and ensure any guides are experienced and reputable.

Belize is generally safe for female travellers, but it is not recommended for women to travel independently, even if accompanied by another female companion. In addition to the risk of sexual assault, female travellers should be cautious of sexual harassment, which is common in the country.

LGBTQ+ travellers should also be cautious as homosexuality was only legalised in Belize in 2016, and the country is conservative. Verbal or physical abuse and harassment may occur, so it is advised to choose accommodations carefully and be discreet in most situations, including public displays of affection. San Pedro in Ambergris Caye is the most gay-friendly spot in Belize, with ample nightlife opportunities during the high season.

BIPOC travellers can generally expect friendliness and warmth from the locals, as most of the population of Belize is multiracial, with a mix of primarily indigenous Mayan and European roots, as well as Creole, East Indian, Chinese, Middle Eastern, and North American heritage.

• Store valuables and cash in a secure location, such as a hotel safe, and never leave them visible inside a parked car.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt and comply with the robber's demands.
• Refrain from wearing or displaying valuable items that may indicate wealth.
• Beware of pickpockets and keep wallets and cash in front pant pockets or small purses held closely in front of you.
• Keep the door to your hotel or accommodation secured at all times and meet visitors in the lobby.
• Avoid buses in Belize, as road conditions are generally poor and may be hazardous.
• Drive with extreme caution, even on major streets, and avoid night trips. Ensure you have emergency supplies, including a cell phone, a spare tire, and some non-perishable food.
• Look both ways when crossing the street, as vehicles do not yield to pedestrians.
• When crossing the borders into Guatemala or Mexico, only use officially recognised border crossings and avoid night travel.

International calling and data plans

When travelling to Belize, it is important to consider your options for staying connected. Here is some information on international calling and data plans to help you stay connected while in Belize.

Calling Plans and Rates

International calling rates from the US to Belize can be expensive, and it is recommended to look into alternative options to avoid high costs. Here are some options for affordable international calling:

• Rebtel: An affordable international calling app that allows you to make local calls by converting your contact's Belizean number to an American one.
• Voice Over IP (VoIP): Using apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Viber, you can make free or low-cost calls over the internet. However, both parties need an internet connection for this option.
• International Calling Apps: Apps like BOSS Revolution and MAJORITY offer cheap international calling rates without the need for calling cards or international plans.
• Local SIM Cards: If you have an unlocked phone, you can purchase a local prepaid SIM card in Belize. DigiCell, a division of Belize Telecommunications Limited (BTL), offers affordable packages for SIM card activation.

Data Plans

Cellular phone and internet access rates in Belize are the highest in Central America. Here are some options for data plans:

• DigiCell: Offers DigiNet data plans with speeds ranging from 20Mbps to 150Mbps.
• SMART: SMART SPEEDNET, a private company, offers similar services to DigiCell but uses the CDMA network spectrum. SMART generally has slightly lower prices compared to DigiCell.

Dialling Instructions

When calling Belize from the US, you will need to use the correct dialling codes. Here are the dialling instructions:

• From a Cell Phone: Dial +501, followed by the city code and local number.
• From a Landline: Dial 011 (American exit code) followed by 501, and then the city code and local number.

Additionally, if you are making international calls from Belize to other countries, you will need to dial 00 followed by the country code, area code, and local number.

By utilising these calling and data plan options, you can stay connected while in Belize without incurring excessive charges.

Entry requirements for Belize

To enter Belize, you must have a passport that is valid for at least 30 days after your arrival, and proof of intent to depart the country, such as a return ticket or onward ticket. If you are a citizen of the United States, its territories, Canada, the United Kingdom and its territories, the European Union, the Caribbean, or Central American countries, you do not need a visa to enter Belize. However, if you are visiting for a purpose other than tourism, or if you wish to stay longer than 30 days, you must obtain a visa. You can apply for a Belize Visitor's Permit Extension in one-month increments for up to six months.

Upon exiting Belize, there is a mandatory departure fee. The fee differs based on whether you leave through the international airport or the land borders with Guatemala or Mexico. The airport exit fee is US$73.50 for tourists and BZ$35 for Belizean citizens or residents. At land borders, the fee is US$20 for tourists only.

As of July 12, 2022, Belize has removed its COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions for foreign tourists. However, it is still recommended that tourists stay at certified gold-standard hotels or vacation rentals and purchase the Belize Travel Health Insurance, which costs US$18 and covers up to $50,000 in COVID-19-related medical expenses and up to $2,000 for lodging expenses.

If you are travelling with minor children, you may be asked by immigration officials to show birth certificates for each child. If the children are not travelling with both parents, you will likely be required to show signed documentation to establish that they are travelling with the permission of both parents. This documentation may include notarized letters from the parent(s), custody or adoption papers, and death certificates if one or both parents are deceased.

Local laws and customs in Belize

Import and Export Regulations

Belize customs regulations prohibit certain items from entering the country, while others require a license or the payment of import duties. All visitors must go through the customs department upon arrival in Belize, declaring any currency exceeding BZD10,000. Personal items are usually exempt from tax, but anything purchased overseas for personal use, sale, or as a gift will be taxed. Some products are exempt from tax when imported in small quantities, including:

• Tobacco: 200 cigarettes, 20 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco
• Alcoholic beverages: one liter of wine or spirits
• Medicines and medical devices for personal use

Prohibited items include:

• Guns, explosives, and ammunition
• Knives and other deadly weapons
• Illegal drugs
• Plant and animal products
• Meat and meat products
• Milk and poultry products
• Hazardous materials
• Counterfeit money and goods
• Pornographic material

Safety and Security

Belize is rated high for crime and has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world. Violent crimes such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder are common, even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. Gang-related crimes are prevalent, and local police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively. Visitors should be vigilant, especially in Belize City, where most violent crimes occur, and in remote border areas.

Transportation

Road conditions in Belize vary, ranging from two-lane paved roads to dirt or gravel tracks. Driving at night is strongly discouraged due to poor lighting and road conditions. Taxis are common in cities but less so in rural areas. Buses are primarily used for travel between cities, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not available.

Health and Medical Care

Medical care for minor ailments is generally available in urban areas, but advanced medical treatment is limited outside of major cities. Specialized prescription medications may be unavailable, and it is recommended to carry prescription medications in their original packaging, along with a doctor's prescription. The Zika virus is prevalent in Belize, and other diseases such as malaria and dengue fever are also a risk.

LGBTIQ+ Rights

Belize has a history of hostile sentiment towards LGBTIQ+ individuals, and while tourist-friendly areas like San Pedro Town and Ambergris Caye are relatively welcoming, incidents of verbal and physical assault have been reported elsewhere. The Belizean government decriminalized homosexuality in 2016, but there is ongoing debate over the protection of "sexual orientation" as a class in the Immigration Act.

Frequently asked questions