Belize borders the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Mexico. With about 400,000 residents, it is the most sparsely populated nation in Central America. Roughly 60,000 people live in Belize City, the country’s economic center and main port. It is a frequent stop for cruise ships, though not without risk.
Belize is larger than El Salvador and about the size of Massachusetts. Slightly more than half the population lives in rural areas. English is the official language—Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America—but Kriol and Spanish are also widely spoken.
The Belize dollar (BZ$) is pegged to the U.S. dollar at BZ$2 = US$1, making conversion simple. U.S. dollars are accepted almost everywhere, but visitors often receive change in Belize dollars, which may be less convenient on short stays.
A former British colony once known as British Honduras, Belize gained independence in 1981 and is now a member of the Commonwealth, retaining King Charles III as head of state. After Hurricane Hattie devastated Belize City in 1961, the capital was moved inland to Belmopan, today the smallest capital city in the continental Americas.
Over sixty percent of Belize remains covered in forest. Tourism is a cornerstone of the economy, drawing travelers to the Belize Barrier Reef, more than 450 offshore cayes, wildlife reserves, Maya sites, and opportunities for diving, snorkeling, hiking, and birdwatching.
The United States established diplomatic relations in 1981, and today about 160,000 Belizeans live in the U.S.—the largest community outside Belize.
Yet safety is a serious concern. According to the U.S. Department of State, violent crime—including sexual assault, armed robbery, and murder—is common, even in tourist areas during daylight. Gang violence is widespread, police resources are limited, and many crimes remain unsolved. Visitors are advised to avoid the south side of Belize City.
I used to think that if a cruise ship docked somewhere, the port must be safe. I no longer believe that. When I landed in Belize City before joining a cruise, I quickly understood why the warnings are taken seriously. Belize City is best avoided if possible—there are far more beautiful and welcoming places to see.
On the cruise ship, though, and while exploring Belize’s waters and islands by zodiac and on foot, I felt safe and captivated by the natural beauty. The country’s reefs, cayes, and wildlife are unforgettable.
Sources: U.S. Department of State | CIA World Fact Book | World Population Review | Travel Belize | Wikipedia