Planning a trip to Belize

When to Go

Belize's high season for tourism runs from late November to mid April, which coincides almost perfectly with the chill of winter in the United States, Canada, and Great Britain. The high season is also the dry season. If you want some unadulterated time on a tropical beach and a little less rain during your rainforest experience, this is the time to visit. During this period (and especially around the Christmas and Easter holidays), the tourism industry operates at full tilt -- prices are higher, attractions are more crowded, and reservations need to be made in advance.

The weather in Belize is subtropical and generally similar to that of southern Florida. The average daytime temperature on the coast and cayes is around 80°F (27°C), although it can get considerably warmer during the day during the summer months. During the winter months, when northern cold fronts extend their grip south, it can get downright nippy. In fact, from late December to February, "northers" can hit the coastal and caye areas hard, and hang around for between 3 and 5 days, putting a severe crimp in any beach vacation. The best months for guaranteed sun and fun are March through May.

The rainy season runs from June to mid-November, while the hurricane season runs from July to October, with the most active months being August, September, and October. For the most part, the rainy season is characterized by a dependable and short-lived afternoon shower. However, the amount of rainfall varies considerably with the regions. In the south, there may be more than 150 inches of rain per year, while in the north, it rarely rains more than 50 inches per year. Usually there is also a brief dry period in mid-August, known as the mauger. If you're skittish about rain and hurricanes, don't come to Belize between late August and mid-October, the height of both the rainy and hurricane seasons. However, if you do come, you should be able to land some good bargains.

The Cayo District and other inland destinations tend to be slightly cooler than the coastal and caye destinations, although since there is generally little elevation gain, the differences tend to be slight.

Public Holidays

Official holidays in Belize include January 1 (New Year's Day), March 9 (Baron Bliss Day), Good Friday, Holy Saturday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday, May 1 (Labour Day), May 24 (Commonwealth Day), September 10 (St. George's Caye Day), September 21 (Independence Day), October 12 (Pan American Day), November 19 (Garífuna Settlement Day), December 25 (Christmas Day), December 26 (Boxing Day), and December 31 (New Year's Eve).

Government offices and banks are closed on official holidays, transportation services are reduced, and stores and markets may also close.

Money

It's always advisable to bring money in a variety of forms on a vacation: a mix of cash, credit cards, debit cards, and, occasionally, traveler's checks.

Currency

The Belize dollar, abbreviated BZ$, is the official currency of Belize. It is pegged to the U.S. dollar at a ratio of 2 Belize dollars to 1 U.S. dollar. Both currencies are acceptable at almost any business or establishment around the country. As long as you have U.S. dollars or U.S. dollar-based traveler's checks, it is entirely unnecessary to change for Belize dollars in advance of your trip. However, travelers from Canada, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand will want to change a sufficient amount of their home currency to U.S. dollars before traveling. To check the very latest exchange rates before you leave home, point your browser to www.xe.com/ucc.

Once you are in Belize, the change you receive will most likely be in Belize dollars, although it is not uncommon for it to be a mix of both currencies. However, do try to have some small-denomination bills for paying taxis, modest meal tabs, and tips.

The branch of the Atlantic Bank at the international airport is only open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 2:30pm. If you are flying out on a Sunday, or outside of these hours, be sure to spend or exchange any Belize dollars beforehand.

Tip: Be careful to note whether or not the price you are being quoted is in Belize or U.S. dollars. Many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators actually quote in U.S. dollars. If in doubt, ask. At a two-to-one ratio, the difference can be substantial.

ATMs

Credit Cards

Credit cards are another safe way to carry money. They also provide a convenient record of all your expenses, and they generally offer relatively good exchange rates. You can withdraw cash advances from your credit cards at banks or ATMs, but high fees make credit card cash advances a pricey way to get cash. Keep in mind that you'll pay interest from the moment of your withdrawal, even if you pay your monthly bills on time. Also, note that many banks now assess a 1% to 3% "transaction fee" on all charges you incur abroad (whether you're using the local currency or your native currency).

Most major credit cards are accepted in Belize, although MasterCard and Visa are much more widely accepted than American Express, especially by smaller hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. While there are some exceptions, Diners Club and Discover are rarely accepted around Belize.

Some credit card companies recommend that you notify them of any impending trip abroad so that they don't become suspicious when the card is used numerous times in a foreign destination and block your charges. Even if you don't call your credit card company in advance, you can always call the card's toll-free emergency number if a charge is refused -- a good reason to carry the phone number with you. But perhaps the most important lesson here is to carry more than one card with you on your trip; a card might not work for any number of reasons, so having a backup is the smart way to go.

Calendar of Events

Some of the events listed here might be considered more of a community celebration or tradition than an event -- there's not, for instance, a Deer Dance Festival PR Committee that readily dispenses information. If I haven't listed a contact number, your best bet is to call the Belize Tourism Board at tel. 800/624-0286 in the U.S. and Canada, or 227-2430 in Belize, or visit www.travelbelize.org for additional information.

January

Krem New Year's Cycling Classic. This New Year's Day road race starts in Corozal Town and ends in Belize City. The competitors are mostly Belizean, although Guatemalan and Mexican teams occasionally enter. The winners usually take around 3 1/2 to 4 hours to cross the finish line; crowds usually form at the start and finish points. January 1.

February

International Billfish Tournament. Hosted by the Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina (tel. 800/333-3333 in the U.S., or 223-3333; www.radisson.com), this multiday event features cash prizes. Early February.

Carnival. Nationwide celebrations during the week before Lent. Larger towns have parades and dance competitions. In San Pedro, watch out for getting "painted."

March

La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge. This 4-day canoe race begins in San Ignacio in the Cayo District and ends at the Swing Bridge in Belize City. For more details, visit www.larutamayabelize.com. Early March.

Baron Bliss Day. The day is marked with nationwide celebrations of Belize's benefactor. The greatest festivities are held in Belize City, which hosts a regatta, as well as horse and foot races. March 9.

May

Labour Day. After a national address by the prime minister or minister of labour (carried on all local radio and television stations), the rest of Labour Day is filled with street celebrations, regattas, and horse races. May 1.

Cashew Festival, Crooked Tree Village. Celebrating the cashew harvest, this weekend celebration features local booths selling everything possible under the sun made with this coveted nut, including cashew wine and cashew jelly. Live music and general revelry accompany the celebrations. First weekend in May.

National Agriculture & Trade Show, Belmopan. This national fair is geared towards farmers, cattle ranchers, large-scale agro-business, and buyers, but it's still an interesting event to tour or visit if you're in the country at the time. Mid-May.

Toledo Cacao Fest, Punta Gorda. Chocolate lovers should head to southern Belize in late May for this festival. In addition to food and desserts, there are concerts, games, parades and tour activities planned. For exact dates, see www.toledochocolate.com.

June

Lobster Festival, San Pedro. During this weeklong celebration of the opening of lobster season, Ambergris Caye pulls out all the stops. There's plenty of lobster to be had in a variety of preparations, at temporary outdoor stalls and restaurants around town. There are also concerts and dancing and an arts fair. Mid-June.

Día de San Pedro, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. This is a 3-day celebration of the island's patron saint, Saint Peter, or San Pedro. Boats are blessed, and there are parades and processions. June 27 to 29.

July

Lobster Festival, Caye Caulker. Not to be outdone by Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker also puts on a long weekend celebration of the start of lobster season. Food, music, and dancing are all served up in hearty portions around town. Early July.

August

Costa Maya Festival, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. This is perhaps the largest festival in the country. Drawing participants from the neighboring countries of El Salvador, Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, this celebration features a steady stream of live concert performances, street parades, beauty pageants, and water shows and activities. Early August.

Deer Dance Festival, San Antonio, Toledo District. This 9-day Mayan festival is celebrated in the small Mayan village of San Antonio. Highlights include costumed and dance performances. Late August to early September.

September

Independence Day. Patriotic parades and official celebrations are mixed with street parties, beauty pageants, and open-air concerts. September 21.

October

Pan American Day. Formerly known as Columbus Day, this day now celebrates mestizo and Mayan culture with parades, street fairs, and concerts. October 12.

November

Garífuna Settlement Day. The greatest Garífuna celebration occurs in Dangriga, where Garífunas from across Belize and throughout the region gather to commemorate their arrival from St. Vincent in 1832. Street parades, religious ceremonies, and dance and drumming performances are all part of the celebrations throughout the southern coastal zone. November 19.

December

Boxing Day. While Christmas Day is predominantly for the family in Belize, Boxing Day is a chance to continue the celebration with friends, neighbors, and strangers. Dances, concerts, horse races, and general festivities are put on around the country. December 26.

Escorted & Package Tours

Packages for the Independent Traveler

Package tours are simply a way to buy the airfare, accommodations, and other elements of your trip (such as car rentals, airport transfers, and sometimes even activities) at the same time and often at discounted prices.

One good source of package deals is Delta Vacations (tel. 800/654-6559; www.deltavacations.com). Several big online travel agencies -- Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz,  and Lastminute.com -- also do a brisk business in packages. Better yet may be the tours led by adventure companies, listed under "Organized Adventure Tours" on this site. Escorted tours are structured group tours with a group leader. The price usually includes everything from airfare to hotels, meals, tours, admission costs, and local transportation.

Despite the fact that escorted tours require big deposits and predetermine hotels, restaurants, and itineraries, many people derive security and peace of mind from the structure they offer. Escorted tours -- whether they're navigated by bus, motor coach, train, or boat -- let travelers sit back and enjoy the trip without having to drive or worry about details. They take you to the maximum number of sights in the minimum amount of time with the least amount of hassle. They're particularly convenient for people with limited mobility, and they can be a great way to make new friends.

On the downside, you'll have little opportunity for serendipitous interactions with locals. The tours can be jam-packed with activities, leaving little room for individual sightseeing, whim, or adventure -- plus they often focus on the heavily touristed sites, so you miss out on many a lesser-known gem.

Ask Before You Go -- Before you invest in a package deal or an escorted tour:

• Always ask about the cancellation policy. Can you get your money back? Is there a deposit required?

• Ask about the accommodations choices and prices for each. Then look up the hotels' reviews in a Frommer's guide and check their rates online for your specific dates of travel. Also find out what types of rooms are offered.

• Request a complete schedule. (Escorted tours only)

• Ask about the size and demographics of the group. (Escorted tours only)

• Discuss what is included in the price (transportation, meals, tips, airport transfers, and the like). (Escorted tours only)

• Finally, look for hidden expenses. Ask whether airport departure fees and taxes, for example, are included in the total cost -- they rarely are.

Visitor Information

The Belize Tourism Board, at 64 Regent St. in Belize City, will mail you a basic information packet, which you can order on their website at www.travelbelize.org. Alternatively, folks in the United States and Canada can call the Belize Tourism Board toll free at tel. 800/624-0286. Travelers from the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand will have to rely primarily on the website, or dial direct to Belize (tel. 227-2430), as the Belize Tourism Board does not have offices or a toll-free number in these countries.

In addition to the official website, you'll be able to find a wealth of Web-based information on Belize with a few clicks of your mouse.

Sustainable Travel & Ecotourism

Sustainable tourism is conscientious travel. It means being careful with the environments you explore, and respecting the communities you visit. Two overlapping components of sustainable travel are ecotourism and ethical tourism. The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) defines ecotourism as responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people. TIES suggests that ecotourists follow these principles:

• Minimize environmental impact.

• Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.

• Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts.

• Provide direct financial benefits for conservation and for local people.

• Raise sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental, and social climates.

• Support international human rights and labor agreements.

You can find some eco-friendly travel tips and statistics, as well as touring companies and associations -- listed by destination under "Travel Choice" -- at the TIES website, www.ecotourism.org.

Belize is a major ecotourism destination. While much of the focus of ecotourism is about reducing impacts on the natural environment, ethical tourism concentrates on ways to preserve and enhance local economies and communities, regardless of location. You can embrace ethical tourism by staying at a locally owned hotel or shopping at a store that employs local workers and sells locally produced goods.

Responsible Travel (www.responsibletravel.com) is a great source of sustainable travel ideas; the site is run by a spokesperson for ethical tourism in the travel industry. Sustainable Travel International (www.sustainabletravelinternational.org) promotes ethical tourism practices, and manages an extensive directory of sustainable properties and tour operators around the world. We're also big fans of Jeff Greenwald's Ethical Traveler (www.ethicaltravel.org).

You might also focus on specific lodges that have an ecotourism bent, such as Chan Chich Lodge, Lamanai Outpost Lodge, Chaa Creek, The Lodge at Big Falls, and Ian Anderson's Caves Branch, all listed on this site.

Volunteer travel has become increasingly popular among those who want to venture beyond the standard group-tour experience to learn languages, interact with locals, and make a positive difference while on vacation. Volunteer travel usually doesn't require special skills -- just a willingness to work hard -- and programs vary in length from a few days to a number of weeks. Some programs provide free housing and food, but many require volunteers to pay for travel expenses, which can add up quickly.

For general info on volunteer travel, visit www.volunteerabroad.org and www.idealist.org.

Before you commit to a volunteer program, it's important to make sure any money you're giving is truly going back to the local community, and that the work you'll be doing will be a good fit for you. Volunteer International (www.volunteerinternational.org) has a helpful list of questions to ask to determine the intentions and the nature of a volunteer program.

Animal-Rights Issues

Although there are currently no swim-with-the-dolphin attractions or tours in Belize, I wouldn't be surprised if someone opened one soon. For information about the ethics of swimming with dolphins, visit the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society (www.wdcs.org). For information on animal-friendly issues throughout the world, visit Tread Lightly (www.treadlightly.org).

It's Easy Being Green

Here are a few simple ways you can help conserve fuel and energy when you travel:

• Each time you take a flight or drive a car, greenhouse gases are released into the atmosphere. You can help neutralize this danger to the planet through "carbon offsetting" -- paying someone to invest your money in programs that reduce your greenhouse gas emissions by the same amount you've added. Before buying carbon offset credits, just make sure that you're using a reputable company, one with a proven program that invests in renewable energy. Reliable carbon offset companies include Carbonfund (www.carbonfund.org), and Carbon Neutral (www.carbonneutral.org).

• Whenever possible, choose nonstop flights; they generally require less fuel than indirect flights that stop and take off again. Try to fly during the day -- some scientists estimate that nighttime flights are twice as harmful to the environment. And pack light -- each 15 pounds of luggage on a 5,000-mile flight adds up to 50 pounds of carbon dioxide emitted.

• Where you stay during your travels can have a major environmental impact. To determine the green credentials of a property, ask about trash disposal and recycling, water conservation, and energy use; also question if sustainable materials were used in the construction of the property. The website www.greenhotels.com recommends green-rated member hotels around the world that fulfill the company's stringent environmental requirements.

• At hotels, request that your sheets and towels not be changed daily. (Many hotels already have programs like this in place.) Turn off the lights and air-conditioner (or heater) when you leave your room.

• Use public transport where possible -- trains, buses and even taxis are more energy-efficient forms of transport than driving. Even better is to walk or cycle; you'll produce zero emissions and stay fit and healthy on your travels.

• If renting a car is necessary, ask the rental agent for a hybrid, or rent the most fuel-efficient car available. You'll use less gas and save money at the tank.

• Eat at locally owned and operated restaurants that use produce grown in the area. This contributes to the local economy and cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions by supporting restaurants where the food is not flown or trucked in across long distances.

Tips on Accommodations

Belize has no truly large-scale resorts or hotels. While the Radisson and Best Western chains have one property each in Belize City, there are no other chain hotels in Belize. Upscale travelers looking for over-the-top luxury have very few options here. True budget hounds will also find slim pickings, especially in the beach and caye destinations. What the country does have is a host of intimate and interesting small to midsize hotels and small resorts. Most of these are quite comfortable and reasonably priced by most international standards, although nowhere near as inexpensive as neighboring Mexico.

Belize is a noted ecotourism and bird-watching destination, and there are small nature-oriented ecolodges across the inland portion of the country. These lodges offer opportunities to see wildlife (including sloths, monkeys, and hundreds of species of birds) and learn about tropical forests. They range from spartan facilities catering primarily to scientific researchers to luxury accommodations that are among the finest in the country.

At the more popular beach and resort destinations, specifically Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and Placencia, you might want to look into renting a condo or efficiency unit, especially for longer stays.

Throughout this online guide, I've separated hotel listings into several broad categories:  Expensive $200 to $199 and up; Moderate, $61 to $199; and Inexpensive, under $60 for a double. Rates given on this site do not include the 9% hotel tax. This tax will add to the cost of your room, so do factor it in.

One item you're likely to want to bring with you is a beach towel. Your hotel might not provide one at all, and even if it does, it might be awfully thin.

Speak Up -- If you are booking directly with your hotel (either by phone or e-mail), remember that most hotels are accustomed to paying as much as 20% in commission to agents and wholesalers. It never hurts to ask if they will pass some of that on to you. Don't be afraid to bargain.

Getting There

By Plane

Belize City's Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (airport code BZE) is serviced by several airlines out of major U.S. hubs. American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, and United all have regular direct service to Belize. WestJet and Air Canada have direct flights from Toronto with a flight time of 5 and a half hours. Flying time from Miami is just more than 2 hours.

There are no direct flights to Belize from Europe, Australia, New Zealand, mainland Asia, or Africa. From Canada, the only direct flights are seasonal winter charters. To get to Belize from any of these points of origin, you will have to connect through one of the U.S. hubs.

Getting into Town from the Airport

The Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport is located 16km (10 miles) northwest of the city on the Northern Highway. There is no public bus service or shuttle van service. However, taxis are there to meet every flight. A taxi into town will cost BZ$50.

By Cruise Ship

As many as one million tourists stop in Belize as part of a cruise itinerary per year. All ships call at Belize City and offer a wide range of day-tour options around the country. Cruise lines that offer stops in Belize as part of their Caribbean and Panama Canal routes include Crystal Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Radisson Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Yachts. It might pay off to book through a travel agency that specializes in cruises; these companies are rewarded by the cruise lines when they sell a lot of inventory with perks they pass on to their customers (like free upgrades, a waiving of gratuities and more). Try the CruisesOnly (www.cruises only.com), Vacations To Go (www.vacationstogo.com) or World Wide Cruises (www.worldwidecruises.com).

Note: Norwegian  Cruise Lines lso calls in Belize just south of Placencia, but their terminal, Harvest Caye, is not the ecotourism destination that it’s marketed as. Not only was a manatee mating habitat dredged to build this terminal, scarlet macaws and keel-billed toucans are caged as an attraction for arriving guests, and neither bird species is equipped for life by the sea. Plus, with barely 300 macaws living in the wild in Belize, reducing their population by any amount has major consequences. Wildlife lovers might want to consider cruising with another company for this reason.

Staying Healthy

The only major modern hospitals in Belize are located in Belize City, although there are smaller hospitals or clinics in every major town or city. In general, you should bring any prescription drugs you will need with you, although there are reasonably well-stocked pharmacies in most major towns and tourist destinations.

General Availability of Healthcare

There are two major hospitals in Belize City: Belize Medical Associates, 5791 St. Thomas Kings Park (tel. 223-0302 ; www.belizemedical.com), a modern, 24-hour private hospital, with emergency care and numerous private-practice physicians; and the city's main public hospital, the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital on Princess Margaret Drive (tel. 223-1548), which is also open 24 hours and has a wide range of facilities and services.

Most of the other towns and major tourist destinations either have a small hospital or a local health clinic, in addition to private-practice doctors. Any foreign consulate can provide a list of area doctors. If you get sick, consider asking your hotel concierge or front desk staff to recommend a local doctor -- even his or her own.

Before You Go

Pack prescription medications in your carry-on luggage, and carry prescription medications in their original containers, with pharmacy labels -- otherwise they won't make it through airport security. Also bring along copies of your prescriptions in case you lose your pills or run out. Carry the generic name of prescription medicines, in case a local pharmacist is unfamiliar with the brand name. Don't forget an extra pair of contact lenses or prescription glasses.

If you worry about getting sick away from home, consider purchasing medical travel insurance and carry your ID card in your purse or wallet. In most cases, your existing health plan will provide the coverage you need.

Common Ailments

Tropical Illnesses -- None of the major tropical illnesses are epidemic in Belize, and your chance of contracting any serious tropical disease in the country is slim. However, several mosquito-borne illnesses are present, particularly malaria and dengue.

Although malaria is found in Belize, it's far from epidemic (in fact it is very, very rare). It pops up, when it does, in the coastal lowlands, as well as in some of the more remote southern inland communities. Malaria prophylaxes are available, but several have side effects, and others are of questionable effectiveness. Consult your doctor as to what is currently considered the best preventive treatment for malaria. Be sure to ask whether a recommended drug will cause you to be hypersensitive to the sun -- it would be a shame to come down here for the beaches and then have to hide under an umbrella the whole time. Because malaria-carrying mosquitoes usually come out at night, you should do as much as possible to avoid being bitten after dark. If you are in a malarial area, wear long pants and long sleeves, use insect repellent, and either sleep under a mosquito net or burn mosquito coils (similar to incense but with a pesticide).

Of greater concern may be dengue fever, which has had periodic outbreaks in Latin America since the mid-1990s. Dengue fever is somewhat similar to malaria and is spread by an aggressive daytime mosquito. This mosquito seems to be most common in lowland urban areas, and Belize City and Dangriga have been the hardest hit cities in Belize. Dengue is also known as "bone-break fever," because it is usually accompanied by severe body aches. The first infection with dengue fever will make you very sick but should cause no serious damage. However, a second infection with a different strain of the dengue virus can lead to internal hemorrhaging and may be life-threatening. As with malaria, your best protection is to not get bitten. Use plenty of repellent, and wear light long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially on bird-watching tours or nature hikes.

Like most of Latin America, Belize has also reported cases of the Zika virus spread by mosquitos, so the Center for Disease Control (CDC) advises pregnant women against visiting Belize (or any other Zika-stricken country). New instances of the disease seem to be decreasing overall, so treat this like any other illness: protect yourself as much as possible, but know that you are unlikely to contract it.

Many people are convinced that taking B-complex vitamins daily will help prevent mosquitoes from biting you. I don't think the American Medical Association has endorsed this idea yet, but I've run across it in enough places to think there may be something to it.

Belize has been relatively free from the cholera epidemic that has spread through much of Latin America in recent years. This is largely due to an extensive public-awareness campaign that has promoted good hygiene and increased sanitation. Your chances of contracting cholera while you're here are very slight.

Dietary Red Flags -- Even though the water around Belize is generally safe, particularly in most of the popular tourist destinations, and even if you're careful to buy and drink only bottled water, you still may encounter some intestinal difficulties. Most of this is just due to tender northern stomachs coming into contact with slightly more aggressive Latin American intestinal flora. In extreme cases of diarrhea or intestinal discomfort, it's worth taking a stool sample to a lab for analysis. The results will usually pinpoint the amoebic or parasitic culprit, which can then be readily treated with available over-the-counter medicines.

If you have any strict dietary restrictions, be it for health, religious, or ethical reasons, be sure to check with your hotel in advance to ensure that you don't starve while on vacation.

Bugs, Bites & Other Wildlife Concerns -- Although Belize has Africanized bees (the notorious "killer bees" of fact and fable) and several species of venomous snakes, your chances of being bitten are minimal, especially if you refrain from sticking your hands into hives or under rocks in the forest. If you know that you're allergic to bee stings, consult your doctor before traveling.

Snake sightings, much less snakebites, are very rare. Moreover, the majority of snakes in Belize are nonpoisonous, and even those aren’t aggressive, excepting the Fer-De-Lance.  If you do encounter a snake, stay calm, don't make any sudden movements, and do not try to handle it. If you're bitten, seek medical attention immediately -- don't try to bleed the area of the wound or suck the poison out. Staying calm will keep the venom from circulating quickly, giving you more time to get help.

Scorpions, black widow spiders, tarantulas, bullet ants, and other biting insects can all be found in Belize. In general, they are not nearly the danger or nuisance most visitors fear. (If you're a serious arachnophobe, stick to the beach resorts.) You should be fine if you watch where you stick your hands; in addition, you might want to shake out your clothes and shoes before putting them on to avoid any painful surprises.

The most prevalent and annoying biting insect you are likely to encounter, especially on the cayes and along the coast, are sand flies or "no-see-ems." These tiny biting bugs leave a raised and itchy welt, but otherwise are of no significant danger. Sand flies and no-see-ems tend to be most active around sunrise and sunset, or on overcast days. The black fly, or “botlass,” is their inland equivalent, and for many, much more irritating Your best protection is to wear light long-sleeved shirts and long pants when these bugs are biting.

Belize does have ticks in and around the jungle areas, but the good news is that unlike their northern counterparts, these ones don’t carry Lyme disease. In most bug bite cases locals will advise treating the itch with fresh lime juice, and there is definitely something to that.

Tropical Sun -- Limit your exposure to the sun, especially during the first few days of your trip and, thereafter, from 11am to 2pm. Use a sunscreen with a high protection factor and apply it liberally. Remember that children need more protection than adults do and that water magnifies the sun’s rays, so be excessive with that SPF when doing water activities.

Drink plenty of water and other fluids to avoid dehydration. Also, this may seem counterintuitive, but add extra salt to your meals or bring rehydration tablets, which are essentially flavored salt. The humidity and consistently high temperatures will make you sweat, draining you of water and sodium, both of which are needed to keep you hydrated. Belizeans will be quick to remind you that if you feel thirsty, then you’re already behind on staying hydrated.

What to Do If You Get Sick Away from Home

Your hotel will be your best resource if you fall ill while traveling in Belize. Most hotels will be able to refer you to a local doctor, clinic, or hospital.

To protect yourself, consider buying medical travel insurance. When searching for a specific policy, we highly recommend the websites SquareMouth.com and InsureMyTrip.com. Both act as online marketplaces for reliable insurance companies. Thanks to their sophisticated designs, all the user needs to do is insert their dates of travel, age and destination before being provided with an extensive list of policy options. We do recommend medical evacuation insurance for Belize, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions.

Tips for Student Travelers

Check out the International Student Travel Confederation (ISTC) (www.istc.org) website for comprehensive travel services information and details on how to get an International Student Identity Card (ISIC), which qualifies students for substantial savings on entrance fees, and more. It also provides students with basic health and life insurance and a 24-hour helpline. The card is valid for a maximum of 18 months. You can apply for the card online or in person at STA Travel (tel. 800/781-4040 in North America; tel. 132-782 in Australia; tel. 0871/230-0040 in the U.K.; www.statravel.com), the biggest student travel agency in the world; check out the website to locate STA Travel offices worldwide. If you're no longer a student but are still under 26, you can get an International Youth Travel Card (IYTC) from the same people, which entitles you to some discounts. Travel CUTS (tel. 800/592-2887; www.travelcuts.com) offers similar services for both Canadians and U.S. residents. Irish students may prefer to turn to USIT (tel. 01/602-1904; www.usit.ie), an Ireland-based specialist in student, youth, and independent travel.

Staying Connected

Telephones

Belize has a standardized seven-digit phone numbering system. There are no city or area codes to dial from within Belize.

To call Belize: 1. Dial the international access code: 011 from the U.S.; 00 from the U.K., Ireland, or New Zealand; or 0011 from Australia.

2. Dial the country code: 501.

3. Dial the number.

To make international calls: To make international calls from Belize, first dial 00 and then the country code (U.S. or Canada 1, U.K. 44, Ireland 353, Australia 61, New Zealand 64). Next dial the area code and number. For example, if you wanted to call the British Embassy in Washington, D.C., you would dial tel. 00-1-202-588-7800.

For directory assistance: Dial tel. 113 if you're looking for a number inside Belize, and for numbers to all other countries dial tel. 115 and (for a charge) an operator will connect you to an international directory assistance operator.

For operator assistance: If you need operator assistance in making a call, dial tel. 115, whether you're trying to make a local or an international call.

Toll-free numbers: Numbers beginning with 0800 and 800 within Belize country are toll-free, but calling a 1-800 number in the States from Belize is not toll-free. In fact, it costs the same as an overseas call.

Telephone Access Charges -- Make sure you know what the charges are for your particular international long-distance provider. Be careful about using these numbers if you're not on a specific plan. If you don't have an international calling plan, only charge calls to your credit card as a very last resort, as these calls are usually exorbitantly expensive. If you are making direct-dial international calls from your hotel, always find out what the charges are in advance. A good option is to buy a local international calling card, which will be billed at approximately BZ$1 (US50¢/25p) per minute for calls to the U.S., or BZ$1.40 (US70¢/35p) per minute for calls to much of the rest of the world.

Cellphones

These days it’s rare to find a business of any kind in Belize that doesn’t offer high-speed Wi-Fi access. Note that high-speed in Belize is not like high-speed in North America, so be prepared for slower, often spotty Wi-Fi service.

Belize uses standard U.S.-style two- and three-prong electric outlets with 110-volt AC current.

Tips for Families

If you have enough trouble getting your kids out of the house in the morning, dragging them thousands of miles away may seem like an insurmountable challenge. But family travel can be immensely rewarding, giving you new ways of seeing the world through smaller pairs of eyes.

Hotels in Belize often give discounts for children under 12 years old, and children under 3 or 4 years old are usually allowed to stay for free. Discounts for children and the cutoff ages vary according to the hotel, but in general, don't assume that your kids can stay in your room for free.

Many hotels, particularly on the cayes, offer rooms equipped with kitchenettes or full kitchen facilities. These can be a real money-saver for those traveling with children, and I've listed many of these accommodations.

Hotels offering regular, dependable babysitting service are few and far between. If you will need babysitting, make sure your hotel offers it before you make your reservation.

Getting Around

By Plane

Traveling around Belize by commuter airline is common, easy, and relatively economical. Two local commuter airlines serve all the major tourist destinations around Belize. The carriers are Maya Island Air (tel. 223-1140; www.mayaairways.com) and Tropic Air (tel. 800/422-3435 in the U.S. or Canada, or 226-2012 in Belize; www.tropicair.com). Both operate out of both the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport and the Belize City Municipal Airport. In both cases, flights are considerably less expensive into and out of the Municipal Airport.

By Car

There are only four major roads in Belize: the Philip Goldson Highway (formerly Northern), the George Price Highway (forermly Western), Southern, and Hummingbird highways . All are just two-lane affairs, and all actually have speed bumps as they pass through various towns and villages along their way. Belize is only 113 km or so (70 miles) wide, and around 402km (250 miles) long. Renting a car is an excellent way to see the country. If you are going to the Mountain Pine Ridge area of the Cayo District, or to the Gallon Jug or Lamanai areas, you will certainly need a four-wheel-drive vehicle. However, if you're just visiting the major towns and cities of San Ignacio, Placencia, Corozal, or Punta Gorda, you'll probably be fine in a standard sedan. That said, it's always nice to have the extra clearance and off-road ability of a four-wheel-drive vehicle, particularly during the rainy season (June through mid-Nov).

Among the major international agencies operating in Belize are Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Thrifty. Crystal Auto Rental (tel. 800/777-7777 toll-free in Belize or 223-1600; www.crystal-belize.com) is a local company, with an excellent fleet and good prices.

Prices run between BZ$120 and BZ$240 (US$60-US$120/£32-£64) per day for a late-model compact to a compact SUV, including insurance.

Before driving off with a rental car, be sure that you inspect the exterior and point out to the rental-company representative every tiny scratch, dent, tear, or any other damage.

Note: It's sometimes cheaper to reserve a car in your home country than to book when you arrive in Belize. If you know you'll be renting a car, it's always wise to reserve it well in advance for the high season, as the rental fleet can't match demand. We recommend working with AutoSlash.com, which will apply discount codes to the rental, and re-book you should the price drop.

Maps -- There are so few roads in Belize that you will probably be fine using the free maps given out at the airport or your phones GPS.

Gasoline -- Gas stations can be found in all the major towns and tourist destinations. When this guide was published, a gallon of premium or "super" unleaded gas cost BZ$11, about double the U.S. average.

Driving Rules -- A current foreign driver's license is valid for the time you are in Belize. Despite having been a British colony and current member of the Commonwealth, cars drive on the right-hand side of the road, just as in the United States. Seatbelt use is mandatory in Belize, and failure to comply carries a fine. One odd driving law in Belize is that drivers wishing to make a left-hand turn while traveling along any of the country's "highways" must first pull over to the right-hand shoulder until all oncoming and following traffic has cleared. As with obeying the speed limits (55mph on the highway, 25mph on country roads), this is not always what actually happens.

Renter's Insurance -- Even if you hold your own car-insurance policy at home, coverage doesn't always extend abroad. Be sure to find out whether you'll be covered in Belize, whether your policy extends to all persons who will be driving the rental car, how much liability is covered in case an outside party is injured in an accident, and whether the type of vehicle you are renting is included under your contract.

Most major credit cards provide some degree of coverage as well -- provided that they were used to pay for the rental. Again, terms vary widely, so be sure to call your credit card company directly before you rent. Usually, if you are uninsured or are driving abroad, your credit card provides primary coverage as long as you decline the rental agency's insurance. This means that the credit card will cover damage or theft of a rental car for the full cost of the vehicle. If you already have insurance, your credit card will provide secondary coverage, which basically covers your deductible. Credit cards will not cover liability or the cost of injury to an outside party and/or damage to an outside party's vehicle.

If you do not hold an insurance policy, you might seriously want to consider purchasing additional liability insurance from your rental company. Be sure to check the terms, however. Some rental agencies cover liability only if the renter is not at fault; even then, the rental company's obligation varies by location.

Breakdowns -- Be warned that emergency services, both vehicular and medical, are extremely limited in Belize, and their availability is directly related to the remoteness of your location at the time of breakdown. You'll find service stations spread over the entire length of the major highways, and a fair number of these of these have tow trucks and mechanics. As well, most of the car rental companies have an emergency service number that one can call. The major towns of Belize City, Belmopan, Orange Walk, Corozal, Dangriga, Punta Gorda and San Ignacio all have hospitals, and most other moderately sized cities and tourist destinations have some sort of clinic or health-services provider.

Note: It should go without saying, but you cannot rent a car on or drive to any of the cayes or outer atolls.

Car-Rental Tips -- While it's preferable to use the coverage provided by your home auto-insurance policy or credit card, check carefully to see if the coverage really holds in Belize. Many policies exclude four-wheel-drive vehicles and off-road driving -- but good portions of Belize can in fact be considered off road. While it's possible at some car-rental agencies to waive the insurance charges, you will have to pay all damages before leaving the country if you're in an accident. If you do take the insurance, you can expect a deductible of between US$750 and US$1,500 (£398-£795). At some agencies, you can buy additional insurance to lower the deductible.

By Bus

Belize has an extensive network of commuter buses serving all of the major villages and towns and tourist destinations in the country. However, this system is used primarily by Belizeans. The buses tend to be a bit antiquated, and buyouts and bankruptcies within the industry have left the status of the local bus network in a state of confusion and limbo. Be sure to check in advance, or as soon as you arrive, as schedules (and costs) do change regularly. One of the most reliable online resources about transportation is belizebus.wordpress.com, which has timetables, rates, fuel prices, and even the latest news about roads and airlines. That said, asking a local for help is often the best way to learn what the buses are up to.

By Boat

While it's possible to fly to a few of the outer cayes, most travel between mainland Belize and the cayes and atolls is done by high-speed launch. There are regular water taxis between Belize City and Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Caye Chapel, and St. George's Caye. Hotels and resorts on the other islands all either have their own boats, or can arrange transport for you.

By Helicopter

Astrum Helicopters (tel. 888/278-7864 in the U.S. and Canada, or 222-5100 in Belize ; www.astrumhelicopters.com) is a new company with a small fleet of sleek and modern helicopters. They will take you to just about any destination in Belize, including remote lodges, islands and atolls. They will also take you out on sightseeing tours. Rates run between BZ$2,400 (US$1,200/£636) and BZ$3,750 (US$3,200/£1,696), depending upon the distance and number of passengers.

Staying Safe

Belize City itself has a somewhat deserved reputation for being a dangerous city for travelers, especially after dark, and especially in neighborhoods off the beaten path. That said, if you use basic common sense and take standard precautions, you should have no problems staying safe in Belize.

You may have heard that marijuana became legal in October 2017, but that’s not exactly true. The government did indeed decriminalize possession of up to 10 grams of marijuana, and the consumption of it on private property, but locals are wary of this change, and for good reason. It’s still illegal to buy, sell, and grow marijuana, so there’s no legal way to come by it. As a tourist, it’s also very unlikely that you will find the owner of private property willing to let you smoke there. So while you probably won’t be penalized for having 10 grams or less on you, I still heavily recommend proceeding with caution in this arena.

Prostitution is legal in Belize, but like marijuana, there is no legal way to obtain sexual services. Sex trafficking, including of children, is a problem in Belize, so sex workers are almost guaranteed to be exploited victims, and it goes without saying that the practice should not be supported. HIV is also on the rise in Belize, with a known prevalence of 2.5% of the population, so practice safe sex in every aspect of the word: don’t further victimize other people, and don’t victimize yourself.

Tips on Dining

Belizean cuisine is a mix of Caribbean, Mexican, African, Spanish, and Mayan culinary influences. Belize's strongest suit is its seafood. Fresh fish, lobster, shrimp, and conch are widely available, especially at the beach and island destinations. Rice and beans are another major staple, served as an accompaniment to almost any main dish. Often the rice and beans are cooked together, with a touch of coconut milk.

Belizeans tend to eat three meals a day, in similar fashion and hours to North Americans. Breakfasts tend to be served between 6:30am and 9am; lunch between noon and 2pm; and dinner between 6 and 10pm. Most meals and dining experiences are quite informal. In fact, there are only a few restaurants in the entire country that could be considered semiformal, and none require a jacket or tie, although you could certainly wear them.

I have separated restaurant listings throughout this online guide into three price categories based on the average cost per person of a meal, including tax and service charge. The categories are Expensive, more than $25; Moderate, $10 to $25; and Inexpensive, less than $10. (Note, however, that individual items in the listings -- entrees, for instance -- do not include the sales or service taxes.) Keep in mind that there is an additional 10% GST tax, and a 10% service charge is often added on. Belizeans rarely tip, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't. If the service is particularly good and attentive, you should probably leave a little extra.

Entry Requirements & Customs

Entry Requirements

A current passport, valid through your departure date, is required for entry into Belize. Driver's licenses and birth certificates are not valid travel documents. In some cases you may be asked to show an onward or return plane ticket.

Visas -- No visas are required for citizens of the United States, the European community (including Ireland), Great Britain, South Africa, Australia, or New Zealand. Nationals of certain other countries do need a visa or consular permission to enter Belize. For a current list, see the Belize Tourism Board website (www.travelbelize.org) or call the nearest Belizean consulate or embassy.

Tourists are permitted a maximum stay of 30 days. The Belize Department of Immigration and Nationality in Belmopan (www.ins.gov.belize) will sometimes grant an extension of up to three months. These extensions are handled on a case-by-case basis and cost BZ$100 (US$50/£27) per month.

If you have additional travel or visa questions about Belize, you can contact any of the following Belizean embassies or consulates: in the United States or Canada, 2535 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20008 (tel. 202/332-9636; www.embassyofbelize.org); in Great Britain, Belize High Commission, 22 Harcourt House, 45 Crawford Pl., London, W1H 4LP (tel. 020/7723-3603); and in Australia, 5/1 Oliver Rd., Roseville NSW (tel. 02/9905-8144). There is no Belizean embassy or consulate in New Zealand.

For an up-to-date, country-by-country listing of passport requirements around the world, go to the "Foreign Entry Requirement" Web page of the U.S. State Department at http://travel.state.gov.

Medical Requirements -- No shots or inoculations are required to enter Belize.

Customs

What You Can Bring into Belize -- Visitors to Belize may bring with them any and all reasonable goods and belongings for personal use during their stay. Cameras, computers, and electronic equipment, as well as fishing and diving gear for personal use, are permitted duty free. Drones, however, have been prohibited, so don't attempt to bring one into the country. It will be confiscated, and held until your departure.  Customs officials in Belize seldom check arriving tourists' luggage.

What You Can Take Home from Belize -- It is expressly illegal to take out any pre-Columbian artifact or jaguar product from Belize, whether you bought it, you discovered it, or it was given to you. Do not traffic in Maya artifacts.

U.S. Citizens: For specifics on what you can bring back and the corresponding fees, download the invaluable free pamphlet Know Before You Go at www.cbp.gov (click on "Travel," and then click on "Know Before You Go! Online Brochure"). Or contact the U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP), 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20229 (www.cbp.gov; tel. 877/227-5511) and request the pamphlet.

Canadian Citizens: For a clear summary of Canadian rules, write for the booklet I Declare, issued by the Canada Border Services Agency (tel. 800/461-9999 in Canada, or 204/983-3500; www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca).

U.K. Citizens: For information, contact HM Customs & Excise at tel. 0845/010-9000 (from outside the U.K., 020/8929-0152), or consult their website at www.hmce.gov.uk.

Australian Citizens: A helpful brochure available from Australian consulates or Customs offices is Know Before You Go. For more information, call the Australian Customs Service at tel. 1300/363-263, or log on to www.customs.gov.au.

New Zealand Citizens: Most questions are answered in a free pamphlet available at New Zealand consulates and Customs offices: New Zealand Customs Guide for Travellers, Notice no. 4. For more information, contact New Zealand Customs, The Customhouse, 17-21 Whitmore St., Box 2218, Wellington ( www.customs.govt.nz; tel. 64/9-927-8036).

Tips for Travelers with Disabilities

Tips for Senior Travelers

Regions in Brief

Belize City

Belize City is of limited interest to most visitors, who quickly seek the more provincial and pastoral charms of the country's various tourist destinations and resorts. It has a well-deserved reputation as a rough and violent urban center, and visitors should exercise caution and stick to the most popular tourist areas of this small city. Belize City is a modest-size coastal port city located at the mouth of the Belize River. It is also Belize's transportation hub, with the only international airport, an active municipal airport, a cruise-ship dock, and all the major bus-line and water-taxi terminals.

The Northern Cayes & Atolls

This is Belize's primary tourist zone and attraction. Hundreds of palm-swept offshore islands lie between the coast of the mainland and the protection of the 298km (185-mile) Belize Barrier Reef. The reef, easily visible from many of the cayes, offers some of the world's most exciting snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. The most developed cayes here, Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, have numerous hotels and small resorts, while some of the less developed cayes maintain the feel of fairy-tale desert isles. In addition to the many cayes, there are two open-ocean atolls here, Turneffe Island Atoll and Lighthouse Reef Atoll. Each of these unique rings of coral, limestone, and mangrove cayes surrounds a central, protected saltwater lagoon.

For those whose main sport is catching rays, not fish, it should be mentioned that the cayes, and Belize in general, lack wide, sandy beaches. Although the water is as warm and clear blue as it's touted to be, most of your sunbathing will be on docks, deck chairs, or imported patches of sand fronting a sea wall or sea-grass patch of shallow ocean. Also, note that there are still no large-scale all-inclusive resorts like those found throughout much of the rest of the Caribbean.

Southern Belize

Southern Belize encompasses two major districts, Stann Creek and Toledo. The former includes the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and the coastal towns of Dangriga, Hopkins Village, and Placencia. Dangriga is the country's major center of Garífuna culture, and Placencia boasts what is arguably the country's best beach. Farther south, the Toledo District is Belize's final frontier. The inland hills and jungles are home to numerous Kekchi and Mopan Mayan villages. Hidden in these hills are some lesser known and less visited Mayan ruins, including Lubaantun and Nim Li Punit. The Toledo District is also emerging as an ecotourism destination, with the country's richest, wettest, and most undisturbed rainforests. Off the shores of southern Belize lie more cayes and yet another mid-ocean atoll, Glover's Reef Atoll. The cayes down here get far less traffic and attention than those to the north, and they are perfect for anyone looking for all of the same attractions, but fewer crowds.

Northern Belize

Anchored on the south by Belize City, this is the country's business and agricultural heartland. Towards the north lie Orange Walk Town and Corozal Town. Both of these small cities have a strong Spanish feel and influence, having been settled largely by refugees from Mexico's Caste War. The Maya also lived here, and their memories live on at the ruins of Altun Ha, Lamanai, Cerros, and Santa Rita, all in this zone. This is a land that was once submerged and is still primarily swamp and mangrove. Where the land is cleared and settled, sugar cane is the main cash crop, although bananas, citrus fruits, and pineapples are also grown. Towards the western section of this region lies the Río Bravo Conservation Area, a massive tract of virgin forest, sustainable-yield managed forest, and recovering reforestation areas. Northern Belize has some of the country's premier isolated nature lodges, as well as some of the prime destinations for bird-watchers, including the Shipstern Nature Reserve and Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.

The Cayo District & Western Belize

This mountainous district near the Guatemalan border has become Belize's second most popular destination. Here you'll find some of Belize's most beautiful countryside and most fascinating natural and man-made sights. The limestone mountains of this region are dotted with numerous caves, sinkholes, jagged peaks, underground rivers, and waterfalls. There are clear-flowing aboveground rivers that are excellent for swimming and canoeing, as well as mile after mile of unexplored forest full of wild animals and hundreds of bird species. Adventurers, nature lovers, and bird-watchers will definitely want to spend some time in the Cayo District. This is also where you'll find Belize's largest and most impressive Mayan ruins. In the remote Mountain Pine Ridge section of the Cayo District lies Caracol, one of the largest known Classic Maya cities ever uncovered. Closer to the main town of San Ignacio, you'll find Xunantunich, Pilar, and the smaller Cahal Pech.

Tikal & Guatemala's Peten

Just over Belize's western border lies Guatemala's Petén province, a massive and remote area of primary forest and perhaps Mesoamerica's most spectacular Maya ruin, Tikal. The level of preservation, restoration, and rich rainforest setting make Tikal one of the true wonders of the world, and an enchanting stop for anyone even remotely interested in the ancient Maya or archaeology. The surrounding jungles and small Guatemalan villages are easily accessible from Belize and allow travelers the chance to add yet another unique adventure to any itinerary.

Tips for Gay and Lesbian Travelers

Fast Facts

Area Codes -- There are no area codes in Belize. All local phone numbers are seven-digit numbers.

Business Hours -- Banks are generally open Monday through Friday from 8am to 4:30pm, with a few banks now open on Saturdays. However, in many small towns, villages, and tourist destinations, bank hours may be limited. In very few instances, banks have begun opening on Saturday. Belizean businesses tend to be open Monday through Friday from 8am to noon, and from 1 to 5pm. Some businesses do not close for lunch, and some open on Saturday. Most bars are open until 1 or 2am, although some go later.

Drinking Laws -- The legal drinking age in Belize is 18 years old, although it is often not enforced. Beer, wine, and liquor are all sold in most supermarkets and small convenience stores from Monday through Saturday. No liquor is sold on Good Friday or Easter Sunday. On Election Day, no liquor can be sold until 6pm.

Drugstores -- There are a handful of pharmacies around Belize City, and in most of the major towns and tourist destinations. Perhaps the best-stocked pharmacy in the country can be found at Belize Medical Associates, 5791 St. Thomas Kings Park, Belize City (tel. 223-0303; www.belizemedical.com).

Electricity -- Electricity is 110-volt AC, and most outlets are either two- or three-prong U.S.-style outlets.

If you wish to access the Internet with your own computer, bring a connection kit of the right power and phone adapters, a spare phone cord, and a spare Ethernet network cable -- or find out whether your hotel supplies them to guests.

Embassies & Consulates -- The United States Embassy is located in Belmopan on Floral Park Road (tel. 822-4011; http://bz.usembassy.gov). The British High Commission is located in Belmopan, at Embassy Square (

www.ukinbelize.fco.gov.uk; tel. 822-2146). You can contact the Canadian Honorary Consul in Belize City at 80 Princess Margaret Drive (tel. 223-1060).

Emergencies -- In case of any emergency, dial tel. 90 from anywhere in Belize. This will connect you to the police. In most cases, tel. 911 will also work.

Gasoline (Petrol) -- Gasoline is sold as "unleaded" and "super." Both are unleaded; super is just higher octane. Diesel is available at most gas stations as well. When this guide was published, a liter of super cost around BZ$11.

Hospitals -- Belize Medical Associates, 5791 St. Thomas Kings Park, Belize City (tel. 223-0303; www.belizemedical.com), is a modern, 24-hour private hospital, with emergency care and numerous private-practice physicians. The country's main public hospital, the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, Princess Margaret Drive, Belize City (tel. 223-1548), is also open 24 hours and has a wide range of facilities and services.

Language -- English is the official language of Belize, and it is almost universally spoken. However, Belize is a very polyglot country, and you are likely to hear and come across Spanish, Creole, and Garífuna.

Laundromats -- Most folks rely on their hotel's laundry and dry-cleaning services, although these can be expensive.

Legal Aid -- If you need legal help, your best bet is to first contact your local embassy or consulate. Alternatively, ask at your hotel for an appropriate recommendation.

Lost & Found -- Be sure to tell all of your credit card companies the minute you discover your wallet has been lost or stolen and file a report at the nearest police precinct. Your credit card company or insurer may require a police report number or record of the loss. Most credit card companies have an emergency toll-free number to call if your card is lost or stolen; they may be able to wire you a cash advance immediately or deliver an emergency credit card in a day or two. It's a good idea to write this number down and carry it someplace separate from your wallet or credit cards. Visa's emergency number is tel. 800/847-2911 toll-free in the U.S., or call 410/581-9994 collect from Belize. American Express cardholders and traveler's check holders should call tel. 800/221-7282 toll-free in the U.S., or tel. 336/393-1111 collect from Belize. MasterCard holders should call tel. 800/307-7309 toll-free in the U.S., or 636/722-7111 collect from Belize.

If you need emergency cash over the weekend when all banks and American Express offices are closed, you can have money wired to you via Western Union (tel. 800/325-6000 in the U.S. and Canada, or 227-0014 in Belize; www.westernunion.com), although the service charges are substantial.

Mail -- Most hotels will post a letter for you, and there are post offices in the major towns. It costs BZ$.80 (US40¢/21p) to send a letter to the United States, and BZ$1 (US50¢/27p) to send a letter to Europe. Postcards to the same destinations cost BZ$.40 (US20¢/11p) and BZ$.50 (US25¢/13p) respectively.

If your postal needs are urgent, or you want to send anything of value, several international courier and express-mail services have offices in Belize City, including DHL, 38 New Rd. (tel. 223-1070; www.dhl.com); FedEx, 1 Mapp St. (tel. 224-5221; www.fedex.com). Either can arrange pick up and delivery services to any hotel in town, and sometimes in the different outlying districts.

Newspapers & Magazines -- Belize has no daily newspaper. There are four primary weeklies and bi-weeklies, Amandala (www.amandala.com.bz), the Reporter (www.reporter.bz), Belize Times (www.belizetimes.bz), and the Guardian (www.guardian.bz). All come out on Friday, with the bi-weeklies also having a Tuesday edition. All are relatively similar in terms of content, although with some differing (and usually obvious) political leanings and loyalties.

Smoking -- In 2015 Belize enacted a smoking ban that makes smoking illegal in places like government buildings, banks, hotel lobbies, schools, public transportation, and in non-designated smoking areas in restaurants.

Taxes -- There is a US$55.50 departure tax that must be paid in cash at the airport upon departure. There is a 9% hotel tax added on to all hotel bills, and there is a 10% GST tax on all goods and services. A 10% service charge is sometimes added on to restaurant bills. Take this into account when deciding how much to tip.

Telephones

Belize has a standardized seven-digit phone numbering system. There are no city or area codes to dial from within Belize; use the country code, 501 (not to be confused with the area code for the state of Arkansas), only when dialing a Belizean number from outside Belize.

For directory assistance: Dial tel. 113 if you're looking for a number inside Belize, and for numbers to all other countries dial tel. 115 and (for a charge) an operator will connect you to an international directory assistance operator.

For operator assistance: If you need operator assistance in making a call, dial tel. 115, whether you're trying to make a local or an international call.

Toll-free numbers: Numbers beginning with 0800 and 800 within Belize country are toll-free, but calling a 1-800 number in the States from Belize is not toll-free. In fact, it costs the same as an overseas call.

Time -- Belize is on Central Standard Time, 6 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time. Belize does not observe daylight saving time.

Tipping -- Most Belizeans don't tip. Many restaurants add a 10% service charge. However, if the service is particularly good, or if the service charge is not included, tipping is appropriate.

Toilets -- There are very few public toilets or restrooms in Belize. About the only ones I know of are located at the little cruise-ship tourist village on Fort Street in the Fort George section of Belize City. However, most hotels and restaurants will let tourists use their facilities.

Water -- The water in most major cities and tourist destinations in Belize is ostensibly safe to drink. However, many travelers react adversely to water in foreign countries, and it is probably best to drink bottled water throughout your visit to Belize.