Why Belize
Belize, previously British Honduras, lies on the East coast of Central America, in the heart of the Caribbean Basin. It is bordered by Mexico to the North, Guatemala to the West and South, and the Caribbean Sea to the East. Belize has an area of 8,866 square miles including 266 square miles of island. The Cayes (islands), the offshore atolls, and the barrier reef are the main natural attractions in Belize.
The Belize Barrier Reef which is the 2nd longest barrier reef in the world, is 185 miles long. The cayes and atolls provide great opportunities for SCUBA diving, snorkeling, fishing, boating, sailing, and kayaking, and also serve as a habitat for a wide variety of nesting birds, manatees, and sea turtles.
The mainland of Belize has a topography that accentuates the variety of Belize. Between 1,500 and 3,680 feet above sea level in the Mountain Pine Ridge area of the Maya Mountains featuring thick lush jungles and rivers. Breathtaking waterfalls, historic Mayan cities, and majestic mountains are just a few of the attractions that can be enjoyed in this area.
People
The population of approximately 410,000 people consists of Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, Maya, Caucasian, Mennonite, Lebanese, Chinese, and East Indian residents. Belize has gained a widespread reputation for its friendly people.
Language
English is the official language of Belize. Spanish is the second language, and Caribbean Creole is a commonly used dialect you will hear spoken in casual settings throughout the country.
Climate and Rainfall
The climate is subtropical, with a brisk prevailing wind from the Caribbean Sea. The country has an average annual temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit, and the humidity is nicely tempered by the wonderful sea breezes.
The variation in weather further emphasizes the interesting difference in elevation, geography, and plant and animal life. In the summer high temperatures may be around 98 degrees, with winter lows rarely dipping below 60 degrees even at night.
The rainy season usually runs from June to November with the dry season between February and May. Temperatures become cooler at the end of October and last till late February.
Average humidity is about 85% and annual rainfall ranges from 50 inches in the North to 170 inches in the South.
Currency
The official currency is the Belize Dollar (based 2 to 1 on the US dollar). All hotels, resorts, restaurants, and tour operators will accept US currency, traveler checks, check cards, and credit cards.
About the Island
Belmopan may be the capital of Belize, but Ambergris Caye is rapidly becoming the most popular destination for expats and tourists alike. The heart of Ambergris Caye is San Pedro town. This makes it the ideal location to consider when you’re looking to purchase property for either investment, vacation, or retirement.
About San Pedro
It’s fitting that San Pedro Town is named after Saint Peter – the patron saint of fishing. Despite having undergone rapid development in the past few years, San Pedro still holds onto its personality and vibe as a sleepy fishing village. Locals are friendly, accommodating, and outgoing, welcoming visitors into amazing experiences throughout San Pedro.
San Pedro Town
Things move a little shower in San Pedro Town, and much of the town can be covered on foot. English is the native language in Belize and San Pedro Town has become one the most popular destinations in the country, so you should have no trouble asking for directions or finding people to show you the ropes, and help you have a great time.
If you aren’t looking to travel entirely by foot, bicycles, and golf carts are the most popular transportation options, and they can be rented all over town.
Exploring Ambergris Caye
If you want to explore the natural beauty of Ambergris Caye and engage in the outdoor activities that are so popular here, San Pedro is going to be the best place to launch your adventures.
The sea is never too far away on the island and while you can spend your time just lounging on the white sand, activities like kayaking and windsurfing are also common. Less than a mile off shore you’ll find the Belize Barrier Reef. This close proximity means you can easily snorkel, dive, or enjoy boating or fishing.
Dining in San Pedro
San Pedro Town is still a fishing village at heart, and that means that seafood tends to dominate the menus around here, but there is a surprising amount of variety in the cuisine available.
If you’re looking to try local specialties, local restaurants offer something for everyone. Lobster and conch are some of the most delicious hidden highlights when in season.
If you’d rather stay in, the markets of San Pedro Town offer a wide variety of imported goods as well as some of the most delicious locally caught seafood you’ll find anywhere.
Lodging
As San Pedro Town transforms into the top tourist destination in Belize, larger hotels and resorts are becoming more prominent. Despite that, visitors can usually find a great spot right in their budget.
Quaint local lodging and boutique resorts sit alongside state-of-the-art branded resorts. The town is small enough that you will be able to go anywhere you want without worrying too much about the neighborhood where your belongings are located.
Benefits Of Belizean Property Ownership
- Retirees could qualify for the QRP (Qualified Retired Person’s incentive program)
- No Capital Gains Tax
- The U.S. Dollar is widely accepted
- Non-Belizeans can open a U.S. Dollar bank account
- English is the Official Language
- Legal System based on British Common Law (just like the U.S. & Canada)
- Expats enjoy the same property ownership rights as natural burn Belizeans
- Excellent Weather, affordable coastal property, and natural wonders
