Even if you haven't been to Belize, you've probably read articles or blogs that mention the "Belize Experience." This is a common way of describing how life in Belize, or a vacation there, has a unique vibe. There are a number of reasons for this—and it is a real thing.
On one of my early visits to Belize, I asked the taxi driver, "What's new with Belize?" He was a big man, filled the entire driver's seat, and we talked the whole way. He shared lots of information on that ride into town, but one comment stayed with me.
Expat life in Belize runs on Facebook. If you are considering Belize, one of your first ports of call should be all the expat groups on social media. A five-minute search on Facebook will deliver a long list of popular, active groups. These groups cover anything and everything. While not a substitute for expert advice—especially when it comes to legal or visa matters—the groups can be a good starting point to gather information on a topic you're interested in, or to find out what's happening among expats on the ground.
If you've been to San Pedro, you've probably had the pleasure of a golf cart ride "north of the bridge." That is what the neighborhood is commonly called, once you pass over the bridge from Boca Del Rio. This area is undergoing a pretty substantial transition—and has been for quite a while.
Throughout Belize at this time of year, there is a distinct slowdown. It hits almost immediately. You'll notice less golf cart traffic, smaller crowds at the popular nightly events, and you won't need to call ahead for reservations, even at the best places...
New restaurants, bars, services, and experiences are continually increasing the quality of life for locals, expats, and visitors. I split my time between Placencia and Ambergris Caye, and both locations have seen a host of new businesses open this year.
Another Easter has come and gone in Belize, and I wanted to share with you some of the differences you can expect compared to things back home in the U.S., should you choose to move to this small Central American country.
In Ambergris Caye and Placencia, the two top visitor locations in Belize, most of the fun is by the water. But you won't find the commercialized, sanitized boardwalks of the U.S. and Canada.
There are fantastic, cheap places to dine all over the country—but there are also plenty of places where you'll be paying "tourist prices" for a meal that's not authentically local. The trick is to know the difference, and that's why I'm here to help.
Belize offers a wide range of vacation accommodation. With the influx of tourists, you can now find the fanciest hotels and homes to rent. But you don't need to stay in luxury accommodation. Chances are, you won't be spending much time in your room anyway.