8 Things No One Told You About Living in Belize
If you're considering a move to Belize and want the real scoop, this is the blog for you. There are a lot of idealized pictures on the internet that make it look as though you wake up in paradise every day. However, there are also some things that no one tells you about when they talk about life in paradise.
After a good few years of living full-time in Belize, it's safe to say this was one of the best moves I ever made. However, it wasn't without its learning curve. My search for a new homeland led me to discover many things about this country that no one told me about.
1. Everything moves slower in Belize
Everything moves slower in Belize. In a lot of areas, there are no traffic lights or stop signs, so everyone drives at their own pace. People don't feel rushed when they walk or talk; they take their time and enjoy life to its fullest. If someone is doing something that bothers you, just let them be — they're not hurting anyone else.
You have to have patience with people here because they don't always understand your ways or thoughts (and vice versa). They may not understand why you need things done right away or why it's important for your business to be successful right away — especially when all they want to do is relax and enjoy life!
2. Many Belizeans speak English - but also Kriol (a mix of Creole, Spanish, and English)
English is widely spoken throughout the country and many people can also speak Spanish. However, there are also many languages spoken by various ethnic groups in Belize — including Kriol (a mix of Creole, Spanish and English). This makes it easy to learn new words just by living here!
The locals are very friendly and will offer you a beer or invite you to join them for a meal. They will go out of their way to help you if you need it. Maybe you'll even start picking up some of the local Kriol!
3. It’s not cheap, but it’s affordable
Belize is not a super cheap country, but it is affordable.
The cost of living in Belize is good for the most part. The food costs are high compared to other countries, but this is due to import costs. If you buy local produce and cook at home, then your grocery bill will be very reasonable.
Belize has a large expat population and many expats have been here for years. There are many people who have lived here for 10+ years, so they know the ins and outs of how to get around town and what's worth spending money on and what isn't. They can definitely give you advice on how to budget for life in Belize.
You can find a lot of things cheaper in Belize than in North America or Europe, but if you want to live like a king or queen, you will have to spend some money.
It's easy to get around without a car, especially on the cayes.
4. There are actually seasons here
The weather is great most of the year though!
The rainy season lasts from May through November (or even December) and it rains often during this time. But there is always a break between storms and when they do rain, it's usually at night so you don't get wet walking or driving to work or school - unless you're wearing shorts or skirts!
Otherwise, it's hot and humid during the day with brief showers in the afternoon which quickly pass over leaving blue skies behind them. In the winter months, December through February, it rains less often than during May through November but there are still frequent showers even then as well as cool nights with frost on occasion. The rainy season doesn't stop people from doing anything in Belize, that's for sure.
5. Belize has some of the best fruits and vegetables in the world
The weather is ideal for growing bananas, pineapples, mangoes and other tropical fruits. If you love avocados, you’ll be happy to know that Belize is home to some of the most delicious avocados in the world.
You won't be disappointed - all the fresh food means the food here is really amazing, and a lot healthier than back in the USA!
6. The nightlife is full of surprise and adventure
Belizean people love going out at night — especially on weekends. There are many bars and clubs to choose from, but they can be hit-or-miss in terms of quality. Some places are totally dead while others are packed with locals dancing all night long!
The best way to find out which ones are worth visiting is through word-of-mouth or social media. Make some friends with locals, they'll be able to tell you the best spots to check out.
7. The people are really what make living in Belize so great
Both expats and locals are super friendly, very helpful and down-to-earth. It's not uncommon to see people walking around the streets with a smile on their face and saying hello to everyone they pass by.
The locals are very friendly and helpful, and they love to talk about their country. Most of them have been born and raised there and have never left the country.
The people are really what make living in Belize so great. That, and the fact that Belize is an incredibly beautiful country with a tropical climate and beaches that rival those in Hawaii or Fiji.
8. Go slow!
Take it easy, don't get in a rush, and enjoy island life. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life back home and forget how much time we spend waiting in lines or sitting at red lights. In Belize, there aren't any lines or traffic lights — just relaxed island living at its best!
Belize is a destination for people who are looking for something different. A place where you can live in peace and harmony with nature and other people. It's a land where the pace is slow, the cost of living is low, and there's no shortage of adventure and fun.
Conclusion
Belize has many benefits and things to offer that you will have difficulty finding elsewhere. The cost of living here is quite low and the laid-back lifestyle suits many people. For those who are willing and able to leave the hustle and bustle of modern life behind, Belize is a great place to settle down, start a family, or simply retire. But it's important to remember that living in any foreign country offers challenges that you may not be accustomed to.
I think the main thing people should know before moving to Belize is that it is a very different place than where they might be coming from. Just stay open to the beauty of life in Belize, and you'll love your new life here!
Comments