Digital Nomad Life in Belize

"Belize has been at the forefront of Disc Golf progress in Central America since 2020. There are now 12 courses in Belize most of which are Public and either free or $5 Bz to play. Most courses are in parks or large farms. A couple are located in growing expat communities specifically in Corozal. There are also now monthly competitions moving rotating around the courses. Come enjoy Disc Golf in Paradise," explained one person living in Belize.

"Expat and digital nomads in Belize enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with an emphasis on outdoor activities like visiting Mayan ruins, exploring the jungles and cays, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and fishing. The people of Belize are warm and welcoming, with a culture based on the belief that the country belongs to everyone. With the rise of tourism, there is a thriving job market for those seeking employment. Living costs are relatively low and there is a great selection of affordable accommodation. The country is known for its diverse culture which blends the many influences of its previous colonizers. Expats and digital nomads can experience a truly unique way of life in the Caribbean paradise that is Belize," said one expat who made the move to Belize.

"Originally San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, but after 4 years it got over populated and prices went way up. Moved to the mainland Northern Belize were there is less rain and humidity and 15 minutes from Chetumal where you can get low cost everything," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Corozal.

"I love Belize, I am from London UK, now in America and we have bought some land in Belize and will be building a home and emigrating soon. We did months of research prior to spending 20 days there and fell in love. Best part is that it is only a 20 minute flight to the Cayes. Scuba diving is a must, I will definitely do that again. And Mexico is so near to us (Corozal) it is just a 20 minute drive to get to the big department stores so a win win. I love the way of life there, only thing I would say is never expect the place you emigrate to, to be and have exactly what you already have. People who have emigrated there with no research have moved back out of Belize as they expected Walmart and Starbucks on every corner, and a good old American food. Research, choose a few places then spend a few days at least in both," remarked one member in Corozal.

"I am not sure how long I will remain in Belize because as a single person, it is important that others embrace me as a friend. They are very kind people but getting into their inner circles is a different story. I am alone most of the time. This includes locals and expats," explained one expat living in Belize.

"Most Belizeans are happy with their country as it is. Don't try to change it into whatever country you're from and you should be fine. Generally, if you come with an attitude that wherever you're from is better than Belize, you will find a lot of Belizeans wishing you a safe trip back there, the sooner the better.," said one person in Belize.

"If you're interested in San Ignacio, I would suggest visiting Carmelita Gardens. It's a development about 7 miles from SI, just outside of Santa Familia. I'm not sure if you're looking to rent or buy, but you definitely want a place where you will feel welcome. So you're looking for a community. That's why I would recommend checking out Carmelita Gardens. There are rentals (short and long term) and lots (and a few homes) for purchase. It's a very welcoming community. Cheers," said one expat who made the move to Carmelita Gardens.

"Always travel to Belize first before you move here. Never try to make Belize just like it was for you back home... just accept Belize for what it is and enjoy it. It's an emerging third world country.... not the USA, so keep your expectations in check and go with the flow," explained one foreigner living in Belize City, Belize.

"What I did appreciate most: of course, the cheap price of buying fruits and vegetables at the public market, of eating dinner or lunch for less than 6 or 7 dollars. Professional services, such as dentistry work came at 75% less than at home in Canada," remarked one member in Belmopan.

"Expats in Belize often find it challenging to adapt to the slower pace of life and the lack of modern conveniences. Many expats also find it difficult to adjust to the tropical climate and the high humidity. Additionally, the language barrier is a challenge for some expats as English is not widely spoken outside of the major cities. The lack of reliable public transportation can also be difficult for some expats to manage. Finally, expats may also find it difficult to make local connections and feel part of the community," said one expat who made the move to Belize.

"I had to adjust my expectations and standards. (Belizians have their own time standards. "I will be there soon" may mean hours or another day. Very laid back and slow environment. I recommend you come live in various areas for at least a month each then decide if you want to live in this country and where. This will make the transition a lot easier," explained one foreigner living in Belize.

"The most challenging aspects of the new culture: 1) the absence of the concept of customer service: for example, even a glass of water is charged in a restaurant, mostly Chinese controlled 2) the necessity of renting or buying a car as taxi service in the evening and at night is not there 3)the concept of unexposed Sewers as sewers do not have cover 4)the rarity of night life: bars, coffee places," said one in Belmopan.

"For starters, it is a full 52 weeks, with no more than 14 days out of the country in total, before you can apply for permanent residency. Having any documents in hand before you leave Canada might make it easier, though they will want more current bank statements and pension info when you apply. It makes sense to start filling out the application and gathering stuff together from about 9-10 months. They might even refuse to give you an application and checklist any earlier, anyway," remarked one member in Belize.

"We got U.S. travel passports and did just fine. We report monthly to Belize Immigration to update our visiting permissions. We also have a pet dog, and he needed health reports and travel documents," explained one expat living in Hopkins Village, Belize.

"It was very simple, please go onto the Belize tourist board website and check out Qualified retirement persons package. We had no problem, it was easy, and maintaining it annually is easy too. You can join this program from aged 40 onwards,," said one person in Belize City.

"If you come to Belize on a tourist visa, it’s good for 30 days. If you want to stay past 30 days, you need to renew your tourist visa. You can renew for 30, 60 or 90 days at a time (cost is $200 BZD per month). You can renew indefinitely from what I understand but if you’re planning to stay indefinitely, look into QRP or permanent residency," said one expat who made the move to Carmelita Gardens.

"If you are planning to stay in Belize for an extended period of time, you will need to apply for a residence visa. Depending on your nationality, the type of visa you require may vary. You may also need to provide documents such as a valid passport, proof of health insurance, and supporting evidence of sufficient funds in order to cover your living expenses during your stay. Additionally, you may also be required to provide a police certificate from your home country as part of the application process," explained one foreigner living in Belize.

"In Belize, it is important to respect the diverse cultural backgrounds and traditions. In your interactions with local people, be aware of any sensitive topics such as politics or racial issues. To show respect, you should also be aware of clothing etiquette. Men and women should dress conservatively in public, women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, and the use of profanity should be avoided. Additionally, during social gatherings and conversations, avoid making loud or offensive gestures. Lastly, show respect to local elders by addressing them with respectful titles like “Sir”, “Madam”, or “Ma’am”," said one person in Belize.

"Losing patience at the only 3 international banks when the Teller Machine was out of service for some malfunctioning and I needed to take out some money to go out and eat," said one expat who made the move to Belmopan.

"Our first choice is to go to the local pharmacist, who is very knowledgeable and helpful," said a member in Hopkins Village.

"Carmelita Gardens has been described as a gated community without the gates. Pre-COVID, the community was able to be much more integrated with our closest village of Santa Familia. My husband and I just arrived at the beginning of October, and I have to admit that we were much more knowledgeable of the larger nearby towns of San Ignacio, Santa Elena and Spanish Lookout as that is where we do our shopping. We are exploring Santa Familia more and getting to know it and its residents more. All of the workers at Carmelita Gardens are from Santa Familia, so is the crew that builds the new houses here. That helps build familiarity with our closest village. I love the peace and tranquility of Carmelita Gardens and love the new experiences we have almost weekly. We are getting used to the hotter, more humid weather but still haven't gone through the hottest months of the year. Major dislikes so far are the bugs but we're getting used to them. Major likes - our neighbours, feeding the chickens next door, going for walks with the community dog, having my neighbour's cats come over for cuddles, just relaxing and chilling with the people we've met here, good, fresh, organic food AND food that I've never had before," said one member in Carmelita Gardens.

"Expats and digital nomads in Belize enjoy the laid-back lifestyle, the warm climate, and the friendly locals. They also appreciate the low cost of living and the fact that English is the official language. On the downside, they may find the infrastructure and public transportation lacking, and the internet connection can be unreliable. Additionally, the lack of job opportunities and the high cost of imported goods can be a challenge," explained one expat in Belize.

"I first started my new residency in Belize in Punta Gorda. My husband and I loved the area, the people were great, so friendly, and helpful. Great little market for fresh veggies and fruits held almost daily. It is much less expensive in Punta Gorda than it is in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. A fish market is also there. The downside was that Punta Gorda is located so far from the rest of the country as far as other amenities go, visiting Belmopan for governmental requirements. Yes, there is an immigration department in P.G. for monthly stamps but other types of govermental tasks that require visits to Belmopan are an all day or overnight affair," remarked one global nomad in Punta Gorda.

"Pros: the people are unbelievably kind, sociable and helpful. Cost of living is unbelievably low. Gas is unbelievably high ($6.00us/gal = $14bz) and many products are not available so you have to add import and delivery cost to some products. Opinions are very unique to the individual decision. Clothing & electronics quality is low so these are best brought in from USA. I visit the states with near empty suitcases and bring items back to Belize. During my research, the best description I heard was that you learn to live on what you need, not what you want. (no malls, no movies, no bowling, no bookstore, no top golf, usually 1 or 2 coffee shops in the fairly large towns). The 'market' is similar to 'farmers and flea markets' in the USA. The grocers decent. However, these things may not be important to you," explained one digital nomad living in Belize.