Digital Nomad Life in Belize City, Belize
Summary: Belize City, Belize is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its low cost of living, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. The approximate population of Belize City is around 80,000 people. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Belize City is around $1,000 USD. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Belize City is around $500 USD. The best neighborhood to live in Belize City is the Fort George area, as it is close to the city center and offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. The weather in Belize City is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit.
How do I meet people in Belize City?
When we asked people living in Belize City about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Belize City can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as the Belize City Expat Club, which organizes social events and activities for expats. Other activities include sailing, fishing, and diving. Expats can also join the Belize City International Women's Club, which provides a social network for expats and locals. Additionally, expats can join the Belize City Rotary Club, which organizes community service projects and social events. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as festivals, concerts, and art shows. Additionally, expats can join local sports teams or take classes at a local gym or yoga studio. Expats can also meet people by attending church services or volunteering with local charities. Finally, expats can meet people by joining online forums and social media groups dedicated to expats living in Belize City," said one person in Belize City.
What is life like in Belize City?
When we asked people living in Belize City what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Belize City is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, making it a great place to live and work. The cost of living is relatively low, and the city offers a variety of activities and attractions to explore. The city is also home to a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to choose from. Additionally, the city is close to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, making it a great place to relax and unwind. All in all, Belize City is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a relaxed and enjoyable lifestyle," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Belize City.
Where should I live in Belize City?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One option for finding a place to live in Belize City is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Craigslist, Expat.com, and Belize Real Estate Listings offer a variety of rental options in the city. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in Belize City rentals. Another option is to look for rental postings in local newspapers or on bulletin boards in the city. Finally, you can ask around in the local community for recommendations on rental properties," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Belize City.
"I choose the San Ignacio area as it has the best local downtown, expats and locals mix well together, the folks are so friendly and the Expats are like my other family ! I found my home, thru Rainforest Realty www.rainforestrealty.com," explained one person living in Belize City, Belize.
What do I need to know before moving to Belize City?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Belize City, they said:
"Before retiring in Belize City, expats should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high compared to other parts of the country. Additionally, the city is prone to hurricanes and other natural disasters, so it is important to have a plan in place in case of an emergency. Expats should also be aware that the city is quite diverse, with a mix of cultures and languages, so it is important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions. Finally, expats should research the local healthcare system and ensure that they have access to quality medical care," explained one person living in Belize City, Belize.
"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," said one expat in Belize City.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Belize City?
"Expats in Belize City appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals. They also enjoy the diverse culture, with influences from both Central American and Caribbean cultures. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Additionally, expats appreciate the natural beauty of the country, with its lush jungles, stunning beaches, and diverse wildlife. Finally, the cost of living in Belize City is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Belize City.
"The laid back.... it will happen when its meant to happen attitude. You can't help but relax. The food...... wholesome and homecooked. The friendliness of the people. The ability to communicate in English makes living here so easy. The multicultural aspect of residents and tourists that you meet every day from all different countries. Conversation flows, and is a constant learning opportunity," explained one person living in Belize City, Belize.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Belize City?
"Expats in Belize City often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not the primary language spoken in Belize. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate. Expats may also find the pace of life in Belize City to be slower than what they are used to, as well as the lack of modern amenities and infrastructure," explained one person living in Belize City, Belize.
"Newspapers.... frontline news is always about murders etc. so it does scare you a bit. Newspapers.... each one is very politically orientated. So you get very one sided views. QRP (Qualified Persons Package).... can hold you back from doing things you might want to do. It does get frustrating," said one expat in Belize City.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Belize City for a while?
"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 plan to stay in Belize City for a while, you will need to obtain a valid tourist visa. Depending on your nationality, you may also need to apply for a residency permit. You will need to provide proof of sufficient funds, a valid passport, and a return ticket to your home country. Additionally, you may need to provide a police clearance certificate and a medical certificate," said one expat who made the move to Belize City.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Belize City?
We asked people in Belize City if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"Not yet, but I am beginning to SWEAR a lot more, which I have never done in the past," said one person in Belize City.
"In Belize City, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. It is important to dress modestly and to avoid making negative comments about the local culture or people. It is also important to be aware of local religious customs and to be respectful of religious sites. Additionally, it is important to be aware of local taboos and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion. Finally, it is important to be aware of local laws and to respect the local authorities," said one expat who made the move to Belize City.
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What are healthcare services like in Belize City?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Belize City, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Belize City, are a mix of public and private facilities, with the main public hospital being the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. This hospital provides a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and maternity care. However, the public healthcare system in Belize City is often characterized by limited resources, outdated equipment, and long waiting times. In addition to public hospitals, there are several private clinics and hospitals in Belize City that offer a higher standard of care, with more modern facilities and shorter waiting times. These private facilities often cater to medical tourists and expatriates, and the cost of care can be significantly higher than in public hospitals. Pharmacies are widely available in Belize City, and many medications can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. However, the availability of certain medications may be limited, and it is recommended that visitors bring any necessary medications with them. Dental care is also available in Belize City, with both public and private dental clinics offering a range of services. The quality of dental care can vary, with private clinics generally providing a higher standard of care than public facilities. Overall, healthcare services in Belize City are accessible but may not be up to the standards that visitors from more developed countries are accustomed to. It is recommended that travelers to Belize City have comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury," said one foreigner in Belize City.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Belize City?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Belize City, often like the laid-back lifestyle, friendly locals, and the diverse culture that the city offers. They appreciate the low cost of living, which allows them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The beautiful natural surroundings, including the Caribbean Sea, beaches, and nearby islands, provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. The English-speaking population is another advantage for expats and digital nomads, as it makes communication and integration into the local community easier. Belize City also serves as a gateway to other parts of Belize, making it convenient for those who want to explore the country's natural beauty and archaeological sites. However, there are also some aspects of living in Belize City that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The city has a high crime rate, which can be a concern for personal safety. Infrastructure and public services are not as developed as in other countries, which can lead to issues with unreliable internet, power outages, and limited healthcare facilities. The hot and humid climate can be uncomfortable for some, especially during the rainy season when mosquitoes and other insects are more prevalent. Additionally, the job market in Belize City is limited, which may make it difficult for expats and digital nomads to find local employment or freelance opportunities. Lastly, while the city offers a variety of local cuisine, the options for international or diverse food choices may be limited, which could be a downside for those who enjoy a wide range of culinary experiences," commented a person living in Belize City, Belize.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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