Digital Nomad Life in Placencia, Belize
Summary: Digital nomads like living in Placencia, Belize because of its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and affordable cost of living. The best neighborhood to live in Placencia is Maya Beach, which is known for its beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and easy access to amenities. The approximate population of Placencia, Belize is 2,000 people. The weather in Placencia, Belize is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Placencia is estimated to be around $1,500 USD. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Placencia is approximately $800 USD per month.
How do I meet people in Placencia?
When we asked people living in Placencia about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Placencia often join clubs and activities such as the Placencia Expat Club, which organizes social events and activities for expats. Other popular activities include yoga classes, beach volleyball, and sailing. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as the Placencia Lobsterfest, the Placencia Sidewalk Arts Festival, and the Placencia Mango Festival. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending local bars and restaurants, joining a local church, or volunteering with a local charity," said one expat in Placencia.
What is life like in Placencia?
When we asked people living in Placencia what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Placencia is a unique and exciting experience. The small, coastal town offers a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. The local culture is friendly and welcoming, and the cost of living is relatively low. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of accommodation options, from beachfront villas to apartments in the town center. The town also offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as a vibrant nightlife. With its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and laid-back atmosphere, Placencia is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a unique and rewarding experience," remarked one member in Placencia.
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Where should I live in Placencia?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Placencia is to contact a local real estate agent. They will be able to provide you with a list of available properties in the area and can help you find the perfect place to call home. Additionally, you can search online for rental listings in Placencia, Belize, or ask around in the local community for recommendations," remarked one member in Placencia.
What do I need to know before moving to Placencia?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Placencia, they said:
"Before retiring in Placencia, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in other parts of the country. Additionally, expats should research the availability of healthcare services and the quality of the local infrastructure. It is also important to understand the local culture and customs, as well as the language, to ensure a smooth transition. Finally, expats should be aware of the local laws and regulations, and ensure that they are compliant with them," said one expat who made the move to Placencia.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Placencia?
"Expats in Placencia appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals. They also enjoy the relaxed pace of life and the abundance of outdoor activities available. The local culture is also known for its vibrant music and art scene, as well as its delicious cuisine. Expats also appreciate the fact that the cost of living is relatively low, making it an affordable place to live," said one person in Placencia.
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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Placencia?
"Expats in Placencia often find the language barrier to be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken in the area. Additionally, the local culture is quite different from what many expats are used to, and it can take some time to adjust to the slower pace of life and the more relaxed attitude towards time management. Furthermore, the local cuisine can be quite different from what expats are used to, and it can take some time to get used to the flavors and ingredients. Finally, the hot and humid climate can be difficult to adjust to, especially for those coming from cooler climates," remarked one member in Placencia.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Placencia for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Placencia for an extended period of time, you will need to obtain a residency visa. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a temporary or permanent residency visa. You will also need to provide proof of identity, such as a passport, and other documents, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of financial stability, such as bank statements or proof of employment," said one expat who made the move to Placencia.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Placencia?
We asked people in Placencia if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Placencia. It is best to dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing. It is also important to be aware of local religious beliefs and to be respectful of religious sites. Additionally, it is important to be mindful of local language and to avoid using offensive language. It is also important to be respectful of the environment and to avoid littering. Finally, it is important to be aware of local customs and to avoid engaging in activities that may be considered inappropriate or offensive," said one expat in Placencia.
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What are healthcare services like in Placencia?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Placencia, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Placencia, are relatively limited compared to larger cities in the country. The village has a small public health clinic, which provides basic medical services and primary care to the local population. This clinic is staffed by nurses and a few general practitioners who can handle minor illnesses and injuries. For more specialized care or serious medical emergencies, patients may need to travel to nearby towns or cities, such as Independence or Dangriga, where there are larger hospitals and more specialized medical facilities. Additionally, private clinics and pharmacies can be found in the area, offering a range of healthcare services and medications. However, it is important for visitors to have travel insurance and be prepared to seek medical care outside of Placencia if necessary, as the local healthcare infrastructure may not be sufficient for all medical needs," said one member in Placencia.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Placencia?
"We were in Placencia for about 3 months while we were property shopping. Can't say I liked it much. Some great restaurants, great beach shoreline but I find the village hot. Just the way the buildings are laid out inhibits the breeze making the place feel hotter than it may actually be. I couldn't find clothes for people who are not on vacation which means a trip off the peninsula. And the peninsula has over 40 obstacles that are meant to slow you down. Speed bumps, rumble strips, etc. I get why they are there and for somebody who was going off the peninsula every few days those obstacles became a royal pain in the ... There is no immigration office in Placencia so it's either an hour long drive up and around to Independence or a 15 minute boat ride over to Independence every month," explained one digital nomad living in Placencia, Belize.
"Expats and digital nomads living in Placencia, often like the laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and warm weather. They appreciate the friendly and welcoming local community, as well as the relatively low cost of living compared to other popular expat destinations. The availability of fresh seafood and local produce is also a plus for many. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may dislike the limited availability of certain goods and services, as well as the sometimes slow and unreliable internet connection. The lack of public transportation and the need for a car to get around can also be a downside for some. Additionally, the humid climate and presence of bugs and mosquitoes can be bothersome for those not used to tropical environments," said one member in Placencia.
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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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