Belize Map

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Topography

Belize is an area of only 8,867 square miles. The country is situated on the east coast of Central America on the Caribbean Sea. Belize is bordered by Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south. The second-largest barrier reef in the world (185 miles long) and three of the four coral atolls in the Western Hemisphere fall within Belize's territory.

Language

English is the official language and is widely spoken. Spanish, Maya, Garifuna and Creole are also spoken.

Population

The population of Belize is approximately 265,200 comprising Creoles (African-European), Garinagus (Caribs), Mestizos (Spanish-Indian), Maya and Europeans.

Climate

The climate is subtropical, with a brisk prevailing wind from the Caribbean Sea. The annual temperature averages about 80 degrees F. The rainy season is between July and September.


Time Zone

Central Standard Time. Belize does not observe daylight-saving time.

Government

Belize is an independent country with a democratically elected parlimentary government and is a British Commonwealth member.

Currency Exchange

Local currency is the Belize Dollar or BZ$. One US dollar is equivalent to BZ$2. ATM machines are located countrywide, but few accept debit cards from US banks.

Taxes

There is a 9% government/hotel tax. A sales tax of 10% has been implemented and is applicable to goods and services.

Airport Departure Tax

Total departure tax is $20 which is inclusive of $1.25 security tax and US$3.75 Protective Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) fee, used to promote, enhance and conserve Belize's protected areas.

Postal Rates

Postal Rates to the U.S. are BZ$.60 for letters, BZ$.30 for postcards. To Europe, BZ$.75 for letters, BZ$.40 for postcards.

Tipping/Gratuity

Tipping is voluntary. Usually 10% is acceptable with 15% for exceptional service. In some cases a gratuity may be added to your check. This practice varies with each establishment. Be sure to ask before paying the bill.

Water

The drinking water in Belize is potable.

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