Backpacking in Belize?

• Belize is a hidden eco-gem! Although small, and not really for backpackers on a tight budget, it has wonderful nature (jungle, beaches and the second largest barrier reef), but an interesting culture to explore!
• Belize is visited both by backpackers who have a few weeks vacation, often in combination with surrounding countries. But also world travelers making a longer trip Central and South America visit Belize to relax, dive, snorkel, chill.
• Characteristics: compact (relatively small distances), easy to explore by car, boat or bus, relaxed Caribbean atmosphere, culturally diverse.

Traveling in Belize?

• City spotting: Belize City, San Pedro (Ambergris Caye), Corozal, San Ignacio.
• Activities spotting: scuba diving and snorkeling at the second largest coral reef in the world (including Caye Caulker!), visit one or more Mayan temples (definitely worthwhile including Altun Ha, Lamanai, Xunantunich and Caracol in Cayo), cave kayaking, ziplining, enjoy the Garifuna culture: food, dancing and drumming.
• Nature spotting: beautiful jungles inland (explore on horseback!), Shipstern Nature Reserve, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Animal spotting: nurse sharks, rays, lizards, iguanas, jaguars, parrots, more than 500 (!) bird species.

Studying in Belize?

• No language barrier, at most an emphasis on English.
• Studies: broad study options, but extra focus on sustainable economics, conservation, anthropology, sustainable tourism.
• Study cities: Belmopan, Belize City, San Ignacio.
• English learning: Belize City (largest city), San Ignacio (popular tourist destination), Belmopan (capital), Placencia (coastal town), Dangriga (cultural, more informal).

Internship in Belize?

• Internships: many directions possible; above all in the areas of environment and biodiversity, tourism, hospitality, archaeology, anthropology, health care, sustainable development, education
• Internship cities: Belize City, Belmopan, San Ignacio, Placencia, Punta Gorda
• Characteristics: relax! Adapt your internship pace to the work culture of the people of Belize. People are punctual and flexible at the same time; so pay attention.

Volunteer in Belize?

• Volunteer projects: plenty of opportunities in education, childcare, healthcare, community development, social work and relief work among others.
• Animal/nature projects: animal welfare and wildlife rehabilitation, environmental and nature conservation, marine conservation, sustainable agriculture.
• Characteristics: volunteer work possible from 1 or 2 weeks to several months.

Working in Belize?

• Jobs:temporary and permanent work particularly in the areas of tourism/hospitality, environmental and sustainability, health care, agriculture and sustainable development, education, construction, IT and telecommunications, international relations.
• Characteristics:strong emphasis on personal relationships, respect, community and cooperation. English is of course the language of instruction. Multiculturalism plays a big role in daily work dynamics.

Working as a digital nomad in Belize?

• Favorite locations: Corozal (tropical paradise and favorite among nomads, expats and retirees), San Pedro (Ambergris Caye), Placencia, Caye Caulker, Belize City, San Ignacio, Hopkins, Belmopan
• Characteristics: cultural “melting pot”; mix of languages, cost of living can vary (especially on the islands), keep your schedule flexible (more than enough distractions!)

Living in Belize?

• Language: English is the official language, throughout the country.
• Quality of life: Belize is slowing down, in all aspects of your life. Relax! Cost of living varies greatly; islands tend to be just a bit more expensive than mainland.
• Characteristics: attractive residential destination thanks to tropical climate, beautiful nature and relaxed lifestyle. Cost of living is relatively low. Reltiefly easy communication because English is the official language. Fairly safe destination; there are always exceptions.
• Health care: access to health care and basic services varies greatly by region. Strong sense of community; people look out for and care for each other. Seek advice on insurance that provides adequate coverage for proper care and also repatriation in case of emergency.

Stories, tips and experiences from Belize