No country is ever 100% safe and free from problems, but Belize is one of the most stable, peaceful, and open societies in the world. Belize is one of the few countries in the world where the term “melting pot” truly applies, a harmonious blend of different cultures, languages, and lifestyles, including a thriving expat community.
Nonetheless, many people considering retiring or purchasing property in Belize want to know what precautions to take and what the situation on the ground is like. This article will help assuage your fears as we outline the risks and dangers of visiting or living in Belize.
Violent Crime
Certainly, aggravated assaults, robberies, and other forms of violent crime do exist in Belize. But it’s important to remember that Belize is a largely rural society with just 400,000 inhabitants spread out across a territory roughly the same size as Vermont. Almost all serious crimes occur in Belize City, the only large urban area in the country, and are usually the result of local feuds.
The Border
After long centuries of warring European powers, the border between the modern nation of Belize and Guatemala was often in dispute. Today, occasional clashes do occur between police and other government forces in some areas of the border, but these rarely, if ever, involve either local civilians or tourists. Regular travel between these two countries is generally considered safe, especially during the daytime at common border crossings.
Minor Crimes
With tourism to Belize skyrocketing to record numbers, it is inevitable that petty thefts, pickpockets, and other minor crimes involving foreign visitors will occur.
Diseases
Belize is considered a sub-tropical country with the weather not dissimilar to southern Florida, so there is an increased risk for exposure to mosquito-borne illnesses like Zika and dengue fever. Individuals who use insect repellant and stay in buildings with mosquito screens, netting, and/or air-conditioning generally have a very low risk of being infected.
Belize also has the lowest cases of Covid-19 in the region and the government has enacted stringent measures to fight the virus.
Transportation
The major roads in Belize are paved and in good condition, but it is always possible to encounter an issue on the roadways. Use common sense, and avoid traveling in a boat and driving on smaller, rural roads during bad weather or immediately after heavy rains.
Uncharted Jewel Belize
Travelers looking for ground transportation to any destination in Belize can rely on Uncharted Jewel Belize. We offer round-trip airport transfers from Belize City or the Belize International Airport to popular destinations like San Ignacio Town, Dangriga, Hopkins, and Placencia.
We also offer guided nature tours to Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, St. Herman’s Blue Hole Park, and tours to ancient Maya sites like Xunantunich and Lubantuum.
Contact us today for travel tips on Belize.
