Billed as Mother Nature's Best Kept Secret, the tiny Central American country of Belize has more of a mainland Caribbean flavor than a Latin American one. The only country in Central America where English is the official language, Belize (formerly British Honduras) offers the longest barrier reef in the western hemisphere (290 km (180 miles)), white-sand beaches, magnificent coral reefs and underwater canyons.
The Caribbean coast is low-lying, even marshy. Sandy islands called Cayes (pronounced "keys") astride the barrier reef are Belize's greatest attraction. The mainland rises through lush jungles concealing ancient Maya ruins. Tucked in the highlands is Victoria Peak, which reaches 1,100 meters (3,600 feet).
The majority of the inhabitants are Creole, descended from African slaves and British pirates; others are descended from the indigenous Indians and European settlers. About 10 percent are Maya.
The climate is hot and humid, with rain June-August. Hurricanes are possible June-November.
The road network is generally in poor condition, especially in the south. Vehicles are driven on the right. Buses are reliable and comfortable, and taxis are available in larger towns. The communications infrastructure is modern, with international direct dialing available.
Belize is an independent democratic country, with two major parties. Agriculture and tourism are the mainstays of the economy. Ecotourism is growing, inland and on the Cayes. Prices vary from quite high in resorts to very low in less tourist-oriented areas.
Travelers are at risk from violent and petty crime in Belize's population centers, especially in Belize City. Pickpocketing and purse snatching are common in tourist centers and in markets immediately adjacent to resorts.
The iJET® Intelligence Center
Intelligence Officers at iJET are currently monitoring local conditions in Belize to provide a level of information that surpasses any available from other public sources, including the U.S. State Department. Free from political constraints or concerns, our data provides vital, unfiltered information created specifically for travelers.
Travelers to Belize or those considering travel to Belize are strongly advised to purchase an Intelligence Brief early in the travel planning process for the most timely and concise information available on the country.
For only $7.50 you will receive the most complete intelligence available to the general public. Each Intelligence Brief contains data on 12 areas of concern for travelers (including local weather, Security and Health advisories, Local Travel Alerts, Entry/exit requirements, Cultural and Business information, Transportation updates, Communications/Technology, the Legal and Financial situation, Environmental concerns and Language) plus you will receive a detailed map and real-time updates from the world's leading private intelligence gathering organization.
To purchase and immediately download the latest Intelligence Brief for the country Click Here