The country of Belize, once called British Honduras, is located on the Caribbean coast of Central America. It is bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south. It is a subtropical country that is approximately 176 miles long and 63 miles wide and covers approximately 8,870 square miles. One of the most interesting facts about Belize is that it includes the second largest barrier reef in the world. This 185-mile-long reef contains three coral atolls, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. Snorkeling and fishing.
The continent is made up of varied and diverse landscapes and topography. The far north of the country is a flat plain with shallow soils that are home to tropical hardwood forests and shrubs. The north coast is best described as mangrove swamps.
Central Belize consists of large sandy savannahs to the north and large hills to the south. Elevations rise to approximately 3,600 feet above sea level, providing the country with the only pine forest in Central America. Called the Mountain Pine Ridge and Maya Mountains Area, this area contains the headwaters of the Belize River.
The southern part of the country contains the Maya Mountains and subtropical rainforest. It receives more than 168 inches of rain each year. The coastal belt produces abundant citrus and bananas.
One of the most sought after facts about Belize is the many cays or islands, atolls and barrier reefs that are Belize’s main attraction. The most famous are Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, where visitors have direct access to the beautiful blue Caribbean. There are many additional islands and cays that lie behind the barrier reef that provide habitat for birds and marine wildlife.
Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central and South America. However, Creole, Garifuna, Mayan, and Spanish are also common. Probably the most interesting facts about Belize are that its population is approximately 260,000 and consists of a mixture of many cultures, including European, Creole, Mayan, and Mestizo. Racial harmony makes people very friendly to everyone.
Belize’s currency is the Belize dollar (BZ$) and its value is pegged to the US dollar. One US dollar is equal to 2 BZ$. Credit cards are easily accepted at most hotels and restaurants with a 5 percent surcharge. The cost of living in Belize is very low so it is very economical to visit the tropical paradise.
Entry into the country requires a passport, a return ticket to another destination, and sufficient funds to support yourself during your visit. Normally this equates to $50 per day. Visitors can stay for a period of 30 days, but can purchase an extension from the government for $25. A visa is not required for citizens of the US, Great Britain, Canada and the European Economic Community. A visa is required for entry for all other nationals.
Belize is a beautiful subtropical paradise with many dedicated natural areas. The cost of living is low making it one of the cheapest places to visit. The people are friendly and the lifestyle is relaxed. Many people from the US and Great Britain retire and move to Belize to enjoy this beautiful country. The facts about Belize show why so many people visit this great tourist destination every year.
