Ambergris Caye, Belize 🇧🇿
#1647
17.902625, -87.981793
Nomad Score:
61%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize, located in the Caribbean Sea, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 20,000 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average download speed is around 25 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD ≈ 2 BZD. USD is widely accepted in Ambergris Caye. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is treated; however, bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity is at 110V, 60Hz, 🔌 Type A/B sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Available from providers such as DIGICEL and SMART. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | International cards are widely accepted, and local banks like Belize Bank offer services for expats. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options range from resorts to beach huts and Airbnb rentals. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, credit cards are accepted in many establishments. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb, VRBO, and local property management companies like Belize Vacation Rentals offer short-term options. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options include the Royal Caribbean Resort and Sandbar Hostel. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | The Belizean Shores Resort offers a good coworking environment with high-speed internet. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | The Coffee Bar is a popular spot among remote workers with reliable Wi-Fi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Check local Facebook groups and the Ambergris Caye Chamber of Commerce for events. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Engage with groups like 'Ambergris Caye Expats' on Facebook for meetups. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Taxis are common; however, 'Ambergris Caye Cabs' is a reliable service. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Rent scooters from places like 'Caye Rentals' for about $20 per day. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | The Split is a popular beach area, accessible within 10 minutes. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Maya Island Air offers flights around Belize. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | American Airlines and United Airlines provide international connections. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Ambergris Caye is accessible via a ferry service from Belize City. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no train service; local boats and taxis serve as transit options. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | No public transport pass systems are available; taxis are used on-demand. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Water taxis operate to nearby islands and the mainland regularly. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II provides basic healthcare services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Serenity Spa offers yoga classes and wellness treatments. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | The Gym at Caribbean Villas is a well-equipped facility for fitness enthusiasts. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Self-service laundries like 'Eco Laundry' are available. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Loco Gringo provides food delivery services throughout the island. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Creole Fish' which is a local specialty often served with rice and beans. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegan-friendly restaurants include Green Iguana and The Buddha Lounge. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Poco Cielo offers delicious pastries and sweets. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | La Isla Grocery for budget-friendly food and drink options. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Most local shops utilize social media for orders; for online shopping, look at Amazon for delivery. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Great Belize Productions offers grocery delivery services. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The Secret Beach area is known for vibrant nightlife. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Belikin Brewery is the most notable local brewery with a range of beers. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Wine o'clock offers a variety of wines and tasting events. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street vendors near the Central Park area serve local snacks and food. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Pizza and pasta from 'Pasta e Vino' are highly rated among visitors. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley are unmissable attractions. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Ambergris Museum showcases the local culture and history. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Visit the ancient Maya ruins at the nearby Lamanai. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | San Pedro Catholic Church is a local religious landmark. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The San Pedro Lobster Festival in June is a famous event. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The main town of San Pedro is a cultural hub with shops and restaurants. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Local events often take place at The Triangle area near the beach. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The San Pedro Market offers fresh produce and local crafts. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music is prevalent in bars like Fido's and the Lazy Croc. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Check out various murals around town, especially in the main areas. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Cooking classes are offered at 'The Gallery Restaurant'. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | The Belizean Arts Gallery features local artists' works. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | The old Spanish wells are a historic landmark worth visiting. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The annual San Pedro Day celebrates the island's culture and history. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Caye Caulker is a short boat ride away, known for its relaxed atmosphere. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Bacalar Chico National Park is accessible by boat for snorkeling and nature walks. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | The coastal path along the beach is great for walking and cycling. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Sunsets at The Split provide breathtaking views. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Birdwatching is popular at Ambergris Caye Wildlife Sanctuary. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Look for designated bonfire pits on Secret Beach. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL provides parcel services through Belize City. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Tech services available at ProTech in San Pedro. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Available at local community centers. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Spanish language classes are offered at the San Pedro Language School. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The San Pedro Town Library is a quiet place for reading and studying. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | The Community center hosts various local events and gatherings. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Some cafes offer gaming facilities, but dedicated lounges are limited. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos on Ambergris Caye; the focus is more on water sports and relaxation. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $150,000 for a studio apartment in San Pedro. |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $120,000 for properties outside of San Pedro. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $200,000 for a 1-bedroom apartment. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $160,000 for a 1-bedroom apartment. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $250,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $200,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment. |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Standard corporate tax rate is 1.75% in Belize. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | There is a 15% withholding tax on dividends. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Residency is common; offshore and onshore businesses exist. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is 25%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard Value Added Tax rate is 12.5%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are rules in place for foreign companies. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax rates are low, generally around 1%. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 5% stamp duty applied during property purchases. |