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Guide
Belize City, Belize π§πΏ
#1027
,
Nomad Score:
57%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Belize City is the largest city in Belize, known for its rich history and diverse culture. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 57,000. |
π» Internet Speed | Average of 15-25 Mbps, with some places offering up to 50 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 2 BZD (Belize Dollar). Major banks include Belize Bank and Atlantic Bank. |
π° Tap Water | Generally drinkable, but it's advised to use filtered water. |
π Power | 110V, 60Hz, π Type A/B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Available from Smart, Digi, or Belize Telemedia; prepaid options are common. |
π³ Banking for Expats | International cards accepted widely; local banking options are limited. |
π Accommodation | Options include hotels, hostels, Airbnb, and serviced apartments. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Moderately cashless; credit and debit cards accepted in many places but cash is still preferred for smaller vendors. |
π Short Term Rentals | Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are popular for short-term accommodation. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostels like The Red Hut Inn offer budget options starting from $20 per night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The Fort George area is popular for its waterfront views and proximity to attractions. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The downtown area offers cafes with Wi-Fi and co-working spaces. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | The Jade Lounge, a popular spot among remote workers. |
β Best Cafe for Work | LGBT (Little Guatemalan Belizean Takeout) offers a quiet atmosphere with Wi-Fi. |
πΌ Networking Events | Monthly meetups often hosted by the Belize Chamber of Commerce for entrepreneurs. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Expat groups on Facebook provide information on local events and gatherings. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Cabbie Belize is a widely used app for taxis in Belize City. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Limited options; some local shops offer bicycles for rent. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Caye Caulker Beach, accessible by ferry, is a popular destination. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Tropic Air operates regional flights to neighboring countries. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | American Airlines and United Airlines connect Belize City internationally. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Western Highway connects to other regions of Belize. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Belize City does not have a train system; bus terminal is located downtown. |
π Public Transport Passes | Bus tickets for local buses cost around $1. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses connect Belize City to other major towns and the airport. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital is the largest medical facility. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | The Living Soul Yoga offers classes throughout the week. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness Zone Belize provides gym amenities and fitness programs. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Coin-operated laundromats are available in various neighborhoods. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Food delivery services are limited; you can use local encourages for pickup. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Rice and beans with stewed chicken is a must-try local dish. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegan-friendly options can be found at eateries like The Greenhouse. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Maya Island Bakery is known for its delicious pastries. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Belize City Market on Queen Street offers fresh produce at low prices. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon delivers to Belize, but expect longer shipping times. |
π Grocery Delivery | Local grocery stores may offer delivery; check with specific vendors. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The Swing Bridge area has various bars and nightlife options. |
π» Local Brewery | Belikin Brewery is the most famous local beer producer. |
π· Wine Bars | The Wine Room Belize provides local and imported wines. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Try local street tacos sold around the downtown area. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Restaurants like The Piers serve a variety of international dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Belize Museum and Fort George are essential visits. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Museum of Belize showcases the countryβs history. |
π° Historical Sites | The Swing Bridge is an iconic historical landmark in the city. |
π Religious Sites | St. John's Cathedral is the oldest Anglican church in Central America. |
π Annual Events | The Carnival season brings lively parades and festivities each year. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | The Old Capital district retains colonial architecture. |
π Theater Venues | The Bliss Center for the Performing Arts hosts various performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The bustling produce market at the corner of Central American Boulevard. |
πΌ Music Scene | Live music is common in the numerous bars throughout the city. |
π¨ Street Art | Murals can be found along Albert Street showcasing Belizean culture. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Belizean Cooking School offers hands-on cooking experiences. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Galleries like Image Factory showcase local artists. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The Government House is a notable historic site. |
π΄ Local Heritage | The Garifuna culture is a significant part of Belizeβs heritage. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | The Belize Zoo and the Cayo District have natural attractions. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | The Belize National Park is a short drive away for hiking. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | The waterfront walk is a scenic path for walking and cycling. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The Fort Street Tourism Village offers beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | The Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for birdwatching. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Placencia Beach offers designated areas for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and local courier services operate in Belize City. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local shops near the city center offer minor electronic repairs. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Local community centers often have table tennis facilities. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Instituto de Lengua offers Spanish language classes for expats. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | The Belize City Library serves as a quiet study place. |
ποΈ Community Centers | The Belize City Center offers recreational and cultural activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Cyber cafes provide gaming and computer access throughout the city. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | The Princess Casino offers gaming options and entertainment. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $48,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $40,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,300 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $78,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,100 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $66,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $120,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $96,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 1.75% for companies with international income. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 0% for dividends paid to foreign shareholders. |
π¦ Tax System | Territorial tax system for residents. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 25%. |
π§Ύ VAT | 12.5% on goods and services. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, Belize has CFC rules. |
π Property Tax | 1% of market value for real estate. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Average tax of 5% on property transactions. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No capital gains tax; favorable tax rates for income generated abroad. |