Orange Walk, Belize 🇧🇿
#1031
18.080448, -88.561361
Nomad Score:
54%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Orange Walk is a vibrant town in Belize known for its rich history and culture, often referred to as the 'Sugar Town' due to its sugar cane production. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 30,000 |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average speed around 10-20 Mbps, but can vary greatly depending on the provider. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Belize Dollar (BZD); 1 BZD ≈ 0.50 USD. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity is 110V, 60Hz; uses Type A/B plugs. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Local providers include Smart, Digi, and Belize Telemedia. SIM cards can be purchased at shops and kiosks. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Banks like Scotiabank and Atlantic Bank are popular; ATMs widely available. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels such as the Orange Walk Town Hotel. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Partially cashless; many places accept credit/debit cards, but cash is still widely used. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Platform options include Airbnb and local listings. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options include The Funky Dodo Backpackers Hostel. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | There are limited coworking spaces, but the Orange Walk Library offers quiet study areas. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Caliente is a local favorite with Wi-Fi and a comfortable atmosphere. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Small community meetups occur occasionally; check local Facebook groups for updates. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | The Orange Walk Social Club hosts events for locals and expats. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis are available; no major ride-sharing apps are operational. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Currently, bike rentals are limited; check with local hotels for options. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | The nearest beach is about 1.5 hours away at Corozal Bay. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Maya Island Air serves regional flights. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | American Airlines services flights to Belize City. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Main access via the Philip Goldson Highway. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | No train service; bus service available for regional travel. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | No public transport passes, bus fares are typically paid in cash. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses connect Orange Walk to Belize City and other towns; prices around BZD 10-20. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Northern Regional Hospital is the main healthcare facility. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Limited; check local community centers for classes. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Local facilities include the Orange Walk Fitness Center. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Several laundromats available; ask at your accommodation for recommendations. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Delivery options are limited; local restaurants may offer phone orders. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Baleadas' or 'Tamales,' popular local snacks. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Options available at local eateries, but limited compared to larger towns. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Local bakeries like Cayo's Bakery serve delicious treats. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets offer fresh produce; Orange Walk Market is popular. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited local e-commerce; global platforms are accessible. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | No dedicated grocery delivery service; in-store shopping is common. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Popular nightlife spots include The Blue Wave Bar. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Belikin Brewery has tours and tastings available in other areas. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Limited; check local restaurants for wine selections. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Fried chicken and tacos are popular options at street stalls. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Local options include Chinese and Mexican cuisine. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Lamanai Mayan Ruins is nearby and a significant archaeological site. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Orange Walk House of Culture offers local exhibits. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Visit the historic sugar mill ruins in the area. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | St. Peter’s Anglican Church is a notable local landmark. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Orange Walk hosts the annual Feria de la Cruz in May. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The town center has a mix of local shops and restaurants. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | There are no dedicated theater venues, but occasional community events happen in local halls. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The Orange Walk Market is a bustling marketplace for locals. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music can be found at local bars and during festivals. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Some local murals can be found in the town center. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Check local cultural centers for culinary workshops. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Limited, but community exhibitions may occur at local events. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | The remains of colonial buildings can be found throughout the town. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The Garifuna culture is a significant part of the local identity. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Cerro Maya and nearby rivers offer great hiking and bird-watching opportunities. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | The nearby Gallon Jug area offers access to forested areas. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited paths; convert roads can be used for cycling. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The riverfront offers scenic views for relaxation. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is a short drive away. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | The riverside offers open areas suitable for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and local postal services are available. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local electronics shops can handle basic repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Available in community centers; check local listings. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Limited, but private tutors may be available in town. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Orange Walk Library offers quiet reading and study areas. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Various community centers host events and activities. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited gaming options; check local arcades if any. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos directly in Orange Walk; nearest in Belize City. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. BZD 1,200 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = BZD 48,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. BZD 900 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = BZD 36,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. BZD 1,500 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = BZD 90,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. BZD 1,200 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = BZD 72,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. BZD 1,400 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = BZD 112,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. BZD 1,100 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = BZD 88,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 1.75% for international companies; standard rates apply locally. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 5% for non-residents. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Territorial tax system; only income earned in Belize is taxed. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 25% for income above BZD 60,000. |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard 12.5%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No strict rules, generally favorable tax regime. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Approximately 1% of the property's assessed value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Stamp duty of 5% on property transfers. |