Belize City City Guide

Local dishes like rice and beans, stew chicken, and seafood are common. International food is limited but present. Vegetarian and vegan options exist but you may need to ask. Late-night options are sparse.

Nightlife is modest, mainly small bars and casual spots near Fort George and the waterfront. It's low-key rather than a party scene.

Developing scene. Mainly standard coffee shops, limited specialty roasters.

Tipping is customary. About 10-15% in restaurants if no service charge. Round up taxi fares. Tips appreciated for guides and hotel staff.

SIM cards for Smart and Digicel are sold at the airport and authorized stores. Prepaid plans are available. eSIM support is limited. Registration needs an ID or passport.

Street cleanliness varies by neighborhood, with some litter issues. Trash collection is regular but recycling is limited.

Limited 24/7 services. Few late-night pharmacies, minimarts, or eateries. Some fast-food chains open late.

Supermarkets like Brodies and Publics offer international and local goods but can be pricey. Fresh markets such as Michael Finnegan Market sell local produce and seafood. Markets often close early on weekends and holidays.

Credit cards are accepted at big hotels and some businesses, but cash is preferred for local markets and transport. Belizean and US dollars are used interchangeably.

ATMs are common at major banks like Belize Bank, Atlantic Bank, and Scotia Bank. International withdrawal fees apply, so it's best to withdraw larger amounts.

There are public, private, and some international schools. Instruction is in English. Early application is recommended due to varying admissions.

Small and growing. No dedicated co-living spaces or events. Networking usually happens through expat groups and general social meet-ups.

Parks like Battlefield Park and riverfront areas offer green space but are limited overall.

Running routes are available along the waterfront and in residential areas. Safety can be an issue after dark.

A few gyms are available including hotel fitness centers.

Tennis courts are available at some private clubs and hotels.

Padel courts are not widely available.

A few yoga studios with English-speaking instructors offer classes in Belize City.

Some schools offer Taekwondo, Karate, and Boxing. English-speaking instructors are common.

No skiing available.

Kayaking and paddleboarding tours run nearby. Sailing and windsurfing are more common on the cayes.

Surfing is not common here due to the protective barrier reef along the coast.

Belize City is the gateway to world-class diving sites like the Great Blue Hole and Turneffe Atoll, accessible by boat or from nearby cayes.

Belize City has public and private facilities. Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital is the main public hospital. English-speaking staff are more common in private clinics like Belize Medical Associates. Pharmacies are well stocked.

Tap water is generally not safe to drink without boiling or filtering. Bottled water is recommended.

Some parks and child-friendly attractions nearby, like the Belize Zoo and Belize Museum. Cafes and restaurants are less focused on kids but generally accommodating.

Moderate acceptance with some social limits, especially outside tourist spots. No dedicated LGBTQ+ venues.

Pet policies vary. Vet services and pet supplies are available but no dedicated pet parks.