Currency: The Belize Dollar (BZD, BZ$) is pegged to the US Dollar at BZ$2 = US$1. US dollars are widely accepted everywhere; you'll often receive change in Belizean dollars. Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) work in hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas. Bring some cash — smaller towns, market stalls, and many budget places are cash-only. ATMs are available in Belize City, San Ignacio, San Pedro, and other towns.
Language: English is the official language and widely spoken. Kriol (Belizean Creole) is the everyday language for many Belizeans. Spanish is common in the north and west. Garifuna is spoken in southern coastal communities.
Phone and internet: Mobile coverage (Belize Telemedia and SMART) is reliable in towns and tourist areas. SIM cards are inexpensive and available at the airport and shops. Wi-Fi is standard at hotels and most cafes.
Health: Tap water is generally safe in Belize City and tourist areas, but bottled water is cheapest and safest in rural areas. Dengue fever is a real risk year-round — use insect repellent, especially in the wet season. Malaria exists in low-level risk in some rural southern areas. The CDC recommends hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations. Private hospitals in Belize City (Belize Medical Associates) and Santa Elena (La Loma Luz, near San Ignacio) are more reliable than public facilities and expect payment upfront. Get travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.
Safety: Most tourist destinations — the cayes, San Ignacio, Hopkins, Placencia — are safe. Belize City has a genuine crime problem, particularly in Southside neighborhoods. In the city, take taxis at night, avoid wandering unfamiliar streets after dark, and keep valuables out of sight. The US State Department advises caution in Southside Belize City specifically.
Electricity: 110V/60Hz with US-style plugs, same as North America. No adapter needed for US or Canadian devices.
Time zone: UTC-6 (CST), no daylight saving time.
Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated. Around 10-15% in restaurants if service isn't included. Some hotels add a service charge automatically.