Belize, as a travel destination, is no longer the “best kept secret” in the tourism industry. Compared to other star destinations, Belize has been completely taken care of by Mother Nature. Belize has captured the imagination of all types of tourists: adventure seekers, nature conservationists, honeymooners, ‘twilight year’ tourists, teenagers, and family vacationers. There is a special corner for everyone in Belize.
One of the most exciting aspects of a trip to Belize is its easy access by air, land, and sea. Once you land in Belize, getting around is cheap and most attractions are close by, making it easy to plan a weekend or short trip.
Accessibility
Getting to Belize from anywhere in North America is quick and convenient, with the variety of flights, cruise ships, and bus lines entering Belize’s borders at regular intervals. And, if you love the Caribbean Sea and have your own boat, you can enjoy the Belizean bonanza before you even reach Belizean shores.
If you are a road warrior, you can plan to take a luxury bus or even drive to Belize from anywhere in North and Central America. Flights from major cities like Miami, Dallas, Houston and Charlotte are operated by American Airlines, Continental Airlines and US Airways.
plan your trip
Good planning is the key to a successful trip, and for a treasure like Belize, the most precious destinations could be just around the corner. A trio of guidelines could help visitors plan a trip to Belize:
* If your trip is incomplete without a pint of beer and you long for a corner seat at a quaint Mexican restaurant, then a stay in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, San Ignacio or the town of Placencia will add spice to your trip.
* If a vacation means an outdoor spa and relaxing in the lap of luxury, then a luxury jungle lodge on Cayo may be the best option for you.
* And if tranquility and privacy are a must for your vacation, then a stay at places like Long Caye or Lighthouse Reef Atoll will revitalize your spirit.
Rate data
Here are some facts about arrival and departure fees in Belize when you enter their borders.
* Airport departure fees:
1. Departure Tax: US$15.00
2. Conservation Tax: US$3.75
3. Security Fee: US$1.25
Total airport departure fees: US$ 20.00
* Border departure fees
1. Border Processing Fee: US$10.00
2. Conservation Tax: US$ 3.75
Total border exit fees: US$13.75
* Airport security fees
1. International Airport to Domestic Airport – US$0.75
1. International Airport to International Destination – US$1.25
Breeze around Belize…
Getting around Belize is simple even for the most conservative tourists, with the option of car rentals, taxis, and buses running at regular intervals. If the trip is a bit longer, planes and buses are available. For the more adventurous, bicycles can also be rented at very reasonable prices.
If time is at a premium, then local airlines may be an option for a quick trip, although many visitors prefer buses as they give you a window view of Belize’s cultural and geographic landscape. Many of Belize’s frequent visitors are also likely to take ferries and water taxis, giving them a closer look at the heart and soul of Belize, the river system and inland waterways.
Know your costs
Travel costs in Belize are much cheaper than the US or Europe. The best hotels charge visitors in US dollars and the same goes for most operated tours. The standard currency is the US dollar or Belize dollar (BZ$), which is roughly equal to US$1 = BZ$2.
The best time of the year…
The heavier tourist starts from December and continues until June. Belize experiences a rainy season from June through November. So if you want to experience Belize in a cooler and milder way, December to May is the right time.
Welcome to Belize…
No matter when you arrive in Belize, you will be greeted with a warm smile and an open heart. Belizeans are known for their hospitality and cordial demeanor. It is no wonder that many of the visitors end up buying the prized real estate in Belize. Places like Long Caye, which are adorned with pristine beaches and serene diving and fishing spots, are seeing a steady rise in foreign-owned real estate. Whatever their purpose, visitors return from Belize wishing they had stayed a little longer.
