Belize

Belize is a Central American Caribbean country with a multicultural population of about 400000. It is the second smallest country in Central America.  It is bordered by Mexico and GuatemalaTourism plays a significant role in Belize’s economy, especially with the country’s emphasis on eco-tourism and marine conservation.  The capital city is Belmopan, though Belize City is the largest and most well-known city. It is fun to know that Belize has the lowest population density in Central America. Belize operates a parliamentary constitutional monarchy on the  (GMT-6) Central Standard Time.

Belize is known as the melting pot of culture. Thus, its food scene is influenced by the British, Mexican, and Caribbean food cultures. Belizean food is characterized by its hearty and flavourful dishes, often featuring fresh seafood, rice, and beans. Traditional dishes include "rice and beans" served with stewed chicken, pork, or fish, "fry jacks" for breakfast, and "ceviche" made from freshly caught seafood. Coconuts are often used in meals to help add a tropical flavor. You can also enjoy  Afro-Caribbean, which is usually a heavy combination of seafood and cassava-based meals. Local beverages include Belizean rum and Belikin beer.

Lots of activities are in place for travellers to enjoy. You can either choose to have an adrenaline-pumping experience or maintain a serene outdoor adventure. Activities you can enjoy include snorkeling and scuba diving in the barrier reef, canoeing, and sports fishing. Bird watching, river tubing, and cave exploring are also popular activities. Belize is home to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world, which attracts divers and nature lovers alike.

Belize is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including the second-largest barrier reef in the world, the Great Blue Hole, tropical rainforests, and numerous wildlife reserves. Belize has the most concentrated jaguar population in the world. A trip to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary will help corroborate this. The wildlife also includes animals like deer, puma, crocodile, and tortoise. Belize is rich in greenery, with rainforests and diverse plant life spread across the landscape; the same goes for the coastline, which boasts white sandy beaches and clear blue waters.

The Belize Carnival in September celebrates the country's independence with colorful parades and music. The Lobster Festivals in Placencia, San Pedro, and Caye Caulker, held in June, celebrate the start of the lobster season with delicious seafood and lively events. Other notable festivals include Garifuna Settlement Day in November, which honors the Garifuna culture with traditional music and dance.

Zika virus, malaria, and dengue fever pose a risk to travelers in Belize. Ensure that you travel with mosquito repellents, nets, and protective clothes. Consider having valid health and medical insurance that can cater to your medical treatment in Belize.

The Belizean dollar (BZD) is the currency used in Belize, and it is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 2 BZD to 1 USD.

Belize operates on a 110V supply voltage and 60Hz. The standard plug types are A and B, which are the same as those used in the United States. Visitors from other countries should see that they get appropriate adapters for their devices.

Belize offers various transportation options, including buses, taxis, and rental cars. Buses are a cost-effective way to travel between cities, while taxis are readily available in urban areas. Domestic flights and water taxis are popular for traveling to the islands and more remote areas.

English is the official language of Belize, making it easy for English-speaking visitors to communicate. Spanish, Creole, and several Mayan languages are also commonly spoken, reflecting the country's diverse cultural heritage. Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America.

Belizans are interesting people and quite conservative. Greetings are friendly and often involve a handshake or a nod. Dress modestly when visiting churches and public buildings. Tipping is not very common, however foreigners are often expected to give 10-15%  in restaurants and for other services. Haggling is considered rude and not generally accepted.  When taking photographs of people, always ask for permission first.

• Dry Season (November to May) - It is usually warm and sunny during this period. It is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and scuba diving. Temperature is usually around 21C to 27C.
  

• Wet Season (June to October) - This period is characterized by intense rainfalls and cooler temperatures. It is the best time to enjoy the lush forestry and other activities like bird watching.

Travel costs in Azerbaijan vary depending on the type of experience. Accommodation prices range from $10 to over $100 per night, depending on the level of luxury. Dining out is affordable, with meals starting from $3 to $5 for budget options and $15 to $30 for mid-range restaurants. Public transportation in Baku is very affordable, with metro tickets costing less than $0.20. Intercity travel by bus or train is also cost-effective, while car rentals vary based on the vehicle and rental duration. Entry fees for museums and historical sites are generally between $1 to $10, and outdoor activities like hiking and visiting national parks often have minimal or no fees.

Visa-free entry for up to 30 Days for visitors who hold:

• A valid multiple entry visa or Permanent Residence Card from the United States of America.

• A valid multiple-entry Schengen visa

• A valid multiple entry visa or Permanent Residence Card from Canada

• For an unforgettable experience, explore both popular attractions and hidden gems in Belize.

• The Great Blue Hole is a must-see for diving enthusiasts.

• Snorkel along the barrier reef to see stunning underwater landscapes.

• Step back in time by visiting ancient Mayan ruins, where you get acquainted with a rich history.

• Joining local festivals and sampling traditional dishes is one way of embracing the Belizean culture, and you might want to try it.

• To truly enjoy Belize's natural beauty, take a boat tour through mangroves or go for a jungle hike

• If you are interested in sport fishing, consider getting a license to participate in local fishing events.