Travel Planning

If you’re heading to Belize for the first time, there are plenty of things to look forward to. To make your travel planning easier, I have some insider tips to share before you arrive.

Firstly, don’t expect to find franchises like Starbucks or McDonald’s in Belize. Instead, you’ll find late night beach parties and cold cocktails with your toes in the sand. While Belize is a Caribbean destination and an English-speaking country, there are also many Spanish-speaking people, as well as those who speak Garifuna and Creole, which have African roots.

As Belize is a spread-out country with an area of 8,867 sq mi, it’s best not to rush your visit. Unless you plan to stay for ten days or more, you may not be able to see everything the country has to offer. Quality over quantity is a good approach.

For those who love the beach, I recommend visiting Hopkins or Placencia, both located in southern Belize. The beaches in these areas are beautiful and there are many popular Cayes to explore, including the famous Blue Hole for experienced divers. However, be aware that there are two Blue Holes: the one in the ocean and the Blue Hole National Park located between Belmopan and Dangriga.

If you’re flying into Belize, you’ll land in Belize City at the Philips Goldson International Airport. To get to San Pedro, you can catch a 15-minute flight with one of the local airlines, Maya Air or Tropic Air. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the airport to the city and board the ferry to San Pedro. Tropic Air is the more reliable airline in my opinion.

Caye Caulker is another great option, located close to San Pedro but much smaller and super cute. If you’re heading to Southern Belize, it’s a 2.5 to 3.5 hour drive or you can fly into Dangriga if you’re going to Hopkins and take a taxi for around USD $50. Both local airlines fly directly into Placencia, with one-way flights costing between USD $40 and $125, depending on how early you book.

If you decide to drive to Southern Belize, you’ll pass through Belmopan, the capital of Belize, and the Blue Hole National Park. I highly recommend stopping here for a swim – it’s a short walk down the stairs to the pool of water and there’s even a landing for those who can’t swim well.

Hopkins is a more laid-back village with a great beach and plenty of local restaurants. The northern side of Hopkins is more for the locals, while the southern side is mostly for expats. If you’re in Hopkins, be sure to check out BLOSSOMS gift shop on the Northside and Semitti Restaurant ask for Dhalia.

Placencia, on the other hand, is more developed with big hotels and all-inclusive resorts. There are many amenities available, including grocery stores and pharmacies. If you’re in Placencia, be sure to check out GOSS Chocolate, made right on the beach.