About Belize

Belize, formerly known as British Honduras gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1981 and is the only Central America Country with English as the official language. Today Belize is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, previously know as the British Commonwealth.

Nestled between Guatemala to the South and West, Mexico to the North and the beautiful Caribbean Sea to the East, Belize enjoys a diverse society composed of many cultures and associated languages. The major ethnic groups are: Spanish, Maya, Kriol, Garinagu (Garifuna), Mennonite and East Indian. And there is a growing population of “Gringos”, people relocating to Belize from the U.S., Canada and other countries. So, while English is the official language, it is hardly the only language spoken in Belize. Kriol, Spanish, Maya, Garifuna and Plautdietch (Low German spoken by many Mennonites) are all heard in Belize. Kriol being the “common language” spoken by roughly 70 percent of the population.

Belize is a country rich in unique natural and man made attractions. As if the grandeur of the Caribbean Sea, the Great Blue Hole and the 127 offshore Cayes (islands) were not enough, Belize can boast that the second-longest barrier reef in the world flanks much of the length of the 240 mile coastline. No wonder Belize is a top destination for anyone wishing to enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, sailing and just having fun in the sun.

Inland, approximately 60 percent of Belize remains forested. The resulting biodiversity plays host to flora (plants) and fauna (animals) found naturally only in Belize. You could spend a lifetime looking and never see all the indigenous life. National preserves have been set aside to protect the reef, marine life, birds and animals of Belize for you and future generations.

Architecture and archaeological sites from early Mayan civilization abound in Belize. Some of the more famous sites are: Caracol, Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, Actun Tunichil Muknal and El Pilar, all near San Ignacio in the Cayo District. Lamanai located along the New River in Orange Walk District. Cerros, Copper Bank area and Santa Rita at Louisville, in Corozal District. Altun Ha, near Belize City in Belize District. Lubaantun and Nim Li Punit, near Punt Gorda in the Toledo District.

Other places of interest are: San Pedro Town which is situated on Ambergris Caye, the Great Blue Hole, Caye Caulker and St. Georges Caye all within the Belize District. Victoria Peak, the highest point in Belize and the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, both in the Stann Creek District. The Blue Hole Park, in Cayo District is managed by the Belize Audubon Society and home to many unusual tropical birds is noted for bird watching as well as for the nature trails, caves and of course the Blue Hole. Mountain Pine Ridge is another of natures wonders located in Cayo District.
Oh, the Belize Dollar is always two to one U.S Dollar, so your money goes further.
Ready to move to Belize?
Contact Chris Cariddi at Bird Walk Realty for the home of your dreams.