FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION about Belize ....
When is the best
time to go?
February- April is the driest time of the
year while July is the wettest month. High season runs
from mid December to April. The rest of the year is less
crowded, lodging is discounted and the tropical diversity
is most evident during this time of year.
How
much will it cost? Should I book in advance?
Belize is one of those countries where you can choose to spend a substantial
amount of money or stick to a modest budget and still have a good time. In
general, budget travelers looking for a clean place to stay in town can get
by on about US $35-40 a day for room and meals on the mainland.
Prices overall
are are a bit higher on the Cayes because of the additional transport costs
related to shipping goods from the mainland. Transportation and activities
will obviously add to your daily expenditures. At the other end of
the spectrum, staying at one of the more upscale all-inclusive jungle lodges
and taking advantage of all their optional activities might run $300 or
more per day. There is a 9% govt. hotel tax. Some hotels also
add a 10-15% "service charge" to the bill, so inquire about
this when checking hotel prices.
In the High Season (December -April) reservations are a good idea at
the more established places. If you are traveling with
a group, ask about discounts.
Can I drink the Water?
Towns have chlorinated water. Rain-water is used for drinking in many
villages. If you are not sure ask. Bottled water is readily available.
Do I need shots?
None are required, but you might consider a gamma globulin shot for hepatitis
A and B as they are a good idea anytime you travel, as are boosters for
typhoid, and tetanus. As for malaria pills, the form of malaria found
in Belize can be cured with Chloroquine. This is the same drug that is used
as a preventative as well. Chloroquine can cause liver damage if used over
a long period of time, so many on extended stays opt to take their chances.
It's a good idea to carry mosquito repellent with you while you're
in the jungle/bush.
WHAT TO BRING?
CLOTHING
Climate is subtropical with annual
average temperature of 80 degrees F. Dress accordingly. You'll mostly wear
casual, tropical weight clothing, jeans, shorts and short-sleeved shirts
or t-shirts. Pack a hat to protect your head. Include a sweater,
lightweight waterproof jacket, tropical weight long-sleeved shirt and long
pants. They may be needed on boat trips as well as at night and early
morning in higher, cooler elevations, or unexpected cool days during
winter.
EYE WEAR
& CARE
Bright, sunny days require sunglasses, Polarized is
best. Lens
lubricant may not be readily available. Take plenty of eye lubricant and
wetting, soaking and cleaning solution.
FOOTWEAR
Tennis shoes, comfortable walking shoes,
sandals. Bring hiking boots with good tread or
tennis shoes and socks for jungle excursions.
SUNSCREEN, LOTIONS & REPELLENTS
Its necessary to
protect your skin from the sun's ultraviolet rays. Pack plenty of
sunscreen. Your favorite brand may not be readily available and an
unfamiliar brand may cause a bad reaction. As bugs do live in jungles
and in beach areas, take along insect repellent. Bring Hydrocortisone cream for very sensitive skin.
CAMERAS
& FILM
Specific kinds of film, assuming you have not gone
digital, may be hard to find. Bring extra batteries for your
camera, along with plenty of film. Upscale gift shops sell
pocket-type and underwater disposable cameras.
JUST IN CASE
A good pair of binoculars and guide book are invaluable
to increase your enjoyment. Take a small
flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries and water bottle for caving, hiking and
adventuring.
Photocopy important documents such as passport, driver's
license, credit cards, prescription medication forms, airline ticket and
other important information.
Bring an extra supply of prescription medications to carry along with you, especially when traveling to remote areas.
Previous
Page | 
