Belize
Belize:
(Formerly British Honduras) lies on the Caribbean cost of Central America, bounded on the north by Mexico and on the south by Guatemala. There are many islands along the coast called Cayes (keys). Belize and its Cayes are sheltered by the second largest barrier reef in the world. The territory’s greatest length from the north to south is 180 miles and its width is 68 miles and covers 8, 866 square miles.
National Flag of Belize:
 Belize Flag |
 Belize Flag: Coat of Arms |
“As we unfurl your colours true,
The white, the scarlet and royal blue,
We pledge allegiance and with pride
Salute you, on your heavenward ride.
We pledge to make you always fly
In this our bit of land and sky.
May the unity for which you stand,
Infuse each heart, and join each hand
Making us one against all foes
As under God, our nation grows.
And so we say
Fly high!
Fly Proud!
Fly free!
Always our standard be.”
Poem written in 1981 (the year Belize gained it’s independence) by Corinth Morter Lewis.
National Symbols:
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National Tree: Mahogany
Climate:
Subtropical about 85 degrees. The dry season usually extends from February to May with a dry spell in August.
Population:
Estimated population is 320,000. The main ethnic groups are Creole (African Descent), Mestizo (Spanish-Maya) and Garifuna (Caribs). There are also a number of people of Spanish, Asian and East Indian descent. Ethnic groups are heavily intermixed. There is also a small Mennonite community.
Religion:
About 62% are Roman Catholic; other religions include Methodist, Seventh Day Adventists, Protestants, Baptist, etc.
Languages:
Official language is English, however Spanish is widely spoken.
Currency:
Belize dollar = $.50 US
Health:
Belize is relatively free of endemic diseases. There are several hospitals, clinics and private doctors.
Education:
The literacy rate is 76.5% (based on last statistics done in 2000).
Electricity:
110 Volt, like in the U.S.
Things to do:
Mayan Ruins, Blue Hole, Caves, Cave Tubing, Jungle River Boat Ride, Medicinal Rainforest Hike, SCUBA Diving, Snorkeling, Bird-watching, Safari, Horseback Riding, Sport Fishing, and plenty of sunbathing.
Airlines:
Continental, United Airline, Taca, Delta, American Airline & US Airways. Belize is about two hours from Miami and Houston. Flights available from Cancun, Mexico, Guatemala and other Central American countries with connection through El Salvador.
Credit Cards:
Most major credit cards accepted: Visa, Master Card, American Express & Discover.
Entrance Requirements:
Valid passport. Passport must be valid at least 6 months after departure date. No visa is required for U.S. or European Union citizens. Visa requirements may vary depending on country of origin. There is an airport departure tax.
Departure Tax:
There is a departure tax of $39.25 US. This can be paid with Visa, MasterCard, US currency, or Traveler’s Cheque.
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