Questions and Answers
What kind of power outlets does Belize use?
A regular two-prong power connector is what is used generally throughout Belize, any items such as a regular charging cord, for example, can be brought down and used. However if you have any items that absolutely require a 3 prong power connector, it will need a converter.
Communicating from Belize
-If you absolutely must stay in contact by phone, you might consider getting a satalite phone, or renting a cell phone from Belize Telocommunications Limited (BTL) at the Int'l Airport.
- Even if your phone company says it will work in Belize, it may not,
(-Note* you will need a pre-paid BTL phone card to make local calls within Belize from pay phones. Merchants who sell these cards display a 'BTL' phone card sign.)
-you can buy pre-paid phone cards to use for your cell phone as well, if you wish. The rate won't be quite as high, this way, and you will be able to track how much you spend.
-If you plan on bringing your phone as a source for picture taking/other micellaneous use but not calls and texts, you may take your sim card (if you have one) out of your phone and wifi will still be available for use without getting charged for any other phone charges, (such as incoming texts)
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-Internet Cafes and Internet Connections at resorts are quite common throughout Belize, so you shouldn't have any trouble checking your email.
*Note: Skype is blocked by BTL and many other similar variations as well, so do not rely on these as a main form of contact.
What do i need/should i bring on the trip?
Some basic needs for the trip might include a few bathing suits/swim shorts, a good pair of socks and hiking shoes, sunscreen, bugspray, a light jacket or something to cover yourself in case you need extra protection, shorts as well as long pants, and a hat.
(also make sure your liquid contents are in travel-okay containers, or they won't make it through security)
What about the Driving in Belize?
The only Foreign Driving policies in Belize are that the travelers have an international driver's permit, and to carry their passport on them at all times.
Belize Drives on the Right side of the road (...since the PanAmerican road system was set in place.)
What is the difference between Guest-Exclusive and All-Inclusive?
All-inclusive means that drinks and food are included in the nightly rate being charged, and is usually a lot more expensive for that reason. Guest-exlcusive means we get the whole resort to ourselves (guests of the resort only). however, we pay for food and drinks separately, but the nightly rate is a lot lower than if it were "All-inclusive". Our Resort, Chabil Mar Villas, is a Guest-exlusive resort.
Is a passport needed to travel to Belize?
A standard, up to date Passport will be necessary to travel in and out of Belize.
(just make sure it doesn't expire within 3 months of the trip dates, to be sure there aren't any complications)
While out and about in our adventures...
It is very important to only drink bottled water and to be careful with food (always) while outside of the U.S. Also, due to the weather, bugs are an issue, so bring or buy some good bug spray, you'll need it!
Talk to me about Money...
-The U.S. Dollar is worth Two Belize Dollars.
-U.S. Dollars (paper money) are commonly accepted everywhere in Belize, but coins are not. *Be sure to bring a good amount of smaller bills as well, to avoid issues getting change back*
-Bank issued cards will not work in Belize, so plan ahead.
-It's good to have cash on hand, as there are very few ATMs in Belize...
-International ATM locations in Belize are in: Orange Walk, San Ignacio, Corozal, San Pedro, Belize City, Belmopan, Dangriga, Placencia, and Punta Gorda.
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Most businesses charge a 5% fee for using credit cards. Visa is the most commonly accepted credit card, followed by Mastercard (at larger stores only), American Express and Discovery aren't accepted by very many. *Also be aware of your credit card's currency conversion rate fee*
What about Credit Cards?
Things to be aware of while traveling...
Belize's standard on giving tips is about the same as the U.S, however generally there is a 10% service charge added onto the bill.
It is important to note that Belize allows visitors to stay in the country for a period of 30 days.
Anyone who is pregnant or planning to be should ask their doctor before visiting Belize and Central America.
Do we need any mandatory vaccinations?
No vaccinations are by law required for the trip, but you may ask your doctor what they recommend for travel to Central America.
What does your phone plan say about coverage in Belize?
Although the resort has free Wifi, Phone plans may have varied Roaming Fees by the minute or by the size of the info/data being used. (One Example is $4.00 per minute.) Just be aware of your phone plan and what options may be useful. Some guests have suggested getting a prepaid phone once in Belize for the trip.
How long is everyone going to stay for?
Everyone may stay as many or as few days as they wish. Even one night at Chabil Mar with us for the Wedding would mean worlds to us in memories.
What about food and drinks?
I have the menu from Chabil Mar, which i will post on the website and in the blog section as well. Also, all the villas have a kitchen and food storage available. There is also outdoor cooking stations we can use and there are many good places around the village (and other resorts) that we may visit during our stay as well.
