Belize is both the second-smallest nation in Central America in terms of size and the smallest in terms of population. Despite that, this is a diverse country that consists of resort towns like Placencia and San Pedro, major metropolises like Belize City and Belmopan, and a lot of scenic nature in between. Just like anywhere, where you decide to live within Belize can have a major impact on your quality of life. Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about crime being a serious risk when you move to Belize. But moving anywhere new brings with it some necessary adjustments. Here’s what you need to know about safety in Belize.
Violent Crime Risk in Belize
No destination is completely free of criminal risk, but most of Belize is safe as long as you exercise common sense and general situational awareness. Belize City is home to a few rough neighborhoods, but the more isolated nature and smaller size of other Belizean towns ensure that crime tends to be infrequent and petty when it does appear. Material wealth tends to be less of a priority than health in Belize, and communities outside of the big cities and the tourist season tend to be small enough that crime doesn’t really flourish.
Travel Risk in Belize
In Belize, the roads are more likely to be an issue than the risk of crime. Infrastructure is often lacking between the major villages, but it’s fortunate that cars aren’t a necessity throughout much of the country. On islands like Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker and along the coast in villages like Placencia and Seine Bight, bicycles and golf carts are far more commonly seen than cars and trucks. Cars are more common in major destinations like San Ignacio Town, and the roads tend to be significantly better. Fortunately, the bus and taxis are safe enough that long-distance driving is rarely a necessity.
Financial Risk in Belize
Everything from burgers to real estate is cheaper in Belize than in the United States, but that doesn’t mean that you need to be concerned about the Belizean dollar. Its value in the larger market — and particularly compared to the U.S. dollar — has been highly stable for decades, and the country is commonly recognized as a tax shelter that offers generous exemptions to qualified retirees from outside the country. Factor in the familiar real estate law and the fact that English is the national language, and you’re left with a country where you can comfortably invest in real estate.
How to Stay Safe
If you want to find the right neighborhood in the right town at the right price, Hesed Realty LTD is a name you can trust. Whether you’re looking for an inexpensive waterfront property in the Belmopan area, a private island off the coast of Belize, or a jungle property to build a treehouse in San Ignacio Town, we can help you get a lay of the land and make a safe and rational move.
Questions about buying real estate in Belize? Contact us by email at [email protected] or by WhatsApp at +501 664-1692.
