FAQ
TIME
Time zone is the same as US Central Standard Time. Belize does not observe daylight savings time.
GEOGRAPHY & LOCATION
Belize comprises an area of 8,867 square miles. More than 65 percent of the country is forested. There are over 150 offshore islands and Belize boasts the second largest barrier reef in the world.
POPULATION & LANGUAGE
Total population is 321,115. English is the official language, but Spanish is spoken by almost half the population. Garifuna (Carib), Maya and Creole are also spoken as well as a German dialect (by the Mennonites).
CURRENCY & ECONOMY
The official currency for Belize is the Belize Dollar. The exchange rate is approximately BZ$2 to US$1 and currency can be exchanged at banks and hotels. Most businesses accept US Dollars and Credit Cards (American Express, Discovery, Master and Visa Cards). The tourism industry is the number one foreign exchange earner followed by marine products, citrus, cane sugar, bananas, and most recently oil.
PASSPORTS/VISAS
US Travelers: Passports are required for all travelers, including children. Passports must be valid for the intended length of stay. Visas are not required.
If traveling from another country, please refer to your government for specific entry and exit requirements.
CELL PHONES
In order to have mobile cellular service in Belize, an unlocked GSM (Global System Mobile Communication) 1900 MHz cellular phone is required.
PRESCRIPTIONS
When traveling to Belize, please remember to bring all your prescription medication with you. There is a small pharmacy located at the International Airport and in Placencia.
BELIZE DRIVING
Driving in Belize is safe in the more populated areas as the roads are paved. For Belize adventure touring, it is recommended to get a four wheel drive vehicle if you are exploring a great deal of the country. The vast majority of the drive from Belize City to Placencia is on the stunning Hummingbird Highway.
BELIZE CLIMATE
The climate is subtropical, with a cooling breeze from the Caribbean Sea. Belize has an annual average temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer high temperatures seldom exceed 96 degrees Fahrenheit, and winter lows are rarely below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season is between June and August and the dry season is from February through May.
CASUAL CLOTHING FOR BELIZE TRAVEL
Belize is an informal country, with a very casual lifestyle. Bring your shorts, T-shirts and bathing suits, as well as some comfortable shoes. Hopkins Bay Belize is barefoot luxury at its best! Other suggestions for your Belize adventure tours: A cap to protect your head from the tropical sun when you are boating or fishing. Loose fitting, light colored cotton pants and shirts, along with a comfortable pair of hiking shoes for exploring the mainland or trekking through the rain forest. A backpack, water bottle, snacks, camera and binoculars are also handy accessories for travel in Belize. Evenings can be cool in the winter seasons and a light wrap is suggested.
RESORT MAP
CHECK-IN/OUT
Check-in time is 3:00pm and check-out time is 12 noon.
WATER
While the tap water is technically safe to drink, we do not recommend that you do so. We provide bottled water in all of rooms.
INTERNET
Wireless internet service is available in all rooms at The Placencia Resort.
ELECTRICITY
Voltage is 110 and outlets are the same as in the USA.