Belize, a stunning nation on the eastern coast of Central America, boasts Caribbean shorelines to the east and dense jungle to the west. Known for its rich marine life and vibrant culture, Belize attracts tourists from around the globe with its islands and islets known as cayes, extensive barrier reef, and historical Mayan ruins. However, potential travelers often ask: “Is Belize safe?” Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a trip in 2019.
#### Understanding Safety in Belize
Safety can be a concern for travelers anywhere in the world, and Belize is no exception. Like many tourist destinations, Belize has areas that are safe as well as areas that can be dangerous. Most tourist activities occur without incident; however, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings.
#### Crime in Belize:
In some areas, particularly in parts of Belize City, crime rates are higher. These crimes tend to be concentrated away from tourist destinations primarily affecting local residents rather than tourists. However, incidents involving tourists have occurred and can range from petty thefts to more serious offenses including violent crimes.
#### Tips for Staying Safe:
– **Stay Informed**: Always check your government’s travel advisories before booking your trip.
– **Avoid Certain Areas**: Steer clear of known problematic neighborhoods especially after dark. Areas like the south side of Belize City are generally recommended to avoid.
– **Secure Your Belongings**: Ensure that your belongings are secure at all times and use hotel safes when available.
– **Travel Smart**: Stick to main roads and well-lit areas when traveling at night.
– **Beach Safety**: While the beaches are generally safe during the day, they can become less so after dark. Avoid isolated stretches of beaches at night.
– **Use Reputable Tour Companies**: Whether it’s snorkeling, diving or inland tours exploring Mayan ruins or caves, always go with reputable guides who know the area well.
#### Health Safety:
Besides crime-related safety concerns, health safety is also crucial while traveling in Belize:
– **Vaccinations**: Check with your healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations before travel.
– **Mosquito-borne diseases**: Use insect repellent as mosquito-borne diseases like Zika and Dengue fever have been reported.
– **Water safety**: It’s advisable to drink bottled water or water that has been properly filtered.
#### Enjoying Your Trip Safely:
With an array of activities ranging from diving along the Barrier Reef to trekking through lush jungles or exploring ancient Mayan ruins like Caracol or Xunantunich, there’s plenty to do safely in Belize. The locals are generally friendly and welcoming towards tourists.
Tourism hubs such as Ambergris Caye (known for its snorkeling sites), Caye Caulker (renowned for its laid-back atmosphere), and Placencia Peninsula (famous for its beaches) tend to be very safe for tourists due largely to their economic reliance on tourism.
#### Conclusion:
Yes, there are parts of Belize that require caution due to issues such as crime but this shouldn’t deter you from visiting this beautiful country. With proper precautions and an awareness of your surroundings, you can enjoy all that Belize has to offer safely. The key is preparation and making informed choices about where you go within the country.
Remember that most visits are trouble-free; armed with knowledge and common sense precautions outlined in this guide by iam_marwa, you’re set for a fantastic trip exploring one of Central America’s most mesmerizing destinations—Belize!