Since 04/11/03
How much spending money should I take, how should I take it?
I would count on a minimum of $45/day. You can always take more and bring it back. I would take U.S. cash or travel checks, and an emergency credit card. I usually , go 1/3 cash 2/3 travelerÕs checks, basically because I can do everything I want on 2/3 my budget, if something went bad wrong. But I usually come home with excess travel checks. Better safe than sorry. Actually, my biggest problem is having cash for little things, like having $3 bz and the taxi is $5, knowing he doesnÕt want travel checkÕs. That said they are accepted at most all stores, including the main groceries and restaurants. Belize loves U.S. currency.
How much do daily things cost?
US$ - large water $1, coke $.75, beer $1.25, snacks $.5 to $1, laundry $5/load, Taxi around town $3, charter taxi to a ruin could be $20 A note on taxi cabs. A collectivo taxi runs a route and picks people up along the way, this might cost $4. If you ask a taxi to go somewhere, this is a charter, and could be $15 or more.
How much is food?
You can get breakfast at EvaÕs for around $4-5 , a lunch anywhere might be $6, a dinner at various rather nice places might be $8 Š 10, plus drinks.
When, where, who do I need to tip while on the tour?
The tour guides, taxi, waitress, hotel maids, or just anyone who enhances your trip who doesnÕt own the business. If the owner (say tour guide), really does a great job, tips are in order.
Can I bring some gifts for the locals?
Yes, mainly for kids, but a $1, works just as well. A major goal of the tour is for you to go home knowing more than a few names in Belize, this means you will be spending time with locals whenever you can. After 4-5 days you might become attached to some folks and want to give them something. But what?
What the most important things to remember at all times?
Watch around you, I will be watching too. At the same time, remember a crime against a tourist is way more serious than a crime committed against the neighbor. Thousands go to Belize and return home fine. When I am on vacation I try not to do anything that will result in me looking for a hospital. If something was to happen, hospitals are available in town, but in the bush, a good guide and friends are all you got, and they will do what is takes to get you back to town.
I walk lightly and watch out, I donÕt touch all the trees. Most important is a little money pouch for day cash, lock your valuables in the suitcase or use the hotel safe.
What can I do to minimize the chance of offending the locals?
Be polite, be an equal. DonÕt take pictures without asking. Most people are used to having tourists around. Most important donÕt be an ugly american. If service is slow, that is called Belize. You donÕt want to be the ugly american.
What about the crime and internet news?
Most violent crime on tourists is next to the Guatamala border, other Belize crime is drug related, petty theft, or an "inside job" . DonÕt worry , just donÕt wander alone at night, stay around people
How do you operate local tours?
I know most of the operations in the Cayo District, some are set up nice, others are very ambitious and not ready. I like predictability , experience and concern for safety. Although I also like variety and something a little different, on occasion. As long as it is safe, I would trade organized for a unique character!!!
What is against the law in belize? What do I do in case of trouble?
You shouldnÕt have any problems. Do not buy drugs (the dealers may be the ones who turn you in). It now against the law to drink in the streets, be careful if you do. You will not be driving soÉ.DonÕt steal anything, donÕt hit anybody and you will be fine. If something did happen the embassy will help settle the matter.
What medications or shots do I need before I go?
Ask your doctor. Malaria is around, but rare. Hepatitus is around, but rare. A lot of things are around, but rare. Some people have the philosophy that maybe this is the time to go ahead and get vaccinated for things you could get in the US, like hepititus, tetnis, encephalitus etc. I am not a doctor, so you should ask them. I have plans to get the big round of shots, but I havenÕt. I also donÕt take malaria pills. I am more worried about plants and snakes (but have only had a small rash, some ticks, and never seen the first snake, and I have been looking for one!)
LAST Modified Sunday, 10-Feb-2008 15:12:43 CST