The largest city in Belize is packed with interesting tourist sites and is a popular place for cruise ships to drop anchor. Bordered by the Caribbean Sea to one side and lush jungle to the other, Belize City is one of the primary attractions of the country. Discover all there is to see and do here, and learn about the value of having travel medical insurance before you go.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers visiting Belize City – FAQs
Have you considered what would happen if you got injured or became sick while visiting a foreign country? Would you be able to get the care you need, and would you be able to pay for it? Your domestic health insurance is unlikely to be accepted in Belize, so you could be responsible for paying the entire bill out of your own pocket. To avoid potentially bankrupting yourself, get travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Belize City?
Travel medical insurance is no longer legally required to visit Belize City or any other location in Belize, though the government does recommend it. Travel medical insurance is the only coverage that may be able to help you pay for unexpected medical costs while traveling outside your home country. For a comparatively modest price, it can save you a significant amount of money.
Why buy travel medical insurance before visiting Belize City?
If you need to visit a doctor or hospital in Belize City, you won’t be able to hand them your normal health insurance card like you can at home. They most likely won’t accept it. Before leaving the hospital, you’ll be handed a bill, and you’ll be expected to pay in full. This could be more than you can afford, especially if pricey emergency medical evacuation to another country is required.
Avoid the financial strain and get the care you need with travel medical insurance.
Belize City’s Most Popular Activities
No matter what you’re interested in, Belize City has something to offer you. Let’s explore five of the best things to see and do during your visit to Belize City.
Experience History at the Museum of Belize
Get an overview of the history of Belize at this interesting museum. It covers everything from the Mayan people to the country’s tumultuous relationship with slavery and the Creole origins of its language. Rotating exhibits can include historical artifacts, modern artworks, and natural history. There’s even a small gift shop where you can pick up a souvenir.
Take a Selfie at the Belize Sign
Overlooking the Caribbean Sea and situated on the beach, the brightly colored Belize Sign Monument is the perfect photo location to announce to the world that you’ve arrived in Belize. Plus, with all of the surrounding boardwalks, beaches, and tropical views, there’s plenty more to do here than just snap pictures.
Enjoy a Tour of Altun Ha
Hire a guide and enjoy a half-day tour of the ancient Mayan city of Altun Ha. You can explore well-preserved ancient ruins to get a better idea of how this region’s people once lived. The tours typically include stops at other notable city landmarks, so you can see a lot of Belize City in less than one day.
Explore Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve
If you enjoy the outdoors and being in the water, this is the place for you. The reserve offers cave tours, beaches to enjoy, snorkeling, tubing, and jungle exploration. It’s highly recommended that you take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit, as some of the hikes can be rather long if you aren’t familiar with where you’re going. Regardless, plan on spending at least half a day in this wonderful place.
Get Offshore at Bannister Caye
Catch a boat to Bannister Caye, also known as Starfish Island, and get a true taste of the Caribbean lifestyle. The Caye offers excellent opportunities to snorkel in the coral reef, grab a drink at beachside bars, or relax in a hammock overlooking the water. When you picture a tropical paradise in your mind, Bannister Caye is probably what it looks like.
Key Guidelines for Travelers visiting Belize City
Be Wary of Crime
Despite the beautiful surroundings, Belize City has one of the highest violent crime rates in the world, so you need to be on your guard. Government agencies recommend avoiding the Southside area. And while tourists are usually not targets of violence, they can be victims of mugging. It is recommended that you avoid unlit areas, not wear expensive jewelry, and keep all valuables out of sight. Report any criminal activity to the police, and remain vigilant at all times.
Be Mindful of Adventure Activities
Injuries and even fatalities have been known to occur when tourists participate in adventure activities near Belize City. The main causes are usually inadequate safety equipment and severe weather. Make sure you only participate in these activities if the operator is registered and licensed, and closely monitor the weather forecast if you’re planning to participate in them. Hazardous sports travel insurance should be purchased by anyone planning to participate in adventure activities.
Tropical Storm Dangers
Belize City is situated directly on the Caribbean coast and is very vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms. In fact, the majority of the city was destroyed by a hurricane in the 1960s. Although safety measures are better now, there is still a major risk of storm surge and flooding if a hurricane were to strike. Keep tropical weather in mind when planning your trip, and follow the direction of local officials if you’re in Belize City during a tropical storm.
Driving Safety
If you choose to drive while in Belize, be very careful. Traffic accidents are common and there are high levels of drunk driving. In addition, many roads are poorly lit and maintained, and can flood during rainy periods. It is typically better to hire a car, as locals are much more familiar with the local driving culture than you will be.
Mind Political Demonstrations
Like in any large city, Belize City can see political and social demonstrations that draw large crowds and disrupt traffic. While the vast majority of these demonstrations are peaceful, it’s better not to take the chance. Avoid them if possible, as any demonstration in any country can quickly turn violent.
Before You Visit Belize City – Do This
- Bring your bug spray – The mosquitoes can be intense, so it’s important to protect yourself.
- Plan a visit from December to May – This is the time of year when you’re least likely to get rained on.
- Shop for proper insurance – Get travel medical insurance to protect you during your trip to Belize City.