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logo of Mayan sun in a circle with a purple outline
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Frequently Asked Questions

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About Belize

What are the realities vs. perceptions about Belize? Summertime Edition

Assumption: People often assume that the rates for hotels and traveling increase during the summer season in Belize.

Reality: The rates decrease in the summertime for most hotels in Belize because we want to increase accessibility to everyone who is interested in visiting and therefore you can actually have your Belizean Dreams experience for less!

Assumption: People often assume that there are huge crowds during the summer season in Belize.

Reality: With a population of about 390,000 people Belize is never crowded, even with tourists! The summer months are the slower times of the tourist season and thus we offer discounts, deals, and lower rates for travelers.

Assumption: People often assume that they should avoiding traveling to Belize during the hurricane season.

Reality: Our hurricane season is from June until mid-November. However, hurricanes form over a period of several days and even weeks. The path of the storm is tracked and predicted using the latest technology, which enables the affected areas ample time to prepare for the storm. Thanks to NEMO (National Emergency Management Organization), Belize and Belizean Dreams Resort has a thorough emergency plan ready to be enacted in the event of a hurricane.

Assumption: People often assume that in the summer months (Belize’s rainy season), it will be raining all the time.

Reality: Belize has two seasons, wet and dry. Although the summer months are in the wet season, rainfall varies significantly by location in the country. Periodic showers usually occur at night while the rain showers during the day are usually brief and do not normally affect outdoor activities, but rather provide a refreshing cool down!

Can I use my cellphone in Belize?

If you are currently subscribed to a telephone service provider, then all you need to do is to inform your provider to activate roaming service on your device. Stress to them that you will need both voice and texting service. On your arrival in Belize your device will then automatically connect to our local network. Be sure to check with your mobile provider for international roaming and fees you may have to pay.

If you are not subscribed to a telephone service provider, then an unlocked GSM (Global System Mobile Communication) 1900 MHz cellular phone is required. You will then need to purchase a SIM card here in Belize. Also note that although we do not have any phones in our villas, we do have wifi which enables you to access to internet.

How do I get to Belize?

All International flights to Belize land at the only International Airport in Belize, the Phillip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE). You will need to book your international flight to Belize City directly through the airline or through an agent of your choice. We advise that you arrive in Belize by 3 pm. If you cannot make it by 3:30 pm and would like to get to the resort that same evening, we can arrange to get you all the way from the international airport via a ground transfer. The ground transfer from the Belize International Airport takes approximately two hours and carries a surcharge fee. Contact us directly for the cost. For your departure, anytime after 10:00 am will do. For information on airlines flying into Belize or additional information about entry requirements, please see our Getting Here page.

Is it safe to drive in Belize?

Driving in Belize is safe in the more populated areas where the roads are paved. Consider renting a four-wheel-drive vehicle if you plan to explore the countryside. Driving from Belize City to Hopkins is quite safe; 90% of the roads are paved and a vast majority of the drive is on the scenic Hummingbird Highway.

We would like advise you that driving in Belize is not like driving in the USA on the freeway / highway because the vehicles travel in alternate directions. We apologize in advance for the broken pavement, poor signage, and unmarked one-lane bridges on our highway. Please make sure that you bring your driver’s license. We strongly recommend a 4-wheel drive vehicle that is insured. Please avoid driving at night.

When is the hurricane / rainy season in Belize?

Our hurricane/rainy season is from June 1 to November 30. However, just because this is Belize’s “rainy” season does not mean it will be raining all day, everyday throughout these months.

Weather is something we can’t really predict and as such, we can’t really guarantee that there will be no rainfall during your stay with us. We like to think that the mind is a powerful tool–if you believe that you will have an unBELIZEable vacation, you most-likely will!

Belize Weather for June
This is another warm month, with June temperatures in Belize averaging 86°F (30°C) to 82°F (28°C). However, fresh easterly breezes off the Caribbean Sea and more frequent short afternoon showers moderate the temperatures and make June a generally pleasant month.

Belize Weather for July
July temperatures in Belize range from an average high of 86°F (30°C) to lows of 79°F (26°C) with an overall monthly average of 82°F (28°C). The weather is much the same as June with increasing rainfall, especially in the mornings, and the easterly breezes providing relief from the heat. Thunderstorms may begin appearing at night.

Belize Weather for August
During August temperatures in Belize begin to change as drier winds from the west replace the easterly sea breezes. August marks the “Little Dry,” as it is known in Belize with a decrease in rainfall and rise in temperature, which range from 86°F (30°C) highs to average lows of 78°F (26°C). Overall, average temperature for August is still a pleasant 82°F (28°C).

Belize Weather for September
September temperatures in Belize average around 81°F (27°C), with highs of 86°F (30°C) and lows of 77°F (25°C). There is increasing rainfall, especially in early mornings and at night, but most days are sunny with warm temperatures.

Belize Weather for October
Northerly breezes bring heavier rainfall and October temperatures in Belize cool down to a monthly average of 79°F (26°C). Daytime highs of around 84°F (29°C) and lows of 75°F (24°C) are common, as are occasional “northers,” storms often centered inland around the Maya Mountains.

Belize Weather for November
November temperatures in Belize are some of the lowest and most variable of the year, but the monthly average is still an enjoyable 76°F (24°C) with common daytime highs of 82°F (28°C) and evening lows of 73°F (23°C). While this marks the winter season for northernmost countries and states, visitors to Belize find November to be quite warm and sunny.

What is the entry requirement for Belize?

A valid passport for no less than three months after your intended period of stay for citizens of the following countries: U.S., Britain, Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Venezuela, CARICOM member states, nationals of European Community countries.

Children under 18 years of age traveling with one parent require a notarized letter of authority from the other parent indicating travel consent. Kindly note, this info is subject to change, please refer to the Belize Tourism Site.

Belize requires citizens from the following countries to have an entry visa: China, Cuba, Honduras, Haiti, South Africa, Taiwan, India, Libya and more. We do not keep an exhaustive list, for more up to date info see check this website.

Travelers are permitted to stay in Belize for 30 days. Extensions for longer stays can be processed through the Immigration Office in Belize City for a fee, check with that office for the most recent fee.

Is there a departure tax for visitor’s leaving Belize?

Please be aware that all visitors to the country of Belize are subject to a departure tax to be paid at the airport upon departing. The fee is USD$35.50 per person (subject to change and can be paid in US currency only or VISA/MasterCard). Some airlines do include the tax in your ticket price, but we suggest you check with your airline for further details and information.

Is Belize safe?

Belize is a safe country; however, like everywhere else, you should exercise caution.

Do not wear flashy jewelry and carry large amounts of cash.

What currency does Belize accept?

The currency of Belize is the Belize Dollar (BZ$). Belize widely accepts US Currency. The dollar notes are accepted countrywide at a universal exchange rate of BZ$2 to US$1, but keep in mind that the notes must not be mutilated in any way or they may not be accepted. Please note that the US coins are not accepted, therefore we suggest that you bring smaller denominations as all change will be issued back to you in Belize dollars.

Most hotels, resorts, restaurants, and tour operators accept US currency in form of notes, traveler’s checks, and credit cards. Belizean Dreams Resort accepts MasterCard, Visa, Discover (not currently being accepted), and American Express. You may also use the ATM with your international credit or debit cards to withdraw cash while in Belize. ATMs can be found in the International Airport in Belize City, Dangriga Town, and Hopkins Village near the entrance. Kindly be advised that all charges to credit cards will be processed in Belize dollars.

Like Belizean Dreams Resort, most companies in Belize will not be held responsible for any currency rate of exchange variances applied by banks or for any international processing fees that may be charged by your credit card company.

What is the official language of Belize?

English is the official language of Belize, although a number of dialects are spoken among the country’s 390,000 citizens. This is the result of Belize’s rich and multicultural heritage.

In Hopkins Village you may hear the locals speak their native tongue Garifuna; however a majority of the locals speak English as well.

Is the water in Belize safe?

Drinking: While the tap water technically is safe to drink, we do not recommend that you do so. Belizean Dreams Resort provides bottled water in all of our rooms. Please stay hydrated.

Swimming: It is safe to swim, kayak, or snorkel the Caribbean Sea in front of Belizean Dreams Resort.

Are there any bugs in Belize/should I bring bug spray?

As in all tropical climates, mosquitoes and sand flies are prevalent. Please be sure to bring:

  • Deet-based Repellant
  • Hydrocortisone cream
  • Benadryl Tablets
  • Baby oil for additional protection against sand flies

Are vaccinations required in Belize?

Kindly Note:
Due to the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic, arrival and departure procedures are changing, consequently the info provided on here is not the most up to date info. If you do not find the info you need, please contact us with questions.

Vaccinations or medical clearances are not required. It is recommended that you bring your own prescription drugs and anti-malaria tablets for extended jungle stays. Please note that Hopkins Village is not prone to Malaria infections.

What time zone is Belize in?

Time observed year round is the same as United States Central Standard Time. Belize does not observe Daylight Saving Time.

What is the climate like in Belize?

The climate of Belize is subtropical, with an average annual temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Belize’s water temperature averages between 79 and 83 degrees. The weather is similar to southern Florida with slightly warmer winters and summers. The dry season is December through May and the sea is calmest in August and September.

What type of electrical circuit does Belize use?

Belize uses 110-volt alternating electric current, the same standard as the US. If you are coming from the US, converters are not necessary.

If you schedule my domestic flights from Belize City Airport to Dangriga too close to my international arrival time, what happens?

We recognize your potential concerns regarding check-in time upon landing. Over the years, we’ve consistently scheduled guests an hour after arrival without any problems. Drawing on our two decades of experience, we have established solid relationship with the local airlines. In the event you miss your local flight, they will make it a priority to transfer you to the next available one. Your peace of mind is our top priority. If you’d like, we can also arrange a later flight for you—simply inform us of your preference to ensure your comfort.