Belize

Travel tips for Belize: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. While Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and tour companies, recent travelers report that cash (crisp USD or BZD) remains necessary for taxis, street vendors, small shops, and tipping.

Try the food

  • Rice and Beans: Red kidney beans and rice cooked together in coconut milk, typically served with stewed chicken and potato salad.
  • Fry Jacks: Puffy, deep-fried pieces of dough usually served at breakfast with refried beans, eggs, and cheese.
  • Conch Fritters: Chopped fresh conch meat mixed into a savory, spiced batter and deep-fried until golden brown.

Essentials

Voltage
110V/220V, 60Hz
Driving
Right side
SIM tip
Pick up a Digi or Smart prepaid SIM card at the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, or download an eSIM before your trip for instant connectivity.

Etiquette

Always greet locals with a polite 'good morning' or 'good afternoon' before asking a question or requesting a service, and tip 10 to 15 percent in restaurants.

Airports in Belize