Anthem
Recording: United States Navy Band · Public domain (U.S. government work) · Source: Wikimedia Commons
Visitor guide
History
Belize was a heartland of the ancient Maya before British logwood cutters settled the coast in the 1600s. Formerly British Honduras, it became independent in 1981.
Culture
Belize blends Kriol, Mestizo, Maya, Garifuna, Mennonite and East Indian cultures. Garifuna drumming and punta music are recognized by UNESCO.
Languages & Creoles
English is the official language. Belizean Kriol is the common language, and Spanish, Garifuna and Maya languages are also widely spoken.
Currency
The Belize dollar (BZD), fixed at 2 to the US dollar.
Popular Attractions
The Belize Barrier Reef and the Great Blue Hole are world-famous dive sites. Inland, Maya ruins such as Xunantunich, Caracol and Lamanai sit in the rainforest.
Food
Rice and beans with stewed chicken is the everyday favourite. Try fry jacks, hudut (fish in coconut broth) and fresh ceviche.
Places to Visit
Ambergris Caye and San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, San Ignacio, Hopkins and Belize City.
More of the Caribbean
English-speaking Caribbean
Spanish-speaking Caribbean
French-speaking Caribbean
Dutch-speaking Caribbean
Additional Caribbean Coastal Areas
Colombia—Caribbean coast; San Andrés and Providencia
Venezuela—Caribbean coast and islands
Panama—Caribbean coast; Bocas del Toro
Costa Rica—Caribbean coast; Limón
Nicaragua—Caribbean coast; Corn Islands
Honduras—Caribbean coast; Bay Islands
Guatemala—Caribbean coast; Livingston
Mexico—Caribbean coast; Cozumel and Isla Mujeres