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By Lan Sluder - Belize (known as British Honduras from 1862 to 1973) is on the Caribbean Coast of Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south. To the east is the Caribbean Sea. In Belize waters are as many as 400 islands. Belize at 8,866 miles is twice the size of Jamaica - one of its larger islands - Ambergris Caye is about the size of Barbados
Three of the four attols in the Western Hemisphere are found in Belize. According to Skin Diver Online "Lighthouse Reef, Glover's Reef and the Turneffe Islands are all distinct anomalies in the Caribbean. Nothing else in the Western Hemisphere resembles a true coral atoll, except perhaps Chinchorro Reef, off Mexico's southern Yucatan Peninsula (just above the Belize atolls).
Ambergris: No, today you will not find this highly prized waxy secretion from sperm whales although historians believe in the past this was common in the area and the origin of the island's name.
Banks: Retail banks on the island include Belize Bank, Alliance Bank, First Caribbean International and Atlantic Bank, all on Barrier Reef Drive. Scotia Bank is across from Tropic Air on Coconut Drive. Caye Bank, on Coconut Drive south of town, is an international (offshore) bank. All banks have ATM machines and accept local and international credit cards.
Bargaining: In general, prices in Belize stores and shops are fixed, and there is no bargaining. Of course, bargaining is an accepted practice for big-ticket items such as real estate. For better prices at hotels, you may want to do some low-key bargaining, especially in the off-season. Just say that you are on a budget and ask if any discounts are available. Walk-in rates can be as much as one third off published rack rates especially in late August to early November. Contacting a hotel directly via email rather than going through a travel agent can usually get you a good discount.
Cars/Golf Carts: Although there are privately owned cars and trucks on the island (a permit from the San Pedro town council is required before you can bring a vehicle in by barge), rental cars are not available on Ambergris Caye. Golf carts are available from several companies on the island. Cart rentals cost Golf carts are available from several companies on the island. Cart rentals cost around US$40 for an 8-hour rental, US$50 to $65 for a 24 hour day and about US$250. for a week. Both battery powered and gasoline engine carts are available - we recommend gas as they run longer and faster.
You can download a free copy of Belize Cool an eBook by noted travel writer Lan Sluder.
As you look around you might find it easier to use our search box above to quickly find what you are looking for. For it's size Belize has a depth of variety be its culture, people, exotic attractions and unspoilt beauty, But as a developing nation changes are always in motion.
You might want to visit our associated blogs, for example Belize Tips.com for news updates.
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