Area
22,965 sq. km. (8,867 sq. miles)
Location
Central America, Caribbean Coast.
Population
266,000 (as per estimates of 2005) and Population Density of 11.6 per sq. km.
Capital City
Belmopan City with a total population of 12,300 (as per estimates of 2004). The former capital of Belize City has a total population of 59,400.
Language
English is the official and most popular language of Belize. Among other languages, Spanish is the popular with Garifuna (Carib), Maya, and Creole also find a place among people’s vocabulary. A German dialect is also prevalent among some folks (Mennonites) in Belize.
Electricity
AC 110 volts, 60Hz. Flat two-pin type American-style plugs are commonly used.
Currency
Belize Dollar (BZD; Symbol BZ$). 1BZ$ = 100 Cents.
Notes prevalent = BZ$ 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100
Coins prevalent = BZ$ 1; Cents 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50.
Currency Exchange
Currency Exchange facility is available at most banks, hotels, and travel agencies. If the visitors are carrying US Dollars, they don’t require currency exchange facility as most businesses accept US Dollars. For more details and exchange rates, travellers are advised to consult their banks.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMs
Credit/Debit/ATM Cards of all major companies like Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc. accepted. However, it is advisable to carry some cash as well. Most establishments levy a service charge at the rate of 5% if you are using credit cards for payment purposes. ATMs are also conveniently situated. However, these ATMs do not necessarily accept foreign cards, except Belize Bank ATMs. Visitors are advised not to rely on ATMs for their currency needs.
Traveller's Cheques
Travellers Cheques can be easily exchanged after deducting some commission.
Banking Hours
Banks in US normally function from Monday to Thursday from 0800-1300 and Friday from 0800-1630. However, the timings may vary in different locations.