The total population of the country is approximately 250,000 with the major commercial center being Belize City, population 80,000. Much of the population of Belize is ethnically diverse including descendants of the original Mayan culture and various mixtures of Caribbean people, Caucasians, Chinese and East Indians. The primary language spoken is English. The climate is subtropical with an average temperature of 80 degrees.
LANGUAGE
English is the official language. Spanish is also widely spoken.
GOVERNMENT
Belize is a country with a long history of peace, stability and democracy. It became a British Crown Colony in 1862, gained self rule in 1964, and became an independent member of the Commonwealth in 1981. The political system is a Parliamentary Democracy. Executive authority is exercised by the cabinet under the leadership of the Prime Minister, subject to the approval by a 29 member House of Representatives elected every five years. In addition there is an 8 member Senate with the majority appointed on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. The laws of Belize are derived from English common law.
CURRENCY
The local currency is the Belize dollar which is tied to the US dollar. The fixed exchange rate is US $1.00 = BZ $2.00. Ambergris Caye is represented by Belize Bank and Atlantic Bank with public hours generally 8:30 am to 1:00 pm Mon-Fri. Visa/Mastercard and American Express are accepted in many establishments, however, you will want cash and/or travelers checks for the smaller restaurants and shops. You can spend US dollars.
COMMUNICATIONS
Telephone, fax, and e-mail communication are available in Belize. Ambergris Caye even hosts a "cyber café" for those of you unable to break away from your e-mail.