Belmopan, Belize
Last updated on Jul 11, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Belmopan, Belize. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know about living in Belmopan?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Belmopan, they said:
"Belmopan, the capital of Belize, is a popular retirement destination for expats due to its tropical climate, English-speaking population, and affordable cost of living. Before retiring in Belmopan, it's important to understand the local culture, lifestyle, and legal requirements. Firstly, Belize has a Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) program that allows retirees to live in the country tax-free, but they must meet certain income requirements. Expats should consult with a legal expert to understand the specifics of this program. Healthcare in Belize is generally affordable, but it may not meet the standards that expats from developed countries are accustomed to. It's recommended to have a comprehensive health insurance plan that covers medical evacuation. The cost of living in Belmopan is relatively low compared to many Western countries. However, imported goods can be expensive, so it's advisable to adapt to local products and lifestyle. While English is the official language, Spanish is also widely spoken. Learning some basic Spanish phrases can be beneficial in daily life. Belmopan has a tropical climate with high humidity and rainfall. Expats should be prepared for this weather and protect their homes against potential damage from tropical storms. Public transportation in Belmopan is limited, so having a personal vehicle can be convenient. However, driving in Belize can be challenging due to poor road conditions in some areas. Safety can be a concern in certain parts of Belize. Expats should research and choose their neighborhoods carefully, and take standard precautions to protect their personal safety. Finally, it's important to understand that while Belmopan offers a relaxed lifestyle, it may not offer the same level of amenities, entertainment, and conveniences as larger cities. Therefore, it's advisable to visit Belmopan and spend some time there before making a decision to retire," wrote a member in Belmopan.
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What do I need to know before moving to Belmopan?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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Digital Nomads in Belize offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Belize.