What do I need to know before retiring in Belize?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Belize, they said...
"Before retiring in Belize, expats should understand that the cost of living is high compared to other Central American countries, and they will need to budget accordingly. Additionally, they should research their medical options in Belize, and familiarize themselves with the visa and residency requirements in order to stay legally in the country. It's also important to research the language and culture of Belize, as these will likely be very different from those at home. Finally, expats should be aware that the tropical climate and hurricane season may affect living conditions," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Belize.
"I am not sure how long I will remain in Belize because as a single person, it is important that others embrace me as a friend. They are very kind people but getting into their inner circles is a different story. I am alone most of the time. This includes locals and expats," commented one expat who made the move to Belize.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Belize?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Belize?
- Will I be able to find a job in Belize?
- What is life like in Belize?
- What do expats in Belize appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Belize?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Belize accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Belize like?
- What are healthcare services like in Belize?
- What are medical services in Belize like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Belize?
- What are emergency services like in Belize?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Belize?
- How are local medical facilities in Belize?
- As a foreigner living in Belize, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before retiring in Belize?
If you live in Belize, newcomers to Belize would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.
