Belize – Rentyl Resorts https://rentylresorts.com Dream bigger. Vacation better. Thu, 09 Feb 2023 13:45:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://rentylresorts.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/cropped-rr-favicon-32x32.png Belize – Rentyl Resorts https://rentylresorts.com 32 32 Know Before You Go: Travel Tips for Your Visit to Belize https://rentylresorts.com/blog/travel-tips-for-your-visit-to-belize/ Tue, 03 Jan 2023 10:00:50 +0000 https://rentylresorts.com/?p=13860
Covered dock with thatched roof set over the ocean at Chabil Mar Villas
Xunantunich Mayan Ruins in Belize
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Know Before You Go: Travel Tips for Your Visit to Belize January 3, 2023

Straddling the dense jungles of Central America on the west and the colorful Caribbean on the east, Belize is a true tropical paradise. What it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in offerings – with idyllic beaches, lush rainforests, spectacular hiking trails, and the world’s second-largest barrier reef. No matter what brings you to Belize, you should know a few things before you arrive.

Best Months to Visit

Belize enjoys a subtropical climate and balmy temperatures year-round, with average temps sitting around 84°F while the thermometer rarely dips below 60°F. There is no bad time to visit, but there are two very distinct seasons that every traveler should be aware of: The Dry Season and the Wet Season.

December through May is considered the dry season, and it’s also the peak season in Belize. Temperatures are a bit milder, and sunny days are the norm. You may experience cloudy days during this time, but rainfall is not typical.

The wet season spans from June through November, with high temperatures, humidity, and occasional storms as this is also hurricane season. Rain showers typically last for a few hours if there’s no storm. Visiting during this off-season can save you money and help to avoid crowds.

Boats parked on a dock at sunset in Placencia, Belize

Entry & Exit Requirements

A sailboat riding on calm ocean waters on a beautiful day in Belize

Most visitors do not need a visa to enter Belize. Passport holders from USA, Canada, UK, the European Union, Caribbean Community Member States, and Central American countries are exempt from visa requirements. Visitors can remain in Belize for up to 30 days without a visa.

As of July 12, 2022, travelers no longer need to show proof of vaccination, negative test results, or any other documentation regarding COVID-19.

Note that Belize requires foreign visitors to pay a departure tax when leaving the country. Fees range between 20-55 USD, depending on where you’re departing from. Some airlines include this cost in your airfare, so read the fine print when booking your flights.

Languages

Due to its long tenure as a British Colony, the official language in Belize is English. Belize didn’t gain independence until 1981, so visitors will find it incredibly easy to chat with locals in English. Spanish is also widely spoken, as is Kriol (Belizean Creole).

Currency

The official currency in Belize is the Belizean Dollar. If visiting from the US, you’ll find the currency extremely easy to convert. The Belize Dollar and the US Dollar are fixed, so every US dollar is worth almost exactly 2 Belizean dollars. Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still king in Belize. If you plan on using your credit card, be aware that most establishments charge a fee for every transaction.
Woman holding up two paper currency bills. A $20 United States Dollar (USD) and $20 Belizean Dollar (BZD)

Electricity

Belize is a bit of a toss-up when it comes to electricity. Power plugs and sockets are either type A or B. Types A and B are used around North America and will be either two or three prongs. Belize also has two voltage standards, 110 / 220 V, with a frequency of 60Hz. Plug and voltage types can vary from city to city and even resort to resort, so one of the most important Belize tips for visitors is to bring an adapter/converter.

Where to Stay

Woman snorkeling above a reef in Placencia, Belize
One of the best Belize tips we can give you is to choose a great place to stay. The quality of your resort will hugely affect your trip, so don’t take any risks. The Chabil Mar Villas sit just steps from the village of Placencia and offer guests an array of spacious villas and upscale amenities, including private beach access, roaming butler service, free shuttles to the village, and more.
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Patio beach side dining at Chabil Mar Villas
Tall waterfall surrounded by tropical rainforest at the Mayflower Bocawina National Park in Belize
]]> Discover Places to Eat & More When Staying in Belize https://rentylresorts.com/blog/places-to-eat-and-more-when-staying-in-belize/ Tue, 03 Jan 2023 10:00:37 +0000 https://rentylresorts.com/?p=13866
Patio beach side dining at Chabil Mar Villas
Woman eating on the beach
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Discover Places to Eat & More When Staying in Belize January 3, 2023

From foods to try and tipping-trends in restaurants, to where to base your stay and lay your head at night, here are a few tips to consider when in Belize:

What to Eat in Belize

One of the best parts of discovering a new place is exploring the local cuisine. Belize’s culinary scene is inspired by its location on the world map and its native roots. Although it remained a colony of the United Kingdom well into the 20th century, the food is delightfully unique and purely Belizean.

The coastal location means fresh seafood is served with flare throughout the country. Try some lobster or conch ceviche or hudut (a coconut fish stew) to get your seafood fix in a local’s way. Other popular Belizean meals include rice and beans with potato salad (not for the carb-conscious!), stewed chicken, and Conchita Pibil (a classic Mayan dish with slow-roasted pork and a soft flour tortilla). There are so many delicious culinary offerings in Belize, so be sure to venture around and sample as many new and unique dishes as possible!

Set dining table on the beach looking out at the covered dock and ocean at Chabil Mar Villas

Tipping

Picnic tables with umbrellas set in shallow ocean water at Chabil Mar Villas
Speaking of dining out, tipping in Belize is not required however, it is encouraged! Some bars and restaurants automatically tack-on a 10% service fee, so check your bill before adding an additional tip. You can budget for 10%-20% depending on the type of place in which you’re dining.

Street Foods

When in the mood for a quick bite on the go, street foods are a-plenty in Belize! Tacos are one of the foods many people picture when they think of Latin American cuisine. They are a favorite and readily available on the streets of Belize as a cheap and simple yet delicious option.

One of Belize’s most popular street foods, salbutes are tiny fried corn tortillas that are topped with a delicious mix of cabbage, chicken, avocado, and locally-made hot sauce. Very similar to salbutes, garnaches differ because the tortillas are fried until crunchy and then topped with a smorgasbord of ingredients, including beans, cheese, and onions. Panades are delicious corn dough pockets, stuffed with meat, beans, or fish. While other street food favorites include meat pies and lemon and coconut tarts. Yum!
An array of local Belizian cuisine, set on a table

Where to Stay

Woman standing in an infinity pool looking out at the sunset over the ocean at Chabil Mar Villas

The quality of your resort affects your trip more than any other aspect, and can make or break your vacation experience

One of the most highly recommended accommodations just steps from the village of Placencia is Chabil Mar Villas. This stunning resort features an array of spacious villas and offers guests top-notch amenities, including private beach access, roaming butler service, and free shuttles to the village.

When it comes to on-site dining, Chabil Mar is al fresco style, so the entire property is your kingdom. There are no walls and no roof, allowing you to feel the open air and gentle Caribbean Sea breezes. On-Site options for dining Include: Beach-Side, Pool-Side, Your Villa’s Personal Veranda, Kaleidoscope Bar & Lounge, or on the Pier under the sun, moon, and stars!
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Covered dock with thatched roof set over the ocean at Chabil Mar Villas
Tall waterfall surrounded by tropical rainforest at the Mayflower Bocawina National Park in Belize
]]> 6 Incredible Things to do in Placencia, Belize https://rentylresorts.com/blog/6-incredible-things-to-do-in-placencia-belize/ Tue, 03 Jan 2023 10:00:17 +0000 https://rentylresorts.com/?p=13847
Tall waterfall surrounded by tropical rainforest at the Mayflower Bocawina National Park in Belize
Woman standing up on a paddleboard out on the ocean in front of Chabil Mar Villas
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6 Incredible Things to do in Placencia, Belize January 3, 2023

For a small country, Belize packs a big punch. With tropical beaches, dense jungles, and vibrant coral reefs, adventurers and beach bums alike are drawn to this itty-bitty nation.

The scenic peninsula of Placencia sits on Belize’s southern shores and is a popular destination due to its incredible offerings. Visitors can spend days relaxing on idyllic beaches, hiking through protected jungles, or simply indulging in local fare.

Check out the Top 6 Things To Do in Placencia, Belize:

1. Placencia Beach

The longest beach in Belize, Placencia Beach offers striking scenery with crystal Caribbean waters, golden sand, and swaying palms that make it one of the best spots to post up for a day. Its great tropical vibe and convenient location at the heart of Placencia Village add to its popularity. Placencia Beach extends all the way north of town, running along the peninsula, where vacation homes and stunning resorts dot the shoreline.
Large "Placencia" sign on the beach in Placencia, Belize

2. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Waterfall surrounded by tropical rainforest at the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in Belize

A unique place to experience is the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, whose main objective is to protect the wild jaguar population of Placencia. This preserve is one of the best places in the world to observe this incredible animal in its natural habitat. The sanctuary is also home to various other creatures, animals, and birds.

In addition to the wildlife, the scenery here is incredible – with towering mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, and thick jungle vegetation. Rent a tube and float down the river, or lace-up your hiking boots and tackle the trails that range in length and difficulty, with one of the best being Ben’s Bluff Waterfall and Lookout.

3. Try the Local Food

No trip abroad is complete without delving into the local food scene and culinary delights of the region … and Placencia, Belize, has plenty of tasty offerings!

Start your day with some traditional breakfast fare – The Fry Jack. This doughy, pastry-like delight is deep-fried and is similar to a beignet or sopaipilla. Enjoy it with honey, jam, or more savory options like refried beans or cheese.

Of course, visitors will find an excellent selection of fresh, local seafood on offer here. Ceviche is popular and generally made with lobster, fish, or conch. Other classic dishes include beans and rice, Cochinita Pibil tacos, bollos (similar to tamales), and pupusas.
An array of local Belizian cuisine, set on a table

4. Laughing Bird Caye

Woman snorkeling above a reef in Placencia, Belize

A quaint island situated off Placencia’s coast, Laughing Bird Caye is a stunning National Park and home to some of Belize’s most pristine beaches. The clear, protected waters are teeming with colorful tropical fish, making this a great spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. The palms that line the shore were once filled with breeding laughing gulls (for which the island is named), but now instead host brown pelicans, green herons, melodious blackbirds, and more.

There is little infrastructure on the caye, which adds to the isolated charm and beauty. Your resort can easily help you arrange a day tour to the island.

5. Kayak, Paddleboard, & Snorkel

Experience the peninsula from a different perspective on or in the water. Most of the area features calm waters, but tides can sometimes be rough. For smooth sailing, stick close to the coastline.

The far side of the peninsula is surrounded by a lagoon with an abundance of vibrant coral reefs, a great spot to enjoy snorkeling and watersports. Encounter abundant wildlife, from manatees and dolphins to tropical fish and rays, and a wide variety of birds. The lagoon is also calmer than the open sea, so this is a great spot for beginners.
Woman sitting on a paddleboard in the ocean, admiring the views | Chabil Mar Villas

6. Shopping

Local shop filled with handmade gifts in Placencia, Belize

Shopping is one of the more relaxing things to do in Placencia, Belize. The village has some of the best offerings, whether you’re hunting for souvenirs, high-end artwork, or locally-produced organic chocolate.

For hand-crafted trinkets, take the convenient pedestrian pathway to the center of the village. In addition to traditional souvenirs, there is an assortment of wood, metal, and ceramic works. For something a little more unique to bring home, check out Taste of Belize where you’ll find delicious chocolates and various delicacies of Belize.

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Covered dock with thatched roof set over the ocean at Chabil Mar Villas
Patio beach side dining at Chabil Mar Villas
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