Living in Belize guide for expats

Belize is a developing country which is found in Central America, south of Mexico and east of Guatemala. It borders the Caribbean Sea to the east. It stretches over some 22,966 km2 and is divided into six districts: Belize, Cayo, Corozal, Orange Walk, Stann Creek and Toledo. Belize's capital city is Belmopan. Its largest cities are Belize City, San Ignacio, Orange Walk Town, Dangriga, Corozal Town and San Pedro.

Demographics

In 2016, the country's population amounted to some 380,010 inhabitants. Belize has been attracting expatriates from around the world for many years. The official language is English, but many other languages, such as Spanish, Belizean Kriol, German, Chinese, and some Mayan languages are also spoken. In fact, due to immigration from surrounding Central American countries, there are more native Spanish speakers than native English speakers, and Mestizos make up the largest portion of the population. German is spoken primarily within the Mennonite communities.

Economy

Belize is a developing country, and the economy reflects that. Significant loans, poor management, large numbers of imports, low numbers of exports, the size of the country, and significant tax and duty breaks to large corporations all have an impact. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) amounted to more than $3.4 billion in 2015. Economic growth revolved around 2.9%. However, the unemployment rate among Belizeans stood at 11.1% as of September 2016.

Some of the largest contributors to Belize's economy are agriculture, fishing, retail, telecommunications, the government, and manufacturing.

Belize's main economic allies are the United States, Mexico, the European Union, the Caribbean, and Central America.

Politics

Belize is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. In fact, Queen Elizabeth II is the Head of State of Belize and is represented by the Governor General, Sir Colville Young. The government's executive branch is exercised by the Cabinet under Prime Minister Dean Barrow's guidance. Belize's National Assembly consists of 31 elected members in the House of Representatives and 12 appointed members in the Senate.

Belize is a member of the Commonwealth and the Caribbean Community, CARICOM.

Climate

Belize has a sub-tropical climate with two distinct seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season generally begins in January and ends in May, while the wet season lasts from June to December. Though it varies by region, June, July, and September tend to be the wettest months. Hurricanes and flooding can occur during this season. Temperatures vary between 18ºC and 35 ºC, with April and May registering as the hottest months.