So, you’ve done your research, booked your flights, picked your hotel and purchased the perfect swimsuit that will make all your social media followers jealous of your upcoming trip to Belize. But there are a few items that are “must haves” when visiting the uniquely engaging Placencia Peninsula.
1. Sunscreen
Whether you need SPF 20, 40 or 2000, be sure to pack the appropriate sunscreen to protect your skin from the beautiful but punishing Caribbean sun. Even on cloudy days those ultraviolet rays have been known to leave a painful burn. So, don’t skimp on the quantity and make sunblock part of your morning ritual.
2. Camera
Whether you’re sporting a flip phone or professional SLR the Placencia Peninsula is a photographer’s dream. Sunrises over the Caribbean, sunsets on the lagoon and a world of vibrantly colorful people, places and things in between. Hot tip: time your visit to coincide with a full moon. It’s amazing.
3. Bug spray
You may spend a whole week roaming the beaches, jungles and villages of southern Belize without ever encountering a single insect… but you would be in a distinct minority. Bugs are a fact of life in the tropics and like a good Boy Scout you should always be prepared. The most common irritants on the beach are sand flies (also called no-see-ums or flying teeth). These almost invisible creatures are most prevalent at dawn and dusk, especially when the wind is calm. Long sleeves and pants solve the problem pretty well along with a healthy dose of Deep Woods Off. Mosquitoes tend to stick to the rainy season and the more jungled areas but some resorts and locations handle them better than others. In any case, if you do get bitten the best advice is DON’T SCRATCH! Apply some Benadryl cream and have another pina colada.
4. US Currency
While Belize has its own currency (with a picture of a very young Queen Elizabeth II on every note), U.S. greenbacks are widely accepted and appreciated in the country. The exchange rate is very simple: 2 to 1, meaning every U.S. dollar is worth two Belize Dollars. Most prices are listed in Belize dollars but ALWAYS ASK if you’re not sure (especially with taxis). Change is often given in Belize currency so we hope you were paying attention in math class.
5. Smiles
The common feedback from everyone who visits this English-speaking country is, “Belizeans are the friendliest people I have ever met!” Be prepared for most people you encounter to say good evening with a smile, offer a helping hand or share a story. We are very proud of our culture, history and heritage and it never hurts to smile back. You just might make a new friend.
