Climate
The climate is subtropical with an average annual temperature of 80°F which doesn't vary by more than 10° at any time of the year.  Rainfall varies greatly from the north to the south of Belize, but the average rainfall in the area of Manatee Bay is approximately 70 inches.  There are definite wet and dry seasons. Most of the rain falls during the period of June through November with September being the wettest month. The Manatee Bay area averages 170 rainy days per year. Many of these rainy days are insignificant though, with early morning showers (called "night rain" by the locals). Most of these days are still warm and provide excellent skiing conditions.

Vacationing in Belize
Leave the US in the morning, be water skiing that afternoon.  Spend the next morning diving or snorkeling the barrier reef, take a noon-time siesta, then water ski the rest of the day.  Take a quick morning ski set and spend the afternoon hiking and exploring the caves and Mayan ruins.  Belize offers a variety of recreational activities and because the country is geographically small, most activities are a short car or boat ride away.  This allows one to experience a diverse and fun-filled vacation packed with activities.

No need to worry about drinking water or ice. Tap water in Belize is potable (drinkable.)

Currency is non-variable $2 Bz to $1 US. There is no need to exchange currency as US dollars are accepted at all establishments.

Belize runs on 110 volts AC, as in North America.

The Belize Lifestyle
Perhaps you are looking for the perfect place to retire. A multitude of reasons make Belize a wonderful choice. Belize provides a simple life for those desiring to live in harmony with nature. Spend your days hiking, fishing, diving, water skiing.  Get involved in the local community, volunteer at a local school, orphanage, medical center or the Belize Mission. This is a poor country and there are many volunteer opportunities that can provide rewarding activities to fill your day.

There is no smog, no traffic, few crowds. It’s a relaxed, laid-back lifestyle. Nothing happens quickly here. There is no rat race, so stop, take a deep breath, slow down and relax. Isn't that what retirement is all about? 

Retired Persons Incentive Program
One of the most attractive features for those considering retirement in Belize is the Retired Persons Incentive Program which allows qualifying individuals to live tax free. Click here to find out about the requirements and incentives of the program.

Welcome to the neighborhood!
The people of Belize are friendly and welcoming.  You will feel as if you are meeting new neighbors and as a Manatee Bay owner, you will be!  Anyone within a 30 mile radius is considered a neighbor. Everyone knows each other and will readily offer a helping hand.

Medical Care
The Belize Ministry of Health in 2001 committed to a series of far reaching reforms to improve medical care in Belize for the nation’s citizens, residents and visitors.  Since then things have dramatically improved across the country with the most significant advances taking place in Belize City where state of the art medical services are available at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital and Belize Medical Associates.

To learn everything you ever wanted to know about Belize, view this wonderful virtual tour of Belize.

Belize in Motion videos
Belize in Motion invites viewers to explore Belize with fascinating videos of life, nature and adventure above and below the Caribbean Sea.  Belize in Motion is produced in Belize by Naturalight Productions.
http://www.brightcove.com/channel.jsp?channel=348379484

• Belize is a peaceful, English speaking country located just 2 hours from the US, with several daily non-stop flights from major hubs such as Houston, Dallas and Miami.
• Foreigners can hold title to property, unlike many Caribbean countries, such as Mexico. http://www.century21belize.com/buy_property.php
• Belize has some of the best scuba diving in the Caribbean and a plethora of other recreation opportunities.
• English is the official language and is widely spoken throughout the country.
• Belize is a member of the British Commonwealth, with a stable democratic government.
• Belize is just now being discovered and will be very much in demand in the near future.  Property costs are reasonable now, but expected to greatly increase in value over the next 5 to 10 years.