About Belize

Belize is in Central America on the Caribbean Sea and bordered by Mexico and Guatemala. 

It is about the same size as New Hampshire. The capital is Belmopan. 

Spanish is the main language, 

but many people also speak English and Kriol

and a few still speak Mayan as well.  

Population is about 321,000 

(Charlotte has almost 606,000)

Belize was previously British Honduras and still uses a parliamentary system with an elected House of Representatives, appointed Senate and Prime Minister.

About 50% of Belizeans belong to the Roman Catholic Church. 

25% are Protestant and the rest are a mix of other religions. 

Tourism is one of the largest industries. 

There is also an import/export business with the US being that largest partner.

Unemployment is high in Belize as is the prevalence of HIV/AIDS. 

Exchange rate as of today (12/13/11)

1 USD = 2 BZD

4 out of 10 people live in poverty. 

Literacy is at 76%.

'Rice & Beans' consists of white rice and red kidney beans cooked together in coconut milk.

Seafood and chicken are plentiful as is fruit.

Belize has beaches and diving with the largest barrier reef in the Caribbean and a popular diving spot known as The Blue Hole. 

Belize is also home to many caves and rivers the run through them. There are Mayan ruins to explore as well.

... just a small picture of the country the team will be calling home for a few days ...