There are many guide books giving advice on travelling within Belize; (e.g Lonely Planet, Rough Guide) An internet search will reveal the most current publication.

• Belize has a reliable and up to date mobile phone network. There are two main providers: Belize Telemedia Ltd (Digicel) and SMART phones. You can buy a local SIM card and top-ups for pay as you go phones practically everywhere.
• Before you leave the UK, ensure your mobile phone is enabled and unlocked for international roaming (US & Americas region) and overseas SIM card use if required. Turn off your voicemail (usually inaccessible from overseas)
• Make sure you have an appropriate charger (Belize uses mainly 2 x flatpin, 110v)
• We would advise that you pre-programme into your mobile the telephone number of the British High Commission, Belmopan: (501) 822 2146
• Make a note of your mobile's serial number (also known as the IMEI number) and the telephone number of your operator's customer services (including UK dialling code). In the unfortunate event of your phone being stolen you will be able to contact the network operator and request that they block your phone and/or SIM card.
• Broadband internet is available in internet cafes in most of the major towns.
• Public pay phones are available at BTL offices in most towns.

• You may drive on your UK licence for up to 3 months in Belize.
• You will need your licence and a credit card to rent a car; you are advised to use a reputable rental company. Four-wheel drive is recommended for most secondary road. Belize drives on the right hand side of the road; the rental vehicles will be left-hand drive.
• NOTE: the surfaces of all major roads are incredibly slippery in the wet.

• Banking facilities in Belize have improved greatly over the last few years. The following banks operate throughout the country: First Caribbean Bank, Scotia Bank, Belize Bank, Atlantic Bank and Alliance Bank. Branches and cash point machines (ATM’s) are available in most major towns and the banks will cash travellers cheques. There are Western Union facilities throughout the country if required. Scotia Bank do not release cash on Debit Cards and their ATM’s only recognise Scotia issued cards. Cirrus and Maestro are only accepted by some of the banks, but credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are becoming more widely accepted as a method of payment many establishments. US dollars cash are widely accepted, but are not readily available in Belize.
• Belize and US dollars may be exchanged for Mexican Pesos or Guatemala Quetzals at the borders but the exchange rate is poor; be aware, border merchants have been known to pass forgeries.

• Be street-wise: do not carry all of your possessions and money, and particularly your passport around with you unless you absolutely have to.