Belize 2024: A Year Of Growth

Belize is a popular offshore destination for all kinds of visitors and even expatriates. Because of its diverse geography and topography, Belize appeals to a broad demographic seeking any of a variety of experiences that Belize offers, including:

  • ​Eco-Tourism
  • Sun and Sand
  • Archaeological Tours
  • Wellness
  • Nature Adventures
  • Cultural Immersion
  • Aquatic Adventures
  • Culinary Experiences

 
A sure sign of Belize’s growth and increasing popularity has been the rapid rate of development of international hotels and resorts, as well as the increasing number of airlines and flights added to accommodate the growing number of visitors.
 
Just this past October, Margaritaville Beach Resort in Ambergris Caye, Belize, hosted its grand opening, adding to a growing list of 3- and 4-star hotels and resorts on Ambergris Caye that already includes Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club; Curio Collection by Hilton; Grand Caribe Belize; Costa Blu Beach Resort; Trademark Collection by Wyndham; Turtle Island Resort & Residencies; Victoria House Resort & Spa; and Mayan Islands Resort.
 
Not only are more and more airlines jumping on the Belize bandwagon, but existing airlines are adding more and more flights from more and more destinations all the time. Both Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines recently announced more flights to Belize, with others announcing new flight routes to New York City. Alaska and Southwest are part of a roster of major airlines serving Belize that includes Delta, United, American, JetBlue, Air Canada, and WestJet.
 
To accommodate Belize’s skyrocketing popularity and increased air travel, a second international airport—to be located on the island of Ambergris Caye—is already in development by the government of Belize.
 
Belize is a beautiful country, and its government intends to keep it that way through its internationally recognized conservation efforts. In recognition of its commitment to responsible tourism and sustainability, Belize has been chosen to host the first-ever World Sustainable Travel and Hospitality Awards in 2024. This just adds to Belize’s emergence as a globally recognized destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and environmental conservation.
 
Belize’s projected growth in 2024 won’t just come from the tourism side. Its appeal to retirees and expatriates will also contribute to its popularity and growth.
 
Why does Belize appeal to retirees and expatriates? The reasons are many.
 
Take a look:
 
English is the Official Language…

In Belize, English is the official language, making the transition for Americans to life in Belize seamless.
 
Welcoming Locals…

​The diverse population of Belize, composed of multiple ethnic groups, lives harmoniously together and is welcoming to outsiders.
 
Stable Government…

​​Belize has a stable, democratic government based on the British parliamentary system and a legal system based on British common law.
 
Appealing Residency and Tax Benefits for Foreigners…

Belize allows foreign “Qualified Retired Persons” to make applications for long-term residency in Belize and, if accepted, to live in Belize completely tax-free for life. Qualified Retired Persons are exempt from the payment of all taxes and levies on income and receipts originating outside of Belize.
 
Lots To Do… 

​With its diverse ecosystem, rich variety of flora and fauna, diverse topography that includes jungles and beaches, pristine beaches, clear water, scuba-diving spots including the Belize Barrier Reef and the Great Blue Hole, and Mayan ruins, Belize has a lot to offer expats and retirees.
 
Stable Economy and Currency…  

Belize has a stable economy, as evidenced by its low unemployment rate. And with banks and financial institutions that accommodate foreigners and with its currency currently pegged at 2:1 to the U.S. dollar, transacting business in Belize is convenient and trouble-free for outsiders.
 
Belize is quickly becoming an international destination for tourists, expats, retirees, and businesses, as evidenced by its growth and growing international travel footprint. If you haven’t discovered Belize yet, maybe it’s time you found out for yourself what the rest of the world is making a big fuss about.