Government: Parliamentary democracy and a Commonwealth realm

Head of Government: Prime Minister Dean Barrow since 2008.

Language: English (official), Spanish, Mayan, Garifuna (Carib), and Creole.

Approximately 40% of the population are age 14 and under!

Religion: Roman Catholic 49.6%, Protestant 27% (Pentecostal 7.4%, Anglican 5.3%, Seventh-Day Adventist 5.2%, Mennonite 4.1%, Methodist 3.5%, Jehovah’s Witnesses 1.5%), other 14%, none 9.4%

Electricity: 110 volts AC, 60Hz. American-style two-pin plugs.

Currency and exchange: Belize Dollar (BZ$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of BZ$100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2. Coins are in denominations of BZ$1, and 100, 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 cents. The Belize Dollar is tied to the U.S. Dollar at US$1 = BZ$2.

Currency can be exchanged at most banks, hotels, and travel agencies. Some businesses will even accept U.S. dollars. Banks are generally open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. However, in many small towns, villages, and tourist destinations, bank hours may be limited.

Caution: Be careful to note whether or not the price you are being quoted is in Belize or U.S. dollars. Many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators actually quote in U.S. dollars. If in doubt, ask. At a two-to-one ratio, the difference can be substantial.

Sales tax: 9%

Time zone: Belize is on Central Standard Time, six hours behind Greenwich Mean Time. Belize does not observe Daylight Saving Time.

Police: The police in Belize are generally rather helpful; there is a dedicated tourism police force in Belize City.

Emergency numbers: In case of any emergency, dial 90 from anywhere in Belize. This will connect you to the police. You can also dial 227-2222.

Tipping: Few places add service charges, and a 10% tip is normal. Taxi drivers are not tipped.

Siesta time: Shopping hours are Mon-Sat 8 a.m. – 12 noon, 1 – 4.30 p.m., and 7- 9 p.m.