Blog – Travel Stories & Local Life from Placencia, Belize

Bella (Isabella) Zabaneh When Belize took the world stage at Miss Universe 2025 , all eyes turned to one radiant woman from Independence Village , a charming coastal community a short boat ride from Placencia . Bella Zabaneh's journey from a small southern village to the global spotlight captured hearts — and showcased the beauty, confidence, and pride that define Belize. The Jewel of the South Shines Bright Growing up in Independence, surrounded by lush mangroves, vibrant c

Who Are the Mennonites? The Mennonites in Belize are a Christian Anabaptist group known for their simple lifestyle, pacifist beliefs, and deep commitment to community and hard work. They first arrived in 1958 , migrating primarily from Mexico and Canada in search of religious freedom and autonomy. Belize welcomed them with open arms, granting exemptions from military service and certain taxes, allowing them to live according to their faith. Where They Live Today, there are se

If you’ve ever filled up your tank in Belize and wondered why fuel prices fluctuate—or why gasoline is more expensive than in some neighboring countries—you’re not alone. The story of gasoline in Belize is tied closely to the nation’s small but fascinating oil industry, its import infrastructure, and its regional energy partnerships. Does Belize Have Oil? Yes, Belize does have oil—though not on a massive scale. The first major discovery came in 2005 at the Spanish Lookout oil

A Unique Blend of History, Peace, and Paradise Belize is a small, peaceful nation on the Caribbean coast of Central America — known for its vibrant culture, tropical scenery, and English-speaking charm. But if you spend time in the country, you might notice something unexpected: the British military is still here. Their presence isn’t about control or conflict. Instead, it’s about cooperation, training, and friendship — a lasting symbol of Belize’s historic connection to the

Introduction: What Is the “Royal Rat”? I If you’ve ever visited Belize, chances are you’ve heard whispers of the Royal Rat  — a local delicacy with a name that instantly sparks curiosity (and sometimes laughter). The “Royal Rat” is not your average rodent. Officially known as the lowland paca  ( Cuniculus paca ), this large, spotted, forest-dwelling animal is native to Central and South America. In Belize, it’s affectionately called the gibnut  — and it holds a surprising roy

Planning a trip to Belize and wondering why every cocktail, ceviche, or marinade comes with limes instead of lemons ? You’re not imagining it — Belize has no real lemons , but it has limes everywhere . From beach bars in Placencia to local fruit stands, limes are the go-to citrus in Belizean cooking and culture. Here’s why. 1. Lemons Don’t Grow Well in Belize’s Climate Belize’s tropical climate is hot, humid, and rain-heavy , which is perfect for limes — but not so great for

Top Exports That Shape the Country

Belize is home to some of the most fascinating creatures in the Caribbean, and few are as iconic as the Green Iguana . These giant lizards are everywhere — from the treetops around Placencia Lagoon to the banks of Belize’s winding rivers — and they’re an unforgettable part of the country’s culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. How Big Do Iguanas Get in Belize In Belize, iguanas grow to incredible sizes. Adult males can reach five to six feet long from head to tail and weigh u

Belize’s Hardwood Forests: A World of Natural Beauty

One of the first things visitors notice when they arrive in Belize is what’s not  here — there are no big fast-food chains, no Walmart, no Starbucks, and no Costco. Instead, you’ll find small family-owned shops, local restaurants, and open-air markets where people still greet you by name. And that’s not a drawback — it’s one of the best things about Belize. A Country That Keeps Its Local Flavor In Belize, food isn’t mass-produced or shipped across continents — it’s grown, coo

Belikin beer - the beer of Belize

Garifuna Settlement Day - everything you need to know!