Travel Tips

Where is Belize?

Belize is located about 125 miles directly south of Cancun & Cozumel. With a population of about 300,000, Belize is south of Mexico bordered by Guatemala on the south and west and the Western Caribbean Sea on the east. The mainland is about the size of Massachusetts. There are over 200 islands along the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere.

What is the official language?

English is most common. In some parts of the country you will find Spanish, Creole or Maya spoken.

What about the government?

Belize is an independent nation(since 1981) and a member of the British Commonwealth. The current Prime Minister is Dean Oliver Barrow. Belize has enjoyed a stable political climate for many years.

What about electricity?

No adapters needed. Same as in the U.S. Some smaller hotels in remote areas have generators.

What time zone is Belize?

Belize observes Central Standard Time all year. They do not observe Daylight Savings Time. Note: When you visit a tropical destination, you probably won’t care what time it is.

What to bring?

A Passport is required for all visitors from the U.S. No visa required for U.S. citizens. Other countries should check with the Belize Embassy. Otherwise, bring shorts, swimsuits, and cool shirts. The atmosphere on the island gives new meaning to the term “laid back.”  Some restaurants you might want to dress up “Beach Formal”, Dresses, Khakis etc.  You can go barefoot anytime, anywhere. Sandals and beach footwear is always advisable when walking the beach. Also bring plenty of sunscreen lotion. You’ll need it. Be careful. Avoid mid-day sun or wear something to block the tropical sun. We advise that you bring lightweight cotton long pants and long shirts for fishing and snorkeling trips or if you should get burned. Sox are good to keep your feet from burning. A light rain poncho or rain gear would be nice in case of a shower or two.

We truly want you to enjoy your stay with us and take back only great memories!

What is the currency in Belize?

The Belize Dollar. The exchange rate is fairly constant at $2 Belize to $1 U.S. Dollar. U.S. cash and travelers checks are accepted everywhere. At Grand Colony, we also accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express credit cards.

Where are The Villas at Grand Colony located?

Grand Colony is located on the island of Ambergris Caye. It is about a 15 minute walk south along the beach from the town of San Pedro. San Pedro is home to about 3,500 San Pedranos and has gift shops, restaurants, street vendors and the ever-present beach bars. The roads on the island are sand–except for a stone-paved section at the airport. Grand Colony has an on-site dive/gift shop and the Palapa Bar & Grill. Golf cart rentals available for guests.

When Making Reservations Online

Your international flight arrival and departure in Belize should be given to us so we can make the proper ground transfer arrangement.

Drinking Water

Unlike Mexico, our tap water is potable in the rooms.  It is desalinated  water, perfectly safe.  We provide bottled drinking water upon arrival in all the rooms.  Restaurants use purified water for drinking and ice.