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Location
Belize is a peaceful and diverse country, located at a crossroads between Central America and the Caribbean. Ambergris Caye (pronounced Amber-grease-key) lies 25 miles off the shore of Belize, tucked underneath the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. It’s the largest and most popular of the 200+ Cayes off the coast of Belize. The island is 25 miles long, and between a couple hundred feet and four miles wide. Ambergris Caye neighbors Belize’s Barrier Reef, which runs parallel to the east side of the island, less than a mile from shore. In order to reach Ambergris you'll need to take a boat or a short flight from the main airport. Most people on Ambergris Caye live in or around San Pedro. Formerly a quiet fishing village, San Pedro has grown in popularity and size as more people discovered the beauty of Ambergris Caye. Thankfully, San Pedro has not lost its tropical island charm, nor its renowned hospitality.
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Culture
Belize is a country of various cultures, languages, and ethnic groups. Approximately 270,000 people in Belize consist of Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, Spanish, Maya, English, Mennonite, Lebanese, Chinese, and East Indian. Due to racial harmony and religious tolerance, all of these different elements have mixed and blended successfully, and Belize has gained a widespread reputation for its friendly peoples.
One of the most prominent ethnic groups are the Creoles, which formed 30% of the population in 2001. Creoles are descendants of the intermingling of the early British settlers with African slaves. More than 40% of the population is Mestizo. They are descendants of mixed blood Mexicans and Yucatec Mayans who fled from the Yucatan in the mid 1800's. Another 6.6% of Belize's population are the Garifuna. The Garifuna have their own language and culture. English remains the most common language spoken followed closely by Creole, but Spanish is becoming more widely spoken.
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Exchange Rates
The currency is the Belize dollar, which is tied to the US dollar, so that one US dollar equals two Belize dollars. Both currencies, as well as traveler’s checks, are accepted everywhere, while most businesses also accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
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Weather
Belize, is sub-tropical which means you can expect the average temperature to be in the mid 80s. The water temperature ranges from 79-83 degrees Fahrenheit. The driest season is usually experienced from February through May.
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Transportation
Once on the Island most people choose to walk (barefoot). You can also rent a golf cart at approximately $60.00 US per day (you'll need a driver's license) and taxicabs are also available for between $5-10.00 BZ anywhere on the island. Water taxis are available to take you to some restaurants and resorts north of town.
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