Animals. All animals must be certified as being vaccinated against rabies and infectious diseases.

Churches. Most denominations are represented in Belize.

Clothing. Light, informal clothing is recommended.

Customs. U.S. residents are permitted $400 duty-free tax exemption per person.

Government. Belize is independent with a democratically elected parlimentary government and is a British Commonwealth member.

Taxes. There is a 7% government/hotel tax. A sales tax of 8% has been implemented and is applicable to goods and services.

Hospitals. Medical care is available at hospitals and clinics throughout the country.

Getting Married. You must reside in Belize for three days before you can apply for a minister's license to marry.

Topography. Belize is an area of only 8,866 square miles. It possesses the second-largest barrier reef in the world (185 miles long).

Economy. Belize has a small open economy, and its principal sectors are currently (1) agriculture, (2) manufacturing, which primarily includes agro-products such as sugar and citrus products, and (3) services, which includes primarily tourism. From 1997 through 2001, tourism averaged 20% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Agriculture, agro-product manufacturing and tourism are the major foreign exchange earners. Currently, sugar, citrus and banana account for at least 60% of the earnings accruing from merchandise exports. Also, marine products (including seafood such as shrimp) and small manufacturing make notable contributions to exports.

Nightlife. There are many small bars in every Belizean town, usually with live music; nearly every town has a dance or two on weekends. In many of the small bars you can listen to popular Caribbean music such as reggae or the owners may play their collection of some of the oldest US pop and country music ever heard!

Golf.Blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, perfect weather, ultimate privacy, elegant accommodations, superior service, complete resort amenities including an 18-hole championship golf course - this is Caye Chapel Island Resort.

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