Health
New Health and Travel Insurance for visitors is still a go; some stakeholders do not support it
Despite the opposition of numerous tourism stakeholders to the government's plan to require health and travel insurance on visitors, this new requirement is expected to come into effect on February 15th. The new requirement even applies to those with their own health and travel insurance. This new insurance will be available for purchase via an online portal still in the works or at any country's entry point. The cost is US$18 for coverage up to US$50,000 in medical expenses related to COVID-19 and up to US$2,000 for lodging at the mandatory quarantine. The policy also makes provisions for trip cancellations, which may be necessary if someone falls ill with the virus.
Government
Re-opening of land borders and seaports set for Monday; restrictions apply
Monday, February 7th, the land borders and seaports with Guatemala and Mexico will fully re-open. The government has been working on specific measures to avoid any potential COVID-19 outbreak. Some of these requirements indicate that only fully vaccinated persons can travel through these borders. No COVID-19 test will be required for trips less than 24 hours upon returning to Belize. However, for any overnight traveling, a test is needed to enter the country at the cost of $100 per person.
Travel & Tourism
Tropic Air to begin nonstop flight between Belize and El Salvador
After months in the works to further connect Belize with Central America, on Tuesday, February 1st, Tropic Air announced its new international route to San Salvador, El Salvador. The maiden flight is set for February 11th, and will initially be scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. For February, the airline is offering an introductory fare of US$99 each way, plus taxes.
Community and Society
Reopening of land borders postponed again
The full reopening of land and seaport borders with Mexico and Guatemala, set for Tuesday, February 1, has once again been postponed. The new reopening date is February 7th.
Business & Economy
Official ground-breaking ceremony for upcoming Marriott Residences Ambergris Caye
Another luxurious beach resort under the Marriott’s Hotel signature brand is coming to San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. On Friday, January 14th, a ground-breaking ceremony took place at the site where the Belize Marriott Residences Ambergris Caye will stand. The project calls for an over 200-unit hotel, branded residences, and conference facilities, among other top-notch amenities for its guests.
Travel & Tourism
Effective mid-February, tourists will be required to purchase Health and Travel Insurance when traveling to Belize
Starting February 15, 2022, foreign visitors to Belize will be required to purchase the Belize Travel Health Insurance (BTHI) to help protect travelers against incurred medical and non-medical expenses should they test positive for COVID-19 when vacationing in Belize. This insurance can be purchased upon arrival via the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) or at the land borders.
Business & Economy
Despite COVID-19 challenges, tourism is bouncing back
The current high tourism season is reportedly experiencing a good reception, with many stakeholders across the country reporting one of the busiest periods since the pandemic began in 2020. Although businesswise, things may be looking better, the new COVID-19 variants are a growing concern once again. With the increase in infections, potential visitors may think twice and hold off on making reservations or postpone their trips. There is also the concern to keep staff COVID-19 free. Stakeholders have been discussing better ways to deal with tourists testing positive, suggesting new ideas that would benefit both visitors and hotels.
Travel & Tourism
Starting January 2022 COVID-19 tests no longer required when traveling less than 24 hours across land borders
Belize’s borders with Mexico and Guatemala will fully re-open on January 1, 2022, under specific protocols, mainly applying to Belizean’s visiting the border town/cities. While a negative covid test is currently required when leaving and entering the country, the Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations Honorable Anthony Mahler explained at a media luncheon held on December 16th that as of next month, anyone fully vaccinated who travels across the border for less than 24 hours will not be required to produce a negative COVID-19 test upon their return to Belize.