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.
Travel & Tourism
Government to hire additional air traffic controllers for PGIA
More flights and new airlines are touching down at the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) with increased tourism. This surge in traffic at the nation’s leading air hub has prompted the Ministry of Civil Aviation to hire eight additional persons to be trained as air traffic controllers at the PGIA.
Travel & Tourism
American Airlines connects Miami with Chetumal, Mexico; why fares may be cheaper compared to Belize
As the travel industry continues its path to normalcy, commercial airlines are exploring new destinations by opening routes to places least expected. On Wednesday, December 1st, American Airlines started a bi-weekly flight between Miami, Florida, USA, and Chetumal, Mexico. The Mexican city borders Belize’s northern Corozal Town, and the new option is already attracting the attention of travelers, who see this alternative as very economical. While flights to and from Belize to Miami cost more, authorities in the industry explain the main factors affecting the cost when flying to specific destinations.
Government
Land borders to open in early 2022; no word on sea borders
Belize’s land borders with Guatemala and Mexico are set to fully re-open in early 2022. There was no mention of sea borders. The decision was issued in a release by the Government of Belize stating that, after much discussion and considering several important factors, the Cabinet took the decision to continue kickstarting the national economy. Currently, the borders are partially open, only allowing authorized traffic and tourists staying at approved hotels to enter the country.
