Belize is Open

The Philip Goldson International Airport has reopened since October 1^st, 2020 with enhanced health and safety protocols at the airport, hotels, restaurants and all public spaces.

In order for establishments to open to tourists “Gold Standard Recognition” certification is required which ensures hotels are rigorously following the 9 Step recognition program with enhanced protocols with regards to cleaning, sanitizing, management of inventory, distancing of staff,  regular monitoring and reporting.

Establishments that have already received their Gold Standard Certification include our sister company Belize Sailing Vacations, Cayo Espanto, Chaa Creek, Naia Resort & Spa, Portofino Resort, Ray Caye, The Ellysian Boutique Resort and Victoria House among others.

A series of health and safety protocols have been put in place to protect visitors, Belizeans, and our communities from the spread of COVID-19.

Below is an overview of the new procedures for travel to Belize:

• All passengers traveling to Belize will be required to download the Belize Health App and complete the required information prior to boarding the flight to Belize.  A QR code with a unique ID number will be returned to the passenger and will be used for contact tracing while in Belize.
• Passengers are encouraged to take a COVID PCR test within 96 hours  or a rapid test within 48 hours of travel to Belize.

Entry Requirements

• Passengers that provide certification of a negative test result will be allowed immediate entry into Belize via a ‘fast track’ lane.
• Passengers that do not provide a negative Covid-19 test must test upon arrival in Belize, at the passenger’s expense. The cost of the test is US$50.00.
• Proceed to Immigration and Customs, and then exit the airport via the Safe Corridor using an approved Gold Standard transportation service.  You will receive your test results at your Gold Standard hotel via the Ministry of Health.
• Passengers who test positive for Covid-19 at the Belize International Airport will be placed in mandatory quarantine until the Ministry of Health provides clearance and must test negative prior to departure.

All visitors to Belize will be required to:

• Wear a mask during the entire landing, deplaning and arrival process, and while inside the airport.
• Undergo temperature checks using non-contact digital infrared thermometers or Thermal Imaging Cameras.
• Adhere to social distancing guidelines in all queues for health checks, immigration and customs inspections.
• Follow and respond to the comprehensive, pro-active contact tracing guidelines to facilitate an appropriate and rapid response from health officials should Covid-19 symptoms develop.
• Utilize the sanitizing stations to sanitize hands frequently and facilitate other health screening requirements on arrival.

Feel free to visit the Belize Tourism Board’s website for frequently asked questions regarding traveling to Belize. We look forward to welcoming you to Belize soon!

Absolutely Approved: Cayo Espanto Island Resort

Cayo Espanto, recently named one of Andrew Harper’s top 100 hideaways in the world, gives personalized service a whole new meaning.

Upon arrival, you are met with warm and welcoming smiles from several members of staff, including Buddy the island dog, cold towels and an ice cold beverage called the “Espanto Wave”, which is sure to get you in the relaxed, vacation mode. Cayo Espanto’s seven private villas boasts all the amenities of a luxury resort and breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea from every villa. Casa Solana, our designated villa, comes with a private plunge pool and the best sunset view on the island.

So, what sets this island apart from the others? It’s simple… they are mind-readers. They know what you need before you have the chance to voice it. From fresh ceviche served on the outdoor deck of our villa after check in, to a tailor made dinner beautifully served on the beach beside our villa, to coffee and fruits first thing in the morning, followed by a hearty breakfast served al fresco. The meals are perfectly prepared and tailored based on the online preference survey. Our houseman, Jesus, was very attentive and knew when to give us a little space and when to pamper us and if we needed anything all we had to do was radio him.

When the dreaded check out time arrives, your houseman is on hand to escort you to the dock where your private boat and captain await  and the staff and manager are there to bid farewell. Just as you were about to leave thinking it couldn’t get any better than this, you are handed a cooler bag with goodies for your journey home. Reluctantly we climbed into the boat, waved goodbye and took a 7 minute boat ride to Ambergris Caye.

Stay tuned for more insights as we travel to the best hotels, lodges, villas and resorts throughout Belize and beyond…