If you’re tired of shoveling snow, wrapping up in scarves and gloves, and fighting against freezing rain, Belize is definitely the right country for you. This unique gem of a nation located on the sunny shores of the Caribbean is increasingly becoming a popular choice for North American expats to retire, live, and vacation.
Here are a few reasons why you will love escaping winter and retiring in the sun in 2017:
Belize Weather
On the coldest day of the year in Belize, you’ll never need anything more than a sweatshirt or sweater. Belize enjoys fabulous weather all year-round, ranging from the high 80s during the hottest months to the upper 70s during the chillier periods.
Affordable Airfare
All major airlines, including American, Delta, United, and Southwest operate non-stop flights from the United States to Belize, and new flights are being added all the time. For example, Southwest will begin flying from Fort Lauderdale to Belize in June 2017 for a price around $89. Additionally, WestJet now offers non-stop flights from Toronto, Canada, to Belize, and the international airport in Belize City has connections to Mexico, Panama, Honduras, and Guatemala.
Pristine Rainforests and Jungles
Whether you’re interested in bird watching in one of the most beautiful spaces on the planet or hiking through ancient rainforests and jungles in search of jaguars, black howler monkeys, tapirs, giant iguanas, and orchids, Belize is one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world.
World-class Scuba Diving and Snorkeling for Retirees
Even if you’ve never tried scuba diving and snorkeling, the crystal clear waters of the Belize Barrier Reef and its hundreds of islands are the perfect place for amateurs to marvel at the kaleidoscope of marine flora and fauna that live in Belize.
The Qualified Retired Persons Program
Known as the QRP program, the Belize government makes it easy for anyone age 45 or older and their families to gain permanent residency status. The QRP program offers generous allowances, including the importation of personal goods (including vehicles) completely tax and duty free.
Belize Welcomes Expats
Belize is truly a melting pot culture with dozens of different communities, including the Creole, Mennonite, Maya, Garifuna, Chinese, and expats. Belizeans are renowned for their friendliness and warmth. You’ll feel right at home when you retire in Belize.
Orchid Bay
Orchid Bay is a master-planned, gated community located in Belize’s northern Corozal District. Orchid Bay has all the amenities needed for retirees to life a great life in Belize and retire in the sun in peace and harmony.
Orchid Bay offers villas, land, and condos in an established community. Retirees should visit Orchid Bay’s website for more information.