Belize is one of my favorite places in Central America and the Caribbean. One of the main reasons for this can be found in the previous sentence; Belize combines the sunshine, white sand beaches and gin-colored waters of the Caribbean with the flavors and cultures of Central America. Belize is the best of both worlds, and an excellent place to consider for travel and investment.
The Waters off Ambergris Caye
One of the most popular destinations in Belize for both tourism and for property investment is the island of Ambergris Caye. Located just 12 miles off the mainland of Belize, Ambergris Caye boasts a laid-back lifestyle with views of the world’s second-largest living barrier reef just offshore. A haven for SCUBA diving, fishing and other water sports, the island also offers plenty of dining, and shopping options for those that prefer to keep their feet dry. I’m not the only one who loves Ambergris Caye. Islands Magazine just named it one of the Ten Best Islands to Live On in their August, 2008 issue.
Belize, a former British Colony named British Honduras, is the only English-speaking country in Central America. As a former colony, the Brits are very familiar with Belize, but it’s been Americans and Canadians that have been the primary expats moving to Belize. This is set to change, according to International Living Magazine. A recent article called, “Buy Belize and Buy Now” says that the Brits are set to come back to Belize in droves as more non-stop flights from the UK to Belize are being added. Their advice is to not wait for the Brits arrival to drive up prices. Get in now and reap the rewards.
Some other reasons that I like Belize over some of Central America’s other countries is that it is politically stable, provides some excellent tax benefits, and offers a world-class private banking system. Belize has a popularly elected government, and has not suffered the internal strife and war that some of the other countries in Central America have endured. Belize also provides the same property rights to citizens and non-citizens alike. Property rights are sacred in Belize, and I don’t fear nationalization of property like I do in a place like Nicaragua, Venezuela or even Mexico. Americans and Canadians that own rental property in Belize can enjoy little to no taxes on their rental income by keeping the funds in a Belize bank account. And Belize’s banking system, like Switzerland or the Cayman Islands, is private and very secure. Even better, when you go to sell your property, Belize has no capital gains tax!
Maya Ruins
It’s not just sun and beaches that bring people to Belize. There are many cultures that you can experience, including Maya, Latin, Garifuna, Mestizo, Mennonite and more. Enjoy a day (or more) exploring the many ancient Maya ruins and caves spread across Belize and it’s neighboring countries.
Prices for property vary greatly in Belize. On the mainland, acreage is available a very low prices. Once you get to the coast or the islands, prices you up. However, Belize offers many more opportunities for bargains that you will find in other Caribbean or Central American locations. One of the best bargains we have found is Sapphire Beach Resort on Ambergris Caye. Sapphire Beach offers a gated community right on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, with fully furnished condos available for under $100,000. We compared pricing at Sapphire Beach to their closest neighbors. Blue Reef, to the south, prices start well over $500,000. Sapphire Beach also offers a 3-night stay in Belize to allow you to see their property and Belize.
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Tags: ambergris caye, beach, belize, caribbean, central america, condo, investment, island, offshore, property, real estate, san pedro, tax shelter
