THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

By Kim Henry

Blending the laidback vibe of the Caribbean with the passion of Latin America, Belize is perhaps the last best-kept secret within the ‘living my best life’ goals. Tropical jungles and ancient Mayan ruins stand beside a pristine ocean reef and exotic wildlife, making this culturally diverse country a multi-faceted gift for all. Add to this a whole host of practical pluses, and it’s no wonder that Belize is fast becoming the savvy dreamer’s go-to destination.

How to Get There

Let’s begin at the very beginning. How does one get to Belize, and are the travel logistics viable for those who still have ties in America? Surprisingly, you can fly out of Denver, CO, and land in Belize a mere four hours later and in only two hours if you fly from Dallas, TX. There are now multiple direct flights every week from numerous airports across the country, including Los Angeles Airport and Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Boris Mannsfeld of Boris Mannsfeld & Associates, one of the most widely respected real estate companies in Belize, says, “Belize is no longer just for young, single people with few responsibilities. Many professionals are building their dream life in Belize, with their family, knowing how easy it is to return to the States whenever they need to.”

How Do You Own a Piece of Paradise?

So you get to Belize and fall in love with the stunning landscape, friendly locals, fresh food, and clean environment; how do you go about buying a property and turning your dream into a reality? The first thing to note is that English is the official language of this ex-British colony.This ensures that all legal documents and transactions are in English, which is extremely reassuring when embarking on something as significant as buying property. In addition, Belize has a very dynamic and open process for acquiring property, with no restrictions placed on international buyers. Belize law is based on English Common Law, meaning that foreigners receive fee-simple absolute title to all property. There are no capital gains or inheritance taxes, and property taxes are below $100 USD per property annually.

Owners of Swan Villas, a recently completed environmentally friendly development that offers energy-efficient eco-homes close to Maya Beach, Placencia, share their story. “Belize does have a relaxed atmosphere, but with the right management, projects can come to life efficiently and swiftly. We bought the land and opened our eco-resort within just seven months.”

The local government has recently made significant investments in upgrading the infrastructure of Belize, which has had a ripple effect in productivity.

In addition to simplified traveling within the country and high-speed internet, buying and developing property has never been more simple or accessible.

An Eco-Friendly Retreat

Providing a balance to these improvements, Belize is also one of the most eco-friendly Latin American destinations. The government has just banned single-use plastic and offshore drilling, and placed specific laws to safeguard the country’s natural beauty. Belize has the world’s secondlargest and most protected barrier reef with a long Caribbean coast, making all things water-related a dream come true. The crystal clear ocean is nothing short of paradise from above the water paddle boarding and sailing to below the water snorkeling and scuba diving. When Mannsfeld describes an average morning consisting of watching the sunrise with turtles and dolphins and not having to navigate traffic jams or parking tickets, it’s not hard to understand why he started visting and investing in Belize nearly 30 years ago. He now lives in the U.S. and Belize and has never looked back. “It’s a very rejuvenating place to live. Lots of being outside, swimming, and less stress. It’s just an all-around healthier life,” smiles the founder of the most trusted real estate firm in the Placencia area.

Add to the wide range of water activities the historic Mayan ruins and hiking through the 60% of land that is still a lush jungle, and we see why more and more people are falling in love with the lifestyle of this peaceful country. When farm-totable dining and freshly squeezed fruit juice is the norm over soda and processed food, you know you’re on to a good thing. Furthermore, Belize has no major industry, which means there are no large areas of clear-cut forests or huge factories pumping pollution into the air or water.

A Booming Economy

“Tourism is the main industry in Belize,” explains Mannsfeld, “which means two things: The country is naturally more environmentally conscious, and the locals are very welcoming. If you ask someone who's just returned from Belize about the first thing they noticed, you can guarantee they will say it was how friendly the locals are.” Belize has a large young population that embrace responsible growth and tourism as a way to share the gifts of their culturally-rich country, provide a vibrant job sector, and maintain a healthy economy. Recent years have also seen an encouraging rise in international schools, wellequipped hospitals, and progressive interior design and landscaping companies meeting international families and retirees’ needs.

The year-round sub-tropical climate is the cherry on the beautiful Belizean cake. With innovative resorts that combine modern amenities and traditional simplicity, an eclectic international community, friendly locals, low maintenance real estate, and a no-hassle commute to the U.S., it’s no surprise that sustainable development in Belize is booming right now. If 2020 showed us anything, it’s that living the good life with our loved ones is all that matters.