Study abroad in Belize?

Question

There is a program at my college where I can do a study aboard for half a year in Belize or Ecuador, but I really don't know much about either place. Has anybody lived there? Would it be safe for a young woman? I have heard of kidnappings and other violent crimes. Any personal experience that might help me?

Answer 1

Hola MindStorm,

Thanks for calling my attention to this message. I have to say I know people from both countries, but haven't been to either! Personally I would lean towards Ecuador just because the majority of my friends are from Peru, and being right next door and all there would be all lot of similiarities - plus I know quite a vew Ecuadorans too.

The biggest difference for me is the language - while Spanish is spoken in Ecuador, Belize has two national languages - English and Portuguese. Which are you more comfortable with? Also Belize is much more coastal, with Carribean influences throughout being that it's small in comparison.

I have been to Nicaragua and El Salvador, both also in Central America. They were incredibly fun and memorable trips. I think the sight of "gringas" in central america is a bit more fascinating to the locals than in Ecuador, so they tend to stare more ... but again, Belize is probably different.

In both countries you'll have to practice safe traveling tips. I tend to feel very safe in Latin America, but at the same time violence is a truth I can't deny there. My "trick of the trade" is to always seem kind of non-chalant and (almost) bored while in taxis, busses, etc. That way you don't LOOK like an over-excited tourist who just stepped off the plane, and you're less likely to catch someone's attention.

Since I'm going off topic, let me know if you need help with any more safety tips (mostly just how NOT to act like a clueless tourist). Chau!