How Are Gay and Lesbian Travelers Received in Belize?
Belize does not have progressive ideas regarding the LGBT community, so much so that there are not many LGBT communities in Belize. Same-gender sexual “activity” is illegal in Belize, and homosexual people are actually prohibited from entering the country.
That being said, homosexual people do enter the country, all the time. It is a sad reality, however, that they may have to keep their orientation under the radar while traveling in public. Public displays of affection, it should be noted, are frowned upon, homosexual or otherwise. Of course, most Belizean citizens consider themselves either wholly accepting or “tolerant” of gay people, and gay couples can enjoy romantic getaways in local resorts.
There are two known and safe gay nightlife spots in Belize: Jaguar’s gay-friendly dance club on the Ambergris Caye, and Barefoot Bar, an ex-pat hotspot, in Placencia.
Related Questions
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Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest island and the most well known destination in Belize. Located at the northern end of Belize’s waters, a small channel dug by the Maya separates Ambergris Caye from Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The narrow, 25-mile (40-km) long island is surrounded by the Caribbean’s aquamarine waters and consists of mangroves, lagoons, and the laid back town of San Pedro, which sits upon a low sandy plateau near the southern end of the island.
Placencia Village
Beachfront reggae bars, colorful guesthouses, and a spacious expanse of beach attract tourists to Placencia Village. Located at the end of the 16-mile (28-km) Placencia peninsula, it is the most lively destination in the region. It offers restaurants, shopping, nightlife, accommodations, and tour services.
