Is finding a rental in Belize beginning to make your head spin? I know the feeling; I researched and considered several options while in the planning phase of our move. I even came as close as lifting my pen to sign a lease contract while I was still back in Canada before deciding last-minute that I would rather go to Belize blind and check out each place in person. Crazy, I know! Especially traveling with two children, I was advised time and again by different realtors and property management companies that I'd be wise to secure a rental before making the trip. Probably sound advice but I'm stubborn and always do what I'm told not to do so I came down just before Christmas (peak, PEAK season) and tried to find a six month rental. Hahahahahaha!

Jan Peter Sol  (Dec 28, 1960 - March 25, 2012)

I know my posts are typically very light and full of sarcasm but it is with deep seriousness that I bring this particular blog post to you. My recent online absence has been a result of enjoying a lovely visit from a family friend and then his unfortunate and untimely death while he was here. He died of "accidental/natural" causes and I truly believe that everything in the Universe happens in it's right order, even if it doesn't make sense to us. What do we know? We're only human after all...

Traveling to a third world country can be an intimidating experience, especially for those with little "reef-rats" in tow. Although safety is a major concern in some parts of Belize (like Belize City) we feel extremely safe on the island of Ambergris Caye. Because we chose to travel to Belize via Mexico we initially had second thoughts mainly because of safety concerns. While in Mexico I kept both children within arms reach at ALL times. Even in Corozal when we arrived after dark and ventured out into the streets to rustle up some grub I still wasn't sure about personal safety.

Since arriving in San Pedro though I have had no safety concerns whatsoever. My little "reef-rats" are 7 and 10 yrs old and have the run of the place here. They venture out on their own to the local convenience store, go fishing and even stroll down the beach to find their favorite furry pal, "Stinky". Need I say more?

There are many things to consider when expatriating with children...

Enriching your child's life by living abroad is one of the best things you can do for them but it's not all blue skies and beaches, believe me. The following are some things to think about:

We can help! Follow us along our journey south to San Pedro, Belize and find out exactly how you can enjoy all this beautiful country has to offer as an expat yourself. I'm very excited to bring this information to my fellow dreamers who wish to escape it all like we did! This blog is for the many friends, family as well as the contacts we have made since the inception of this dream who have asked so many questions about our experience. I certainly don't know everything there is to know about this country but as I'm sure you are aware, all of the basic facts abound on the internet. This site is to answer your questions HONESTLY, no subscription or membership required. I'm here to tell you what all the research in the world won't tell you, what the other websites and blogs don't want you to know. It is to give you a real life glimpse into what moving to Belize is like. In other words, the RAW TRUTH. You won't find any candy coating here. What I think you will find at the end of the day though is that Belize (and specifically San Pedro) is a beautiful place with it's ups and downs just like any other location. Our hope is that you will see Belize for what it is and still consider relocating here.

Here's to living your dream!



**Stay tuned for regular updates and new additions to the fun here! In the meantime please feel free to use the comment section below to leave any specific questions you may have or any topics you'd like to see added. I will do my best to bring you the information you are looking for as promptly as I can.**