Belize, previously known as British Honduras, lies on the East coast of Central America in the heart of the Caribbean Basin, bordered by Mexico to the North, Guatemala to the West and South, and frontsthe Caribbean Sea to the East.
           The climate of Belize can be described as is subtropical, with winds from the Caribbean Sea. The annual average temperature is 79 degrees Fahrenheit. During the summer months, temperatures generally go up to 96 degrees and the coolest winter temperatures as low as 60 degrees. The humidity while high, is seldom oppressive, because the humidity is masked by the cooling sea breezes.
           Temperatures in Belize range from 50°F to 95°F. November to January are traditionally the coolest months with a 75°F average and May to September are the warmest at about a 81°F average. Location is a big factor for temperature. However, the typical annual temperature on the mountains is a perfectly comfortable 72°F.
            Typical of tropical climates worldwide, seasons change with precipitation instead of temperature. The onset of the "dry" varies widely from year to year, but once the onset of the dry commences, the actual amount of rain falling during the "dry" is a predictable amount. This is not necessarily so for the remainder of the year though. As a general rule though, the higher the average rainfall, the greater are the departures from the norm. For example, rainfall in Punta Gorda to the south in September maybe 12 inches one year and 36 inches the following. Many of these rainy days are insignificant though, with early morning showers (called "night rain" by the locals") blossoming beautiful rainbows.
           The official language of Belize is English.  As Belize has a vast mix of cultures, there is a range of other languages spoken throughout the country, including Mayan, Kechi, Garifuna, Creole, and Spanish.
           The Belize dollar (BZ$) has a fixed exchange rate of BZ$2 to US$1. A Piece of Ground Vacation Rentals does accept U.S. currency, travelers’ checks, credit cards and Belizean currency.  A 10% service charge is added to your bill.
Belize Electricity Limited brings electricity on a main line from Mexico and is brought up from the Southern peninsula and across the lagoon from the mainland. The power here at A Piece of Ground is 110 volts AC, which is the same as the United States. A Piece of Ground has an automatic transfer back-up generator for the occasional black/brown outs. 
           There are basic medical services provided by the Punta Gorda Hospital which is a five minute walk from the guest house. 
           In a Belize, water is supplied by a municipal water supply company called WASA.  While this municipal water is used for basic needs such as bathing , washing, etc., we strongly suggest that visitors drink the bottled water readily available at most stores throughout Belize.  A Piece of Ground keeps an ample supply of Crystal Purified Bottled Water for its guests on hand.
           There are no serious epidemic diseases in Belize. No inoculations are required for entry. It is advisable to have a current tetanus inoculation and a current hepatitis ‘A’ vaccine. Anti-malaria tablets are only recommended if you plan to stay for an extended period of time in the jungle. In or outside of the jungle we strongly advise you to bring an ample supply of mosquito repellant.
            Be prepared to pay a US$35 departure tax when you leave for home. Many visitors forget this and are scrambling at the airport for cash to pay this tax. Many airlines are now adding this fee to the airline tickets.
           To enter Belize you must have a valid passport with an expiration date not more than 30 days prior to your arrival. Visitors are permitted to stay up to 30 days with proof of return ticket.
           A Piece of Ground Guest House suggests that you travel with casual clothing.  Life in Punta Gorda is very laid back. To feel most comfortable while visiting and touring the many sites in Belize, travel with light cotton t-shirts, shorts, pants and skirts, bathing suits, sneakers, sandals and deck shoes. Naturally we suggest sunglasses, hats with brims or visors and a good dose of sun block as the sun can be intense in the course of a day.  For evenings that you may want to paint the town your own favorite colors, there are a few local sports bars and discotheques. Bring your party clothes.  We strongly urge our visitors to leave valuable jewelry and other items at home.  We do not claim responsibility for lost or stolen valuables. 
             For Mayan ruin or jungle tours, nature walks, or cave explorations, bring loose fitting light colored cotton pants and long sleeved camping shirts. This protects your skin from some of the plants and bugs while walking in the jungle.