Belize is the only English-language-official country in Central America. Although Belize was first settled by the Maya around 1500 B.C.E, the country was colonized by the British in the 1600s and eventually became the Colony of British Honduras, which is why English wound up as the official language.

Why is Belize English?

Contrary to popular belief, and despite its surroundings, Belize isnt actually part of Mexico. The currency used in this unusual country is the Belize Dollar, and the main language is English, not Spanish.

How common is English in Belize?

According to the 2010 census, the major languages spoken in Belize include English, Spanish and Kriol, all three spoken by more than 40% of the population .Languages of Belize.LanguagespeakerspercentageEnglish183,90362.9%Spanish165,29656.6%Belizean Creole130,46744.6%Qeqchi Maya17,5816.0%6 more rows

Who brought English to Belize?

The first recorded European incursions in the region were made by Spanish conquistadors and missionaries in the 16th century. One attraction of the area was the availability of timber, which also brought British settlers. Belize was not formally termed the Colony of British Honduras until 1862.

What is Belize City known for?

Belize City is emblematic of the crumbling infrastructure that peeps out from most of what is the Belize welcome mat. The countrys most popular tourist resort town, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, is located in the Belize District as is the famous Mayan ruin of Altun Ha, the Belize Zoo and well-known wildlife sanctuaries.

Is education free in Belize?

Access to education Education in Belize is compulsory between the ages of 6 and 14 years for primary education. Primary education is free in some schools(mostly in the orange walk district and Cayo district), but related expenses, such as uniforms, books and annual school fees are a financial strain on poor families.

What is the minimum wage in Belize?

BZ $ 3.30 per hour Minimum Wage Rates The minimum wage rate for Belize is BZ $ 3.30 per hour for all category of workers.

Is Belize a poor or rich country?

Belize is considered an upper-middle-income country with a GDP per capita of $4,806.50. Despite this, a 2009 study revealed that 41.3 percent of the population of Belize lives at or below the poverty line. The main at-risk group in Belize is the children. In 2016, 49 percent of the children in Belize lived in poverty.