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Two excellent options for a Caribbean adventure are Jamaica and Belize. Both islands are English Speaking and the flying time from Miami is compact.
It takes approximately a little over 2 hours from Miami to Belize while it takes almost 2 hours from Miami to Jamaica.
Our goal in this post is to share useful information on Jamaica and Belize to help you decide which is better for your vacation.
As a general rule, Jamaica is the ideal destination for individuals seeking to relax on white sand beaches along with enjoying a vibrant nightlife environment. Alternatively, Belize is the suitable destination of choice for persons seeking a world class snorkeling and diving experience.
Read on for further information on how these magnificent Caribbean countries compare. This article was written by a Caribbean national.
Belize Vs Jamaica- Which Destination Is Bigger
Known as the home of the legendary reggae sensation Bob Marley, Jamaica is about half the size of Belize being 4, 244 square miles. Belize, on the other hand is 8,867 square miles.
Additionally, both islands are quite mountainous with the highest point of elevation in Jamaica being the blue mountain peak which stands at 7,402 feet.
Belize’s highest peak is not as steep as Jamaica with Doyle’s Delight standing at an elevation of 3, 670 feet.
Though Jamaica has the smaller landmass, its population is more than seven times that of Belize.
At the time of publication, according to worldometer the population of Belize was 411,938 while that of Jamaica was 2,986,859
Belize also has approximately 450 cays.
Belize Vs Jamaica- Does The Currency Differ?
Alternatively, the formal currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar.
The Bank of Jamaica which is the Central bank is responsible for the island’s monetary policy.
On the other hand, the official currency used in Belize is the Belizean dollar.
Bank notes are available in $2, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 denominations. Alternatively, coins are available in 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents and $1.
From 1978, the Belizean dollar has been pegged to the US Dollar at a rate of BZ$2 to $1 USD.
US dollars are widely accepted in both countries for financial transactions. Change is usually given in the relevant local currencies.
Belize Vs Jamaica- Is It Easy To Visit Other Countries
Unfortunately, there are no ferry services available from Jamaica to neighboring islands such as Grand Cayman.
Access to nearby territories is available only via aircraft.
On the contrary, Belize shares its land borders with Mexico to its North and Guatemala to the West and South.
As a result, it is seamless to explore other Central American countries by crossing the land borders by either bus or taxi.
Belize Vs Jamaica- Comparison of The Number of Tourists Arrivals
Based on the data retrieved from Tourism Analytics, Jamaica is the more popular destination of the two nations.
As per tourism arrivals figures for 2019, Jamaica welcomed 2,689,920 stopover visitors and 1,552,346 cruise passengers to its shores.
Contrastingly, Belize received 503,167 stop over visitors and 1,171,098 cruise passengers in 2019.
Therefore, one may deduce that the beaches and other attractions in Jamaica may be crowded compared to Belize at the peak of the tourism season.
Belize Vs Jamaica- Which Destination Has Better Beaches
If your vacation dream involves relaxing or sunbathing on a white sand beach, then Jamaica is the better destination to choose.
Seven Mile Beach in Jamaica which is located in Negril near the Norman Manley Boulevard is one of the most visited spots on the island.
This beach features seven miles of white sand and is perfect for children due to its shallow and calm waters. This beach is public so access is free.
However, if you are a snorkeling and diving fanatic, then Belize is the better destination. There are numerous spectacular sites that will truly make your vacation memorable.
Half Moon Caye is one of the beautiful cays of Belize with magnificent marine environment.
This caye is also a home to several species of birds which makes it an excellent place for bird watchers.
Belize Vs Jamaica- Which Destination Has Better Nightlife
In relation to entertainment, hands down Jamaica has the more vibrant nightlife of the two countries.
There are numerous restaurants, bars, theatres, local events, festivals and golf courses that visitors to the island can enjoy.
Some of the top spots to consider are The Jungle, Kingston Dub Club and Cristal Night Club.
For more bubbling nightlife in Belize, the largest island Ambergris Caye is the place to visit.
The main town San Pedro is where most of the inhabitants live and where businesses are concentrated.
Wayos Beach Bar, The Dive Bar and Palapa Bar & Grill are three spots that you can check out for entertainment in San Pedro.
Belize Vs Jamaica- Things To Do In The Destinations
Reach Waterfalls, Jamaica- located in the Portland region, this waterfall is remote but beautiful to behold.
There is an admission fee for both adults and children and the waterfall is closed to the public on Mondays and Tuesdays.
El Pilar Mayan Ruins, Belize– located in the Cayo region, these ruins are surrounded by several water sources.
There are 12 pyramids and 25 plazas at El Pilar. It is best to visit this attraction with a guide.
Final Thoughts
On a whole, Jamaica is the perfect vacation destination for persons who want to relax and bask on white sand beaches. On the other hand, Belize is ideal for individuals seeking premium dive and snorkeling spots as well as history enthusiasts who want to visit Mayan ruins and archaeological sites.
Need More Information?
We trust that the details presented above were pertinent to the data you were seeking as you decide whether Belize or Jamaica is ideal for your upcoming Caribbean vacation.
Should you require additional information about Belize, Jamaica or the rest of the Caribbean, there are more resources which you can find using the search bar located above this page.
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