As of February 2022, gold standard hotels are no longer mandatory for entry into Belize.
What Does Gold Standard Mean?
Because of the pandemic, Belize created a new Tourism Gold Standard program where the main goal was to enhance safety and health within the tourism industry.
But, in my opinion, it has evolved into a type of tourist trap.
Do I Have To Stay At A Gold Standard Hotel?
Staying at gold standard hotels is not required. The 3-night minimum stay has been lifted. You are now free to stay at any Airbnb, hotel or hostel—most of which are already gold standard.
Here is a quote from the official tourism site. What's more, there is no way for the tourism industry to track you after you have arrived.
International tourists are recommended to book a stay at BTB approved hotels.
Belize Tourism Board
Do I Need To Purchase Belize Travel Health Insurance?
As of July 2022, it is no longer mandatory to purchase travel health insurance. It is completely optional
Do I Have To Use Gold Standard Transportation?
No. This is a quote from the official tourism website's FAQs section.
It is recommended that Foreign Tourists utilize certified Gold Standard transport operators.
Belize Tourism Board
If you're entering Belize from Mexico, read the post on the Mexico border crossing for detailed instructions.
Cheapest Gold Standard Hotels
If you still want to play it safe, here's the filtered list of the cheapest Gold Standard Hotels. Prices fluctuate depending on high or low season. High season is between 1st November and 31st May.
All accommodations listed are private rooms that sleeps two people for the nightly price.
Hostels may offer lower prices for shared dorms.
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