NY gal said "
If you choose housing on the mainland of Belize you will find it may be cheaper.
There is another forum for the mainland you may want to join or just read."

You may also find it to be an 8X10 hut without A/C, electricity, running water or window screens. An 18 year old american girl will be in for a serious culture shock. Unless you are bringing a lot of US$ with you she would be better off in the military.

News flash, you can pick your own herbs in the US too if you plant them! And the soil is a hell of a lot richer.