Dear Grace
Were you on the plane the US Embassy sent to get us in '98? That was my first trip to A/C and since it was interrupted just made me want to go back and finish it. So, I have been back 5 times and leaving again the 20th of this month for 3 weeks. You do what you need to do. I'll just share what I am doing and see if it helps. For one, I've read every book I could get my hands on. I was there for 3 weeks of the worst weather May/June of this year and still liked it. I was going to buy a condo and changed my mind. I bought two lots on an empty island instead. I will not even start to build until a dive shop is open on the island. I intend to go back down in January and stay for six months.
I plan to keep my house here in California, because if I should sell I could never afford to come back and I don't want to limit my options. I have done share rental for many years and have a downstairs roommate who has been with me for 4 ½ years. I'm converting my darkroom into a 3rd bath and will take in a 2nd roommate in the master suite, keeping the guestroom, new small bathroom and garage for myself. This way I can come and go as I please.
I do not intend to spend July and August in Belize - TOO HOT. I want to be here in Nov & Dec and may rent out my Belize place for those two months. As many people have said, bring money. I'm very fortunate to have a nice retirement and want to try to live in Belize on my Social Security. That will not pay for trips to and from here.
About a photo shop. There is only one there now and they do not do slides. Problem with slides is the disposal of chemicals. Being an underwater photographer who cares about the environment I am moving into digital. I think this is the future. There is an underwater video shop owned by my Swedish friends.
Bottom line: Read "Don't Stop the Carnival" and don't sell until you are sure you can make it in Belize. I look forward to meeting you. I like adventuresome people.
Harriette
AmbergrisCaye.com 
