AmbergrisCaye.com Home Forums Talk Belize Travel Oh if only I knew...

It doesn't matter if you use USD or BZD currency to any vendor here. They will give you change at a 2/1 basis. As for how much cash you should have, that really depends on your individual needs and what you will need to pay cash for during your first few days if you can't get cash easily from a cash machine. How much will transportation be to your accommodation and, afterwards, to any place you might wish to visit? Are you going to want to shop at any small street stands or food vendors? Do you need to pay in cash for any part of your accommodation? I'd consider having as much cash on you and available as you'd have at home for a week if you're absolutely confident your debit card will be accepted here.

collyk is right, just make sure your US$'s are not ripped or torn or have markings on them. I always carry lots of $1's, $5's, $10's and $20's along with some $50 and $100's stashed away. In my many trips I have had to use the ATM only once. All the houses, condo's and hotels have safes for you to use. Only take what you intend to spend daily. I always have just one credit card, drivers licenses and passport. Enjoy, enjoy enjoy!!

Both above are correct. I carry ONLY a very thin plastic "wallet" with 1 credit card, my driver's license and my medical info.Use Visa or MasterCard instead of Amex as many places will not accept Amex.I also carry a few business cards as I do have meetings when I am on the Island.
Pay by credit card when you can and US dollars when you can't. You will accumulate some Bz dollars in change. Use those dollars for tips and you will not accumulate too many Bz dollars.

Thank you all for your responses and insight.

I believe I can arrange my flight with Maya Air online. I don't know if there are fees at the airport, but I'll have some cash on hand, just in case. I will need cash for my accommodations but I'm going to Punta Gorda so I'm thinking I won't need a lot.

Thanks again, y'all