Walking on our Own

[stanw]

Hi,

Is there any shopping or restaurants close by the pier. Flea market etc? Is it safe? Thanks.

[cruisingbandmom]

Inside the port area are a few restaurants and shopping. Toward the back of the shopping area is a flea market type set up. You are entirely safe within the port area.

 

Take caution if you walk outside the port area. There are many aggressive individuals that will try to get you to take a tour, buy something or just beg for money.

 

There are many posts about significant crime and others about being able to walk without incidence.

 

You are on vacation. Be smart and use common sense. There really isn't much right outside the gated port area. Look on the boards and take a cheap local tour if you really want to see Belize City.

[thescot123]

Have been outside the gates twice and although it looks scary we were never hassled. Just say a polite "No" to the vendors and they should leave you alone.

 

In April, we ventured to the "Government House" and walked past a lot of church run schools. For me, I am cautious when deciding to venture in a strange place but go with other people and you should be safe. Just keep an eye out for anyone around you as a precaution.

[crewsweeper]

Across from the Tourist Village where the tenders dock is a flea/crafts market. Once you cross the street, the tour hawkers go away.

 

As far as nearby restaurants, there are 2 within a 5 minute walk(10 minutes if you just mosey on). One, Anna's Lunchbox is staight up Front Street, past Queen Street (where the swing bridge is to your left) about a block or so. The other is Nerrie's, on Queen and Daly (turn roght on Queen about a block). Both have more traditional Belizean fare and cater to locals as well as tourists. Both are very reasonably priced.

 

If you turn right outside th eT.V. gate and walk along the palisades sea wall, there is the Smokey Mermaid in one of the small hotels there. It's okay but more expensive than inside the T.V..

 

Inside the Tourist Village there are a couple of smaller restaurants along th eshopping row but most people head for Wet Lizard where you can eat either upstairs or on the small pier in front. Traditionally known for their conch fritters and meat pies, they do have other food available, but don't go comparing these to what you get at home. There is a good vibe at WL though and the Belikins and well drinks do flow freely as the tariff is reasonable.

[12reca]

I would not really recommend to leave on foot to explore on your own. You are perfectly fine at the port or on a tour but not all of the Belize city area seems to be safe for tourist exploration :eek:

[askimdog]

we wandered all over town. we visited a wonderful church, school and museum. my daughter (8) played with local kids for hours, as I got some beer and chatted with the kids parents. we ate local (Neries) and had a blast. Along with Roatan and Ensenada, Belize has become one of our top 3 stops on 3 cruises.

[thescot123]

Have walked into Belize City twice before. Have not done it by myself but should be okay if you are aware who is around you and don't. Just use common sense and don't flash anything too valuable like jewelry.

 

In April, we walked to the old Government House and walked past a very nice church. Saw several schools, run by churches, with the schools kids neatly dressed in their uniforms.

 

It can be scary when you first walk outside the gates as there will be people trying to sell you stuff including tours. Just politely say "No" and they will leave you alone. You will go across the swing bridge which is neat as it is manually operated and takes quite a few strong people to turn.

 

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g291968-d313634-Reviews-Government_House-Belize_City_Belize_District.html