Safety is top-of-mind for any traveler researching a new or unfamiliar destination. After all, we’ve all heard stories about travelers being caught unawares by pickpockets or local scammers. Belize has its fair share of crime, but little of it is aimed at tourists.  In fact, most is limited to just outside of Belize City – very little makes its way down south to the Placencia peninsula. As a tourism hotspot, Placencia tends to be plenty safe. The local government depends on tourism, and that’s why they spend extra in proper security. Just take the usual precautions, and it’ll easily end up at the top of your list of favorite destinations. Here’s how to play it safe in Placencia.

Book your stay at an all-inclusive resort

When booking your trip to Placencia, look for upmarket, all-inclusive resorts, ideally with extensive reviews. These sorts of destinations tend to be overseen by trusted, long-term staff who are always present on-site, meaning that issues like petty theft or trespassing are greatly reduced. They also tend to provide a peaceful, out-of-the-way experience away from the hustle and bustle. Sirenian Bay Resort and Villas is a great example of an all inclusive resort in Placencia Belize that ticks all the safety boxes. You can eat, sleep, and play within the confines of the resort.

Tap into the knowledge of a host or chaperone

It’s true anywhere in the world: tourists who unwittingly stumble into the wrong areas or who find themselves traveling at night can put themselves at risk. You can dramatically reduce the likelihood of this by arranging for a staff representative from your resort to help you get from place A to B, or to give you the lowdown on how, where and when to travel – along with places to avoid and what to look out for. Local knowledge goes a long way, and will ensure you don’t slip up on your travels.

Plan your itinerary – Know where you’re going and why

Plan your trip ahead of time. Know where you are going to go, and know how you are going to get there. If you plan your trip ahead of time, you will have more time to research your destination. Most “scams” happen on a whim. You paid for an overpriced tour, you bought a last minute guide, you were taken to an unsavory restaurant, etc. To avoid this, buy your tours from a reputable company – find them on Trip Advisor and see what they have to say about the guides.

Play it smart, safe and alert

We spoke with Ulizes Perez, a top rated West Palm beach private investigator that travels to Placencia relatively frequently. He mentioned that Placencia is a laid-back, friendly area filled with ex-pats and tourists, and its reputation is deservedly pretty different from Belize City. That said, the usual recommendations apply. Lock up your valuables, leave the designer gear at home, and avoid taking out large amounts of money at an ATM. Be mindful also that shared WiFi connections put you at risk of identify theft. And always let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return. 

Trust Yourself – Follow That Instinct

If something feels wrong, listen to that feeling. It may be an inconvenience, but that inconvenience will keep you safe. Ulises mentioned that this “feeling” or intuition is always right.

No destination is entirely risk-free, but by exercising appropriate caution you’ll dramatically reduce the likelihood of anything going awry. Book appropriate accommodations, stay alert, and travel smart, and your trip to Placencia, Belize will be one to remember for all the right reasons.