Belize

Several competing buslines operate on the main road in the north-south direction from Punta Gorda to Belmopan and Belize City. Two airlines, Tropic Air and Maya Island Air, serve most towns on a daily basis and if you are trying to get to Ambergris Caye where San Pedro is there are water taxis at the boat terminal in Belize city. Tropic air and Maya Air fly out of Belize City municipal airport and Phillip Goldson international airport, as well as other airports in Belize. Getting around Belize is simple. If you stand by the side of a main road, a bus will stop if you wave. The cost is $2-$25BZ ($1-$12.50US) depending on how far you're travelling. There is usually a bus driver and a conductor. Simply board the bus and have a seat and the conductor will appear at some point to collect your fare (He or she periodically makes rounds to collect tariffs from new passengers.). Express buses can save up to an hour and a half (depending on the distance of your trip); they do not stop for passengers waiting on the roadside, making only scheduled pick-ups and drop-offs in towns. Be prepared for the fact that all busses seem to be using US school busses with a luggage rack installed overhead on one side. Also, busses are often very crowded and you may need to stand. Children selling snacks and soft drinks often board the buses at stops, and this is an inexpensive way to have a snack if you've exhausted what you've brought along or just want to try some home-made travel foods.