If a study were to be done, I am sure the combined annual population of Ambergris Caye and Belize (including tourists) would rate extremely high for human connection and general friendliness.

According to the world population review, the 2017 population of Belize is 374,955 with San Pedro coming in at 8,418. In high season, I’ll bet that shoots up to around 20,000; many of them on the island for 6 months at a time.

It does not matter if you are a traveler, expat or Belizean, almost everyone has shared this common bond.

Where else can you go that as soon as you step off the plane you feel like you have landed in a real life tropical Sesame Street? The pace of Ambergris Caye life is slower within it’s speediness (always so much happening for such a small place) and most people rate a 10 plus on the friendly scale. It is common for first timers to form fast bonds and feel that Island Charm. It is also common for repeat offenders to experience the same in other districts. I know people that now include flights to Placencia on their trips so they can see “their brother” Tulu.

Friends Become Family

In Belize, bloodlines are not needed to become an Aunt or an Uncle and many of us have brothers from another mother and Seesters from another Meester – read with a drawl 😀 Many have “adopted” people or pets and taken them under their wing in some way.

There are also endless cousins. Some closer than others but all are still considered family.

For most, traveling to Belize is like a big happy reunion – which is what keeps people coming back as often as their schedule and budget allows.

Trip Advisor even lists family friendly hotels. Check them out here.

This country is a magical destination and captures the hearts of many, it is a place where friends become family.

Seesters from another Meester and Canadian Cousin Karen Brodie beside me has the Biggest Belizean Family.

Crazy haired cousins with big friendly smiles and hearts of gold.

Family with friends time by the water and at CG Esthetic with my mom Kathy – both she and Carole speak french fluently and have met before.

Family fun often happens on boats.

Golf carts greatly contribute to the friendly factor.

Featured image at top of page is from Coco Loco’s Beach bar annual Canadian Thanksgiving party. Carmen who took over for Steve and Sue keeps that family tradition strong, delicious and fun.