Colors of Placentia Village - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Multiple European traditions and beliefs are one of the main national peculiarities of Belize. As a rule, local people adopted them from the British. For example, during a workday, locals always make a lunch break. English is considered mandatory, so most business people are fluent in this language. Locals are very calm and responsible. They value punctuality just like British people, so a late attendance to a meeting is a sign of disrespect for them. People in Belize are avid listeners and interesting interlocutors. They can easily maintain virtually any conversation. Private life is virtually the only taboo for them, so, when talking to Belizeans, it is recommended to avoid private questions and themes.

Local people are very careful about following local laws. They are well-aware about their rights and always try to solve any problem in accordance with regulations. In distant areas of the village, tourists might face signs of the so-called Spanish liberty. Local people can tap tourists on the shoulder as a greeting, and owners of souvenir shops or merchants on markets are likely to start a long conversation with visitors that can last several hours. Some manners that are unacceptable in Europe have a different meaning in Belize. For example, having heard whistling or shouts behind their backs, tourists shouldn’t treat them as offense or a sign of aggression. That is simply a method that street vendors use to draw the attention of potential buyers to their goods.

Local people are fond of celebrations and festive tables with lots of food. Celebrations are quite long and usually last until late at night. Hosts prepare various delicacies for guests and entertain them with interesting stories and anecdotes while everyone is eating. Guests, in their turn, should thank hosts by bringing small souvenirs to them. Typical souvenirs for women are flower bouquets and chocolate. Quality alcohol is a good souvenir for male hosts. When it comes to clothes, local people have quite democratic views in this area. Tourists shouldn’t wear swimsuits on the streets and in the territory of hotels. When heading to a governmental office, it is better to put on a more formal dress. People from the south part of the town prefer a more casual look, and this style has found reflection in the clothes sold in local shops. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The coastal country of Belize amazes visitors with its mesmerizing Caribbean shorelines, rich heritage, and, of course, various celebrations and events that tourists will find incredibly interesting to attend. In addition to internationally famous holidays like Christmas and New Year’s Eve, Placentia, as well as the rest of Belize, has interesting national holidays. Fiesta de Carnaval, which is also known under the name Belize Carnival, is one of the most famous and colorful events in the country. This carnival usually takes place a week before Lent. Various festive events take place in almost all towns and cities of the country.

Music concerts, singing performances, parades, comparas group dances, competitions in painting – the event is packed with interesting activities. The Belize Carnival is also famous for one more tradition – flour fighting. People throw colorful flour into the air and to each other, creating an adorable view. Tourists are usually eager to participate in these “fights”, but make sure not to wear expensive items as no one will leave the spot clean.

In March, the country celebrates Baron Bliss Day in honor of Sir Henry Bliss who left two million dollars to the country after death. Nowadays, this celebration is mostly famous because of horse races and competitions in kiting. If you happen to visit Belize City on the day of the celebration, visit the Baron Bliss Lighthouse and the Fort George Park in order to see special memorable performances and meetings.