About

peaceful, pure & playful . . .

HISTORY

Prior to European Explorers discovering Belize, the ancient Maya built 14 sites around the Placencia Lagoon. Archaeological studies show that the Maya prospered with fishing and salt production, trading with other settlements all along the coast.

English Puritans from Nova Scotia settled in the 17th century but these colonies lasted only until the Central American wars of independence in the 1820s. Placencia was then resettled by fishing communities.

The name “Placencia” comes from Punta Placentia, the name the Spaniards gave to the peninsula in the 1800s. In English, it means Point Pleasant.

Our neighboring village is Seine Bight. The name comes from “Seine” a special fishing net, and “Bight” the curve or recess in the Placencia coastline. The early 19th century Africans and Carib Indians took refuge in Seine Bight. Today, their descendants, the Garifuna have maintained the unique culture and heritage of their ancestors through fishing, food, family focus, art and music.

Our community, Maya Beach is about 5 miles north of Seine Bight.  In 1964, a Canadian purchased the land, laid out the village plans and sold lots.

In the late1990’s expats primarily from North America made the move to Placencia and it has continued since then to be a sought-after-destination for ex-pats, retirees and tourists.

 

GOOD TO KNOW

CURRENCY

The exchange rate is: two Belize dollars to one U.S. dollar, but there is no need to change your money to Belize dollars from U.S. dollars; U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere. You will typically receive Belize dollars in change after paying in US dollars. You need to continually use the Belize currency you receive, because there is a possibility of a slight difference with the exchange rate if you have any left at the end. ATM’s are readily available.

 

WEATHER

Placencia has a comfortable subtropical climate that is suitable for travel year-round. The average yearly temperature is 80°F (27°C) with humidity hovering about 83%. The water temperature stays around 80°F (27°C) as well. Trade winds blow across the coast adding to the pleasant weather.

 

LANGUAGE

As a former British colony, Belize is the only country in Central America where English is the official language. The vast majority of people in Belize speak standard English, but a variety of dialects and other languages are often spoken at home to include; Creole/Kriol, Spanish, Mayan, Garifuna, German, Chinese and Arabic.

 

COMMUNICATIONS

The country code for Belize is +501. The easiest way to communicate with local businesses in Placencia is use the free WhatsApp and/or Facebook Messenger. High-speed wireless internet is available in many establishments in Placencia.

 

ELECTRICAL POWER PLUGS & SOCKETS

Belize uses 110 volt, 60 cycle electricity, same as the United States. All outlets at Bella Sway are 3-prong, grounded outlets.

 

WHAT TO PACK

The following list (alphabetical) are suggested items only and are totally dependent on what you plan on doing during your stay at Bella Sway. Please keep in mind, Placencia is a tropical climate, lots of sun, beaches, jungles, water activities and adventures. Hydration is especially important as there are so many outdoor activities under the beautiful Belizean Sun reflecting off the beautiful Caribbean Sea!