The people of Belize seem very cheerful, friendly and helpful. Most of the people are descendants from Mayan Indian or the mix of early British settlers and African slaves. Nearly all are dark skinned. Quite a number of Chinese have migrated there in recent years. Though theft is a major problem there, we felt very safe. Violent crime is very low.
By U.S. standards, poverty is high, but discontent with lifestyle does not seem evident. It seemed to us that the aspiration of many Belizieans is to own a little shop in their home so they can be independent and set their own hours.