Episode 21: Growing Up in Belize — What's It Really Like?

Today we flip the script. Usually Serena asks the questions, but this episode David interviews his daughter about what it's actually like to grow up in Belize.

Serena moved to Belize at age 11 (after vacationing there since age 6-7) and lived there until she was 18. Belize is home for her in a way it isn't for people who move as adults.

Topics Covered:

The Biggest Adjustment: The pace. Everything moves slower. At first frustrating coming from the U.S. where everything is instant—but you adapt. Now when Serena goes back to the States, that pace feels stressful.

Education Options:

• When they moved in 2010, not many options existed
• Today: public schools, private schools, some international options depending on location
• San Pedro has several private schools; Placencia and Belize City have options too
• Many families homeschool
• Quality varies—do your homework on specific schools
• Serena's path: Homeschool with Pear Blossom, an accredited private school out of California. Real school books every year, worked at her own pace, more individual attention, college-ready if desired.

Social Life:

• Belize is small = smaller social circle, but deeper relationships
• Everyone knows everyone—you can't be anonymous
• Great for understanding different cultures, being adaptable, problem-solving
• "Just plain being happy with less"

Myth Busted: "My kids will be bored in Belize—there's nothing to do."

"That's ridiculous. I grew up snorkeling, diving, exploring ruins, kayaking, fishing. Nature is your playground here. Yes, there's no mall or movie theater in most areas. But if your idea of fun requires a shopping center, that says more about you than Belize."

What Serena Missed:

• Some conveniences
• Faster internet (when younger—it's improved a lot)
• Organized sports leagues aren't as developed
• Sometimes wanted to just go to Target or grab Chick-fil-A
• But: "I wouldn't trade my childhood here for a 'normal' American one."

How Growing Up in Belize Shaped Her:

• More adaptable—when things don't go as planned, doesn't panic, figures it out
• Comfortable around people from all different backgrounds
• Appreciates nature, doesn't need constant entertainment
• Has a perspective most Americans her age don't have

Advice for Families Considering Belize:

• Visit first—and not just the resorts
• See the schools, talk to other families who've done it
• Kids adapt faster than you think, but make sure YOU'RE ready for the lifestyle change
• Kids pick up on their parents' stress
• "Know that your kids will be different from American kids who never left their bubble. That's a feature, not a bug."

The Reality for Teens: Many young people come to Belize when young and leave around 16-18 when they're ready for more opportunities.

Any Regrets?

"None. Seriously. I've had experiences most people only dream about. Even though I left when I was 18, I'll always have Belize as my foundation. When I'm homesick, I cook my stew chicken with rice and beans and visit you a couple times a year."

Connect:

📧 david@1stchoicebelize.com — to connect with families who've made the move
🏠 RE/MAX 1st Choice Belize]]>