Belize is a tiny Central American country with a big variety of cultural traditions. And that means lots of choices for souvenir shoppers, especially for those looking to score something more interesting than the usual mug-T-shirt-refrigerator magnet collection. Hand-made crafts dominate the Belize souvenir markets, ranging from sophisticated jade jewelry to traditionally woven baskets.
Originally populated with Mayans, Belize was then taken over by the Spanish and later the English. In addition, the colonists brought African slaves. So Belizean culture is a combination of the native Mayans, mixed Spanish-Indian people, people of African descent such as the Garifuna, and Anglos. Many people speak three languages: English, Spanish, and one (or more) of the several extant dialects of Mayan. Belize souvenirs reflect this mix of cultures.
What to Buy in Belize
Jade. Jade is a native stone in Central America, particularly in neighboring Guatemala, and was used widely in ancient times. The small store-front Jade Museum in Ambergris Caye displays some ancient jade. Replicas of historic pieces re for sale, as are sleek contemporary designs.
Shell and Coral Jewelry. Simple, beautiful carvings made of seashells are found in coastal towns for a few dollars a piece. Pink shells and black coral make a lovely and dramatic combination, and are used in jewelry..
Garifuna Drums. The Garifuna were African slaves who first were brought to St. Vincent, and then later came to Belize. With intricate carvings of people and animals, Garifuna drums, which could easily be mistaken for African drums, form a foundation for their music.
Mayan Carvings. Mayan ruins of temples and whole cities are found throughout Belize, but the Mayan culture and language are still alive and well, particularly inland. Clay masks are inexpensive (often less than $30) and contain symbols important to the Mayans, including calendar symbols and images of wildlife such as birds and jaguars.
Embroidery. Colorful embroidered cloth is made by Mayans, especially inland near the Guatemala border. Table linens and throws for couches and beds make portable gifts.
Baskets. Handwoven baskets are made by families and then sold in the tourist markets and tourist shop, usually costing $10 to $20. Baskets come in all sizes, and many feature finely wrought and delicate handiwork of geometric patterns in various shades of beiges and browns. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be put to use to hold tortillas, fruit, or bathroom toiletries. Note that the baskets should be kept dry or they can become moldy.
Hot Sauce: Like most Central American countries, Belize has its native spicy sauce. The Marie Sharp brand comes in different favors and levels of "hot. You'll find a wide assortment at local supermarkets at local prices, or you can buy a sample assortment at the airport. Try before you pour it on.
Paintings, sculpture, and photography. Small galleries in San Pedro sell portable-sized paintings that fit into a carry-on (as well as bigger pictures that need to be shipped). Themes include local life, ocean landscapes, and underwater coral reef scenery. Art photography and carvings are also available.
Where to Shop in Belize
Ambergris Caye draws the highest percent of tourists to Belize, and San Pedro, its market town and capital city is the place to go for shopping. The city is only a few blocks wide and a few blocks long. Open air markets on the seafront; stores and galleries containing souvenirs and handcrafts are found throughout town. Get around by golf cart or on foot.
You'll also find plenty of souvenirs in most of the Mayan ruins, and in open air markets and stalls in sea-side towns where tourists gather. Quality varies, but almost everything here is locally handmade. Some of the higher end resort shops have particularly interesting and high-quality selections.
Light negotiating is possible in Belize's open air souvenir markets. Bargaining is less common in stores, but asking for a discount if you are buying several items in a store may get you one. Prices, however, are low enough that almost anyone souvenir shopping in Belize should be able to find some mementos of this multifaceted country.
Karen Berger - Karen Berger is the author of 15 books. Please click on her name to read her full bio.
