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Center for Engaged Learning Abroad (CELA-Belize)
WELCOME TO YOUR PROGRAM
WELCOME TO YOUR PROGRAM
Spend four unforgettable weeks in tropical Belize exploring the dynamic field of One Health. A multidisciplinary approach that connects human, animal, and environmental health. Ideal for students in public health, global health, medicine, veterinary science, or conservation, this program combines classroom learning with hands-on fieldwork. The first two weeks focus on large animal medicine and livestock systems, while the final two weeks dive into global health topics through interactive lectures and site visits. Beyond academics, enjoy organized excursions and free time to explore Belize’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and Caribbean charm.
Housing
Housing
Housing is similar to a hotel/hostel. Students are roomed by gender and share bathrooms. Rooms will have AC and Wifi is available. Staff is on site 24/7.
Food
Food
Breakfast is included and on-site. Students will have several different options for breakfast. Lunch and dinner are on your own. There are local restaurants nearby!
Flights
Flights
At the start of your program, our group shuttle from the airport on arrival Saturday will leave the airport at 4:30pm. Therefore, you should plan to arrive on a flight that arrives at BZE by 3pm on SATURDAY. Staff will arrive at the airport by 11am. If you arrive prior to 11am, please wait in the arrival hall. There is only one airport transfer per arrival day. If you miss the group transport, there is a fee for solo transport.
At the end of your program, our group shuttle to the airport on departure Saturday will arrive at the airport at 9:30am. Therefore, you should plan to depart on a flight that departs BZE after 11:30am on SATURDAY.
PACKING
PACKING
The only items you are required to bring are those on the “required” lists. General required items (like your passport) are found on the ALL PROGRAMS packing list above. Program specific required items are found below under the REQUIRED section. For the rest of the items, you are welcome to use your discretion. There may be items missing from this list that you’d like to bring, and there may be items on this list that you don’t want to bring. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask!
REQUIRED FOR THIS PROGRAM
REQUIRED FOR THIS PROGRAM
Backpack
A supply of disposable gloves
Thermometer (for taking rectal temperatures of various animals)
4 or 5 complete sets of scrubs (tops and bottoms)
Business casual clothing that is acceptable for trips to medical facilities and government agencies, including close-toed shoes
Close-toed shoes (for business casual and clinical setting)
Watch (either digital or with a second hand)
Rugged clothes specifically for field work, including non-legging pants such as jeans / canvas work pants/hiking pants or similar (4-5 pairs)
1 pair rubber boots
Face masks for personal use throughout. (We suggest disposable for fieldwork, reusable is fine for travel/activities).
Rain gear
SUGGESTED FOR THIS PROGRAM
SUGGESTED FOR THIS PROGRAM
Shirts or tops (short sleeve, sleeveless, cool & easy to dry)
Thin, long-sleeve shirt (protection from sun and insects)
Shorts (for after work days)
1-2 bathing suits, beachwear for optional weekend island trip
1 hat for sun protection
1 pair sandals/flip flops (waterproof is good, but not necessary)
Beach towel
Laundry bag (or garbage bag or pillowcase for laundry)
Insect Repellent (3 bottles)
Reef-safe Sunscreen
Anti-itch cream (After Bite, Benadryl - something to address bug bites)
Small First Aid kit (designed for personal use)
Ziploc bags (a few, large and small)
Small flashlight or headlamp (with extra bulbs and batteries)
Small packable towel, handkerchiefs or bandanas
Journal and pens
FAQ
FAQ
Belize is hot and humid with a chance of rain. Come prepared to deal with a variety of weather. It can be warm/hot and humid during the day, but it will cool down at night.
Epi Pens are not available in Belize. If you normally carry an Epi Pen, please bring one with you to Belize.
WIFI: Students will have WIFI at the housing location, but WIFI is not always reliable. If you are interested in a travel phone plan, please talk to your phone provider before your program starts.
Bedding: We will provide you with sheets, pillows, and blankets.
Towels: 1 towel is provided at each housing location and can be exchanged for a new one. Washcloths are not provided; we recommend bringing a luffa. Swimming towels are not provided.
Laundry: May be available for a $10 - $15 USD fee per load, at your accommodation.
Outlets: Outlets are the same as the US.
Dress Code: During the Large Animal portion of the program, you will get dirty, sweaty, and gross on most days. A few extra socks and tee shirts can make you much more comfortable. On your work days, you should plan to wear scrubs. You will be working in your boots, so be sure to bring socks that are comfortable with your boots. During the global health course, you will need to dress in business casual on days that we visit places in the field (medical facilities and governmental agencies). During other times, you can wear what you like, including shorts, tank-tops, and flip-flops. Please do not have acrylic nails, gel nails, or long nails, as these can affect medical procedures and sterile gloving. Nails should be cut short for animal safety. For certain procedures, you will not be permitted to wear jewelry, including rings, so we encourage you to leave any expensive or fancy jewelry at home.
Money: USD is accepted in Belize at an exchange rate of 1USD:2BZD. There is no need to exchange your money at a bank or the airport. USD is accepted for all payments, and any change will be given in BZD. US coins are not accepted in Belize. Most places will not accept US bills larger than $20- so make sure to bring smaller bills with you. So, "cash is king" if looking to purchase souvenirs or personal items!
Everything we do in Belize is NOT included in your tuition. Your tuition covers daily breakfast. Students are responsible for daily lunch and dinner. We suggest students bring $700 USD to cover lunches and dinner for 4 weeks.
Students will be able to participate in optional excursions. Please bring extra cash if you wish to book additional excursions.
$25 USD Xunantunich Mayan Ruin Tour (virtually all students choose to do this awesome first day excursion!)
$70 USD Canoeing
$100-$125 USD snorkeling
$12 USD Green Iguana Project
$14 USD Ajaw Chocolate Making Tour
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