the driving

#10. Driving in Belize is like a game of Mario Kart. No one stays on their side of the road, you must constantly dodge various obstacles like potholes, speed bumps, dogs, children, and bicycles, there is no clear speed limit anywhere, someone is always honking, and everyone is in a giant rush to get somewhere (which is interesting because it's the only time Belizeans are in a hurry to do anything). And as dramatic as that description sounds, it's 100% accurate. Most residential roads are dirt and completely covered with massive potholes that you try to swerve around and avoid if possible. Even the highway roads are poorly maintained and have no lane division, so drivers often pass on hills, blind curves, and even pass multiple cars at a time. It can be terrifying, and I find myself holding my breath every few minutes, preparing to either witness or be part of a terrible collision. But the worst of it is that no one wears seat belts, and many cars don't even have belts that work properly. For a seat belt fanatic like me, it's one aspect of the culture I have a very difficult time adapting to, and I tend to avoid cars as often as possible. To their credit however, I have yet to come across any wrecks or accidents, despite the chaotic nature of the roads, and most people are completely at ease with driving. As for me, I think I'll be perfectly content sticking with my trusty bicycle.