The settlers who came from Mexico brought with them their Spanish Language, Catholic and Mexican traditions and a rich culture. The official language of Belize is English and most islanders speak and understand English but the main language is still Spanish. The Maya that some of the present settlers’ ancestors once spoke is no longer spoken.Islanders also speak Creole, a language or dialect derived from the English language. Due to the influence of Maya, Creole and English languages, most of the islanders speak today what is known as “kitchen Spanish” – informal Spanish that incorporates English, Maya and Creole words. An example is “pullar”. The word comes from the English root “pull” and adds a Spanish suffix “ar”. The English definition is “pull”.
The Mexican settlers also brought with them a distinctly rich culture with traditions comprised of Spanish, Mayan and Catholic elements. Many of these traditions are still followed today. Some such of these is the observance of religious feast days and celebrations such as the Lenten Season, an important aspect of Catholicism; regular attendance at Church especially at Easter and Christmas and the celebration of Sacraments. Easter Procession and Novenas (prayers) are spectacular annual events and have the participation of almost the entire local population of San Pedro Town.
Another common tradition that continues today is that of naming children and places after Catholic patrons and Saints. Most of the new settlements and developments are named after Saints: e.g. San Pedro – Saint Peter.
Here are some quick facts on the culture of Ambergris Caye, Belize from a tourism site:
