As we near retirement age we are researching places to live. We have been to Belize before and thought it was beautiful. We are taking a cruise in March and will be in Belize for the day. We would love to be able to meet up with someone who is living there already to get some details that websites and books just don't reveal. Of all the places we are researching, Ambergris Caye seems to be the most expensive. Is that true? We want to rent (long term) but do not want to buy. We are open to where we would live but want to be able to walk to the stores/markets, restuarants, etc. Most places I see for long term rent advertise burglar bars, etc. and it makes it sound like the area may not be safe. Are all areas like this? Is this the norm? Any suggestions on how to find/hire someone to give us the lowdown and show us around?