We will be renting a car to get around. How is the gas situation there? What company's will I find and do they accept gas cards and credit cards?

Most usually accept credit cards but not all, and cc machines are not always working. Texaco & Shell are the main ones. Fill up whenever you can - no stations in the remote areas (Pine Ridge, etc) Price is $8 and change BZD/gallon!

Thanks Barbara K. How about travelers checks? I don't really want to carry a lot of cash.

Travelers checks are taken at most places in the country. I try to keep the amounts from $20-$50
as some smaller establishments may have trouble with the change for :p larger ones.

If I use travelers checks, can I expect to get my change in US or BZ? I don't suppose it matters if I'm there for a few weeks. Will the tour guides take them or should I keep some cash for them?

Almost always got change in BZ bucks except for some small denomination US, like $1 !
I used the checks for lodging,golfcart,bar tab,and some larger meal tabs. Normally got them changed at the banks. Sometimes at the resort.
I always paid the Tour guides tips in cash. :p

Just one more question, will I find a bank, even a small one, in San Ignacio to change travelers checks for cash or should I do that in BC? The road to San Ignacio, is that a fairly well traveled road? We will be traveling it during the day but I'm still a little nervous. I have friends that keep telling me not to worry, they will pay the ransom but all I have read and heard about is what an awsome experience Belize was and how hospitable their hosts were!! I'm hoping this is the case!

You really need to relax and enjoy your trip. Nothing's gonna happen. It's all open highway, just like a good 2 lane highway that runs through small towns. You will be able to see all around you most of the time. Nice roads.

Can't help with the travelers checks in St. Ignacio we used cash for gasoline.

GO SLOW, they will

several banks in San Ignacio. not a problem. safe road - just watch the speed bumps.

Yes, that first speed bump will be a gentle reminder that MORE are ahead. They are mainly in villages, school areas and churches and run in lots of 1 to 3.
Bump bumb bump...kinda hard on the teeth