| POPULATION, LANGUAGES AND CULTURE |
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The population of Belize is approximately 270,000 people. Belize is considered to be the third most advanced country in Central America, after Costa Rica and Panama. English is the official language, however due to surrounding latin influence, Spanish is widely spoken. Belize is also the home of the Garinagu, who speak Garifuna and Creole, which are common languages spoken by the locals. In the south there remain Mayan villages with their traditional way of life. Most still speak a Mayan dialect. Another prominent culture, the Mennonites, speak two languages - German and English. There are various groups of Mennonites; some hold their traditions, while progressive groups, make use of more modern technology. The Mennonites are considered to be the top Agriculture growers around. Their motto is "We Grow Belize". |

