On the northeastern coast of Central America and bordering the Caribbean Sea shorelines, lies the beautiful country of Belize. Rich in varying cultures and diverse languages, its intriguing history dates back as early as 1500 B.C.
The stunning beauty of its dense jungle landscape, 600 species of marine life, and golden or white-sand beaches, depending upon the locale, is matched only by the kindness, friendliness, and welcoming character of the Belizean locals of Creole, Mestizo, Garifuna, Maya, European, and other cultures. As you plan your next vacation, experience these amazing resorts, great restaurants, and exciting tours and excursions.
Ka’ana Boutique Resort in the Tropical Jungle
Having a fascinating fusion of style, culture, and exceptional amenities, this picturesque, luxury resort is exquisitely cited in the western area of Belize called San Ignacio. The lovely suites include the Balam and Casita. The stunning Master Suite, One Bedroom Private Pool Villa, and Two-Bedroom Private Pool Villa feature exclusive plunge pools. All accommodations on the property have beautiful outdoor showers, outdoor soaking tub, and lounge chairs to enjoy nature.
Dine at the onsite eateries like La Ceiba which serves local and international, farm to table cuisine such as Arrachera Steak, Sikil Iilpaak, and the Famous Fry Jacks. The Wallace Bar features Farmer’s Table and Caribbean Croquette dishes and delightful cocktails. Learn the divine art of Mayan cooking by taking the Mayan Cooking class presented by knowledgeable Mayan women who allow you to get in on the fun. www.kaanabelize.com/
Chabil Mar Villas Along the Placencia Peninsula
The sea-facing, magnificent villas at this boutique resort have 925 to 2,000 square feet of living space and personal verandas. Guests have a private escort who takes them to their one-bedroom, two-bedroom, or loft villa that features Belize décor and full kitchens with state-of-the art amenities. Guests can walk through this lush signature floral oasis, stroll along the private beach, dine on the exclusive pier, and splash for hours in one of two infinity pools. They can relax with an afternoon cocktail on the hammock or enjoy a specially delivered breakfast while watching the sun rise on the sofa of the wide veranda.
Further, individuals can relish in their complimentary local rum samples, roaming butler service, access to the lounges with umbrellas on the private Caribbean Beach lined with palm trees, and al fresco dining throughout the resort including the picturesque pier. The cuisine, exclusive to guests who are residing onsite only, can be served beachside, poolside, on the pier, in the villa, or at the Kaleidoscope Bar & Lounge. And when visitors are ready to venture out, they can bike, paddleboard, kayak, shop, tour, and take part in the electrifying nightlife in Placencia Village. www.chabilmarvillas.com/
Restaurants that Amaze
Upscale restaurants such as El Bohemio and Rumfish Y Vino are certainly worth the visit. Having a scenic view of the Mopan River, El Bohemio Restaurant & Bar is an open air, rustic décor, fine dining eatery in Benque Viejo Del Carmen. You’ll enjoy Churrasco, Guava Pork Chops, and Picana Steak. Rumfish Y Vino is an elegant gastro-bar in Placencia serving unique dishes such as Pescado Putanesca, Caribbean Fish Stew, and select wines from South Africa, Italy, Chile, Argentina, Spain, France, and California’s Napa Valley. You’ll equally love the casual eateries such as DeTatch Restaurant and Beach Bar, Benny’s Kitchen, Miss Bertha’s Tamales, Smoqiz Restaurant, and Amigo’s Restaurant.
Breathtaking Journeys and Excursions
Head out on exciting tours such as Horseback Riding at Morningside Ranch. Your expedition can include a ride across the pasture near the Mopan River, viewing an unexcavated Maya site, and standing atop a mountain to see the storied excavated Maya city of Xunantunich. Cruise into the Caribbean sunset while rolling along the Placencia Coast on the Big Sipper Sunset Lagoon Cruise. Your boat ticket includes a complimentary welcome cocktail, full cash bar, musical tunes, hotel shuttle, and dishes like conch or shrimp Ceviche and Big Becks fish sausage which are available for purchase.
Choose your culinary adventure with Taste Belize Food & Culture Tours. There are six chocolate tours, seven foodie tours, seven cooking classes, four rum and bitters tours, and several custom as well as private tours. Relax with Siripohn’s Thai Massage. The massage therapists will come to your resort. See the wonders of Belize such as the Sleeping Giant, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, Carocol Pyramid, Lamanai Mayan Ruins, Altun Ha Ancient Mayan City, and Belize Barrier Reef. For the active tourist, expeditions include archaeology, canoeing, caving, fishing, hiking, kayaking, sailing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
Historical Facts
As a former British colony, Belize is the only official English-speaking country in Central America. Gaining its independence in 1981, it is currently a member of the British Commonwealth. Belize is also considered part of the Caribbean. The influences of the latter can be seen in the cuisine, music, dance, language, and other cultural inspirations. The rich history, tropical rain forests, beautiful beaches, and landscape make this an ideal locale to visit and retire.
For more information on planning your trip to Belize, go to www.TravelBelize.org. For a specially curated trip, contact Brenda O’Neale. She is the owner of With This Ring Destination Wedding and Honeymoon Travel Agency. Her website is www.withthisringdwh.com. Follow her @withthisringromancetravel.
Follow Upscale Senior Editor Leslie E. Royal on social media @LesliesLane.