Nestled beside Mexico and Guatelama, Belize is an adventurer’s dream, boasting some of the world’s most unique ecosystems, including lush jungles and a vibrant barrier reef. With its natural beauty, friendly people and laid-back atmosphere, Belize is one of our favourite relaxation destinations.
Where to Sleep:
For a touch of luxury, Francis Ford Coppola’s Turtle Inn (from US $400/night) offers seaside villas with handcrafted Balinese furnishings, freshwater and saltwater swimming pools, two restaurants, a luxurious spa, and an ever-present cooling sea breeze. Or opt for the Placencia Hotel (US $150 - $250/ night), with its lush grounds, organic vegetable garden, and the largest swimming pool in all of Belize. Each room or villa opens up to a private balcony overlooking the white-sand beaches or breathtaking gardens. For a cheaper stay in Placencia Village, try Cosy Corner Hotel (from US $60/night) or Deb and Dave’s Last Resort (from US $31 - $99/night).
Where to Eat:
Providing a perfect blend of home cooking and hospitality, Wendy’s Creole Restaurant & Bar offers a Spanish/Caribbean menu favored by locals. We fell for the mouth-watering Cheesy Creole Shrimp (US$12.50) and the made-to-perfection lobster dishes. The Cozy Corner Bar & Grill provides more of that genuine Belizean hospitality, along with a surprisingly delicious Seaweed Shake (US $5).
Finish off your meal at the Tutti Frutti Italian Ice Cream Parlor, which boasts the best gelato outside Italy (from US $1.50). The owners, Tiziana and Laurent, operated an ice cream parlor in Rome before settling in Belize, and combine Italian and Belizean flavours to sublime effect.
What to Do:
Go snorkeling among Southern Belize’s azure waters and brilliant corals, or dive deeper to discover an ocean floor rich with graceful manta rays and colorful parrot fish. From April to June, thrill-seekers can even swim alongside massive whale sharks.
Land lovers can opt to take tours through Belize’s fertile jungles. The Cockscomb Jaguar Reserve has great hiking trails adorned with medicinal plants and pristine waterfalls. We recommend the tour along the Monkey River, set up by Toadal Adventures (from US $230), which reveals Belize’s abundant wildlife, including stealthy crocodiles, grating howler monkeys, wide variety of birds and gentle yet elusive manatees.