The best of both worlds: Lake and Sea

It’s Even Better in Belize! Our Belize vacation was the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Our accommodations sat between a serene backwater lagoon and the turquoise expanse of the Caribbean Sea—a truly idyllic setting. Each day began with the soft rhythm of waves and ended with cocktails at the Rhum Bar. Whether it was lounging in swaying hammocks, paddling out in kayaks, biking along the shoreline, or cooling off in the inviting pool, everything felt effortless and warm. Belize didn’t just welcome us—it completely embraced us with its natural charm and laid-back luxury.

Getting There: The road with the most potholes in the world

One of the biggest challenges was actually getting to this little slice of paradise. The ride to the resort was, without exaggeration, one of the bumpiest journeys I’ve ever experienced—more like an off-road adventure than a transfer. But somehow, that jarring ride added to the charm. It stripped away the polished edges of travel and brought a raw, rustic feel to the trip. By the time we arrived, dusty and laughing, the discomfort had turned into part of the story—one that made arriving at such serene beauty feel even more rewarding.

Exploring Belize: Tubing Tigers and Ziplining Adventures

We had an incredible amount of fun during our visit. Beams of sunlight filtered through the canopy, and a cool breeze brushed over us as we floated together through the mesmerizing Blue Hole National Park. It was one of those rare moments—serene, scenic, and almost too picturesque to believe. Later in the week, the adrenaline kicked in as we took on the zip lines. Soaring through the treetops with vivid views of the jungle below was nothing short of magical. At one point, while touring deeper into the area, we even heard rumors of tigers—probably exaggerated, but enough to spike our curiosity and heighten every sense. It all added to the thrill of being surrounded by such untamed natural beauty.

Placencia Adventures: A boat ride down the Monkey river

After arriving in Placencia, we set off on a boat ride along the famed Monkey River—an experience that truly immersed us in Belize’s wild heart. The journey itself was just as captivating as the destination. As the boat glided through winding waters, we were surrounded by lush tropical foliage, echoing bird calls, and glimpses of wildlife—howler monkeys swinging above, crocodiles sunbathing on the banks, and iguanas blending into the greenery. It was one of those moments where the natural world felt raw and alive, adding yet another layer to Belize’s irresistible charm.

Chocolatier’s magic: Inca-inspired sweet delights

We spent a lovely afternoon visiting a local chocolatier whose craft was deeply influenced by ancient Incan traditions. Surrounded by the rich aroma of cacao, we learned how chocolate was once considered sacred—used in rituals and revered for its energizing properties. The artisan walked us through each step of the process, from roasting the beans to handcrafting each piece with care. Their passion and knowledge were evident in every detail, and tasting the final product—bold, earthy, and rich—was a sensory experience in itself. It was more than just a treat; it was a delicious lesson in history and heritage.

Memorable dining

Rob’s Cafe and an Evening on the Pier; One of the most unforgettable nights of the trip unfolded at Rob’s Cafe, a cozy spot that effortlessly fused comfort with culinary delight. The real magic, though, began as I stepped onto the wooden pier for dinner—set under a blanket of stars with the vast ocean stretching endlessly below. The sky shimmered with shooting stars, a cosmic dance that felt like it was staged just for us. Rob’s beautifully prepared meal, infused with the homely charm of Tina’s Dutch kitchen, tasted even better in the sea-kissed breeze. It was the kind of evening that imprints itself quietly but permanently on your heart.