Travellers are dreaming up their next international travel plans, and with pent up demand anticipating revenge travel and pandemic consciousness spurring the desire for extra space, destination’s offering more room to roam are topping post-pandemic bucket lists. Belize is one such destination that offers travellers the idyllic combination of luxury and space with villas, treetop retreats, and even private islands abound across the country.
Private Island Escapes:
Seclusion and extra space are a given at one of Belize’s best-kept secrets, Cayo Espanto Private Island. Cayo Espanto is a private island luxe resort located just three miles off the coast of San Pedro – though it feels worlds away. The island is home to seven secluded villas and each villa includes a private dock, pool, beach area, butler and concierge services. Casa Ventanas is the island’s one and only over-the-water bungalow surrounded on all sides by the Caribbean Sea. For larger groups, the entire island can be rented to accommodate up to 18 guests. Island activities include scuba diving in the second largest barrier reef in the world, fly fishing, snorkeling in Hol Chan, Belize’s National Marine Park, yacht tours, movie nights on the beach and more. The lavishness is never-ending, with beachside massages provided by the island spa services and three five-star meals are served daily in each suite’s dining room. Despite feeling worlds away, the private island includes amenities like Wi-Fi, TV and Bluetooth to help keep guests connected (as much as they desire). Guests can also rest comfortably given the property’s Tourism Gold Standard Certification, as well.
The Family Coppola Hideaways is the luxury offering owned by the famed director of The Godfather and Apocalypse now, Francis Ford Coppola. Francis Ford Coppola and wife Eleanor have been offering the idyllic hideaway retreat, Turtle Inn, in Belize since 2001, and while Turtle Inn is exceptional in its own respect, even more exclusive is the private island, Coral Caye. Coral Caye is located just 25 minutes from the hotel in Placencia and is a completely privatized island experience that appeals to both couples seeking an intimate and completely exclusive retreat and families or friends who may seek a Robinson Crusoe style escape. The island experience is complete with a dedicated staff of butlers, caretakers, and chefs, and the island can only be enjoyed by one group at a time, making it a truly exclusive experience.Visitors of the island can do as much or as little as desired and enjoy complete privacy and solitude with loved ones.
Treetop Retreat:
While Chaa Creek Lodge boasts a variety of accommodations options, the Treetop Villas stand out as a wonderfully spacious, unique and luxurious way to rejuvenate in Belize’s unspoiled nature. The Treetop Villas’ sprawling sundecks that wrap around the trees reveal unparalleled views of the Macal River and lush jungle below, set in the heart of Belize’s Maya Civilization. The villas include spectacular amenities, such as personal plunge pools, al fresco showers, daybeds, and an array of complimentary onsite activities. Visitors can spend the days exploring the property’s 400 acres of land by hiking and canoeing, take a dip in the private pool to cool off, and finish the day off right with the most remarkable stargazing views that can only be experienced nestled in the trees among the tropical birds – a genuinely “wildly civilized” adventure.
To add further comfort to guests stay, Chaa Creek Lodge has reached a 100% vaccination rate and is a Tourism Gold Standard Certified property. The acclaimed property has been providing comfortable and memorable guest experiences since the 80’s, and in 2021 and beyond the experiences continue to evolve and are more unique and meaningful than ever.