In search of an ultra-private trip? There’s nothing more secluded and personal than renting a Caribbean island all to yourself. Escaping to the white sand and aqua-blue water of a tropical island is a dream for many, but resort beaches are often chock-full of other tourists and locals, especially during peak season, and can lack the privacy you’re searching for on a peaceful vacation. In Belize, you can live that dream for less cash than you might think.
The Belizean coast is lined with hundreds of islands and cayes that form the Belize Barrier Reef, the longest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere. Renting some of these islands is surprisingly within reach, especially if you can gather a group of friends or family members to share costs, and if you consider that prices include food and drinks (you won't find restaurants or grocery stores within walking distance). Many of the private islands for rent are fully inclusive, including a set of staff who will cook, clean, and provide transportation to and from the island, as well as food, drinks, and gear for a variety of fun activities.
The area is well known among scuba divers for its bustling underwater life: There are over 70 types of coral and common sightings include stingrays, turtles, whale sharks, and dolphins. Aside from underwater activities, guests can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, and more. But you don’t have to be a diver (or even a snorkeler) to soak up the sun, drink in hand, on one of these private islands.
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Coral Caye, part of the Family Coppola Hideaways Turtle Inn, can host up to 12 people.
Large groups will adore one of these bigger islands that can host a whole slew of family and friends. These islands can house everyone comfortably, and offer a wide variety of activities to keep guests of all age ranges entertained.
A 30-minute boat ride from the Family Coppola Hideaways Turtle Inn resort in southern Belize lies Coral Caye (pronounced “key”), a private island owned by Francis Ford Coppola and his family, who have created a lifestyle brand that extends beyond cinema to include wine, restaurants, and resorts. The island hosts up to 12 people and comes with two rustic-chic cottages and a “great” house—an eclectically furnished indoor-outdoor, sand-on-the-floor living and dining room with a bar.
The rent starts at $1,895 per night and includes transportation to the island and a friendly staff who keep the island clean and prepare meals of freshly caught fish washed down with—what
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Lying deep within the lush jungles of Belize lies a hidden treasure trove of ancient wonders—the magnificent Maya ruins of Caracol. Steeped in history and surrounded by the rich biodiversity of the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, Caracol stands as a testament to the advanced civilization that once thrived in this region. A visit to these awe-inspiring ruins is a journey through time, offering an immersive experience that captivates the senses and sparks the imagination. History and Discovery:
Nestled in the heart of Belize, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity. One of the most awe-inspiring inhabitants of this protected paradise is the jaguar (Panthera onca), an elusive and majestic big cat that roams the lush landscapes of this pristine sanctuary.
Planning a wedding but want to go off-the-beaten path? Destination weddings are currently the rage with couples choosing such exotic locations as Talloires, France, the Greek island of Santorini, Fiji or Bora Bora.
Belize, a small Central American country nestled between Mexico and Guatemala, is renowned for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs. Among its many jewels, Caye Caulker stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable snorkeling experience. The crystal-clear waters surrounding this charming island provide a gateway to a mesmerizing underwater world, making snorkeling at Caye Caulker one of the best things to do in Belize. Caye Caulker, often referred to as the “Go Slow” island, is a tranquil paradise located off the coast of Belize. With its laid-back atmosphere, sandy streets, and colorful Caribbean-style houses, the island offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While Caye Caulker has much to offer in terms of relaxation and natural beauty, it is the underwater realm that truly captivates visitors.
Today, the Belizean Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations is calling on COP28 to put tourism centre stage at the summit and has announced its own ambitious initiative to update its National Sustainable Tourism Master Plan. This process was carried out by a collaboration between the University of Belize and the University of Melbourne, with the primary objective of ensuring Belize remains on a path of sustainable growth. As a result, the updated National Sustainable Tourism Master Plan has prioritized the need to plan and develop within a future that demands climate resilience and has developed an adaptation strategy for the tourism sector.
A big focus in Belize at the moment is Responsible Tourism in the Belize Barrier Reef, which is the world’s second largest reef and continuing to protect the reef for future generations. The coral reef is a very fragile ecosystem, and visitors to Belize can help to preserve these living reefs for the protection and enjoyment of future generations in many ways. The Lionfish, with its striking appearance and venomous spines, is an invasive species that poses a significant threat to the Caribbean’s underwater biodiversity. This damaging species has quickly become a prolific predator, consuming native fish and disrupting the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. Their rapid reproduction rates and lack of natural predators in the Caribbean have led to their population explosion, further exacerbating the damage they cause.
The historic Spanish port city of Cadiz is rarely advertised as a highlight stop on a cruise itinerary. It’s often a city visited towards the beginning or end of itineraries that focus on the Canary Islands or major Mediterranean ports such as Barcelona.
Belize is home to a kaleidoscope of natural beauty, incredible history and some of the world’s most remarkable wildlife, marine life and natural wonders. With a modest population of 380,000 people, visitors can marvel at Belize’s outstanding beauty and explore some of its most intriguing undiscovered locations without seeing another soul for miles. From hiking to Mayan sites and snorkelling through the enchanting Belize Barrier Reef (the largest in the northern hemisphere), to admiring the exotic birds and immersing oneself in the sounds of the lush rainforest, Belize is the perfect destination for those adventurers, solo travellers, couples, or families keen to disconnect and reconnect to the natural world. Here are five of the unmissable natural wonders Belize has to offer:
World Ocean’s Day and Environment Day are a chance to celebrate wonderful marine life and exceptional natural beauty, whilst also providing an opportunity to educate visitors on the best ways to care for oceans and protect the world we live in where they visit. Belize is a destination that demonstrates a deep care for the ocean and the wider environment, as it has committed to protecting 30 percent of its marine territory, more than 10,000 square kilometers. By holding responsible tourism at the core of its value systems, Belize has developed projects that encourage travellers to engage with the country’s rainforests, reefs, and unique culture in a truly sustainable and responsible manner. In line with other initiatives, such as a complete ban on single-use plastic, this has made Belize a leader in conservation in the Caribbean and even globally.
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has inaugurated the Sir Bani Yas Island Visitor Centre. The centre will serve as a cultural resource for both local and international tourists to learn more about the historic landscape of Sir Bani Yas Island.
The Mount Hood stratovolcano, around two hour’s drive east of Portland, Oregon, is the most transfixing ski destination you’re ever likely to lay eyes on. It’s a perfect snow-topped pyramid, pushing high through the clouds, with a belt of fir trees and pistes that crisscross the forest like strands of a spider’s web. Get closer and you’ll see the pattern is the result of several exciting ski areas: Timberline, Mount Hood Skibowl, Mount Hood Meadows, Summit Ski Area and Cooper Spur. For those who love winter sports, this region always offers another reason to stay longer.