Dive the Blue Hole and Beyond: Turneffe Flats and Placencia Combination Package

Belize’s Great Blue Hole is a magnet for scuba enthusiasts worldwide. Its iconic circular formation, vibrant marine biodiversity, and status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site make it a must-see for divers. With the exclusive combination package offered by Chabil Mar and Turneffe Flats Resort, you can explore Belize’s top dive sites while enjoying unmatched luxury and convenience. This thoughtfully curated package not only places you close to the Blue Hole but also lets you experience the cultural charm of Placencia, Southern Belize’s untouched reefs, and thrilling inland adventures.

Turneffe Flats: Gateway to the Blue Hole

Belize vacation package

Turneffe Atoll, home to Turneffe Flats Resort, is the Caribbean’s largest and most diverse coral atoll. Just an hour’s boat ride from the Blue Hole, it provides unrivaled access to Belize’s premier marine attractions, including Lighthouse Reef, Half Moon Caye, and the legendary Blue Hole. Guests at Turneffe Flats enjoy up to three dives daily, a dedicated day trip to the Blue Hole (weather permitting), and exceptional amenities, including air-conditioned accommodations and all meals. The resort’s proximity to world-class dive sites, combined with its boutique comfort, makes it a dream destination for dedicated divers.

Chabil Mar: Luxury and Adventure in Placencia

Belize Luxury Resort

After exploring Turneffe Atoll, your adventure continues in Placencia, where Chabil Mar awaits. Nestled on a private beach, Chabil Mar offers the perfect mix of elegance and adventure. Dive enthusiasts will marvel at Southern Belize’s spectacular underwater sites, including Glovers Reef Atoll, South Water Caye Marine Reserve, and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve, with packages offering multiple dive excursions.

Placencia offers more than diving—it’s a gateway to authentic Belizean culture and inland wonders. Explore the village’s vibrant streets, savor local cuisine, or venture into the jungle to visit ancient Maya temples or the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Chabil Mar’s luxurious villas, gourmet dining, and tranquil beachfront provide a serene retreat after a day of adventure, ensuring your experience is as relaxing as it is exhilarating.

Dive, Explore, and Unwind

Belize Blue Hole

The combination package offered by Chabil Mar and Turneffe Flats Resort delivers the ultimate Belizean experience for divers and explorers alike. From the depths of the Great Blue Hole to the vibrant reefs of Placencia and the cultural richness of its village, this package offers the best of Belize.

Contact us today to book your Belize diving adventure. Whether you’re diving, exploring, or unwinding, let Chabil Mar and Turneffe Flats take care of every detail while you create memories that last a lifetime.

Visit our website Chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize and Chabil Mar, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.

 

Belizean Fry Jacks Recipe for Foodies!

fry jacks

One of the quintessentially Belizean dishes out there would be fry jacks. While this dish is hardly healthy, it is certainly popular. Resembling mini puff pastries, fry jacks are wads of dough fried to a golden brown. While it remains unclear how they got their name, fry jacks are cherished by  Belizeans.

Why No Belizean Vacation is Complete Without Some Fry Jacks

Fry jacks are more common than sliced bread and a common breakfast combines them with scrambled eggs, refried beans and some sort of cheese. Fry jacks are also a common lunch staple, paired with dishes like rice and beans or stewed chicken.

Where Can You Get Some Fry Jacks? Cafe Mar, Chabil Mar!

At Chabil Mar, we pride ourselves on providing authentically unique flavors and presentations while using the freshest possible ingredients and from-scratch preparations on all dishes. Our Chef Daniel and Marsha, bake our breads every morning, fresh for you, and our Fry Jacks to order for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The ease of preparation of fry jacks means that you can find them in just about any restaurant in Placencia and throughout Belize. 

If you happen to stroll down the beach or hop on an easy 5 minute bike ride into Placencia Village from Chabil Mar for some eats, it’s easy to find a nice family-run and/or beach-front restaurant just minutes away as well.

What is the Best Time of Day for Fry Jacks?

While you can have them for lunch, breakfast is the best time for fry jacks. Remember that you should have them hot and fresh.

What is the Best Way to Eat Fry Jacks?

The fry jack serves the same role as bread on the Belizean plate, working as accompaniment rather than a main dish. A traditional Belizean lunch is fry jacks served with re-fried beans, some sort of meat and cheese. A traditional Belizean breakfast would combine the fry jacks with many of the same things you would put on a pancake, although honey is more easily acquired than maple syrup.

How to Make Belizean Fry Jacks at Home

Fry jacks are a traditional breakfast food paired with either a sweet (honey, jam or powdered sugar) or savory (cheese or refried beans) aspect. Fry jacks are also great for soaking up the sauces and gravies of other savory dishes.

Ingredients

  • Flour, all-purpose, 2 cups
  • Water, 1 cup
  • Salt, 1 tsp
  • Shortening, 1 tbsp
  • Powder, baking, 3 tsp
  • Oil

Directions

  1. Mix the dry ingredients into a bowl.
  2. Cut the shortening into your flour.
  3. Slowly add the water, mixing as you go, until you have a soft, non-sticky dough.
  4. Halve the dough and give it 15-20 minutes rest.
  5. Add flour to your work surface and roll the dough into rounds between 10″ and 20″ in diameter.
  6. Cut the dough into 3″ strips twice, leaving you with the proper size. Fry jacks are commonly made into triangles.
  7. Make a small slit into each piece of dough and then fry each side in very hot oil until the fry jacks reach a golden brown coloring.
  8. Remove from the fryer, garnish as you like and serve.

So there you have it; everything you ever wanted to know about Belize’s version of quick bread and even a recipe to make it yourself. Eat up!

7 Reasons You Cannot Miss the Placencia Sidewalk Festival This Weekend

placencia sidewalk festival

The Placencia Peninsula in southern Belize is a tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and exciting festivals. One of the most anticipated events of the year is the Placencia Sidewalk Festival, which takes place this weekend. Here are seven reasons why you cannot miss this amazing event:

Reason#1

Arts and Culture: The Placencia Sidewalk Festival is a celebration of the arts and culture of Belize. Visitors can enjoy live music, dance performances, and a variety of artistic displays and exhibitions. The festival is a showcase of the country’s rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit event for anyone interested in the arts.

belize music

Reason#2

Music: Music lovers will be in heaven at the Placencia Sidewalk Festival, which features live performances by some of the best musicians in Belize and beyond. The festival offers a diverse lineup of musicians, including reggae, punta, and Garifuna drum performers, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Placencia Lobster Season

Reason#3

Food and Drinks: In addition to the arts and music, the Placencia Sidewalk Festival is also a food lover’s paradise. Visitors can sample a variety of traditional Belizean dishes, as well as international cuisine, and enjoy refreshing drinks at the many street stalls and vendors.
barefoot placencia belize

Reason#4

Family-Friendly Fun: The Placencia Sidewalk Festival is a family-friendly event, perfect for visitors of all ages. Children will love the fun and games, while adults can relax and enjoy the festivities. With so much to see and do, the festival is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Plan A Belize Family Vacation

Reason#5

Scenic Location: The Placencia Sidewalk Festival takes place in the charming village of Placencia, which is known for its beautiful beaches and tropical setting. The festival is held along the main street of the village, offering visitors a chance to explore this picturesque area and experience the local culture.

Reason#6

Exciting Nightlife: After the sun sets, the Placencia Sidewalk Festival comes to life with a variety of nighttime activities, including live music, dancing, and socializing. The festival offers a lively atmosphere that is perfect for meeting new people and making lasting memories.

Reason#7

Great Accommodations: Placencia is home to a variety of fantastic resorts and hotels, making it easy for visitors to find a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Chabil Mar is one of the best resorts to stay in Placencia, offering luxurious accommodations and world-class amenities.

Belize All Inclusive

You don’t want to miss the Placencia Sidewalk Festival! This festival is a vibrant display of arts, culture, music, food, and drinks set in a picturesque location. Regardless of your age, this festival is guaranteed to leave you with unforgettable memories. So, gather your essentials and get ready for a thrilling adventure in Placencia this weekend!

For more information about things to see and do in Belize, feel free to chat with our Concierge at: concierge@chabilmarvillas.com or contact our Reservations Manager at: reservations@chabilmarvillas.com. Or perhaps you would like to call toll free from the US or Canada: 1-866-417-2377.

Find Your Beach Bliss in Belize: Why a 2025 Vacation is a Must

Chabil Mar

Belize, a country renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife, has become a must-visit destination for travelers. Getting to Belize in 2025 is easy as several airlines offer direct flights from North America, making it more accessible than ever.

Once you arrive, head to the Placencia Peninsula on the southern coast, where Chabil Mar awaits. This exquisite beachfront resort is nestled on a pristine beach that stretches along the Caribbean Sea, providing guests with unparalleled access to crystal-clear waters and warm tropical sunshine. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, and the resort offers complimentary use of kayaks and paddleboards for guests who want to explore the shoreline. Whether you want to relax on the beach, take a dip in the Caribbean Sea, or enjoy water sports, Chabil Mar has it all.

Location and Accommodations: A Paradise by the Caribbean Sea

Chabil Mar is conveniently located just a short walk from Placencia Village, a charming and vibrant community known for its colorful architecture, lively music scene, and delicious local cuisine. Guests can easily explore the village and immerse themselves in the local culture during their stay at Chabil Mar.

Find Your Beach Bliss in Belize: Why a 2023 Vacation is a Must

Boasting a diverse range of lavish accommodations, Chabil Mar caters to the needs of every traveler. Whether you’re seeking spacious villas with stunning ocean views, cozy accommodations with private verandas, or a romantic honeymoon suite, the resort has something to offer. Each accommodation option is designed to provide guests with the ultimate in luxury and comfort, ensuring a truly remarkable stay.

Exceptional Service: The Key to a Memorable Stay

Exceptional service is the key to a memorable stay at Chabil Mar. The staff is warm, friendly, and attentive, and they go above and beyond to ensure that each guest feels pampered and cared for throughout their stay. Whether you need assistance with booking excursions or recommendations for local restaurants, the staff at Chabil Mar is always ready to help.

Top Attractions: Explore the Natural Wonders of Belize

Bliss in Belize: Why

One of the biggest draws of Chabil Mar is its proximity to some of the best attractions in Belize. The resort is located just a short distance from top attractions like the Belize Barrier Reef, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, and the ancient Maya ruins of Nim Li Punit or Lubantuum. Guests can easily book tours and excursions through the resort, allowing them to explore the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Belize.

Indulge in the ultimate beach experience at Chabil Mar, where you can unwind and disconnect from daily life while surrounded by natural beauty. Not only is beach vacationing a luxurious experience, but it also provides benefits for the soul. 

Why a 2023 Vacation is a Must

Chabil Mar has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation, from its stunning location and plush accommodations to exceptional service and easy access to top attractions in Belize. Book your stay now and experience the best of what Belize has to offer.

For more information about Belize, feel free to chat with our Concierge at concierge@chabilmarvillas.com or contact our Reservations Manager at reservations@chabilmarvillas.com. Or perhaps you would like to call toll-free from the US or Canada: 1-866-417-2377 or WhatsApp us at +501-633-7547.  

10 Amazing Places To Visit in Belize In 2025

10 amazing places to visit in Belize

For some, the act of taking vacation time presents dilemmas because time spent away from responsibilities comes with too many risks. Happily, that doesn’t have to be the case if you take to heart the advice of seasoned travelers whose business demands usually leave little time for R&R. But if you adopt these 4 tips and choose Belize as your destination, you’ll not only have fun but enjoy every minute.

1. Prioritize: You’ve got only so many days at your vacation spot, so make the most of each one.
2. Do your homework. Researching your destination can turn a holiday stay into pure pleasure.
3. Stick close to home. Travel to Belize in couple of hours means you avoid jet lag.
4. Travel during holidays to add one more day to your stay.

With these tips in mind, plan to visit as many of these 10 Belize stops as your time schedule allows in 2025.

1. The Belize Barrier Reef. As the second longest on the planet, Belize’s Barrier Reef is ideal for scuba diving, fishing, or kayaking at the reef’s edge to observe the wonderland of marine life just below the surface.

The Belize Barrier Reef

2. The Belize Blue Hole. Jacques Cousteau was captivated by this ancient sink hole. You will be too. If a deep dive is too scary to consider, why not grab a helicopter ride to take in this hole’s magnificence from the air?

The Belize Blue Hole

3. Visit Xunantunich and Cahal Pech. Belize is home to 900+ Maya sites and each is unique. Focus your limited time on these two for a taste of the past. If you’re fascinated, you can always add more!

Xunantunich

4. ATM Cave. This underground adventure tickles the imaginations of visitors as they learn more about ancient rituals conducted by Maya priests thousands of years ago from knowledgeable guides.

ATM Cave

5. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Home to the world’s only protected jaguar sanctuary, consider yourself lucky if you spot one of these sleek cats roaming their 150-square mile home turf at the edge of the Maya Mountain chain.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

6. Monkey River. As soon as you approach this body of water, you’ll hear the cries of Howler monkeys emanating from jungle riverbanks. Traverse the entirety of the river and take in Monkey River Town.

Monkey River

7. Silk Cayes. Visitors seeking idyllic snorkeling experiences love this protected marine reserve that’s part of Belize’s Barrier Reef. Located 22 miles off the Placencia peninsula, bring a picnic lunch for an afternoon of bliss.

Silk Cayes

8. Laughing Bird Caye. The gulls for which this island was named have long since migrated to different parts of Belize leaving this haven for human visitors seeking solitude throughout a gorgeous 1.8-acre park.

Laughing Bird Caye

9. Placencia. Considered Belize’s trendiest destination, the Placencia peninsula may measure just 19 miles long and half a mile wide, yet it’s packed with things to do, see, taste and experience, from natural attractions to nightlife and shopping. You’ll save lots of time by sojourning on Placencia if you want to do everything on this list.

placencia

10. Chabil Mar. Is there one resort on the peninsula that stands head and shoulders above the rest? There is: Chabil Mar Resort, the property that never disappoints. Book your 2025 stay early to take advantage of this property’s long list of perks, not the least of which are the fabulous Belize vacation packages and specials that can make a great stay better.

Chabil Mar

Choose the package that suits your vacation dates and interests and even if your time in country is finite, you can still take in all the recommendations on our list thanks to Chabil Mar staffers whose mission – to make certain that every guest gets their fill of Belize’s wonders – is accomplished by the friendliest people you’ve ever encountered, no matter where in the world you have traveled!

Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll-Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.

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