July 2025 - Page 5 of 5 - Chabil Mar Villas

Uncovering the Secrets of the Ancients: The Best Maya Temple Sites to Visit in Belize

Posted on July 3, 2025

Archaeologists affirm that Belize was once the center of the Maya civilization because of the country’s varied flora and fauna and abundance of marine life which was favorable to the growth of the population.

Between 250 AD to 900 AD for example, over one million Maya people lived in present day Belize, and today a treasure trove of sacred caves, beautiful palaces and ball courts can be found throughout Belize.

Here are the top must-see Maya temple sites in Belize:

Xunantunich Maya Temples

In Maya dialect, Xunantunich means “Stone Woman” or “Maiden of the Rock” and this archeaological site is an impressive and magnificent Maya temple that is located outside San Ignacio in the Cayo District. During the Classic period (300-900 AD), Xunantunich was a major ceremonial center and home to 25 temples and palaces.

The largest structure is El Castillo which rises 130 feet from the Plaza floor and provides a breathtaking panorama of the Macal, Mopan and Belize River Valley.

Note: Xunantunich is one of the most visited Maya temple sites in Belize and can be reached by ferry between 8am to 5pm.

Ancient Maya City of Caracol

Caracol is the largest Maya City in Belize and is located on the western edge of the Maya Mountains deep within the Chiquibul Forest Reserve.

The site was discovered in 1938 by loggers and holds the tallest man made structure “Canaa” or “Sky Place” at 140 feet.

Archaeologists estimate that at its highest peak, Caracol was home to 150,000 people. Caracol is 2.5 hours drive from San Ignacio Town and is open from 8am to 5pm.

Cahal Pech Maya Ruins

Located outside of San Ignacio Town, Cahal Pech sits on the crest of a steep hill on the west bank of the Macal River and was first settled sometime around 1200 B.C. and abandoned around 800 -900 A.D.

Cahal Pech means “place of the ticks” and is made up of 34 structures with the tallest being about 25 meters in height and is one of the oldest sites in western Belize.

The site can be visited daily from 8am to 5pm.

Altun Ha

Located 31 miles out of Belize City, Altun Ha meaning “rock stone water” was an ancient Maya city that dates back to 200 B.C. At its peak, over 10,000 people inhabited the area with around 3000 individuals living in the central core of the city.

Altun Ha is comprised of two main plazas and 13 structures including the Temple of Sun God.

Relax and Recharge: Your Guide to a Mindful Getaway in Belize

Posted on July 3, 2025

The modern world can feel like a whirlwind. Emails pile up, schedules overflow and the relentless buzz of notifications rarely leaves us alone. The antidote to this constant rush lies in intentional deceleration, in embracing the unhurried rhythms of life. At Chabil Mar, on the stunning Placencia Peninsula of Belize, you’ll discover an environment crafted for precisely that – the art of slow living.

From Hustle to Harmony

If your days usually resemble a race against the clock, the pace of life in Belize can feel delightfully disorienting at first. Here, time stretches out languidly. Clocks may tick, but they don’t dictate schedules. Instead, the rhythm of your days is set by the rising and setting sun, the soft shush of the waves, and the warm caress of the sea breeze. At Chabil Mar, this unhurried atmosphere infuses everything, from the gentle hospitality to the resort’s thoughtfully designed spaces.

Rediscovering Simple Pleasures

Slow living is about savoring the present, and at Chabil Mar, the opportunities for mindful enjoyment abound. Here are just a few ways to embrace the resort’s unhurried pace:

Beachfront Bliss

Sink your toes into the sugar-soft sand, let the sun warm your skin, and lose yourself in the mesmerizing rhythm of the waves. There’s no agenda here, just the simple pleasure of being.

Culinary Adventures

Belizean cuisine is a vibrant blend of flavors and cultures. Savor fresh seafood, slow-cooked meats, and exotic fruits at Chabil Mar’s Cafe Mar, giving each bite your full attention.

Exploring at Your Own Pace

Whether you want to wander through Placencia Village’s colorful streets, kayak through tranquil mangroves, or snorkel the vibrant barrier reef, the choice is yours. Adventure awaits, but always on your terms.

Unplug and Reset

The true art of slow living often involves disconnecting from the digital distractions vying for our attention. At Chabil Mar, your luxurious villa provides a haven of tranquility, free from the constant buzz of notifications. Put your devices aside and let your mind unwind. Instead of scrolling, rediscover the simple joys of reading a good book, stargazing, or just listening to the rustling of palm fronds.

Your Invitation to Slow Down

The beauty of slow living is that you can define it for yourself. At Chabil Mar, we provide the perfect canvas for your relaxation journey. Whether you crave moments of pure stillness or gentle exploration, whether you want to indulge in gourmet dining or simply linger over a freshly brewed cup of Belizean coffee, the possibilities are endless.

So, take a deep breath and let go. Surrender to the unhurried pace of life in this tropical paradise. Allow yourself to be fully present and give yourself the precious gift of time. At Chabil Mar, slow living isn’t just a trend – it’s our way of life, and we invite you to experience its restorative power.

For more information about Placencia, 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.

The Best Rums in Belize

Posted on July 3, 2025

Perhaps one of the most popular and iconic locally-made drinks in Belize is rum. Made from the abundant sugar cane crop that still plays an important role in the domestic economy, rum is a distilled spirit that pairs excellently with fresh, locally-grown fruits to create unforgettable cocktails or can be consumed neat. Famed throughout the region for its high quality and smooth taste, Belizean rum is something that every visitor is encouraged to try.

Currently, two different domestic manufacturers offer an excellent selection of fine rum in Belize.

Cuello’s Distillery

Founded more than 70 years ago, Cuello is a family-owned and operated business. Based in the town of Orange Walk in the heart of Belize’s sugar cane farming region, Cuello was founded by Ignacio Cuello, a master blender and distiller who later trained his sons in the secrets of how to produce high-quality rum and other spirits. Cuello has their own festive theme song that was composed by celebrated local artist Lord Rhaburn, and the labels on all of their rum varieties celebrate Belizean culture.

Cuello’s signature rum products include:

Caribbean White Rum
Caribbean Rum (Dark)
Caribbean Gold Rum
Extra Strong Rum
Caribbean Coconut Rum

Travellers Liquor

Founded in 1953 by master blender Omario Perdomo, Travellers is the manufacturer of what is perhaps the most famous rum in Belize: One Barrel. A simple gold rum with a smooth finish, One Barrel is a popular choice with both visitors and locals alike. With a fresh, tropical scent, One Barrel rum has natural hints of passion fruit, hibiscus, and papaya.

Travellers Liquor is named for its early success in supplying travelers to and from Belize City with a fine assortment of distilled spirits. Travellers is renowned in Belize for using only high-test molasses, carefully fermented according to traditional practices. Travellers is also the only beverage producer in the country to make liqueurs and wines made from local fruits.

Located in Belmopan, the capital of Belize, Travellers use only local molasses to ferment and then distill their rum using a triple column still. The rum is then carefully aged and bottled in Belize City.

A few of Travellers’ most popular rum varieties include:

Don Omario Vintage Rum
Aged Dark Rum
Classic Gold Rum
Cristal Parrot Lite Rum
Classic White Rum
Kuknat Rum (made with coconuts)

Copalli

Copalli is among the best rum brand available not only in Belize but also in the world. Their organic single estate rum is sustainably crafted with only three ingredients in the heart of the rainforest in Southern Belize. A few of Copalli’s most popular rums include:

The Copalli White Rum

After fermenting the fresh-pressed sugar cane juice, the Copalli white rum distills in both a pot and column stills before blending the two distillates. This is followed by the resting of the finished product in stainless steel. This creates a smooth white rum that’s as good served straight on the rocks or in a cocktail such as a daiquiri.

The Copalli Barrel Rested Rum

First, Copalli ferment the fresh-pressed sugar cane juice then they double distill it in their full-bodied pot still before resting it in American Oak used bourbon barrels. The result is a rich, sweet high-quality rum that tastes delicious, and neat and is a powerful and flavorful base for your favorite rum cocktail.

The Copalli Cocoa Rum

Copalli takes their delicious Copalli white rum, place it into a tank to rest with roasted, 100% organic cacao nibs grown on the neighboring Copal Tree Farm. Over several weeks, the cacao nibs infuse a rich chocolate flavor and aroma into the rum, which is then redistilled to create a smooth finished premium product that is delicious on the rocks or for your favorite rum cocktail recipes.

Big Titty Rum

Rum and pirates color the history of the entire Caribbean and Belize is no exception. Pirates gave pet names to the rums of various ports of call. Legend has it that pirates amused by the local practice of mothers dribbling rum on their breasts to calm teething babies named Belize rum “titty rum”. Big Titty Rum honors this fine tradition.

Big Titty Rum is more than just a cute name. They take this craft seriously. But, in matters of taste, there can be no dispute.

Savor a Rum Cocktail at Chabil Mar

If you’re interested in sampling one of Belize’s classic rum formulations, the bar at the Chabil Mar resort in Placencia offers a full complement of delicious cocktails made from 100% Belizean rum. Travelers and guests interested in trying Belizean rum or other locally-made spirits should inquire at the bar in Chabil Mar.

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.

Why Placencia, Belize Is an Epic Getaway for Outdoor Adventure

Posted on July 3, 2025

Calling all adventurers! If your heart yearns for sun-soaked days filled with thrilling escapades amidst breathtaking natural beauty, then look no further than Placencia, Belize. This charming peninsula isn’t just a beach bum’s paradise; it’s a playground for those who crave outdoor excitement. From exploring the underwater wonders of the Belize Barrier Reef to venturing into lush jungles teeming with wildlife, Placencia offers an adventure for every taste. So, pack your sense of adventure, slap on some sunscreen, and get ready to experience the best of Belize’s great outdoors.

Prepare to have your breath taken away – literally! Placencia’s proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef makes it a prime destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-timer with a snorkel mask, the reef’s vibrant coral gardens, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters will leave you in awe. Swim alongside colorful fish, spot graceful sea turtles, and even encounter playful dolphins or gentle nurse sharks. For the truly adventurous, exploring underwater caves and the iconic Great Blue Hole is an experience of a lifetime.

If you prefer to stay closer to the surface, grab a kayak or paddleboard and embark on an unforgettable journey through Placencia’s mangrove forests. These intricate ecosystems are a haven for wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for herons, egrets, and even the occasional manatee. The calm waters and winding channels make for a peaceful and scenic paddle, and you might even discover hidden lagoons or secluded beaches along the way.

Set sail for Laughing Bird Caye National Park, a tiny island paradise surrounded by a vibrant coral reef. This picturesque caye offers a tranquil escape from the mainland, where you can spend your day snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, marveling at the colorful fish and coral formations. Relax on the sandy beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy a picnic lunch while surrounded by the beauty of the Caribbean Sea. Laughing Bird Caye is a true gem, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

But the adventures don’t stop at the water’s edge. Lace up your hiking boots and venture into the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, a lush rainforest known for its impressive biodiversity. This protected area is home to jaguars, ocelots, pumas, and a plethora of bird species. Hike through the jungle trails, listen to the sounds of the rainforest, and keep your camera ready to capture the incredible wildlife encounters that await. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the elusive jaguar, the largest cat in the Americas.

For a taste of history and adventure, explore the ancient Maya ruins and cave systems that dot Belize’s landscape. Discover the secrets of the Maya civilization as you wander through impressive temples, palaces, and ballcourts. Venture into the depths of mysterious caves, adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, and learn about their significance in Maya culture. These archaeological wonders offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and a unique opportunity to connect with Belize’s rich heritage.

Chabil Mar: Your Adventure Basecamp

After a day of exploring Belize’s natural wonders, return to the comfort and luxury of Chabil Mar, your home away from home on the Placencia Peninsula. Our beachfront resort offers a range of villas and amenities designed to cater to your every need. Relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or simply savor the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you arrange all your adventure activities, ensuring you have a seamless and unforgettable experience in Placencia.

Whether you’re seeking underwater thrills, jungle treks, or simply a chance to unwind in a tropical paradise, Placencia, Belize, has it all. With its diverse landscape, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, this charming peninsula is an adventurer’s dream come true. So, what are you waiting for? Embrace the call of the wild and embark on your next epic getaway to Placencia.

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.

Month: July 2025

Uncovering the Secrets of the Ancients: The Best Maya Temple Sites to Visit in Belize