Chabil Mar Resort - Belize Blog, Belize Vacation Planning

Belize – Adventure Awaits for Reunions of All Ages

Posted on March 26, 2025

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding time to reconnect with family can be challenging. Family reunions are not just gatherings; they are a celebration of roots, a bridge to our past, and a foundation for future generations. They offer a unique opportunity to reinforce family bonds, share stories, create new memories, and instill a sense of belonging, especially for the younger members. In a world where we are increasingly disconnected, a family reunion is a refreshing reminder of the warmth and support that family brings.

Belize: A Paradise for Family Adventures

When it comes to choosing a destination that caters to varied interests and ages, Belize stands out as a gem. This nation is a playground for adventure and relaxation. Unlike the typical tourist spots, Belize offers a blend of rich cultural experiences and natural wonders, making it an exceptional choice for families seeking an extraordinary reunion.

Discovering Placencia and Nearby Attractions

Placencia, a tranquil yet lively village in southern Belize, is the heart of your family adventure. Known for its breathtaking beaches and friendly locals, Placencia is more than a destination; it’s an experience. Here, families can bond over various activities that cater to all ages.

Exploring the Belize Barrier Reef

The Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers families an unparalleled opportunity to bond through exploration and discovery. Among the most captivating spots within this aquatic marvel are Laughing Bird Caye and the Silk Cayes, where snorkeling and diving transform into an educational and rejuvenating journey for both kids and adults.

Laughing Bird Caye

This national park, named for the laughing gulls nesting there, is a hidden gem within the Belize Barrier Reef. As families snorkel in the clear, shallow waters, they are greeted by an array of colorful marine life, from vibrant corals to playful schools of fish. The calm waters make it a safe and enjoyable spot for children and beginners, ensuring everyone can partake in the underwater exploration. The caye’s unique position also offers an opportunity to learn about the delicate balance of marine ecosystems, turning a fun day into an insightful experience.

Silk Cayes

These small islands are a tropical paradise and a snorkeling haven. The crystal-clear waters around the Silk Cayes are home to an astounding variety of sea creatures, including turtles, rays, and an assortment of tropical fish. Diving here allows for deeper exploration, where more experienced family members can delve into the wonders of the reef. The Silk Cayes also provide an excellent opportunity to educate the family about marine conservation, as the area plays a crucial role in the reef’s health and sustainability.

Exploring Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Monkey River

One of the most exhilarating experiences for a family reunion in Belize is exploring the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and the Monkey River through river tubing and jungle tours. These adventures are more than just excursions; they are a gateway to the heart of Belize’s natural wonders, suitable for every family member, regardless of age.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Known as the world’s first jaguar preserve, this sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to explore Belize’s diverse ecosystem. River tubing here is an adventure that combines relaxation with the thrill of potentially spotting exotic wildlife like jaguars, ocelots, and a myriad of bird species. It’s not just about the animals; the rich flora and serene environment contribute to a truly immersive experience. The gentle flow of the river ensures a safe yet adventurous journey, making it perfect for all ages.

Monkey River Tour

This tour takes you through the meandering Monkey River, nestled amidst lush greenery. As you glide along the river, keep an eye out for troops of howler monkeys, known for their distinctive calls that echo through the forest. This tour is not only about spotting monkeys; it’s a comprehensive nature experience where you might see crocodiles sunning on the riverbanks, countless bird species, and a variety of other wildlife. The guides are knowledgeable and engage with stories and facts about the local ecosystem, making it an educational experience for kids and adults alike.

Cultural Village Tours: Discovering Seine Bight and Garifuna Culture

For families looking to enrich their reunion with cultural depth and understanding, the cultural village tours in Belize are a must-do. A highlight of these tours is a visit to Seine Bight, a village that is a vibrant hub of Garifuna culture. These tours are more than just sightseeing; they offer a profound glimpse into the traditions, cuisine, and daily life of the local communities.

Seine Bight and Garifuna Culture

Seine Bight, located on the Placencia Peninsula, is a living showcase of the Garifuna culture, recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. As families stroll through the village, they encounter the rich tapestry of Garifuna history reflected in their music, dance, and art. Engaging in drumming sessions or watching traditional dance performances not only entertains but also educates visitors about the Garifuna’s unique cultural identity and their historical journey.

Culinary Experiences and Traditional Practices

A significant aspect of the cultural village tours is the opportunity to indulge in authentic Garifuna cuisine. Families can participate in interactive cooking classes where they learn to prepare traditional dishes like Hudut (a savory fish and coconut stew) and Cassava Bread. These culinary experiences provide a delicious and hands-on way to connect with the local culture.

Connecting with the Community

belize-garifuna-settlement-day-belize — Photo credit: Lebawit L. Girma

What truly makes these tours special is the chance to interact with the residents of Seine Bight. Engaging in conversations, sharing stories, and participating in their daily activities allows families to gain a genuine understanding of the local way of life. It’s an opportunity to see the world from a different perspective and to teach younger family members the value of cultural diversity and respect.

Chabil Mar: Your Ideal Family-Friendly Resort

As the day ends, families need a comfortable, welcoming place to rest, and Chabil Mar is just that. Nestled in Placencia Village, Chabil Mar is more than a resort; it’s a home away from home. With its family-friendly amenities, exceptional service, and warm ambiance, it’s the perfect base for your family reunion.

Accommodations for Everyone

Chabil Mar offers a range of accommodations to suit every family’s needs. Whether it’s spacious villas for large families or cozy rooms for couples, the comfort of our guests is our top priority.

Activities for All Ages

The resort organizes various activities that cater to different interests and ages, ensuring that everyone in the family has something to enjoy.

A Taste of Belizean Cuisine

Our on-site restaurant offers a range of local and international dishes, crafted to cater to diverse palates, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for the entire family.

Belize, with its unique combination of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, is an ideal destination for family reunions. And within this paradise, Chabil Mar stands as the perfect family-friendly resort, ensuring that your family reunion is not just a gathering, but a memorable experience that strengthens the bonds that tie your family together. Come, explore, and create lifelong memories with us at Chabil Mar.

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.

Five Hottest Best Things to Do in Belize for Easter

Posted on March 26, 2025

Easter Break is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in Belize, with over 80% of the population identifying as Christian. It’s a time when schools and many businesses close, giving Belizeans the perfect opportunity to travel, explore, and soak in the natural beauty of the country.

With ideal weather, Easter is a fantastic time for adventure. It’s prime season for diving with whale sharks, snorkeling the turquoise waters of the Belize Barrier Reef, exploring the legendary Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, or climbing the majestic Xunantunich Maya Temples.

Travelers often head south to the stunning Placencia Peninsula to relax on white sandy beaches or journey inland to the Cayo District to experience the Cross Country Cycling Race—the biggest sporting event in Belize, held every Holy Saturday.

If you’re planning to be in Belize for Easter and wondering what to do, here are 5 unforgettable experiences to consider:

Watch the Cross-Country Cycling Race

The Cross Country Cycling Race is a one day cycling race that is held every Easter on Holy Saturday in Belize. It is the biggest cycling event in the country with an estimated distance of some 140 miles. The race has been going since 1928 and its origin has roots in the colonial era when Belizeans had to cycle from village to village to watch sporting events like cricket and football matches.

Visit Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

The ATM Cave is one of the most popular tours in Belize and visitors to this cave attest that the experience is not only breathtaking but also one of a kind. The cave is located in the karstic limestone terrain of Roaring Creek Valley in Cayo and is approximately 5 km long and contains a perennial stream that runs through it including a ledge with twostelae and a large chamber full of intact human remains and Maya pots.

According to Jaime Awe, Director of Archaeology , the ATM Cave was a sacred place to the Maya who utilized the cave during the classic period AD 250-909.

This Easter Break is a good chance to explore and learn more about the remarkable history of this cave.

Dive or Snorkel with Whale Sharks

Easter Break is an excellent time to snorkel or dive with the magnificent whale sharks at the Gladden Spit Marine Reserve near Placencia Belize. The giant whale sharks are attracted to this reserve by the spawn of the mutton and cuberra snapper which they enjoy eating.

For those who do not know, the whale sharks are the largest fish in the world and one of the largest creatures of any kind alive today. Despite their size, whale sharks are remarkably gentle and curious and thus swimming with them is a special treat for divers and snorkelers.

Spend a weekend in Placencia

Placencia was recently nominated as one of the best beach destinations in the Caribbean by Turopia, a popular travel blog in the world and is an ideal eco-destination to enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, deep sea fishing, diving and even exploring Maya ruins.

ChabilMar, a guest exclusive resort is located right on the beach and can serve as a base to explore the natural attractions in Placencia and surrounding areas.

Visit Xunantunich and Cahal Pech Maya Ruins in Cayo District

Xunantunich and Cahal Pech Maya Ruins are the most visited Maya sites in the Cayo District.

Xunantunich is located atop a ridge above theMopan River and served as a Maya civic ceremonial center in the late terminal Classic periods to the Belize Valley region. Xunantunich’s name means “stone woman” in the Maya language and “El Castillo”, the largest pyramid offers an impressive and panoramic view of the area.

Cahal Pech, one of the oldest recognizable Maya sites in Belize dates back to 1200 BCE and was home to an elite Maya family. The site consists of 34 structures with the tallest temple being about 25 meters in height which is situated around a central acropolis.

According to archaeologists, the site was abandoned in the 9th century CE for unknown reasons.

For more information about the adventures, tours, and excursions available to our guests from Placencia and Chabil Mar, chat with our Concierge at: concierge@chabilmarvillas.com or contact our Reservations Manager at: reservations@chabilmarvillas.com. Perhaps you would like to call toll free from the US or Canada: 1-866-417-2377.

Your Guide to Arriving at Belize’s International Airport

Posted on March 26, 2025

International flights to Belize arrive at the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) located in Ladyville, about 10 miles from Belize City. The airport is easy to navigate as it has only one terminal and one runway. This guide will give you all the information you need to make your trip through the airport a breeze. The airport’s phone number is +(501) 225-2045.

Airlines flying to Belize

The following airlines fly into the Philip Goldson International Airport:
– Air Canada Rouge
– American Airlines
– Delta Airlines
– Southwest Airlines
– United Airlines
– WestJet
– Maya Island Air
– Tropic Air
– Copa Airlines
-JetBlue
-Sun Country
– TACA – Avianca El Salvador
– TAG – Transportes Aereos Guatemaltecos

Travel within Belize is possible via Tropic Air and Maya Island Air, as well as via bus and water taxi services.

Tourists over age 11 are required to pay a departure tax of $59.25 when leaving the country.

Arrival at BZE

As the airplane prepares for landing, enjoy gorgeous views of the coast and mangroves. If you fill out your paperwork before landing, you will save time. Brace yourself when you see the Belize river as the landing will be hard and fast.

Since there are no jetways, you’ll deplane onto the tarmac. Sometimes being in the back of the aircraft works to your advantage, both front and back doors may be used.

The ground crew will guide you to the terminal. Make sure to have your passport and travel documents ready for Immigration. There is a Belize Tourism Board office at the end of the hall where you can find free maps, brochures, and travel guides.

Immigration

You must have a valid passport. Visitors from North America don’t need a visa and should use one of the left lines.

Baggage Claim and Customs

Your longest wait will probably be at Baggage Claim, as two carousels serve all flights. If you don’t see your bag, you can check out the duty-free shops while you wait.

Once you have your bags, go through customs. If you have nothing to declare, there is a line for you that will move faster. Otherwise, customs inspectors will examine your luggage.

Overall, the entire process of deplaning can take as long as an hour, so make sure to allocate at least that amount of time if you have to catch a connecting flight or other transportation.

Best Place to Stay in Placencia

The best place to stay if you are traveling to Placencia? Chabil Mar Villas. Set right on the beach, with access to a pristine private beach and dock, the resort provides luxury and comfort in a gorgeous natural setting.

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.

Belize’s Chocolate Festival: A Must-Attend Event in 2025

Posted on March 26, 2025

Belize’s Chocolate Festival is an annual event that attracts chocolate lovers from all over the world. The festival is a celebration of Belize’s rich history with cacao, a fruit that was once used as currency. The festival has evolved into a showcase of local chocolatiers from across the country, selling desserts, dishes, and artisan crafts.

The festival will take place in Punta Gorda from May 16th to 18th, 2025, and promises to be a fun-filled weekend of competitions, family-friendly activities, and live music shows. Visitors can expect to learn about sustainable tourism efforts in the district and experience the diverse southern region of Belize.

The highlight of the festival is the finale held at the sacred Maya site of Nim Li Punit. It’s an excellent opportunity to witness the beauty of the Maya culture while enjoying the delicious taste of chocolate. The festival is a must-attend event for any chocolate lover.

For those attending the festival, Chabil Mar in Placencia, Belize, is an excellent choice for accommodations. The resort offers luxurious accommodations and is located just a short drive from Punta Gorda. Guests can experience the unique culture of the southern region of Belize while enjoying the resort’s amenities.

During the festival, visitors can sample chocolate from all over Belize, including locally-made artisanal chocolate. The festival is also an opportunity to learn about the history of cacao in Belize and its importance to the local economy.

In addition to the festival’s chocolate-centric activities, visitors can explore the surrounding area of Punta Gorda, including the stunning waterfalls and Maya ruins. The region is known for its lush jungles and vibrant wildlife, making it an ideal destination for eco-tourism.

The Chocolate Festival of Belize is a celebration of the country’s culture and history, as well as a showcase of its delicious chocolate. It’s an event that should not be missed by any chocolate lover. Book your trip to Punta Gorda for May 16th and 18th, 2025, and experience the sweetest festival in Belize.

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.

8 Hidden Gems around Belize You Need to Visit

Posted on March 26, 2025

In almost every corner you visit in Belize, you will encounter something beautiful – a Maya site, a diverse culture, a pristine nature reserve. The charming beauty of Belize is one of a kind and will certainly entice you to become one with Belize as the Belize Tourism Board alludes.

Below, we share with you 8 hidden gems that in our opinion are top attractions in the country that you must explore on a Belize vacation.

Xunantunich

Xunantunich is the most visited Maya sites in the Cayo District and is located atop a ridge above the Mopan River in the quaint village of San Jose Succotz in western Belize. The site served as a Maya civic ceremonial center in the late terminal Classic periods to the Belize Valley region and Xunantunich’s name means “stone woman” in the Maya language.

“El Castillo”, the largest pyramid offers an impressive and panoramic view of the area.

Monkey River

The Village of Monkey River is habitat to a plethora of flora and fauna and as a result it has been rated as one of the top destinations to visit in Southern Belize. Tropical birds, butterflies, crocodiles, iguanas, and of course howler monkeys are just a few of the wildlife that you will find encounter in this hidden gem.

Laughing Bird Caye

Laughing Bird Caye is an elegant and stunning Belizean Isle that is located 11 miles from Placencia Village and serves as an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. In fact, many travelers who vacation in Placencia visit this gorgeous piece of paradise for a full day of diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking and even picnicking.

Laughing Bird Caye got its name from the Laughing Gulls – the birds that once used to breed on the Caye, however due to a growing human presence, the colonies moved to a nearby undisturbed Caye for breeding. Presently, the Island is home to a number of exotic birds like the brown pelican, green heron, and melodious blackbird.

Placencia

Over the years, Placencia has been recognized as one of the best beach destinations not only in Belize but in the Caribbean, and this exquisite hidden gem can serve as a base to a potpourri of adventures like snorkeling, diving, deep sea fishing, hiking, and even exploring ancient Maya cities.

ChabilMar, a guest exclusive resort is located right on the beach and their professional staff can assist you in arranging tours to the natural attractions in Placencia and surrounding areas.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Cockscomb Basin is recognized globally as the world’s first jaguar preserve and this hidden gem has been voted by travelers as a must see nature reserve in Belize.

Cascading waterfalls, panoramic mountain views, nature trails, furry mammals, colorful insects, scaly reptiles and a variety of tropical birds are just a few of the things you will see at this sanctuary. Cockscomb Basin is also home to one of Belize’s highest points — Victoria Peak.

Half Moon Caye in Belize

Another hidden gem in Belize that a lot of travelers do not know about is Half Moon Caye. This incredible caye offers divers the chance to go on a wall dive – a dive in which the vertical facades of the earth’s landmasses are explored. The depths at Half Moon Caye (and really at any wall dive) are tremendous, giving divers the very correct feeling that you are staring into an abyss.

The waters of this beautiful gem are particularly clear, despite the depth, so you will be able to see all manner of wildlife, including loggerhead turtles, rays, barracuda, and eels.

Great Blue Hole

The world famous Blue Hole is an incomparable natural wonder in Belize. It is located at the center of Lighthouse Reef and measures 1000 feet across and 412 feet deep. Giant stalactites, dripstone sheets and columns, and colorful marine life are the enchanting geological wonders that will fascinate you if you decide to dive this gem in Belize.

It is interesting to note that Jacques-Yves Coustea, the popular ocean explorer revealed the secrets of the Blue Hole to millions of viewers in 1971 through the television serious The Undersea World of Jacques-Yves Coustea.

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

Actun Tunichil Muknal or the ATM Cave as it is locally known is one of the most breathtaking caving experiences you will have in Belize. The cave is located in the karstic limestone terrain of Roaring Creek Valley in the Cayo District and is approximately 5 km long and contains a perennial stream that runs through it including a ledge with two stelae and a large chamber full of intact human remains and Maya pots.

Jaime Awe, Director of Archeology asserts that Actun Tunichil Muknal was a sacred place to the Maya who utilized the cave during the classic period AD 250-909.

For more information about traveling to 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.