On February 2025, Placencia Village will host the 20th annual Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival. The central sidewalk in town will be filled with photographs, paintings, crafts, vendors, clothing, wood carvings, sculptures, and homemade jewelry. With a wide variety of games, drinks, live music, and poetry readings, this popular festival celebrates the very best of Belizean arts and culture.
Beginning at 10:00 am, the streets will come alive as artists and artisans from around Belize and the entire region come to display their masterpieces, handicrafts, and homemade works all along the central sidewalk in Placencia.
You Should Definitely Attend The Placencia Sidewalk Arts & Music Festival
Family and friends will find plenty to do and see as they stroll from one end of the world’s narrowest main street (just four feet wide) to the other, with over 4,000 feet of the festival featuring colorful art, games, live music, and mouthwatering food.
Watch this video and get a scoop on the festival:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXssHYMRIf0
The Placencia Sidewalk Arts and Musical Festival is a fantastic event to shop for Belizean art and explore the country’s vivacious music scene.
For more information on the Sidewalk Arts and Musical Festival, 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.
Belize is a rather unique Central American country in that its official language is English. This means that more and more North American people are considering it a premier vacation spot. Whether you are a family, planning your honeymoon, looking for some solo adventure, or want to plan a getaway with your spouse, Belize is sure to have something for you.
Below are 7 things Belize is best known for.
Belize is a popular vacation destination
Belize is world-renowned as a popular tourism destination. It has five different environments to satisfy any sort of vacation spot. It is also a tropical paradise that does not require fluency in Spanish to truly enjoy.
Belize is the heartland of the ancient Maya empire
Belize is known for being the heartland of the Maya empire. The carbon dating of relics and sites indicates that the Maya are as old as 2,600 BCE. Belize is also home to the most number of Maya ruins in the region.
Belize is the least populated country in Central America
Belize is known for having the least population in Central America and having a potpourri of cultures. Despite being the home to less than 390,000 people in this country, you can encounter people directly descended from the Ancient Maya, the Afro-Indian Garifuna, Latinos, Chinese, and even Mennonites.
Belize is known for having the only jaguar preserve in the world
Belize is known for having the only jaguar preserve in the world. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is a picturesque conservation center in the middle of gorgeous forests and waterfalls. It has also served as the planet’s only nature preserve for jaguars, the smallest of the big cats.
Belize is known for having one of the largest sinkholes in the world
Belize is known for having one of the largest sinkholes in the world. The Great Blue Hole is a giant underwater sinkhole that spans 1,043 feet across and 407 feet deep. This happens to be one of the country’s more iconic landmarks due to its distinct coloring when contrasted to the waters of the Caribbean Sea and as a regular tourist spot for divers and fans of sea life.
Belize is known for its pristine jungles and rainforests
Belize is known for pristine jungles and rainforests. Roughly half of the entire country is covered in jungle and 80% of Belize’s rainforests are protected by the government. These moist, forested regions serve as the home of jaguars, tapirs, crocodiles, ocelots, more than 500 species of birds, and thousands of flowers.
Belize is known for having the second-largest barrier reef in the world
Belize is known for having the largest barrier reef in the northern hemisphere. While everyone knows Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest barrier reef on the planet and attracts over 260,000 people a year to dive and fish.
If any of these many activities and sites grab your interest you will need somewhere to stay. If you happen to be vacationing in Placencia, Belize, may we recommend Chabil Mar Villas? Chabil Mar can provide you with the top amenities and accommodations so that your relaxation is just as excellent as your thrilling moments.
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.
While much of the world faces the harsh chill of winter, Belize remains a haven of warmth and sunshine. From January to April, when icy winds and gray skies dominate many northern climates, Belize offers an idyllic escape. Whether you’re dreaming of relaxing on golden beaches, exploring lush jungles, or diving into crystal-clear waters, this stretch of the year is the perfect time to experience everything Belize has to offer. At Chabil Mar, we invite you to discover why our slice of paradise is the ultimate destination for your winter getaway.
Belize Weather: January to April
Belize’s weather during the winter months is nothing short of perfection. From January through April, the country enjoys its dry season, characterized by sunny skies, warm temperatures, and minimal rainfall. Daytime highs average between 80°F and 85°F, while evenings bring a gentle coolness, dropping to around 70°F. This balance of warmth and breezy nights creates an atmosphere that’s both invigorating and relaxing.
January marks the height of the dry season, with abundant sunshine and cool breezes. For visitors, this is an excellent time to explore Belize’s natural beauty without the inconvenience of rain. February continues this trend, offering calm seas that are perfect for snorkeling, diving, or fishing. By March and April, the days are slightly warmer, but the low humidity ensures that every adventure, whether on land or at sea, remains comfortable.
Unlike other tropical destinations that experience sweltering heat or heavy downpours during this time of year, Belize’s climate is ideal for outdoor activities. It’s a time when you can enjoy everything from hiking ancient Maya ruins to sipping a cold drink by the beach without worrying about extreme weather conditions.
Escape Harsh Winters for Belize’s Endless Summer
While the northern hemisphere shivers under the weight of winter, Belize is a world apart. January to April are some of the harshest months in North America and beyond, with snowstorms, icy roads, and bone-chilling temperatures. Belize, by contrast, offers the antidote to winter fatigue. The warmth of the sun, the gentle rhythm of the waves, and the vibrant colors of nature come together to create a setting that feels like summer all year long.
For travelers escaping the cold, Belize provides the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Picture yourself lounging on the beach in Placencia, the soft sand beneath your feet, and the turquoise sea stretching out before you. The stress of winter fades away as you let the gentle breeze and tropical warmth soothe your senses. For those seeking a more active escape, Belize’s clear, calm waters and lush landscapes are waiting to be explored. From snorkeling at Laughing Bird Caye to kayaking in Placencia Lagoon, the opportunities for outdoor enjoyment are endless.
As spring approaches in March and April, many northern regions still endure unpredictable weather. In Belize, however, these months bring uninterrupted sunshine, making it an excellent time for vacations. With vibrant marine life and blooming tropical flowers, March and April showcase Belize’s natural beauty at its finest.
Chabil Mar: Your Perfect Winter Escape
At Chabil Mar, we understand the importance of finding the perfect retreat during the winter months. Located in Placencia, our luxurious beachfront resort offers everything you need to make the most of Belize’s idyllic weather. Our private villas provide the perfect blend of comfort and style, allowing you to unwind in a space that feels like your own personal sanctuary.
Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool, enjoy a private dinner under the stars, or explore Belize’s many attractions, Chabil Mar is here to make your stay unforgettable. We offer personalized experiences that cater to your desires, whether it’s arranging a boat tour to nearby cayes or setting up a guided trip to explore Maya ruins. From January to April, Placencia serves as an incredible base for experiencing Belize’s warm weather, vibrant culture, and natural wonders.
The sunny skies and mild temperatures of Belize’s winter season create an atmosphere that’s both rejuvenating and inspiring. At Chabil Mar, you’ll find not just a place to stay, but a sanctuary where you can relax, explore, and create lasting memories.
Make Chabil Mar Your Winter Escape
If you’re ready to leave the cold behind and embrace the warmth and beauty of Belize, January to April is the perfect time to visit. The dry season offers ideal weather for both relaxation and adventure, while Placencia provides the perfect mix of charm and natural splendor. At Chabil Mar, we’re here to ensure that your winter escape is everything you’ve dreamed of and more.
Contact us today to book your stay and discover why Belize is the ultimate destination for your winter getaway. Whether you’re escaping the snow or simply seeking a change of pace, Chabil Mar is ready to welcome you to paradise.
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.
Caracol is one of the most interesting and well-preserved ancient Maya sites in Belize. Previously known as Uxwitza (“Three Water Hill”) to the ancient Maya, the current name of the site was coined in 1938 when the local British head archeologist dubbed it Caracol (Spanish for “Snail Shell”) on account of the curving access road that leads to the site.
Far bigger than even Belize City, Caracol once housed up to 180,000 people at the height of the city’s power. Caracol dominated the ancient Maya geopolitical world, variously allying or fighting against other city-states, including Naranjo and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tikal that is currently located just across the border in neighboring Guatemala.
The most famous building in Caracol is the Canaa (“Sky Palace). An enormous period that contains four palaces and three temples, Canaa is still the tallest building in the country at 141 feet (43 meters) high. Other important buildings and items discovered in Caracol include 24 religious altars, three large ball court, five big plazas, 24 carved stelae, reservoirs, causeways, and a very advanced astronomical observatory. A total of 35,000 lesser buildings have also been identified in Caracol along with more than 100 tombs.
Due to its enormous footprint (some 75 square miles), much of Caracol is still awaiting further excavation. A 2009 aerial survey was used to create a 3D map of how the city stands, including large sections of causeway and agricultural terraces that still lie buried in the jungle. The remote location of Caracol in the foothills of the Maya Mountains in southwest Belize also add to the difficulty of performing large-scale archeological work.
Caracol rose to the height of its power during the Maya classic period but the city seems to have been abandoned around the year 1050 for unknown reasons relating to the wide scale collapse of Maya civilization in the area. Once reclaimed by the jungle, the city was accidentally rediscovered in 1938 by a local logger named Rosa Mai who was in the area searching for mahogany trees.
Today, Caracol is located approximately 25 miles south of San Ignacio in the western Cayo District of Belize. The site of Caracol is within the Chiquibul Forest Reserve and is surrounded by both primary and secondary tropical rain forest. The abundance of carved stelae, altars, markers in ball courts, walls, and capstones have allowed archaeologists to accurately document the history of the city, including a monumental military victory of Tikal in the year 562 AD.
Chabil Mar in Placencia Belize & Caracol Mayan Ruins
Chabil Mar resort on the Placencia Peninsula is close to all of the most exciting mainland destinations in Belize. Guests of the resort can include a visit to Caracol Mayan Ruins as part of one of Chabil Mar’s fantastic Belize Reef & Jungle vacation packages.
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.
Few people might think of beer as one of the most enjoyable parts of a vacation in Belize, but the small Central American nation has a proud history of brewing delicious local lagers.
Perhaps the most famous brewer in Belize is Belikin Beer. With their distinctive logo featuring the ancient Maya site of Altun Ha, Belikin is a multi-generational family-owned business based in Ladyville just outside of Belize City. The name Belikin comes from a Maya term for the Belize River, literally meaning “road to the east.” Founded in 1969, Belikin is the largest domestic producer of beer, producing 450 bottles per minute in their state-of-the-art breweries.
Belikin’s beer offerings include:
Belikin Beer – The flagship brew, Belikin Beer is a classic European-style lager with an alcohol content of 4.8%.
Belikin Stout – With a velvety, rich head, Belikin Stout has a delightful smoky taste. Made with German hops, Canadian malt, and cane sugar from Belize.
Lighthouse Lager – A refreshing, crisp beer, Lighthouse Lager is a Canadian Pilsner with a 4.2% alcohol content.
Belikin Premium – With a malty, hearty taste, Belikin Premium is made with two different hops and three different malts.
Guinness Stout – Belikin is a licensed brewer of this classic stout featuring a rich color and assertive bitter overtones.
Belikin also makes a number of seasonal brews, including:
Chocolate Stout – Inspired by a traditional Maya recipe, Chocolate Sout is a creamy beer with a velvety chocolate finish.
Sorrel Stout – Introduced for the first time a few years ago, Sorrel Stout features a careful blend of German hops, specialty malts, and local sorrel.
Other Beers Available in Belize
Beer lovers can enjoy a variety of other brews in Belize, including:
Red Stripe – The Jamaican classic in an iconic rounded bottle.
Heineken – One of the most popular beers in Europe, Heineken is a pale lager with a distinctly crisp finish.
Carib – This refreshing lager is brewed in Trinidad and Tobago.
Dragon Stout – Brewed in Jamaica, Dragon Stout has a rich, velvety head with a lovely dark color obtained from barley.
Enjoy Belizean Beers at Chabil Mar
The bar and restaurant at the award-winning resort of Chabil Mar on the Placencia Peninsula has a full range of Belizean and international beers in stock.
Visitors to the resort can ask the bartender for a recommendation of the best beers to try. The experienced, professional bartenders at Chabil Mar can recommend food pairings and other details about the different beers available in Belize.
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